Downtown jeweler’s heart for community shines like gold

Southington resident Andy Bawa has a passion for the community he loves: the downtown area itself and good causes to help those in need. That is why that as the owner of b&v Jewelers he continues to provide his time, talent and “treasures” to local non-profits, most recently the United Way of Southington at its annual dinner held April 18.

"Andy Bawa really stepped up for the United Way of Southington. His unsolicited donation of five ruby heart necklaces were a big hit and raised a significant amount of donations for our raffle,” said Rob Flood, president of the local United Way. “Andy understands the concept of ‘strategic hospitality’ which I spoke of during the event."

On April 22 and 23, b&v Jewelers, located at 76 N. Main St., hosted a gold-buying event from which 10 percent of the proceeds were donated to the Southington Community YMCA Annual Support Campaign. Customers were welcome to bring in broken gold jewelry, coins, flatware, jewelry, watches, artwork and diamonds.

“Since opening his business, which is located next to the Southington Y, Andy has been a strong supporter of the Y and has shared his appreciation for what we do in the community,” said Shannon Eterginio, director of community development, Southington Community YMCA. “We’re thrilled that b&v Jewelers selected the Southington Y to donate a portion of the proceeds from this event.”

Bawa said he likes to give back to inspire others to do the same. He is invested in Southington, especially downtown where he opened his jewelry store in the brick building located on the corner of North Main and High streets where his hot pink signature sign emblazons the sidewalk outside the storefront.

Late last year, Bawa made the move to downtown Southington with the hopes of attracting new business to the area, which still has many empty storefronts. One of his top priorities is educating customers on why shopping locally at a “brick and mortar” – and not at malls or online – is essential to a healthy local economy. “If you are spending money on something priceless that you plan to be a family heirloom, the last thing you need is buyer’s remorse,” said Bawa, who is a credentialed through the Gemological Institute of America. “If you know who is selling it, they are doing it because they love to do it.”

Bawa prides himself on offering only the top strata of the four “Cs” of diamonds: color, clarity, cut and carat weight. In addition, there are countless cuts or styles of diamonds available to suit every desire and budget. With nearly 12 years in the jewelry profession, Bawa sells everything diamonds with or without other precious gems in gold or platinum settings – necklaces, bracelets, brooches and most popularly, engagement rings. “I want people to understand the value of what they buy but most importantly, that they love it.” Right now he is geared up for Mother’s Day with many special offerings.

B&v Jewelers is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, call 860-276-2097 and connect to b&v Jewelers on Facebook.

Photo courtesy of John Atashian

Andy Bawa, owner of b&v Jewelers, displays the five ruby pendants he donated to the United Way of Southington annual dinner.