Prouds The Jewellers For Gifts
Illawarra Mercury
Friday November 25, 2005
JEWELLERY gifts are very popular at Christmas time, so why not get in early this year and secure a bargain at Prouds the Jewellers in Shellharbour.
"Our first Christmas catalogue is out now with big reductions on selected items," Manager Donna Trigg said. "Plus we are offering 540 days interest-free from now until Christmas - special conditions apply. "Our second catalogue is due out December 1, if you miss out this time."Prouds the Jewellers is one of the largest specialist jeweller chains in Australia and New Zealand. The jewellers have been in business for over a hundred years and have become a trusted name in jewellery. There are 145 stores in Australia with plans to expand by another 200 stores in the next 18 months. Annual turnover is estimated at $220 million so it is a group with tremendous buying power.The aim of the group is to provide the most enjoyable shopping experience possible; give friendly, informed and attentive service; maximum value for customer's money; maintain the highest possible in-stock position regarding core merchandise; and have higher standards than competitors.Prouds the Jewellers at Stocklands Shellharbour opened in September 2003, and under the management of Donna has grown to a staff of 10."We have qualified staff, a great product range and comparable prices," Donna said."There's a vast range of jewellery, gift wear and watches including all the main brands."We have a jeweller who can custom design special items and customers can have their jewellery valued by a qualified gemologist and valuer."So what is popular this Christmas?"Diamonds set in rings, earring and pendants have become trendy," she said. "Silver is in demand for the younger generation. Mother-of-pearl, coloured stones and birthstones - for example, garnet for January - make great gifts."With the Christmas catalogue out, Donna finds that the Christmas rush began from mid-November."The store has been hectic ever since," Donna said. "We already have three new Christmas casuals helping out." Prouds has launched a training program in customer service, so staff can give advice in the care of jewellery, appropriate gifts for wedding anniversaries and other jewellery-related queries.Other Prouds' services include ring resizing, charm and bracelet soldering, charm soldering, claw retipping, remakes, remodelling, cleaning and polishing. Watch repairs include batteries, adjustments, cleaning, and pin and glass replacements.A 12-month guarantee is offered on jewellery items while manufacturer's warranty on watches is standard.A gift voucher, valid for 12 months after date of purchase, can be used at any of the stores throughout Australia."Don't forget the massive Boxing Day sale which goes through to the end of the year," Donna said. "Then it's the January sale."For information, including a buyer's guide on gold, silver, watches and diamonds - and the latest Christmas catalogues - view the website www.prouds.com.au Prouds the Jewellers is located at Shop 241, Stocklands Shellharbour, Lake Entrance Road, Shellharbour.Please phone 4297 8363 for further information.
© 2005 Illawarra Mercury
