Deep inside young Melvin Reisz lived a hidden talent. The gift lay dormant until 1972, when, at age 26, his longtime desire to work with his mind and hands led him to Ogunquit, Maine. There, a Perkin’s Cove jeweler trained him to create silver jewelry, an endeavor that revealed his exceptional flair for the craft.
Reisz’s love for his newfound calling set him on a path to entrepreneurial triumph. Along the way, he continued teaching himself through books and ultimately mastered the intricate art of gem setting. The ambitious young man forged ahead, buying his first business from his mentor for the improbable sum of $750.00, and in 1972, in Ogunquit, Summerwind Jewelers was born.
Lady Luck stayed on his side, and in 1978, an overheard conversation at the former Teddy’s Lunch in Market Square spawned a serendipitous meeting with Portsmouth developer, Joseph Sawtelle. With Sawtelle’s help, Reisz bought the first of four buildings on Commercial Alley, where he opened Summerwind’s original Portsmouth location and rented out the other buildings. In 1995, Summerwind Jewelers & Goldsmiths finally found its forever home at 49 Market Street.
For Reisz’s daughter, Sara Reisz Sargent, Summerwind’s managing owner since 2015, becoming a jeweler was just as unexpected. “I sort of fell into it, like my dad,” she says. In 2007, while studying art history in her final college semester, a sudden realization struck her. As an only child, she fervently wished to carry on the business that was her beloved father’s legacy.
Her father encouraged her to attend the Gemological Institute of America, something he was never able to do, and Sargent completed GIA’s one-year program to become a graduate gemologist. Working full-time at Summerwind since December of 2008, she stresses that her dad, who is still involved in the business, never pressured her into this career choice. “I choose to be here,” she says, “and it’s been a good decision.”
Entering Summerwind summons a rich essence of the past mingled with a sleek touch of the present. The atmosphere is at once elegant and welcoming. Defying the traditional formal jewelry store model, Summerwind offers a more relaxed, personal experience. “Because I started on the bench,” Reisz explains, “I’ve always had a different perspective on operating a jewelry store. We explain things to customers and listen to what they want.” Sargent agrees, adding, “We are more down to earth here. We treat our staff and customers like an extension of our family.”
Sargent’s background in art history gives her unique insights into jewelry’s impact on civilization. “Humans have been adorning their bodies with it since ancient times,” she says. “Jewelry is intertwined with history. It has become significant in our culture, especially when given as a symbolic gift.” To celebrate this, Summerwind remakes old family heirlooms, most of them well-worn and loved. On site, their expert goldsmith and custom designer of 29 years, Irene Sirois, artfully creates a replica of the piece or something entirely new.
Both father and daughter value their relationship with the community. A big part of Sargent’s vision for the business is becoming more involved. She and her staff are chamber members, support the arts, and donate to local charities. The store’s monthly Ladies’ Night brings women-owned businesses together to share camaraderie and customers. “The focus is not on selling for us,” says Sargent. “We want to collaborate with other businesses and grow our community.”
Portsmouth’s stately, antique-inspired Market Street clock, a gift from Summerwind to the city they love, stands as a testament to their passion for the community they serve. Thanks to their loyal customers, Summerwind Jewelers has stood the test of time – much like the historic city of Portsmouth itself.
Because I started on the bench, I’ve always had a different perspective on how to operate a jewelry store. We explain things to customers and listen to what they want.