Brothers Carry Out Family Tradition with Jewelry Store

Benny Chiazzese was 14 years old when he started to work in the family business. After school he would go to his uncle's jewelry store in the Bronx where he would clean the jewelry. Eventually he worked his way up to interact with the customers.

His older brother Joe also started working at their uncle's store because, he said, rather than being out in the streets, he chose to work and stay out of trouble at a young age.

Now the two  graduates, own . The store, which was previously known as Throggs Neck Jewelry when the men co-partnered with their uncle, is located in the Underhill Plaza. 

"What really got me into the business is the smile people get when they find what they like," he said describing how men would choose an engagement ring, and then he would see the excitement and happiness on the woman's face when they come back. "The way they glow is what it's really all about."

Debra Sorgini, sales manager at the store, said Chiazzese once drove to a man's home in Mahopac on Christmas Eve after the man was not able to pick up two diamond studs, which he had ordered as a Christmas present for his wife. 

"I wanted to make sure his wife would have a good Christmas present," Benny Chiazzese said. "I'm not scared to roll up my sleeves and get the job done."

Although in tough economic times, people would often cut back on expensive, luxury items, such as jewelry, Chiazzese said business is going well. He considers himself successful when he gets back positive feedback from his clients.

"It's not how much money you make," he said.

The store carries watches by Michael Kors as well as Pandora jewelry. The men also specialize in custom made jewelry and do repairs. 

"When you buy a piece of jewelry, not only does it bring a smile to your face, but it can be passed down," said Benny Chiazzese and added how much he treasures a pocket watch that was given to him, which once belonged to his great great-grandfather. "It becomes a family emblem. It means so much to me. I hope to one day pass it onto my son or my grandson."

 is located at 1883 Commerce St. in Yorktown Heights. They're open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.