Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Kaplans marks 40 years in business
Family-owned jeweler marks 40 years in business
WEST CHESTER » Kaplans Fine Jewelry has been offering unique jewelry designs to the West Chester community for 40 years. The family run business is celebrating its 40th anniversary this month and continues to be a favorite among jewelry shoppers.
Owner Ivan Kaplan, along with his wife Lisa, took over the family business after graduating from jewelry and watch-making school. Specializing in custom repairs, the business offers a wide array of fine jewelry to its customers. The Kaplan’s son also has become part of the team.
“My mother Ethel started this business 40 years ago. We worked with her for a couple of years, then bought her business out,” said Kaplan. “We focus on customization and repairs, so we are very service oriented. We sell a lot of jewelry too, but that service brings customers in and shows them what we are about.”
Kaplan noted the business continues to have many repeat customers, which is an accomplishment in the age of online shopping.
“We’ve brought technology into the business, but it’s mostly in the background. We use prototyping machines to do the custom work and laser welder to do repairs. But we do it with old world craftsmanship,” Kaplan said.
“We have a lot of repeat customers, and a lot of our business is from referrals. I like making people happy, and this is a happy business. By doing the customization, we can really hone in on what people
“We focus on customization and repairs, so we are very service oriented. We sell a lot of jewelry too, but that service brings customers in and shows them what we are about.” – Ivan Kaplan, Kaplans Fine Jewelry
want and deliver something great for them.”
The shop is also popular for selling engagement rings, as well as other customized pieces of all manner of jewelry.
“We do a lot of engagement rings and wedding bands. I’ve designed the full spectrum of jewelry. I’ve done belt buckles, all kinds of bracelets and just about anything.”
Kaplan remarked that he is happy to be located in West Chester, where locally owned businesses are well supported by the community.
“It is a great small town. We’ve been here for 40 years. We’ve seen the town just get better. The borough supports the downtown plus the outside community supports the downtown. I would rather shop with a local merchant than a big-box store any day.”
As for celebrating 40 years in business, Kaplan said he plans to run a couple of events through the end of the year to give to back to all the people who have supported the business over the years.
More information is available at kaplansfinejewelry.com