ROMANATION JEWELERS :: 48 THIRD STREET :: 518-272-0643
To be a small business owner is no easy feat. But to have longevity as a small business owner takes drive, endurance and trust during high and low times. It is a marathon, not a sprint. For the past 66 years, Romanation Jewelers on 48 3rd St. has done just this. There was actually a Mr. Romanation, originally from Ukraine, who ran the business beginning 1952. Its current owner, Jim Cook, began apprenticing with Mr. Romanation in 1976, while he was in high school in Watervliet. Jim took over ownership of the business when Mr. Romanation retired.
The first location of the jewelry store was actually down on 83 3rd street from where it is now located. They have kept the large antique safe and cash register (in great condition) from August Schnell, a well-known jewelry store previously in the space from 1879-1920’s. Jim bought the building at 48 3rd Street and moved the large safe, all the display cases, repair equipment, jewelry and products to the space in 1992. The space was previously King’s Youth Center, a clothing store for school uniforms.
Quality in customer service, repair and products have not changed. Romanation Jewelers specializes in fine and antique jewelry, including silver, diamonds, engagement rings, pearls, watches and jewelry repair. Their antique selection is vast and diverse, including Victorian-era, 1940’s, art deco and art nouveau, to name a few. Jim’s favorite is the antique section because no two pieces are alike. The craftsmanship is high and it is hard to replicate delicate filigree and workmanship. Romanation Jewelers carries a variety of price ranges. New companies represented are enamel on silver jewelry by Nicole Barr and the French jewelry designer Frederic Duclos. Each month, the birthstone of that month is 25% off at Romanation Jewelers.
Jim’s customers are now 4 generations deep. His customers are “Trojan proud” and want to support local businesses. In return Jim and his staff always provide individual attention, a comfortable shopping experience (with a large purchase such as jewelry) and familiar faces which customers return for, for care and repair of their precious gems. Jim has witnessed the ups and downs of a changing city throughout the years, but he would not prefer any other location. He is excited for a renewed energy downtown. In the past there were always people who make things (jewelry, furniture, clothing) and provided services, he hopes this continues for more generations to come.
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