Ep 35: Ask Dad. He Knows. Why Independent Jewelry Stores Are Better Than Chain Stores and Online Joints

My dad was blunt, honest, and as funny as can be. He was a "character." We worked together for years in the jewelry business, and I learned more about people than I did about diamonds and jewelry from him. He had a unique way of getting his point across (sometimes by yelling, ha!) and it left a lasting impact on me.

He often told stories about what it was like owning a jewelry store back in his day...how men would walk into his store with a mission to buy an engagement ring. "They were simpler times," he would say, but those times are not as different as you might think. Back then, just like now, it's important to have "a guy," you can count on in the jewelry business. (Of course your "guy" can be a "girl." Oftentimes it works out better that way.)

This episode highlights the importance of finding trustworthy independent jewelers, like the local stores run by people you see around town. They dedicate their time to curating the right collection and having a knowledgeable staff, and treating you like a real person. These jewelers understand the value of milestone jewelry pieces and are there to guide you, whether you know about jewelry or not. They exist for you, and I argue they're the best place to go when you need something small, and precious, and don't feel the need to know more than is absolutely necessary. Why? Because your jeweler knows what you need to know...and that's invaluable.

If you'd like help finding a jeweler closer to home, email me at andy@buylikeaguy.com and I'll do my best to put you in touch with some of the best jewelers on earth.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify.

TL/DR? Listen here!