Well-known Sheffield jewellers announces closure after more than 50 years of trading

After more than 50 years one of Sheffield’s most recognisable independent jewellers is set to close but shoppers will be able to get a bargain in a huge closing down sale.
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Renowned jewellers, James Hadley Fine Diamonds, has been a prominent fixture of Sheffield’s independent jewellery scene since the store was opened by former owner Leslie Cass in 1958. Trading as Leslie Cass Jewellers for 55 years, the store was bought by current owner Roger Coward in 2013.

After an enjoyable seven year’s trading under the name of James Hadley Fine Diamonds, Roger has announced that he intends to close the Surrey Street store prior to retiring from the jewellery retail business altogether. As a thank you to his customers from Sheffield and across the region, Roger has decided to ‘go out with a bang’, and hold a huge closing down sale, in which he will mark down all of the fine jewellery within the store by 50 per cent.

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Roger said: “Having spent many years in the jewellery sector, the recent years in retail have been the pinnacle of my career. So, it has certainly been a very difficult decision to choose to close the store.

How the shop used to look when it was owned by Leslie Cass who started selling jewellery in 1958How the shop used to look when it was owned by Leslie Cass who started selling jewellery in 1958
How the shop used to look when it was owned by Leslie Cass who started selling jewellery in 1958

“I’ve very much enjoyed the past years of ownership and working with Simon and Cheryl has been a real privilege. As I have now reached retirement age, the sensible choice is for me to close the business on a high.

“I am very thankful to the customers who have supported us over the years, and hope that they’ll appreciate the opportunity to grab one final piece of stunning jewellery for themselves or a loved one, at a hugely reduced price.”

James Hadley Fine Diamonds is Roger’s first retail premises, and on acquiring the store from the previous owners, he was pleased to take on the established staff, which includes current manager Simon Scott who has worked in the business for over 25 years and assistant manager Cheryl Cutts, who has 15 years’ experience.

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Combining well-stocked cabinets boasting exceptional quality pieces and knowledgeable, experienced staff keen to offer that personal touch, the business has remained popular with shoppers looking for significant pieces including engagement rings, wedding bands, anniversary and birthday gifts.

James Hadley Fine Diamonds will be closing down for good and the stock is going on sale later this monthJames Hadley Fine Diamonds will be closing down for good and the stock is going on sale later this month
James Hadley Fine Diamonds will be closing down for good and the stock is going on sale later this month

Owner, Roger purchased the store, after spending his whole career within the jewellery industry, primarily working in the wholesale sector for big names like Timex, before establishing his own wholesale jewellery business. As the recognisable retail premises prepares to close, the high street’s loss may be the customer’s gain; as the date is set for the closing down sale to commence on Saturday September 26, at 10am. All stock including diamonds, fine gold jewellery, coloured stones, rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more will be available on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. The sale will continue until all stock is sold.

James Hadley Fine Diamonds, 29 - 31 Surrey Street, Sheffield, S1 2LG.

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