JACKSONVILLE, Fla — A local jewelry store that’s been around for more than 130 years is finally closing its doors for good, after its owners announced they’re going to retire.
Owner Delorise Thomas said the last day isn’t set in stone, but that March 20th is the deadline for them to close up shop.
Delorise says it’s not a case of competing with major retailers, since customers have been incredible at supporting them through the years.
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The well-known jewelry store has been in Jacksonville since 1890, and on the corner of Laura Street since the 1930s.
“It’s Jacksonville-owned. Jacksonville-operated. Jacksonville-appreciated,” Delorise emphasized. “We’re not affiliated with any other jeweler.”
Delorise and her husband Roy Thomas have been the owners of Jacobs Jewelers since 1968. She reminisced on the countless memories and connections her and Roy have built with their customers. “It’s a happy business,” Delorise said. “It’s always fun to give a gift. Whether it be a wedding, anniversary, it’s a happy business and you’re part of happy things that are going on.”
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“We’re helping customers that we helped their fathers and their grandfathers,” she looked back on, “And that’s very, very rewarding!”
“It’s just been a pillar of the community for such a long time,” said customer Ilsa Jefferson.
After a 55-year-run, the Thomases say they’re ready to enjoy retirement.
“If we were 20 years younger and could work 20 years longer, we certainly would because our customers have been so supportive,” Delorise said.
Even though we spotted several empty display cases, there’s still an opportunity for folks to get in one last purchase, and items are now 75 to 80% off.
“I feel good because our customers have gotten the finest values ever,” Delorise highlighted. “We’ve never bought quantity,” she explained. “We always wanted it to be special.”
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“I bought a letter opener and just a really great piece!” Jefferson shared, as she described what she’ll miss most. “The atmosphere, the customer service that you get and just to see two people who love exactly what they do. And to just kind of ride off into the sunset and enjoy the rest of their lives.”
The Thomas’s say they’ll still be around, and most importantly, “wherever we are, we’ll still have our customers as friends.”
While it’s unclear what will occupy the space next, one thing is clear: the famous famous clock right next to the store is there to stay, and it will be well taken care of. The Thomas’s say they donated it to the City of Jacksonville years ago.
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