Inbox

Readers Share Their Thoughts on Lab-Grown Diamonds, The Economic Outlook and More

And, of course, they talk about their holiday sales so far as well.

Published

3 years ago

December 15, 2021

INSTORE Staff Instore January 2022 Issue Online Extra

I was recently shocked when sourcing a natural diamond for a client. Prices have skyrocketed for natural diamonds, making the case even better for lab-made diamonds. I think lab will continue to gain market share, especially if diamonds become unaffordable. Not to mention the younger generation’s affinity towards environmental friendliness, blood diamond stigma, price sensitivity, the battle between experiences and “things,” the growing fear of increased crime, the fact that the younger generation would rather invest than spend, etc. The case for lab-made is only growing stronger. — Jeremy Auslander, Roxbury Jewelry, Los Angeles, CA
I’m curious how many jewelers applied and received EIDL funding. We are still (21 months later) trying to receive what we qualified for. I’ve had to complete one form nine times since August 2020. In addition to our forced closure by our state, I’ve also been out for months in 2021 due to COVID-19 pneumonia, having to quarantine at different times, and sadly, caring for and losing my mom due to COVID-19. My physical and financial means are exhausted. I so want this behind me so we can focus again on our growth and stability. — Jill Keith, Enchanted Jewelry, Danielson, CT
It’s always the time of year when a client says, “I’ve had this in my jewelry box for so many years and I’d like it repaired for …” (you guessed it…) “Christmas … but I need it in two days as I’m leaving town and want to take it with me.” Ahhh, retail at Christmas. Vulture central comes to mind, as one of our dear stone cutters used to say. There is a price for everything, and it increases every day leading up to Christmas. Merry selling Christmas, everyone. — Karen Fitzpatrick, Harris Jewelers, Rio Rancho, NM
What a unique year with the JCK Show being so late and merchandise arriving on back order. Christmas just happened so fast! Less time to think and more pressure to make inventory and advertising decisions! — Susan Eisen, Susan Eisen Fine Jewelry & Watches, El Paso, TX
This holiday has been wonderful. We had a record November. I have to constantly balance watch repair, jewelry repair and custom work versus selling and stocking the store. It’s a lot of work with just two people, but the rewards are much more profitable. — Rick Nichols, Nassau Jewelry, Fernandina Beach, FL
I love participating in INSTORE magazine and receiving emails. It helps me to feel like part of the “jewelry industry family” and gauge our store’s success based on industry trends. My entire staff looks forward to the publication! — Daniela Balzano, Water Street Jewelers, Guilford, CT
The conditions in our country are not favorable with rising inflation and loss of consumer confidence, which is irritating following two years of restrictions! Customers are afraid of shopping in big areas, which is pushing to online shopping, and that is also a concern! Just hope our small-city shoppers will come and support local businesses and produce a favorable holiday season. We could all use a merry Christmas! — Annette Kinzie, Leonard Jewelry, Stillwater, OK
Keep it up! You are the small businessman’s best friend! — J. Dennis Petimezas, Watchmakers Diamonds & Jewelry, Johnstown, PA

Share your thoughts with INSTORE. Email us at editor@instoremag.com

Four Decades of Excellence: How Wilkerson Transformed a Jeweler's Retirement into Celebration

After 45 years serving the Milwaukee community, Treiber & Straub Jewelers owner Michael Straub faced a significant life transition. At 75, the veteran jeweler made a personal decision many business owners understand: "I think it's time. I want to enjoy my wife with my grandchildren for the next 10, 15 years." Wilkerson's expertise transformed this major business transition into an extraordinary success. Their comprehensive approach to managing the going-out-of-business sale created unprecedented customer response—with lines forming outside the store and limits on how many shoppers could enter at once due to fire safety regulations. The results exceeded all expectations. "Wilkerson did a phenomenal job," Straub enthuses. "They were there for you through the whole thing, helped you with promoting it, helping you on day-to-day business. I can't speak enough for how well they did." The partnership didn't just facilitate a business closing; it created a celebratory finale to decades of service while allowing Straub to confidently step into his well-earned retirement.