Photo by Renee Burrell
Ken, Jason, Hazel and Norris Smith
A longtime fixture of the Clearwater retailing community is closing its doors after 52 years and four generations of sons operating the business.
K.K. Smith & Sons Jewelers is closing as the family members get out of the jewelry business to pursue other ventures. "We're closing due to family issues and other interests," said Ken Smith.
They have been at their present location on Rogers Street for the past nine years. Their first store was located in the Cleveland Plaza. Harry K. Smith, Ken's grandfather, moved here permanently from Long Island to set up shop in 1955. Throughout the years, the business moved several times, but always remained in Clearwater.
The Smiths have been known for offering a wide selection of engagement rings and also for their custom design work. Each generation took what the previous had built and improved upon it. Ken's son, Jason, is a platinum specialist. Ken's brother, Norris, is GIA certified. Ken is an engraver and was featured last year in local media for using the lost wax technique to recreate a mid-nineteenth century design of a gold charm depicting the Belleview Biltmore Hotel's entrance.
Ken's mother, Hazel, has been in the jewelry business since 1941 when she started working with Ken's uncle. Ken's father, Ken Sr., apprenticed in New York for four years and early in his career repaired items housed in the Smithsonian Museums. "He did a lot of restoration work for them, including repairing some of Cleopatra's jewelry," said Ken.
"Closing the store after 52 years is really hard. We have been proud to have been in business so long. We thank you for placing your trust in our hands and relying on our advice over the years."
K.K. Smith & Sons Jewelers is located at 1204 Rogers in Clearwater and will remain open until the end of June. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Phone (727)461-5550.
Return to Home Page
Return to Current Edition
Contact us
