Articles and News

Breese, IL--Breese is home to Becker Jewelers, a family-owned establishment celebrating its diamond jubilee of 75 years. Forrest "Bud" Becker founded the business in 1949 after purchasing an existing jewelry store. Bud's background as a watchmaker, particularly his role as a watch inspector for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, paved the way for his entry into the jewelry business.

A report in Morning Sentinel notes that Bud's son, A.G. Becker, now owns and operates Becker Jewelers. He has been involved in the business his entire life, taking over most operations in 1986. The store, originally located on Second Street, moved to its current location at 315 N. Main St. in 1955. It has undergone multiple expansions to become the largest jewelry store in southern Illinois.

Per the report, A.G., a trained gemologist and bench worker, enjoys helping customers create custom pieces or breathe new life into heirloom jewelry. Using modern technology, Becker Jewelers can transform simple sketches or restaurant napkin drawings into reality.

Becker Jewelers serves customers throughout southern Illinois and takes pride in its multi-generational clientele. A.G. is heavily involved in the industry and advocates for ethical practices as a long-standing Retail Jewelers Organization (RJO) board member.

"I'm very proud of that," said A.G. about the milestone in the report. "And it never would have been possible without our employees over the years... This business has always been good to our family."

Learn more in the report in Morning Sentinel.