Legend has it that it all started back in Russia in the time of the Czars, but suffice it to say, our family’s been in the jewelry business since forever!

In 1949, after serving in the Navy during WWII, my Dad set up his first storefront, “Leo Robbins Jeweler,” at 137 S. 8th Street. Three years later, he moved to a giant space on the corner of 8th & Walnut Sts.

I grew up in that store. Other kids played baseball, but we ate, breathed and lived the jewelry business! Then it was time to repeat the cycle, so I got married, had some kids, and introduced raised my family in that very same store on the corner.

Dad and Mom retired in 1974. But the country was in a recession. With business down, and everyone tightening their belts, it was time for a bold move.

Should we pull back like everyone else? NO WAY!

We decided to distinguish ourselves from all the other jewelers. To avoid confusion with other stores named Robbins, we officially became ”Robbins 8th & Walnut”–our name and our address.

We started telling our story to anyone who would listen… through radio, TV, newspapers… you name it! And there was plenty to tell! In 1977, we developed “The Smartest Way to Buy a Diamond”—an easy-to-use guide that clearly shows you what makes one diamond worth more than another—without all the confusion and risky guesswork. To spread the word, we teamed up with the popular singing group “The Dovells” and took to the airwaves. This was also when I started wearing that diamond in my beard. Our slogan became “Robbins Rocks!” and the campaign was a hit.

In 1986 we opened our first branch store at Roosevelt Mall in Northeast Philadelphia. We’re now known as “ROBBINS DIAMONDS” and we have stores in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. I focus on planning and marketing and Leo’s grandsons, granddaughters-in-law, and great grandchildren are actively involved in the family business along with Dena, my bride of 50 years. Our extended family includes some members of our management staff who have been with us for well over 20 years. Together, we look forward to a “gem” of a future, helping couples everywhere share their love.

Sincerely,

Jerry Robbins