Business Q&A: Kimberly Jewelers

Kimberly Jewelers, a New Town business, is a destination for those seeking both timeless and custom-designed pieces. We had the pleasure of sitting down with owner Kimberly Ellis to discuss her journey, her passion for her craft, and the role her shop plays in the community.

How did you get started in the jewelry business, and what inspired you to open a store in New Town St. Charles?

I've been in jewelry for more than 30 years and I did, at one point, have two businesses on Main Street in St. Charles. So, when it was time for me to take over for John David, we were in Frontenac, I looked on this side of the river and I happened to find this place. I talked to Paul Dinkins, of The Commons, and he relieved me of so much stress. Because time was a factor, I gave him ten days to build this space. Let me tell you how awesome Paul is and I truly mean this, from the bottom of my heart. Paul made it happen.

What is your philosophy on jewelry and craftsmanship? What values or principles guide your work?

Education is fundamental. I educate the client on what we can do and what we can't do. I could sell you anything that you want but will it fit in your lifestyle? For instance, some styles will not hold up to somebody who is extremely active. That's why it’s important to educate the consumer. So, they understand craftsmanship and quality. It is not about speed of production. Jewelry is an emotional investment. You have something that you have fallen in love with. It is your dream piece of jewelry. You have probably worn it every day. And now, it's just falling apart. That’s where education comes in. The maintenance is so important to making that dream jewelry last a lifetime.

Can you walk us through the process of creating a custom piece of jewelry?

Many times, when a person is looking to have a piece of jewelry made, they walk in and look at me for answers. Unfortunately, I know nothing about them personally at that time to guide them in this process. I usually suggest that they go on the internet and start looking at different styles to determine what they like. Then we walk through what they like, don’t like, and maybe one part of something else that they want to add to that other part. Then, I can go over what we can and cannot do and maybe what works best for their lifestyle. Eventually, it all comes together and then that's when we have an idea to move on to rendering. Now, the second side of a custom is I do have vendors with pre-made mounts and I only use vendors I can stand behind. That does improve the turnaround time. A full custom can take up to six months.

Why is it important to you to help people preserve and refresh their existing pieces?

When I got into jewelry, the jeweler I worked under told me no matter what the economy, if they're not buying new, they're always going to get needed repairs. What woman is going to go without her wedding ring? So, maintenance is important. These are emotional items and you want to maintain them and you want them to look fresh. The other thing is that jewelry gets dirty. Cleaning is so important. I can't push it any harder because there's more stuff in your jewelry, like dirt and grime, more DNA than a forensic lab. I really emphasize cleaning your jewelry regularly.

What advice would you give to someone who is buying a diamond or gemstone for the first time, perhaps for an engagement ring?

For engagements, always start with the solitaire, as that’s where your main investment really is. If you're going with a diamond, invest in the center stone. Many times, people tend to start small and say, “I'll get you a bigger one later.” Then life happens. Your best bet is to make the investment now, especially if it's a natural diamond. Many women will re-design their wedding set at least two, possibly three times, during the marriage. They want something new because of current styles and it's starting to look dated. You can put that diamond in a different mount and update your ring. If you’re looking at other gemstones, go for quality at that point, especially if you don't know what she likes.

What are some of the most popular diamond cuts or settings that customers are requesting right now?

The shapes of diamond center stones are fads, they go in and out of style, and they drop in value when they are no longer popular. The one that holds its own value all the time is a round diamond. At various times, the princess cut and the square cut were all the rage. Then it went to a pear cut, then it went oval. It's moving in and out. You are closest to a round with an oval. My biggest suggestion is to stay away from the shapes that are a current fad.

What role do you see Kimberly Jewelers playing in the local New Town community?

I truly believe when you are in a position, when you have a platform, when you are looked at with trust and confidence, you are going to use it for good. I truly believe that it takes a village to make the planet go around. I support those things that I am passionate about. I love animals and I love kids! I'm going to be doing food pantry collection again. I've gone to a food pantry before in my life and it didn't feel good. But, giving back what was so freely given to me in a time of need, that is just a real good “chicken noodle soup for the soul” kind of thing. I mean, if you feel bad for the day, help somebody and you will change that fast.

Final comments…

You know, in my business it’s important that you trust your jeweler. A lot of people can say a lot of things, but can they back it up? Is it true? If your jeweler cannot explain from A-Z and help you understand, it's because it's probably not true. That's why I take the time that I do to educate my customers.

I am so grateful to have found New Town for Kimberly Jewelers. The community is a gem from long-lost tradition. People come together to help one another in times of need and celebrate each other, as a community should. In essence, a super-large family. That gives hope to those who truly look at the beautiful example they are setting as a community. And thank you to everyone for all the support we have received.