Sohn & McClure Jewelers: Charleston's Destination for Custom and Fine Jewelry

A Charleston jeweler with roots going back decades

Sohn & McClure Jewelers is a family-owned jewelry store located in Charleston that specializes in custom design, fine jewelry repair, and estate pieces. The shop has built its reputation on detailed craftsmanship and personal service—the kind of place where the jewelers know regular customers by name and remember what they're looking for.

The store operates as a full-service jewelry destination rather than a chain retail location. That means you can walk in with a broken heirloom, a sketch of something you want made, or simply to browse what's in stock. The team handles everything from sizing and cleaning to complete custom commissions and appraisals.

Key Takeaways

• Sohn & McClure offers custom jewelry design, so you can work with a jeweler to create something specific rather than choosing from existing inventory.
• The store provides on-site repair services, including sizing, stone setting, and restoration of damaged or antique pieces.
• They buy and sell estate jewelry, which means you can bring in pieces you no longer wear or find vintage and secondhand options at lower prices than new.
• As a locally owned business, the jewelers can spend time understanding what you need instead of rushing through a transaction.

Custom design and made-to-order pieces

If you have an idea for a ring, necklace, or other piece but can't find exactly what you want in stores, Sohn & McClure can create it. The custom design process typically starts with a conversation about your vision—the metal type, stone choice, style, and budget. The jewelers then sketch or render the design for your approval before beginning work.

Custom pieces take longer than buying something off the shelf, usually several weeks depending on complexity and the jeweler's schedule. The cost varies widely based on materials and labor. This route makes sense if you're commissioning an engagement ring, redesigning an inherited stone into a new setting, or creating something one-of-a-kind that reflects your personal style.

Repair and restoration services

Sohn & McClure handles the everyday maintenance that keeps jewelry wearable: ring sizing, prong tightening, clasp repair, stone replacement, and cleaning. They also restore damaged pieces—a bent band, a lost stone, a broken chain—and work on antique or heirloom jewelry that requires careful handling.

Bring the piece in and describe what needs to happen. The jewelers can often give you an estimate on the spot or after a brief inspection. Turnaround time depends on the job; a simple cleaning might be same-day, while a complex restoration could take a week or more. This is where a local jeweler has a real advantage over mail-in services—you can see the work in progress and discuss any concerns directly.

Estate and secondhand jewelry

The store buys estate jewelry—pieces from collections, inheritances, or simply jewelry people no longer wear—and resells them. This means you can find vintage and secondhand options at prices lower than new jewelry with similar materials and quality. Estate pieces often carry character and craftsmanship that newer mass-produced items don't.

If you have jewelry you want to sell, you can bring it in for an offer. The store evaluates based on metal content, stone quality, and current market value. This is a straightforward way to convert jewelry you don't wear into cash, without the hassle of online marketplaces or auction sites.

Jewelry appraisals and valuations

Sohn & McClure provides appraisals for insurance, estate planning, or simply knowing what you own. A professional appraisal documents the piece's materials, condition, and current replacement value—information you need if you ever file an insurance claim or decide to sell.

Bring the piece in and ask about appraisal services. The jeweler will examine it, take notes and photos, and provide a written report. This is especially important for inherited jewelry, engagement rings, or any piece of significant value that you want protected.

Why choose a local jeweler over chain stores

Chain jewelry retailers operate on volume and standardized inventory. A local jeweler like Sohn & McClure operates on relationships and craft. You're not competing for attention with dozens of other customers, and the jewelers have the flexibility to take on custom work, spend time on difficult repairs, and remember your preferences.

Local jewelers also tend to have deeper knowledge of antique and vintage pieces, better access to specialty materials, and the ability to stand behind their work long-term. If something goes wrong with a repair or custom piece, you're dealing with the person who did the work, not a customer service line.

What to bring and how to prepare

If you're coming in for repair, bring the piece itself and a description of what needs to happen. If you're shopping for estate jewelry, come with an open mind—you might find something unexpected. For custom design, bring any inspiration: photos, sketches, descriptions, or pieces you like the style of.

If you're selling jewelry, bring everything you want to sell in one visit so the jeweler can evaluate it all at once. For appraisals, bring the piece and any documentation you have—original receipts, previous appraisals, or photos. The more information you provide, the more accurate the appraisal will be.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a custom jewelry piece take?

Most custom pieces take two to four weeks, depending on complexity and the jeweler's current workload. Simple designs might be faster; pieces with multiple stones or intricate metalwork take longer. Ask for a timeline when you place the order.

What should I expect to pay for a custom ring?

Cost depends entirely on the metal (gold, platinum, silver), the stones, and the complexity of the design. A simple band might cost a few hundred dollars; a detailed ring with multiple stones could cost significantly more. Discuss your budget upfront so the jeweler can design within your range.

Can you repair jewelry from other stores?

Yes. Most jewelers repair pieces regardless of where they were purchased. Bring the item in and describe the problem. The jeweler will evaluate it and give you an estimate.

How do I know if an estate piece is worth buying?

The jeweler can tell you the metal content, stone quality, and whether the piece is well-made. Ask questions about age, origin, and any flaws. If you're unsure, you can always ask for an appraisal before committing to a purchase.

Do you offer warranties on repairs?

Most jewelers stand behind their repair work for a set period—typically 30 to 90 days. Ask about the specific warranty when you drop off your piece. This protects you if something fails shortly after repair.