Jewellers enjoying sparkling success celebrates 20th anniversary

A Halifax jewellers has recovered from a devastating armed raid to celebrate 20 years in business.

Franklyns Jewellers, housed on Market Street, were subjected to a robbery when axe-wielding thieves smashed their way into the shop in November 2010 and made off with designer watches worth thousands of pounds.

But now the shop is marking its 20th anniversary by holding a special competition to raise funds for Overgate Hospice, with a £1,500 voucher as the prize.

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Emmajayne Carter, workshop manager at the shop, said: “We thought it would be nice to give something back so we’re holding a raffle with a £1,500 voucher as the top prize, which will be brilliant for whoever wins with Christmas round the corner.

“All the money raised will go to Overgate Hospice, who are also celebrating a landmark by reaching their 35th anniversary.

“The robbery could have closed us down.

“Because it was in late November, coming up to Christmas, and we had no diamonds left in stock, we had to ring round our suppliers and ask them for loan stock so we had something to display in our windows.

“We had to put in certain security measures and it’s led to some people struggling with the entrance and walking off.

“But we have to make sure our staff and customers are safe.

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“It knocked our confidence because we’re on the high street and you don’t expect that to happen in such a busy area.

“Some of our staff have had to get counselling but we’ve all been very grateful for the support of our customers.”

Emma believes the company’s on-site expertise and handmade products have been crucial in their success over the last two decades.

“We have a workshop on site so customers can see their items being made or repaired.

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“We have three working jewellers and an apprentice jeweller.

“Ninety-five per cent of our stock is made by us and we’re the only jewellers in “Halifax that uses a CAD (Computer aided design) system.

“We’re trying to keep up with the latest technology but not lose our identity.

“We do a lot of pieces by hand, and we’re also keen on recycling jewellery.

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“We keep our costs low by buying scrap gold and pre-owned jewellery, and we make our own metal to do repairs rather than buying it in.

“Plus we’re not just sales people, we believe in proper customer service.”

The competition closes on November 26 and can be entered by visiting the shop.