Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1484758
F or Lyn Skibell, "business owner" wasn't a title she ever planned to add to her resume. As with many people, however, 2020 was a year of surprises. After tragically losing her husband, Charles Skibell, she had a decision to make: Could she rise to the occasion and take over her husband's generations-old family business, Skibell Fine Jewelry? She could. When you meet Skibell, she exudes kindness, graciousness, and, most of all, gratitude. She's thankful to her clients, her staff, and those around her. A stranger quickly becomes a friend. "We want everyone to feel comfortable here," she says. "We're not a stuffy jewelry store. Yes, we sell gorgeous, luxury jewelry. But we do it within a fun and light environment. It's a place you want to be." That dedication to culture and a warm atmosphere is evident through the generations of Skibell Fine Jewelry clients who return to the store (which is two doors south /down from the original store) time and time again. "We've worked with families for decades," Skibell says. "Just the other day, a man came in and said he had bought his wife's engagement ring from Charles. Now, he needed a 25th anniversary gift. It's so special to see that come full circle. That's what Skibell Fine Jewelry is all about." The company has a rich history, dating back to Charles' great- grandfather, C.L. Schlom, who founded the business in Greenville, Mississippi, in 1908. The store became one of the first Rolex dealers in the state and the Delta's most complete bridal salon. It weathered the Depression, recessions and floods. Yet its roots, perseverance, and commitment to fine jewelry prevailed. Today, Skibell's focus is on continuing to modernize Skibell Fine Jewelry and serve the extensive global clientele, which ranges from Dallas to Dubai. From advertising to finding new designers, she's taking the company to the next generation while maintaining its history. At the heart of it all is Skibell's ability to source pieces clients can't find elsewhere. "Because of our generations-deep connections, we have sources to procure unique pieces, from a green diamond to an engagement ring or anniversary gift." Skibell Fine Jewelry is also known for its exceptional collection of estate jewelry. "The '70s and '80s are back. Just look at celebrities like Rihanna embracing this style," she says. "We have pre-owned to Know Getting PAPERCITY ADVERTORIAL FINE JEWELRY: SKIBELL THE NEXT ERA items that are classic. People want decade jewelry," And when it comes to new school, the store is on-trend with of-the-moment must-haves like tennis necklaces and inside-out hoops. Additional specialties include appraisals and repurposing. What's next for the company? Skibell is focused on diversifying her merchandise mix, bringing in both established and up-and- coming designers. There's also plans to make the online assortment more robust. "Everything is lighter, brighter, fresher, newer—which is not only my motto for the store, but my whole life." Skibell Fine Jewelry 8411 Preston Road, Suite 110 Dallas, Texas 75225 214.691.5123 skibellfinejewelry.com Lyn Skibell 44