Steadman Jewellers Centennial Event
If diamonds are a sign of success, then Steadman Jewellers has made it in downtown Thorold. Not many businesses succeed for 100 years, but on October 20 the retailer celebrated the anniversary by introducing a collection of rings made with 100 % Canadian diamonds. Customers viewed memorabilia chronicling the business established by Oliver Steadman in 1912. Today, Ken and Kirsten Atmekjian operate the family owned business. Ken said the key to Steadman’s success has been personalized service, which will continue to shine at the shop renowned for custom designed jewellery. Go to Steadmans.ca to view jewellery Ken has created for clients.
A visit to 29 Front Street South in downtown Thorold is like taking a stroll down memory lane. The historic buildings with heritage facades give us a glimpse of the past century when gold and diamonds made wishes come true at Steadman Jewellers. Today, dreams become a reality for customers trusting Steadman’s for unique jewellery.
People admire old buildings revived by new facades with a heritage style in the downtown district where Steadman’s has served loyal customers since 1912. Steadman’s owners, Ken and Kirsten feel a facelift to their building is a great way to commemorate 100 years in business. A family owned business operated by the husband and wife team remains committed to impress all their customers. Unique jewellery, watches, clocks and giftware fill the classic shop. Steadman’s is renowned for personalized service providing expert repairs and custom designed jewellery created on site. Ken is a certified gemologist. He provides insurance and inheritance appraisals on site.
Clients come from across Niagara, and some travel from distant places to gain the personalized service at Steadman’s. In particular, Ken and Kirsten value loyal clients from Thorold and friendships in the community.
When they make custom jewellery it is a very personal process. Clients bring in old gold or diamonds purchased on a holiday, acquired as an inheritance, or a gift from a relative. Reinventing the gold and stones into something new transforms an item hidden in a drawer to a precious possession to treasure. The process begins with a client’s idea, possibly shown in a picture, or a sketch. Then Ken carves a wax into a mould fitted for the client, allowing for changes to be made and approved for production. This wax will eventually help shape the finished product using the classic wax technique of jewellery casting.
Go to www.Steadmans.ca to view photos demonstrating the casting process and jewellery Ken has created. Each custom-made piece of jewellery offers a unique story. Steadman’s is proud to highlight the custom made jewellery on their Wall of Fame in the shop.
A laser welder is the new technology Ken uses on site to do restorations on antique or intricate jewellery, which are too delicate for the traditional goldsmith welding torch. Some gemstones such as emerald and tanzanite crack or discolour if heat from a traditional torch is used. The high tech laser welder enables Ken to repair claws and work on jewellery without removing the stones, which in the past would have been a risky and expensive proposition. Steadman's is excited to be using the latest technology to provide clients a modern and personalized service.
Customers are welcome to ask for a complimentary ring cleaning and inspection using their digital microscope. Take a peak into the microscope and see how old gems can be revived for a precious future with the creativity at Steadman’s Jewellers.
Steadman Jewellers Centennial Event
