I recently received this story from Heather Eichhorn Cruse, granddaughter of John Eichhorn, who founded Eichhorn Jewelry in Decatur, IN, 50 years ago. The business is now run by Heather’s aunt, Eileen Eichhorn. Heather, marketing director for the family business, is happy to report that 50 years later the business is still thriving.
Eichhorn Jewelry celebrated its 50th anniversary in ‘60s style on Aug. 5. Not only did the employees dress as if it were 1965, but the store also displayed a 1965 Christmas catalog and put out ashtrays on all the counters, to re-create the period vibe.
When John Eichhorn left his previous employment to found Eichhorn Jewelers, his boss, Ferris Bower, gave him a 1964 Bulova Accutron “Spaceview” watch. Bower was proud that his certified master watchmaker of 17 years, known as “Ike” was venturing out to launch his own business, and wished him well. Ferris and Ike remained close friends and friendly business competitors.
Eileen Eichhorn, who inherited the “Spaceview” from her father, John, presented it to her nephew, Matt Dyer, as a token of legacy before they opened their doors for their 50th anniversary celebration, which drew a crowd of over 500 people.
Each visitor received a gift of jade because Eileen’s first piece of fine jewelry was a nephrite jade gold ring given to her by a traveling salesman. He told her to wear the ring for luck, love, and happiness, always.
Other give-aways included 50 $50 Eichhorn Jewelry gift certificates and 50 champagne diamonds valued at about $100 each. Jennifer Mitchell of Decatur, purchased a surprise package for just $5 and received a $500 tanzanite, a surprise indeed.
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