Molinelli’s Jewelers

Dec 21

In their own words

“Molinelli’s is Idaho’s oldest jewelry store owned by two families over four generations. What I like about the jewelry industry is it’s associated with life moments. Engagements, anniversaries—the happiest parts about life.”

-Lance Buttars

Jason’s Interview with Lance

Jason

We're back on Meet the Jewelers and today we're talking to Lance Buttars of Molinelli’s Jewelers. How did you get to the industry?

Lance

My introduction to the industry started as a fifteen-year-old kid looking for a summer job. I had a friend at school whose dad owned the jewelry store that I now own. He just needed some help, a gopher, a repairman. In those days, when your blender broke, or your hairdryer, or your shaver, you’d take it to the jeweler and get it fixed. I did that, clock repair, deliveries, and custodial work. That was my summer job. When it came to winter time, they still needed the help and I took an interest in the goldsmith. The goldsmith didn't like me, but he tolerated me because one day he dropped a little tapered baguette emerald on a green floor and it was like a jigsaw puzzle piece, so I swept up the floor and picked through the dirt till I found it. He decided he tolerated me looking over his shoulder and asking questions.