Bugay’s Jeweler’s at 8638 Germantown Ave. has been a part of the Chestnut Hill community for 84 years.
Owner Rosalind Bugay-Schiller said her grandfather, who was an immigrant watchmaker, opened the store in 1929. The fine jewelry store has since remained in the family. Bugay-Schiller’s grandfather, uncle and father were all jewelers in the store at some time. However, she credited her mother, who died four years ago, with steering the store into the 21st century.
“My mother was more of a salesperson,” Bugay-Schiller said. “She is responsible for helping the store evolve through modern times.”
Bugay-Schiller said she is proud to be one of the few family businesses left in the area.
She said her family has gotten to know the clientele and “we treat [them] like they are relatives.” She said that she thinks the personable service the store offers is the key to its longevity and place in the community for so many years.
Even though the store is traditional, Bugay-Schiller said she has to use new technologies and follow current trends to stay successful.
“It’s very important to try and keep up with the times but also keep the classic feel,” she said.
“Our customers like the style the store offers and we’ll do everything we can to serve the tastes of our cultivated clientele.”
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