Highlighting Howard Co. Business Crafting unique, long-lasting pieces created locally, at The Karat Patch
The history of jewelry goes back many years, with many different uses among different cultures. Even with the various meanings behind the gift of jewelry, it has been the most common form of gift since the beginning of time. Women and men have always enjoyed adorning themselves with stunning jewels. These precious items can cost a pretty penny therefore, they have become a way of expressing how important someone is to them.
Most people treat themselves to something special or renew basics such as shoes, clothes, bags and coats. Jewelry is not something most people spend money on a regular basis, but more women are buying jewelry for themselves.
Jewelry is timeless, and the fact it’s not an everyday kind of gift makes it exciting and unique.
Take a moment and think about gifts you have received, which ones are still in use? Clothes wear out or go out of style; electronics get replaced before you fully understand them; even cars are on a timer from time of purchase to replacement. Jewelry is a gift that can be cared for and enjoyed for generations. There are endless classic styles that ensure the piece will never become irrelevant, with settings that can be changed and upgraded. Jewelry is a gift now and an heirloom later.
Jewelry is a gift for just about every occasion: birthday, anniversaries, weddings, engagements, graduations, births, any holiday, sweet 16, celebrating a new job, a promotion, or a thank you. Jewelry can be given to people of all ages.
Jay, Kim and their son Zac Phinney are experts, in Big Spring, at helping their customers find the perfect gift. From wee newborn (think adorable studs) to a senior (a statement piece for the golden years). Jewelry appeals to every generation; a pendant necklace for a teenager, earrings, rings, bracelets, cuff links and even watches are viable options for young and middle age adults.
The original store was opened in February 1992 by the Phinney’s, on 11th Place and remained there for seven years. At the time the little shop focused mostly on repair work. On Oct. 31, 1999, the Phinney’s moved to their current location at 1003 E. FM 700. Jay and Kim laugh now about that move, but at the time it was stressful.
“It was Halloween, raining hard and the parking lot was half finished. We were trying to move in with new carpet on the floor and mud everywhere,” the couple said.
Kim said with the move to the new location, jewelry sales were added to the repair work Jay had been doing.
“Jay has always been artistic and we encouraged him to pursue his ambitions by attending a jewelry making course being offered at Howard College in 1981. The only time in Howard College history that course was offered. After finishing and receiving a diploma he started going to Lubbock on weekends and working with a jeweler doing mostly repair work,” Kim said.
Jay added, “In 1983, I opened what was referred to as a trade shop. This was basically a place that major jewelry stores - Zale’s, Gordon’s and other chain stores - sent items to be repaired. I went to work for the Brooks family at Blum’s in 1989. They taught me everything about the jewelry business and how to operate a successful jewelry store. Not only did they treat us like family, but when we decided to open The Karat Patch (TKP) they made it easy and encouraged us every step of the way.”
“If a store is lucky, they never get hit by a burglar, however when TKP was hit Greg Brooks was the first to call and offer help. Even though all of the jewelry stores are competitors, it is a small knit group and they are always there when one of them needs something. It’s a friendly competition between all of us,” Jay said.
According to Jay, the Phinneys are about to start the 28th year of making one of a kind and uniquely beautiful jewelry. When it comes to the jewelry in the store, about 80% of the jewelry is Jay’s unique designs and 20% of those are one of a kind.
“We could not have accomplished all of this without the support of the community and our loyal customers. We are very thankful for everyone who shops locally. We are especially proud of being voted, ‘The Herald’s Reader’s Choice Award for best jewelry store consistently,” the couple said. “It’s not only our customers who have helped us, but other business owners who come in and shop. It’s a blessing to be part of a community where everyone is interested in helping the ‘Mom and Pop’ stores Jay said.
Jay added, “Our faith in God has seen us through the rough times. Because we sell what people want, not what they need we had to close for three weeks during the pandemic. We were still able to do repair work and that helped us hang on. However, this was not as difficult as 9/11 was for us. During that time, we were open, but only sold four watch batteries.”
The Karat Patch is a first- generation jewelry store. Kim joined in 1992, and in 2008 their son Zac joined and began his training. In February 2019, Zac began training on CAD (Computer Aid Design) and is a CAD expert and designer.
“November 2019, I received my diploma for Applied Jewelry Professional from the Gemological Institute of America after finishing three courses. First was diamonds and diamond grading, then colored stones and finally gem identification,” Zac said.
“One day Zac will be the second generation, his wife will join to assist with the internet side of the business. They plan on moving into the “virtual inventory” while maintaining the brick and mortar store. New technology is moving very fast and it is an exciting time,” Jay said. “We were the very first store in the Permian Basin to have a website. I set it up, it is time consuming but worth it. We made sure our website was secure then and it still is today. We ship anywhere inside the United States.”
Jewelry is one of the most successful gift ideas of all time. Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds, pearls, gold, platinum and silver the sky is the limit. You will be amazed at the response you will get when a beautiful one of a kind pieces of jewelry is gifted from The Karat Patch. They will even personalize it for you.
Christmas is a very busy time for them; however, they are experts at keeping secrets. To get a head start call 432-267-1480 or visit the website at thekaratpatch.com or go by their store at 1003 E. FM 700.