Columbia: A Cherished Legacy at King’s Jewelers
Nestled in the heart of downtown Columbia, King’s Jewelers has been a beloved family business for an impressive 78 years. Founded on June 6, 1946, by a young Nathan Picow, this shop has always aimed to provide customers with high-quality jewelry at discounted prices. Starting at just 21 years old, Nathan was determined to carve out a happy life after losing both of his parents.
A Fond Family Memory
Sadly, Nathan Picow passed away in 2021 at the ripe age of 96. Throughout his life, he was affectionately known as Mr. King by numerous loyal customers. But to his two sons, Ian and Jeffery, he was much more than that—he was their dad. For his grandchildren, he was Poppi. Ian Picow recalled, “He was a wonderful, wonderful father. I had the pleasure of working for him, starting when I was just 17.”
Now, the legacy continues with Ian and Jeffery managing the store independently since 2020. Each day, Ian finds motivation in his father’s unwavering determination, stating, “Hard work gets you far in life.” Visitors to King’s Jewelers would have been greeted by Nathan’s warm smile and engaging spirit, traits that Ian and Jeffery strive to carry forward every day.
Jewelry for Generations
King’s Jewelers isn’t just about the jewelry; it represents a journey through many families’ lives. “Our customers come in from all walks of life. We’ve had customers for years, and now their great-grandkids are coming in,” shares Ian. The Picow family has fostered connections with their customers that often span generations. “Many customers always referred to my dad as Mr. King because they thought it was our last name. Now, we’re welcoming the next generation of customers.”
As the world of jewelry constantly evolves, adapting to new trends is essential. Ian pointed out, “Years ago, everyone went for all white or yellow gold. Now, it’s common to mix metals and styles, and customers love collaborating with us to create something they will cherish for life.”
Embracing Tradition in a Modern World
Despite the changing jewelry trends, some things remain fundamental at King’s Jewelers, notably their traditional checkout process. Ian expressed how his father preferred to avoid technology, saying, “He wanted to use old machines; those from the 1940s! Even recording payments and shipping was done by hand.” This dedication to the old-fashioned way costs a bit more, but the brothers are happy to preserve this aspect of their father’s legacy.
A Touching Tribute
One of the most special ways Ian and Jeffery keep their father’s spirit alive is through two cherished chairs in the store—the summer chair and the winter chair. These were where their father would greet customers as they entered. Ian mentioned, “Every day we come in, we think about him, looking at those chairs reminds us of him often.”
In a bustling world filled with constant change, King’s Jewelers stands as a tribute to hard work, family ties, and a commitment to their community in Columbia. As Ian and Jeffery continue to embrace their father’s values, they remain a vital part of the Midlands, offering beautiful jewelry and creating cherished memories for all family members, young and old.
So, the next time you find yourself in downtown Columbia, drop by King’s Jewelers. You might just be greeted by a warm smile, great conversation, and an invitation to be part of a legacy that has thrived in this charming city for nearly eight decades.
