BY PHIL CUSTODIO
Clarkston News Editor
After 33 years, Tierra Fine Jewelry in downtown Clarkston is closing its doors.
The downturn in the economy, increasing costs in overhead and taxes, construction, and changes in shopping habits over the past decade all have contributed to the decision, said owner Floyd ‘Buck? Kopietz.
‘I’d like to thank all my customers ? the only sad part of this is the relationships I’ve had with my customers will change,? Kopietz said. ‘I’ve had some of the best customers you could ever want.?
However, the trend over the past several years have been towards fewer shoppers, he said.
‘I’ve seen a steady decline over the last 20 years,? he said.
The store is offering all of its inventory at 30-70 percent off.
‘There are some real bargains ? some fine, nice jewelry, things you wouldn’t find in the mall or other stores,? Kopietz said. ‘This is a great opportunity to find some exceptional gems and a huge variety.?
Offered are Lightning Ridge black opal gems from Australia, 14- and 18-karat gold, Silk Road gems, fine-quality platinum, and jewelry by in-store designer Heidi Abbot.
However, this is not the end of Kopietz’s career in jewelry. Closing the storefront will provide time for him to travel around the world to find high-quality jewelry for his customers.
‘I’ve found myself at the store a lot more ? last year was the first time in 17 years that I missed the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show,? he said. ‘Now I’ll be able to make trips that I couldn’t make before.?
He plans to continue to provide jewelry for his regular customers and jewelers on an appointment basis, he said.
‘I’m looking forward to this ? I like change,? he said. ‘This is the next step.?
He plans to sell the building, at 64 S. Main St. However, he and his wife, Joan Kopietz, will continue to own and operate the Millpond Inn bed and breakfast at 155 N. Main St.
The sale will continue until all the inventory is gone. The last day will be around Valentine’s Day next year. For more information, call 248-625-2511.