MARMORA — Change is a good thing, according to Charles Stecher, a third-generation jeweler and gemologist who has been practicing his craft for more than 42 years.
“There have been many changes since the family business opened 65 years ago and exciting changes are coming again,” Stecher said in announcing his retirement.
The store at 41 Route 9 in Marmora is set to close in February.
Stecher, 65, grew up in Linwood and is a 1976 graduate of Mainland Regional High School. He later earned a degree from Stockton State College (now Stockton University) in 1980 and graduated from the Gemological Institute of America in 1988.
He followed his father, uncle and great-uncle into the jewelry business. His father owned Charles Stecher Jewelers stores in Atlantic City and Ocean City, while his uncle and great-uncle were jewelers in Pleasantville for 67 years.
Stecher has been in his current location for almost 22 years. He said he chose Upper Township because it was a growing area and there was an established jewelry store in the location
After earning his degrees, Stecher worked for his relatives’ business and also Thomas Jewelers in Ocean City after his father retired and closed the store there.
Stecher has sold diamonds, 14-karat gold jewelry, silver jewelry, engagement bands, watches.
He said a lot of the stock has been designed and crafted by “premier manufacturers from across country,” but the store also does a lot of custom work, such as turning an inherited gem into something more modern or fashionable, or simply that suits the taste of the owner better.
His specialties are engagement rings and wedding bands, as well as gifts for birthdays and anniversaries.
He said having an established location allowed repeat customers to return again and again, but also created a trusting relationship with clients.
Stecher said his shop is one of the few remaining single-proprietor jewelry stores in the area, the difference being personalized service and expertise.
Stecher said the amount of work involved and cost of inventory make it difficult to operate a small jewelery store. He said when he started in the business 42 years ago, gold was $300 an ounce and it now is $1,800 an ounce.
He plans to spend some time in Florida but said he would stay in the area for a little bit.
Stecher has set the closing date for Feb. 11 and announced a sale starting Jan. 11 giving 30 percent off the entire in stock merchandise inventory, excluding unset stones. Those paying in cash can receive an additional 5 percent off.
Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Call (609) 390-0010, email stecherjewelers@comcast.net or visit stecherjewelers.com for more information.
By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff
