As This Longtime Jeweler Retires, Here’s What’s On His Mind

Robert Scott is retiring after 31 years of owning his own shop, Robert’s Jewelers, in Southold, NY.

He recently talked with Patch about what’s going through his mind as he winds down his career. The key theme: He’ll miss his customers but enjoy making up for some of the time he didn’t get to spend with his family over the years.

Next year, for example, “I’m going to cook the whole Thanksgiving dinner, set everything up, and I don’t want any help. I’ve been wanting to do this for 41 years,” Scott, 70, told Patch.

Scott, a certified gemologist, said it will be hard saying goodbye to his many clients, whom he considers friends. He’s loved being part of the happy moments in their lives.

“Retiring, it’s a double edged sword,” he said. “While I’m very happy to be doing something else, I am leaving the best hobby and friends I’ve had.”

He’ll do some traveling and might work as a consultant. He’ll close the store on Jan. 14.

He’s considered selling his business so that it can carry on. But so far, he hasn’t found the right buyer.

“I refused to entertain people that didn’t have the minimum standard that I think should be used in this location or in this business,” Scott told Patch.

Read more at Patch