When it comes to making a personal, emotional purchase like jewelry, you want the help of an expert. Jewelry stores are staffed with experienced professionals who have been trained to work one-on-one with customers to ensure that each piece fits properly and meets the customer’s needs. You won’t get that kind of personalized service from a chain or online store.
The number of jewelry stores is shrinking, but some independent retailers are surviving and even growing. In fact, some have survived for generations and have become family-owned and operated. Those that are still around are generally smaller than the chains, and many have unique niches, such as serving men who wear rings.
Most retail jewelers start out as apprentices or sales staff. After receiving specialized training, they can advance to management positions. This is often a path that leads to owning and operating a jewelry store, which can be very profitable and rewarding.
Jewelers retail is a specialized business and requires expertise in design, marketing and financial management. In addition, jewelers must be able to offer clients a variety of quality pieces at competitive prices. This is a highly competitive industry and the ability to adapt to changing trends is essential. Many jewelers are now using virtual inventory (VI) systems to extend their in-stock offerings and show their products on their websites without taking the risk of buying inventory that may not sell. This system allows the jeweler to pay for only what is sold, reducing costs and increasing sales.
When you shop at a local, independent jewelry store, you are supporting your community and the small businesses that make your area vibrant and prosperous. In fact, for every $100 spent at a local jewelry store, $68 stays in the community, compared to $43 when you buy from an online retailer. Local, independent jewelers also contribute to the cultural and educational landscape of their communities by sponsoring events and providing scholarships.
In addition to their product selection and knowledge of the industry, independent jewelers offer a more personal experience. They will collaborate with you to design a piece that you feel confident purchasing and giving, whereas a chain or online store is likely to try to upsell and pressure you into a sale. Local jewelers will also be more flexible in working with you to set up a payment plan that fits your budget.
Jewelry is an expensive and personal item, and shopping for it should be a fun and exciting process. Shopping at a local, independent jeweler will allow you to create a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted piece that is guaranteed to be of high-quality materials. Many independent jewelers will offer lifetime warranties on their items, compared to the limited warranties offered by most jewelry chains and websites.
Lastly, many local, independent jewelers have decades of experience in their shops that large companies cannot match. In addition, they will usually have a lower turnover rate and know their products inside and out, compared to the fast-paced environment of larger companies that are constantly hiring new associates.
