Calvins Fine Jewelry Story
In the heart of Austin, Texas, lies Calvin’s Fine Jewelry, a family-owned business with deep roots in craftsmanship, creativity, and a passion for quality. Founded by Calvin Smith III in 1997, the store has grown into a beloved local institution, known for its exceptional jewelry, personalized service, and unwavering commitment to customers. But Calvin’s journey to becoming a jeweler is one that blends tradition, perseverance, and a deep love for creating something beautiful.
Humble Beginnings: A Family Tradition
Calvin Smith III’s path to jewelry-making began in Baytown, Texas, where he grew up watching his father, Calvin Smith II, work as a jeweler. Though Calvin didn’t initially aspire to follow in his father’s footsteps, he possessed a natural talent for working with his hands and a strong work ethic that would later define his approach to jewelry-making.
While Calvin spent his youth riding motorcycles and enjoying the outdoors, his father’s dedication to craftsmanship left an impression. Eventually, when Calvin’s father opened a new jewelry store in Kerrville, Texas, Calvin moved to help him set up the shop. It was during this time, surrounded by the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, that Calvin discovered his passion for creating jewelry.
Austin Roots: A New Chapter Begins
Calvin’s visits to Austin sparked a love for the city’s vibrant culture, and in time, he decided to make it his new home. He sought to hone his skills as a bench jeweler and soon found a mentor in a master jeweler who taught him both the foundational techniques of the trade and innovative methods for speeding up fabrication.
Calvin’s apprenticeship was marked by a relentless pursuit of perfection. He embraced the trial-and-error approach, learning from mistakes and pushing himself to fix any problem that came his way. As his skills grew, so did his love for the creative freedom that bench work offered. Each piece of jewelry became a small work of art, handcrafted with care for his early customers.
The Birth of Calvin’s Fine Jewelry
After years of perfecting his craft and doing contract work for other jewelers, Calvin was ready to take a leap of faith. In 1997, he opened CALVIN’S Fine Jewelry in Austin, alongside his sister Kathy, who took charge of sales. Despite the challenges of attracting customers early on, Calvin remained determined to build relationships with his community.
One creative and unexpected decision changed everything: Calvin partnered with Jackie, a talented stylist (and the love of his life), who opened a salon inside the store. Jackie’s salon clients loved the space, and soon the word spread, bringing new customers into the jewelry shop. Jackie, who had a natural eye for design, later took over store decorating and accounting, helping Calvin expand the business. Together, the duo built a reputation for their exceptional customer service and attention to detail.
Growth and Innovation
As Calvin’s Fine Jewelry gained momentum, Calvin, Jackie, and Kathy carefully curated a selection of unique designers and high-quality pieces, ensuring every detail met Calvin’s meticulous standards. Their commitment to offering customers the best selection of fine jewelry paid off, and the store expanded to include a new showroom.
In addition to offering popular designer collections, Calvin and Jackie also launched their own lines, including CALVIN’S Collections & Wisteria, reflecting their shared vision and creative spirit. The store’s success allowed them to add new designers, most recently introducing the Iconic Line to Calvin’s Collection, which showcases Calvin’s unique artistic perspective and craftsmanship.
A Family Legacy Built on Integrity and Trust
Today, CALVIN’S Fine Jewelry continues to be a pillar of the Austin community, known for its unwavering dedication to customer service, quality craftsmanship, and family values. As a family-owned business, Calvin’s Fine Jewelry treats every customer like family, building relationships based on integrity, trust, and personalized care.
Calvin’s legacy of exceptional craftsmanship is more than just a business; it’s a family tradition built on hard work, creativity, and a passion for making jewelry that lasts a lifetime. Whether it’s a custom engagement ring, a delicate necklace, or a treasured family heirloom, every piece at Calvin’s is created with love and an eye for perfection.
Conclusion: The Heart of Calvin’s Fine Jewelry
From a young boy in Baytown, Texas, to a master jeweler in Austin, Calvin Smith III’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and creativity. Calvin’s Fine Jewelry stands as a testament to the importance of family, craftsmanship, and a deep commitment to serving the community.
Whether you’re looking for a timeless engagement ring or a custom piece that tells your story, CALVIN’S Fine Jewelry is dedicated to helping you find something truly special. Visit Calvin’s Fine Jewelry today, and experience the legacy of care, quality, and craftsmanship that has made the store a beloved Austin treasure for more than two decades.