Don Jenkins to close after 78 years

LIMA — After 78 years in business, Don Jenkins Jewelers is closing its doors. The Lima downtown jewelry store served the community through three generations of jewelers. Don Jenkins became a jeweler in 1926. The business opened in 1945 when Jenkins decided to create his own store. He passed his inheritance to his son-in-law, Don Koenig. Then Koenig’s son Scott took over the family business. Before his grandfather handed over the business, Koenig was able to spend a few years working with his grandfather. According to the company’s voice message, Scott has now made plans to retire.

“I learned a lot from Dad and Grandpa on the repair bench,” said Koenig in a previous article from The Lima News. “They were both very knowledgeable on diamonds.”

Don Jenkins Jewelers was awarded the Best of the Region in 2021. In October 2022, the jewelry store was a top three finalist for Best Jewelry Store.

Many shared on the business’s Facebook post messages of congratulations and best wishes to the family of jewelers. The local jeweler specialized in purchasing jewelry for customers. As a GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Gemologist, Koenig often revealed the true value of jewelry to those interested in purchasing.

Koenig said in a video he enjoyed the community of Lima and the generations of customers they knew and loved.

“The most satisfying thing about my work is buying jewelry is very personal and meant to last a lifetime,” said Koenig in a previous article from The Lima News. “The friendships that develop from helping one find that special jewelry piece that’s a keepsake.”

According to the jeweler’s Facebook post, the store will have a closing sale beginning at noon on Thursday. The sale will be held for the rest of the weekend from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, 9:30 to 5 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information visit www.donjenkinsjewelers.com or contact the store at 419-224-3211.

Reach Precious Grundy at 567-242-0351.