Gem Quiz

Whereas Most Jewelry Celebrates Life and Joy, I Help People Mourn What’s Lost

Dark as a starless night, I’m ready to take off again.

Published

3 years ago

June 3, 2021

Chris Burslem

LOVE, LIFE AND birth? There was a time when jewelry was also worn to signify death, loss and passage. Mourning jewelry it was called, and I was the dark prince of that trend. My heyday was the second half of the 19th century, and my chief promoter was Queen Victoria, whose grief-inspired fashion sensibilities set the tone for an age. Light and soft but as black as a starless night, I was perfect for making cameos, pendants and necklaces. In recent years, I have made something of a comeback, but this time in earrings, brooches and beads.

Who am I?

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”