When a local business becomes a longstanding part of the community, it brings more than just services or products; it brings stories, relationships, and memories. Leslie Jewelers, a fixture in Searcy, Arkansas, has been doing just that since it first opened its doors in 1967.
Leslie Jewelers began under the ownership of Mr. Leslie, and while the shop has changed hands a few times over the years, it has maintained its charm and reputation. Today, Robert, the current owner, purchased the business in 2021, but his connection to the store goes back over two decades.
“Robert’s been here for 22, 23 years,” says Emily Blansett, a friendly face at Leslie Jewelers for the past five years. “He was the jeweler here before he bought the business, and he just wanted to keep it going. He’s really committed to it.”
Robert’s transition from jeweler to owner ensures that Leslie Jewelers remains rooted in the same values and service that have made it a trusted local spot for jewelry for decades. And while owners may have changed, one thing remains the same: the store’s location on the square in Searcy, making it a community staple.
For Emily, working at Leslie Jewelers is more than just a job—it’s about being part of her customers’ stories. Over the years, she’s witnessed countless memorable moments, but one stands out.
“A couple of years ago, this elderly couple came in. He wanted to surprise his wife with a new wedding set,” Emily recalls with a smile. “She had worn the same ring since they got engaged, and he wanted to get her something new. After we cleaned it, he got down on one knee and gave it to her. It was such a sweet, special moment. We were all standing around, watching it happen, and it just felt really precious.”
These kinds of heartfelt moments are not rare at Leslie Jewelers. From engagement rings to anniversary gifts, the store plays a key role in some of the most important milestones in people’s lives.
Like many jewelers, the holiday season at Leslie Jewelers is the busiest time of the year. From Black Friday to Small Business Saturday, the shop offers plenty of deals and promotions to help customers find the perfect gifts for their loved ones.
“We all love the holiday season here,” Emily says. “It’s busy, but that’s what makes it fun. We see a lot of repeat customers coming back to buy gifts, and it’s great helping people find something special for Christmas.”
The hustle and bustle of the holidays is a highlight for Emily, who thrives on the energy and excitement that comes with the season. Whether it’s helping someone pick out a piece of jewelry for their partner or guiding a first-time buyer through the process, she loves every part of it.
“We get a lot of guys coming in who are looking for the perfect gift,” she laughs. “It’s fun to help them figure it out!”
While holiday sales and new jewelry are an important part of the business, Leslie Jewelers also offers a significant range of repair services. In fact, Emily was surprised to learn how much of their business comes from repairs when she first started working there.
“I didn’t realize how big the jewelry repair side was until I started,” she says. “But we do a ton of repairs—upgrading rings, fixing gold, you name it. It’s a huge part of what we do.”
In addition to repairs, the shop is also known for its custom designs. Customers can bring in their own stones or ideas, and the jewelers will create personalized pieces that fit their vision. Emily talks about a recent project where a customer brought in four blue topaz stones to be made into a matching necklace, ring, and earrings.
“We get a lot of requests for custom pieces, and it’s always fun to see what people come up with. We’ve had everything from engagement rings to anniversary upgrades,” Emily says. “One of my friends recently got her diamond upgraded, and we took her old diamond and made it into a pendant. We’re always working on unique pieces like that.”
One of the most important aspects of owning jewelry is maintaining it, something that many people might not think about. Emily shares that Leslie Jewelers offers free cleanings and checks, even for pieces that weren’t purchased from the store.
“I always tell people to bring their jewelry in to get it cleaned and checked at least three to four times a year,” she advises. “It only takes a couple of minutes, and it’s important to make sure your stones aren’t loose. Also, take your jewelry off when you’re swimming, sleeping, or exercising—it’ll last longer that way.”
For anyone shopping for new jewelry, Emily has one key piece of advice: keep an open mind.
“People come in with their heart set on a certain design, but when they try it on, it doesn’t always look how they imagined,” she explains. “Sometimes they end up loving something completely different. So, I always tell people to stay open to different options—you might be surprised by what you fall in love with.”
For over half a century, Leslie Jewelers has been a part of life in Searcy. From holiday sales to custom designs and heartfelt moments shared in the shop, it’s more than just a jewelry store—it’s a place where memories are made. And with Robert at the helm, along with passionate employees like Emily, it’s clear that this local gem will continue to thrive for years to come.
Keep up with Leslie Jewelers through their Facebook and Instagram page to know their latest deals!
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