Welcome to another great episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast! Guy and Elisa Dillon of Southern Jewelry News sit down with Melissa Pierce of Pierce Custom Jewelers in Lake Mary, Florida. This episode gets into the artistry, trust and community that makes Pierce Custom Jewelers so special.

Melissa shares the story behind the family business she co-owns with her husband Lance, a master jeweler with over 34 years experience. Melissa talks about how her career went from corporate consulting to jewelry making and how she earned her graduate gemology degree. Together Melissa and Lance have built a business based on trust and offer a mix of fine jewelry and custom designs that reflect their clients lives and memories.

Melissa talks about the care that goes into each piece from understanding a client’s lifestyle to using CAD design and gemological microscopes. She also talks about their honesty policy where every item on their website is physically in their store – no bait and switch here.

Throughout the conversation Melissa talks about the challenges of modern jewelry retail such as educating clients on lab grown versus mined diamonds and managing changing client expectations. She shares stories of helping clients through big decisions like choosing engagement rings that balance sentimental value with practicality.

A big part of the conversation is about the Pierces’ community involvement. With clients spanning three generations Pierce Custom Jewelers is all about trust and relationships. Melissa shares a story about turning away a client who was uncomfortable with her ring being resized and then seeing that client come back as a loyal customer – proof of their integrity based business.

In addition to jewelry Melissa talks about the creative passions she and Lance share including their love of music. Listeners get a special treat at the end of the episode – a piano performance by Melissa herself.

Whether you’re a jeweler looking for inspiration, a client curious about custom jewelry or someone who loves stories of artistry and connection this episode has you covered.

Listen now! Check out more episodes of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast.

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Welcome to the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast! In this episode, we welcome Slav, a leader in the jewelry industry and a key figure at Gems One, a top supplier of high-quality gemstones, diamonds, and fine jewelry serving over 1,000 independent jewelry stores across the U.S.

Slav shares valuable insights on the importance of effective marketing strategies and the necessity of integrating print media into your promotional efforts.

As we discuss the challenges jewelers face in today’s competitive market, Slav emphasizes the concept of “the power of seven,” explaining how consumers need multiple impressions before purchasing.

Slav highlights the significance of maintaining a consistent marketing message across various platforms to build brand recognition and customer trust.

He shares advice on how jewelers can streamline their marketing efforts and align their product offerings with their messaging in order to create a more efficient business model. He stresses the need for clarity and authenticity in marketing communications to build trust and loyalty.

We also discuss Gems One’s innovative initiatives, including their “Perfect Love” concept, which aims to enhance customer engagement and effectively close sales.

He added that this approach not only enhances their customers’ experience but also differentiates their brand in a saturated market.

To support that, Slav shares insights into upcoming trends in jewelry design and marketing, reinforcing how a well-thought-out strategy can impact a jeweler’s success.

It’s been an absolute pleasure having Slav on this episode. His expertise and advice are something you won’t want to miss. Tune in now and let his wisdom inspire your next steps!

Brought to you by:

Southern Jewelry News: https://southernjewelrynews.com/

Jewelry Store Marketers: https://jewelrystoremarketers.com/

Learn more about the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast https://southernjewelrynews.com/podcast

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Episode 74 offers a wealth of knowledge from seasoned jewelers. Whether you’re a jeweler, a business owner, or simply a lover of fine jewelry, this episode provides a treasure trove of actionable insights and inspiring stories.

The episode begins by exploring the creative world of custom jewelry design. Jewelers discuss how they’ve embraced advanced technologies like CAD modeling and 3D printing to deliver bespoke designs that stand out in a competitive market. With half their workshops dedicated to custom projects, these artisans are constantly pushing boundaries in bridal and retail jewelry, meeting the demands of modern customers while preserving the artistry of traditional techniques.

Seasoned jewelers emphasize how sharing knowledge and resources can help newcomers avoid years of trial and error, making the jewelry industry a collaborative, supportive community.

Jewelers share how they engage with local fundraisers, support nonprofits, and immerse themselves in their communities. By giving back and forming meaningful connections, they strengthen customer loyalty and enhance their presence in the neighborhoods they serve.

From year-round advertising campaigns to innovative approaches like Facebook Live auctions, jewelers reveal how they stay top-of-mind with both loyal and new customers. The episode also highlights how lab-grown diamonds have transformed the market, offering customers more value for their money and reshaping the way jewelers approach sales.

Clienteling has become a game-changer for many jewelers. By recording customer preferences, holding themselves accountable, and delivering exceptional service, jewelers have seen significant improvements in their businesses. One jeweler recounts how this strategy turned around slow sales months, demonstrating the importance of investing in customer relationships.

Heartwarming and humorous customer stories add a personal touch to the episode. One story, involving a farmer who made a significant purchase on Christmas Eve, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of treating every customer with respect.

The episode emphasizes the importance of staying true to a brand’s core values while embracing innovation. From redesigning store interiors to creating new logos, these changes reflect the evolving tastes and expectations of their customers.

Another recurring theme is the role of teamwork, with guests sharing how their businesses thrive thanks to dedicated employees. By fostering a positive work environment, offering growth opportunities, and encouraging collaboration, these jewelers have built teams that are as committed to success as they are.

Jewelers discuss strategies for maintaining profitability, such as shifting to more affordable materials like silver and refining price points. The episode also explores the impact of technology, from the rise of AI to the ever-changing landscape of social media marketing.

Episode 74 is a must-listen for anyone interested in the jewelry industry. It provides a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities facing jewelers today. From mastering the art of customization to navigating economic shifts, this episode is both a celebration of the craft and a guide for future success.

Tune in to hear from the experts and discover how the jewelry world continues to innovate, adapt, and thrive.

Brought to you by:

Southern Jewelry News: https://southernjewelrynews.com/

Jewelry Store Marketers: https://jewelrystoremarketers.com/

Learn more about the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast

https://southernjewelrynews.com/podcast

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform:

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• Amazon Music/Audible = https://www.audible.com/pd/Pearls-of.-..

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