For fine gold, diamond and other jewelry visit an establishment known for uncompromising quality, strict attention to detail and small-town customer service Sayers Jewelers & Gemologists in Smyrna, Delaware. Providing jewelry for all budgets, Sayers has served with distinction for 75 years as the area’s most complete and trusted jeweler.
When Leroy and June Sayers opened the store on Aug. 4, 1950, their son Ron, was present at five years old.
The original store was located in a small building with one window that previously served as the Smyrna town office. The building was enlarged in 1964.
Shown (l to r) in front of the Sayers Jewelers and Gemologists store are: Ron, Ellen, Jessica, Tom and Amber.
Ron graduated from college in 1968 and went to work with his parents full time. He has been there ever since Ron’s wife, Ellen, started working at Sayers in October 1966.
In 1989 the young couple purchased the business from Ron’s parents, who were then able to enjoy retirement.
Ron went on to receive his Graduate Gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America in 1992. He enjoys designing and making custom jewelry for clients.
As an experienced pearl stringer, Ellen earned her GIA Diamond Certificate. She also managed finances and worked in sales.
The couple retired “about 95 percent” they said, in December 2024, throwing a celebration party for everyone who had ever worked for them, including a 93-year-old who was one of the first employees.
The business is in good hands, with family and trusted employees who provide the same personal service that Sayers Jewelers & Gemologists has always given its customers. The son, Tom, Sayers, “does a great job,” said both parents.
Tom has been with the jewelry store for more than 30 years. His many duties include manufacturing and repairing jewelry, engraving, sales, appraisals, payroll, accounting and more.
Tom’s daughters, members of the fourth generation, both worked in the store growing up, and one still there. The oldest, Alison Mitchell, is now an attorney.
Amber Sayers is currently a junior at the University of Delaware, but when she’s not in school, she’s at the store helping customers.
Full-time since 2021, Jessica June Sayers has completed a GIA Applied Jewelry Professional diploma program. A jewelry consultant, Jessica is passionate about assisting clients with all of their jewelry needs.
Altogether, there are 10 full-time employees, with more during busy seasons. One employee has been with the company for 36 years.
Three of the employees, including Ron, are goldsmiths. “We do a lot of custom manufacturing on site,” he said.
Buyers for Sayers Jewelers & Gemologists search diligently for the finest pieces to entice its customers, handpicking each piece for its quality, style and uniqueness. If customers don’t find exactly what you want, Sayers’ gemologists can make it for you. They can also repurpose a ring, for example, into a pendant, or put a favorite stone into a new setting.
“All we’ll need is your inspiration, your budget and your patience as we work our magic,” the website promises. “Using an intuitive 3D design software, we can create a custom piece of jewelry just for you. Turnaround for custom pieces can vary, but we can estimate completion dates after consultation.”
Ron said the store sells jewelry “from the cradle on.” For infants there are sterling silver baby spoons and cups or unique gifts that can be added to for years. “Start with a single pearl on a necklace and add a pearl each year,” Ron suggested. “Or give a gold add-a-link bracelet with a single diamond. By the time the child is a teenager, she’ll have a full diamond bracelet.”
Of course, Sayers’ sells engagement rings and wedding bands. The store has also sold gifts for 75th anniversaries.
“We have customers in all 50 states,” Ron said. Being located near a military base in Dover lends to customers who get transferred out of state but still remember a good experience at Sayers and return to make a special purchase.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, updating your wardrobe or treating yourself, explore what Sayers’ has to offer. You’re sure to find something you’ll love.
Sayers Jewelers & Gemologists was selected by Delaware Today as one of the state’s premier jewelers and has won first place for “favorite jewelry store” for the last four years in Delaware State News voting.
Bringing you the best jewelry and jewelry shopping experience and found in tax-free Delaware, Sayers Jewelers & Gemologists is located at 19 South Main Street in Smyrna. Call 302-653-9456 or visit online at www.
Sharing their pride on Facebook, Ron and Tom wrote, “Thank you all so much for the kind words, heartfelt congratulations and for sharing your wonderful memories with us! Celebrating 75 years in business is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of, and it wouldn’t have been possible without your continued support over the years. Every story, visit, and piece of jewelry we’ve been a part of means the world to us. Here’s to the memories we’ve made—and many more to come!”