Starting a retail venture, in this case Royal Jewels, five years ago in one of the worst economic times was risky at best.
Starting a retail venture, in this case Royal Jewels, five years ago in one of the worst economic times was risky at best. However, that did not deter Mirijohn Givelekian from following his dream. John, as he is known by his loyal clients, is a Master jeweler and goldsmith with over 35 years of experience on the jeweler’s bench.
It all began in 1977 when two brothers began to set diamonds and precious stones in Manhattan’s Diamond District. The brothers have worked for such notables as Henry Dunay, Scott Kay, and Tiffany & Co. Their popularity began to soar when New York Magazine chose Royal Jewel Setting Company as Best Jeweler in 2004. The family continues to maintain a manufacturing business, now manned by brother Hachik.
John had been jeweler-in-residence on Saturdays for Rye Jewelers for two years. That is when his love affair with Rye began. John enjoyed the small-town feel of Rye with its strong school/team spirit and close-knit community. Some residents have already discovered how talented John is and have collaborated with him to make unique custom designs or have brought new life to old pieces by repairing them; while others are still discovering Royal Jewels of Rye – a hidden gem set between Great Stuff and Aurora.
To mark the first of, hopefully, many milestones to come, John decided to celebrate with a makeover. The showroom will have a new look when Royal Jewels reopens this weekend. The Grand Reopening is set for Monday, September 16. Shoppers will notice a lighter, brighter feel in contrast to the earlier traditional, somewhat Tuscan feel of the store.
Plan to stop by to see the store’s new look and meet son Michael, their personable salesman. There will be a special promotion. As always, have your jewelry cleaned while you browse the new showcases for the perfect new addition to your collection.