ST. LOUIS — A longtime jewelry store in south city announced it is closing its doors after 74 years.
Robinson’s Jewelry is one of the oldest family-owned jewelry stores in St. Louis. Jesse Robinson, 68, said although the store remains popular, he felt it was the right time to close so he can retire.
On Oct. 24, the store will hold a going-out-of-business sale.
‘Expect to find great deals on unique, high-quality jewelry, including diamond engagement rings, wedding bands and gemstones. The entire inventory will be heavily discounted for immediate sale,’ a press release said.
The store has set itself apart from big retailers with an amazing selection of unique and custom fine jewelry pieces.
“It’s jewelry you won’t find anywhere else or anyone else wearing,” Robinson said. The store carried a wide range of styles, range of prices - classical to modern – including estate jewelry from the 40s and 50s.
Robinson’s father Paul originally opened the store in 1945 in downtown St. Louis. After a few moves within St. Louis, it found its current home on Chippewa Street in 1986.
His father was a watch and clock repairman, which eventually led to repairing jewelry.
Robinson inherited his father’s fascination with taking things apart when he was a teenager helping his dad at the store. “But I couldn’t put them back together,” he laughed. That led him to pursue an apprenticeship and then a career following in the footsteps of his dad and eventually taking over the day to day operations in 1986.
“Designing and repairing jewelry it’s true craftsmanship,” Robinson said. “I like the instant gratification, for instance, when I take someone’s old ring that in really bad shape and repair it and to see the customer’s face – they are so excited – especially when it’s a family heirloom–
Robinson said people come in to buy wedding sets because their parents shopped there. The store has also donated to local charities to support the community.
He said he lost his wife Linda in January and was to spend more time with his grandchildren.
“I think people will remember our store with nostalgia; we’ve been open for so long,” Robinson said. “I hope they remember us simply as giving great service at a fair price.”
You can find Robinson’s at 6497 Chippewa Street.
