Independents

Washington Jeweler Celebrates 75th Anniversary

IndependentsJun 20, 2023

Washington Jeweler Celebrates 75th Anniversary

Olympia’s Panowicz Jewelers has special events planned to mark the milestone.

Panowicz Jewelers celebrates 75 years
Third-generation jeweler Panowicz Jewelers in Olympia, Washington has a slate of activities planned this summer to celebrate 75 years in business.
Olympia, Wash.—This year marks 75 in business for third-generation jewelry store Panowicz Jewelers, and the company has lots of celebrations in store for its clients.
 
Anton Panowicz, Sr. founded Panowicz Jewelers in 1948, after serving in World War II. 
 
The family-owned business sold watches, clocks, china, and jewelry. 
 
Today, third-generation jeweler Leslie Panowicz heads the store that specializes in engagement rings, anniversary gifts, and custom jewelry. 
 
The Washington store is a member of the American Gem Society, which admits jewelers based on professionalism, ethics, and expertise. 
 
It has three goldsmiths and a certified gemologist on staff, allowing its Olympia clientele to receive first-class jewelry service that many other companies would have to outsource to larger cities. 
 
“We have so much fun going to jewelry shows, curating unique collections and even shopping specifically for clients,” said Store Manager Kandy Watters.
 
“We love to find pieces that set us apart from the crowd. One example is how Leslie and Isabelle, our gemologist, travel to Antwerp, Belgium to hand select diamonds from the diamond capital of the world.”
 
 Related stories will be right here … 
 
Panowicz is dedicated to its local community, contributing to local charities and sponsoring community events. The company frequently donates to raffles on behalf of nonprofit organizations. 
 
According to owner Leslie, through donations of jewelry to raffles, the store helps organizations raise about $75,000 per year. 
 
Leslie said she is excited to continue the store’s legacy in years to come, having been part of the business her entire life.
 
“I remember growing up in the store,” she said. “I’d come after school and help out my dad each day. We are so excited to celebrate our 75th anniversary and invite you to join us!”
 
To celebrate, Panowicz has crafted several opportunities for its customers, with a slew of events planned from now through July 15. 
 

These include the “75th Anniversary Across Olympia Scavenger Hunt,” in which clients can win prizes like pearls, diamonds, and a party for 10 at the store.
 
The store is asking customers to bring in their Panowicz Jewelers memorabilia from over the years to be featured in a dedicated anniversary space in the store, and encouraging them to share video testimonials about the special moments in their lives the jeweler has helped to shape.
 
Panowicz will also give away a Hearts on Fire necklace with a 0.75-carat diamond. 
 
For more information on all the festivities, visit the store’s website. 

Ashley Davisis the senior editor, fashion at National Jeweler, covering all things related to design, style and trends.

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