Reigning Jewels: A Cut Above the Rest

• Abra Roberts
• May 31, 2019
• Partners

Traci Wilkes, a former land manager in the oil and gas industry for 20 years, began her search of a new adventure when she and her husband Jackie relocated to the Athens area. Traci fondly remembered how her father's friend would frequent to Wyoming for his jewelry business to purchase diamonds. Inspired by this, Traci wanted to do something similar, so she researched schools on gemology and became a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in diamonds and pearls. Traci is now finishing up her certification on colored stones. It is clear upon talking to her that Traci Wilkes is passionate about gems. Traci beautifully and meticulously designs each piece specific to each of her client's desires. She is a true student of the art of gemology and all the rare treasures curated at Reigning Jewels.

Reigning Jewels became a true family business when son Garrett joined the team. After over a decade of serving our country in the United States Air Force, Garrett, came home to Texas to take classes through GIA. He quickly found that he shared some of the same passions that his mother Traci does with gemology and pursued them by honing his talents by learning from the industry's top jewelers at the New Approach Jewelry School earlier this year. Jackie, a retired master carpenter and former commercial construction business owner, found his niche in the repair department, trading in his construction tools for something more delicate. Jackie works to repair watches and other products that need a little extra TLC. Much like his father, Garrett has also had a knack for working with his hands, and after spending some time at the store front Garrett joined his father in repairs. With such a great team in place, Reigning Jewels truly is a cut above the rest.

Reigning Jewels not only brings that special quality of a family owned and operated business, but they also bring four years of knowledge from the Independent Jeweler's Organization as well. This privilege allows Reigning Jewels access to the world's finest diamonds, straight from the source. Traci and Jackie have taken two trips to Antwerp, Belgium over the last few years to hand pick stones for their clients. On one particular trip, Traci was on the mission to find the perfect canary diamond for her customer. She was shown diamond after diamond, until finally; she spotted the exact golden-toned canary that would perfectly suit her design. This is one of the many unique abilities Traci offers at Reigning Jewels. Utilizing an interactive designing program, Traci brings your special designs to life by putting her extensive knowledge of gemology to use and finding the perfect one just for you.

The company's ability to create unique pieces is amplified by the many trusted and sought after brands they carry. Belair Watch Company, Citizen Watch Company, Antwerp Watches, Antwerp diamonds, Imperial Pearls, and Ammolite Jewelry are just a few of the well-known names you may come across while browsing their beautiful cases. One of the lines carried at Reigning Jewels is called "Sharing the Rough" by Parle Jewelers. This collection is inspired by the "Sharing the Rough" documentary, a foundation to give back to the communities who provide these incredible gems.

Maybe you don't need a custom designed piece of jewelry, or even need something new, but you have that special piece that belonged to your grandmother. That ring she always wore that was vivid in every memory you hold dear. Whatever that may be, Reigning Jewels understands how important those memorable pieces of jewelry mean to their customers. They offer cleaning services and take great pride in bringing those well-worn pieces back to life.

While the store's listed business hours are Monday through Friday 10am-5:30pm and Saturdays 10am-3pm, you can often find them in the store to accommodate any client's schedule.

Traci, Jackie and Garrett are good people, and always strive to do the best they can. They hope that by diligence, good stewardship, and hard work, they can bring the finest jewelry options to their customers without "breaking the bank". With all these specialties and rare products, Reigning Jewels truly is a gem of Athens, Texas.

Contact Information:

Reigning Jewels 909 East Tyler Street, Ste. 111 Athens, Texas 75751 903-904-5048 www.reigningjewels.net

Hours of Operation:

Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 5:30 pm

Saturday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Sunday Closed