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Conroe, TX—Shortly after graduating high school in 1981, Janice Parish (image) walked into Brownlee Jewelers in downtown Conroe. The owner, Pinky Brownlee, hired her on the spot and funded her graduate gemologist education at GIA (Gemological Institute of America).

Today, the store is celebrating its 90th anniversary, and Parish is now the owner. In an article in Community Impact, she describes how Brownlee changed her life—a “godsend” for a girl whose family couldn’t afford college—and how the store has evolved with the years.

From the article:

“I’d come back from California and ask, ‘Mr. Brownlee, can I go back to do appraisals?’” Parish recalled. “He saw how excited I was about learning.” Parish’s studies helped Brownlee Jewelers expand its services and technology in the areas of gem cutting, appraisal and design.

Brownlee passed away in 1988, and since then Parish has grown the business. What started as a small counter in the Brownlee family pharmacy is now a 60-year institution in downtown Conroe. Today, Parish specializes in custom design, particularly reworking existing pieces, as well as appraisals and repairs. She sells a robust selection of fine jewelry, watches, clocks, and gifts.

Read more here.