After nearly 20 years in business, Jamie King, owner of Jamie’s Fine Jewelry, is closing the doors of her beloved shop in Durango.
“It’s bittersweet,” King said. “I’m going to miss it, but I’m also looking forward to the future.”
Having run the store since 2002, King is ready to enjoy the freedom that comes with stepping away from the demanding schedule of owning a business. “I want the time when I’m still healthy,” she explained, noting her desire to join friends on spontaneous outings, something that was difficult to do while managing the business.
Located at 125 E. 10th St., Jamie’s Fine Jewelry became a cornerstone of the Durango community over the years. The store was known for its jewelry sales, repairs, and customization, with King handling countless engagement rings, wedding bands, anniversary gifts, and family heirlooms. “It’s pretty cool when you sell an engagement ring. It’s almost like you develop a relationship of some sort,” she said, adding that she often receives photos from customers celebrating milestones that began with jewelry she crafted.
King credits much of her success to the loyal community members who consistently sought her services, along with the support from her wife, friends, and family. A third-generation Durango native, King’s journey into the jewelry business began right after high school, when she started working at McKnights, a jeweler that has since closed its doors. “I just fell into it,” she recalled. “My boss at the time thought I had a knack for it.”
After 17 years at McKnights, King seized the opportunity to fulfill her dream of opening her own store. However, the closure of Jamie’s Fine Jewelry will leave a gap in Durango, as no other local business offers the same level of jewelry repair and refurbishment services. “I’m really hoping somebody will come along and want to do something similar,” she said.
King’s decision to retire comes after a particularly busy year, but she emphasized that she’s stepping away because she wants to, not because she has to. “It’s nice to walk away because I want to and not because I have to,” she said. Looking forward to a more relaxed lifestyle, King plans to spend time boating, golfing, and exploring. “There are so many things to get excited about other than making more money,” she laughed.
As she prepares to close the shop, King expressed her gratitude to the community: “It’s been an awesome ride, thank you.”
Jamie’s Fine Jewelry will officially close its doors at the end of March.
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