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Our company was started by my father in 1979. At a time when gold was high, he took advantage of the times and formed 14 Karat Gold, Inc. The company acted as a wholesale agent for gold jewelry manufacturers and sold primarily to retailers, corporate clients, and had a limited public clientele. During those early stages of our development, my father began to envision a company founded upon high quality jewelry at low costs. To achieve this, my father was committed to a low overhead and refused to rely on advertisements, allowing prices to remain low.
In 1983, making his vision a reality, he leased office space to accommodate his new venture. The company's product line expanded from not only just fine gold jewelry but to semi-precious and precious stones, pearls, and loose diamonds, as well. The new business was based on referrals and an appointment only regimen. After the first couple of years, business increased steadily.
As the company experienced an increase in traffic, my cousin joined the business in 1985. At that time, 14 Karat Gold Inc. was representing several diamond wholesalers, and servicing their public clients and rural retailers as well. One would assume that a jewelry company without a showroom, no advertising, and only two employees would fail within the first couple of years. However, our business saw 50% gains during that period. We continue that drive for success to this date, expecting a 30% increase each year, no less.
From 1985 to 1990, still operating under the name 14 Karat Gold, Inc., the company expanded our product lines as my father had hoped. Most importantly, reputable connections were made into the diamond industry. Our low overhead kept us free from debt and allowed us to purchase more loose diamonds.
From 1995 to the present, our company has seen tremendous growth. Now called 14Karat/Deveres, we are comprised of six full time GIA trained associates and three part-time representatives. We have branched out into all fine jewelry product lines, including many designer brands. Excellent custom work is a specialty we now offer to many clients, as well. A new showroom compliments our private sales offices and has provided us with increased display flexibility. This web site is our latest venture to reach new clients and serve as a way to provide those of you who have trusted us with your jewelry for years a new shopping experience from your home or office. However, we still believe that providing a quality product at reasonable prices, combined with outstanding service, is what will make our business succeed in the 21st century.
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