When you walk into a store with a vision of exactly what you’re looking for, it’s often difficult to find
it amongst the limited brand-name products carried in the displays. As a result, more and more people are
turning to the alternative option and customizing jewelry to give as gifts, celebrate special occasions or
just because.
That’s where Calgary Jewellery comes into the picture. Their reputation of carrying an outstanding selection
of brand names and unique, custom-design jewelry holds true, as generations of families return to the store
upon each of life’s milestones.
What makes this store different from others is their motto, “Service, Style and Selection,” which makes for a
powerful combination and puts the store ahead of the game. But great service is one thing and the craft of
custom-design jewelry is another, which is why it’s easy to trust this family business. Owner Bernard
Florence opened Calgary Jewellery with his parents, Les and Dora Florence, in 1955. Their service grew from
just providing timepieces and select jewelry to mastering the ability to satisfy the highest tastes, ideas
and expectations through custom makes.
“The 1950s were a simpler time, seemingly uncomplicated by today’s standards, but also limited by the brands
that were then available and accessible to sell,” says Carol Burch, global senior vice-president of Calgary
Jewellery.
The small market of the time allowed the family to bring fresh ideas and never-before-seen brands to Calgary.
Almost immediately, the business developed a well-respected standing in the city as an independent jewelry
store.
“My parents started the business from its very beginnings and grew it to be a well-known, well-respected
independent jewelry store within the community. It was an interest my father had developed a passion for as a
young man, so he started working with friends of the family who owned a jewelry store,” says Florence.
They’ve got the passion, experience, service and selection. All that’s left is deciding whether to go down
the custom or brand-name path. The store carries collectible items, timepieces, wedding and diamond themed
jewelry as well as chic everyday pieces such as bracelets, earrings and necklaces. World-renowned names such
as Cartier, Dunhill, Montblanc, Chimento, Chanel, Ebel, Omega, Raymond Weil, Tiffany & Co. and Zenith
fill the brightly lit displays throughout the store. From rare yellow diamonds, pearls and unexpected yet
sophisticated combinations of white and yellow gold, the selection can be overwhelming, yet assures a
one-stop shopping trip. An exceptional selection of cufflinks is also available for him, along with pens,
leather cases, and exquisite crystal wine glasses, table clocks and other decorative pieces.
Florence handles all of the custom designs and is known for his close attention to detail. Having custom
jewelry made is certainly a timelier and often costly option; however, it pays off knowing that no one else
in the world is wearing the same engagement ring, bracelet or earrings as you. According to Burch, the
majority of their custom-design orders are indeed for engagement rings.
A piece of jewelry is like no other gift. You grow out of clothing, a bouquet of flowers quickly fades, and
furniture and appliances often break — but jewelry lasts forever. It will always have value, and is something
that can stay on you at all times, reminding you of the special someone who gave it to you. •
Photos courtesy Calgary Jewellery
