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If you’re considering the gift of jewelry this holiday season, here’s a pro tip:
Yellow gold, already sweeping the East and West Coasts as an of-the-moment trend, is increasingly coveted in Kansas City.
“For a while, white gold and platinum were dominant,” says Jerry Chaitman, owner. “Jewelry is in fashion just like clothing. Certain things are always popular, but other styles come and go.”
To continue with the fashion analogy, stepping into Lilliane’s Jewelry, nestled in the heart of Leawood near 95th Street and Mission Road, is like finding yourself in the world’s most stylish walk-in closet.
Ornate antique pieces that exemplify the intricacy of handwork mingle with the striking simplicity of Art Deco styles. Classic pieces by jewelry giants like David Yurman and Tiffany & Co. beckon, ready to add sophisticated polish to any ensemble.
And that’s just the start—of the selection, the service, the magic of a family-owned jewelry store with a story as compelling as the jewels themselves.
“Life Is Too Short to Wear Ordinary Jewelry”
Jerry’s parents, Abe and Lillian Chaitman, started an antiques business in 1965. They frequently traversed the country, exhibiting at approximately 40 shows each year spanning locations from Los Angeles to New York City.
Just over a quarter-century later, Abe and Lillian had grown weary with the demands of constant traveling and opened a brick-and-mortar location in Overland Park. After Abe passed away in 1988, Lillian, Jerry, and Jerry’s brother, Marty, continued at the helm of the family business.
The early 90s saw two significant changes: a move to Prairie Village and an exclusive focus on antique jewelry. The business’s new motto: “life is too short to wear ordinary jewelry.”
Jerry and Diane’s well-trained eyes and knack for understanding the pieces and styles that will resonate with customers has made them jewelry buying experts—and it’s one of the things they love most about their work.
“We have something for everyone and we’re adding new jewelry every day,” Jerry says. “The jewelry we offer is unique; it isn’t cookie-cutter. People come in and are amazed by the stunning selection and exceptional value .”
Just as the team at Lilliane’s maintains an unwavering commitment to quality, they similarly prioritize family. Jerry and Diane’s grandsons, Alex and Austin, have joined the business, along with in-house jeweler, Sarah Bichsel. Austin, for one, didn’t expect to work in the industry, but says the career transition is just what he needed.
“I previously worked in engineering and had to travel a lot,” he says. “Working here gave me an opportunity to stay home more, and that was initially the main draw. It’s a fascinating profession, too; there’s a lot more to jewelry than people realize until you really start to look deeper. I’ve now developed a true and complete appreciation for the artistry involved in fine jewelry making. Exceptional pieces tell a story and become part of their owner’s story.”
Alex shares a similar interest in the business of jewelry, but says he loves an opportunity to make customers feel like they’re also part of the family.
“I was taught from day one the importance of customers, not sales,” Alex says. “It’s great when customers develop into friends, or even feel like family. They come in and tell me about their day-to-day life. This is really the best part of personal service, and it never gets old.”
Not only will the Lilliane’s team hear about what’s happening with customers, many times, the store itself becomes a focal point for a treasured memory.
“We’ve had people bring wedding dresses in so they can select coordinating jewelry, or even propose here at the store,” Jerry says. “Customers bring us food, and Sarah gets flowers delivered. We’ve made so many personal connections and kept them for decades. I dare say that’s not nearly so common across the multi-store national jewelry chains.”
Celebrate a Beloved Tradition: Lilliane’s Annual Holiday Sale
As the holiday season kicks off, attention becomes even more attuned to traditions, family, gathering, and, of course, gift-giving.
And that’s where the team at Lilliane’s Jewelry excels. Now through the end of December, take advantage of a beloved annual tradition: Lilliane’s Holiday Sale. Save an additional 20 percent off of the already half-off prices for more than 3,000 pieces of jewelry. For every style and for every budget.
If you feel overwhelmed or uncertain about jewelry-buying, that’s yet another reason to shop locally at Lilliane’s. Jerry, Diane, Alex, and Austin are all waiting to welcome you, understand more about the person you’re shopping for and help you pick a truly special gift.
“You should know what you’re buying and who you’re buying from,” Jerry says.
Adds Alex, “Come in and get a feel for what we have to offer. Sometimes customers come in without a clear direction and discover something they love; or, conversely, they have an idea and instead find something completely different and unexpected. That’s the beauty of our vast collection: it’s constantly changing, so you can come back regularly and see different things.”
Mark your calendars for Dec. 3-4, Lilliane’s annual Holiday Open House. Browse the well-stocked jewelry cases as you enjoy snacks, refreshments and holiday merriment. Then, celebrate getting an early start on your holiday gift-buying and spend more time anticipating how that special someone will react to such a thoughtful and beautiful gift.
Who knows: as you support one family-focused tradition at Lilliane’s during the holiday sale, you just might find a precious reason to start your own personal tradition. ‘Tis the season for a little magic and sparkle, after all!
For more information about Lilliane’s Jewelry and to browse online inventory, visit www.LillianesJewelry.com.