In a candid and insightful interview, we had the privilege of sitting down with John Buonocore Jr., the esteemed owner of Buono Jewelers, as they prepare to mark an impressive 30 years in the business. In this exclusive conversation, we delved into the rich tapestry of their history, explored the unique qualities that set them apart from other jewelers on Staten Island, and discovered what's new and what the future holds for this iconic establishment. As a certified gemologist, John Buonocore Jr. carries forward the legacy his father, John Buonosente Sr., began while also blazing new trails of their own. Join us as we unveil the story behind Buono Jewelers and the bright horizons they're forging.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: As you're approaching the incredible milestone of Buono Jewelers' 30th Anniversary, we'd love to hear the story of how it all began.
John Buonocore Jr.:Buono Jewelers, that beloved family-owned gem nestled right in the heart of Grasmere, Staten Island, is celebrating three dazzling decades of serving our community. This story takes us back to 1995 when my dad, John Buonocore Sr., set the stage for the legacy of craftsmanship and timeless elegance that defines us today. With deep roots in the jewelry industry, he brought over two decades of dedicated experience to the table, drawing from generations of expertise.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: Now, what makes Buono Jewelers stand out from the other esteemed jewelers here on Staten Island?
John Buonocore Jr: Buono Jewelers is your beacon of excellence when it comes to retail jewelry. We've carved our niche in crafting high-end gold and diamond jewelry, consistently delivering top-quality pieces and expert service.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: When it comes to the fantastic experience your clients can expect when they step into your boutique for a special piece of jewelry or an engagement ring, could you paint that picture for us?
John Buonocore Jr.: At Buono Jewelers, we're true artisans at heart. Crafting jewelry is more than a job for us; it's a passion. When a client wants something truly unique, we take a journey of creation, drawing inspiration from their ideas or images. With the help of cutting-edge technology, we bring their vision to life, ensuring the final piece is a perfect reflection of their desires.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: For clients looking to create a custom piece, what's the recommended lead time before they start the design process at your boutique?
John Buonocore Jr.: Crafting a one-of-a-kind jewelry piece is a delicate art that usually takes about two to four weeks. To ensure a smooth, stress-free experience, especially during the bustling holiday season, we recommend clients reach out well in advance. Our commitment is to always meet their expectations and delivery timelines, making sure we never disappoint our valued clients.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: Speaking of the holiday season, what are the hot picks among your clients during this festive time?
John Buonocore Jr: The holiday season sees an increased number of clients seeking symbols of love and elegance, and engagement rings remain a timeless favorite. Additionally, our collection includes classic pieces like diamond tennis bracelets, necklaces, and stud earrings. We've got a wide range of gold and diamond jewelry, and we're always ready for customization, so our clients have plenty of options. And for those who want instant gratification, we keep classic pieces on hand for easy purchase.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: You mentioned earlier that you're "jewelers by trade." What does that mean for your clients, and how does it set you apart from other jewelers?
John Bunocore Jr: At Buono Jewelers, we're all about guiding and educating our clients every step of the way. Being jewelers by trade means we're not just retailers; we're true craftsmen in the art of jewelry making. We design and manufacture our jewelry right on our premises, a key difference from many jewelers who outsource their production overseas. This ensures the authenticity, quality, and integrity of every piece we create.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: You recently expanded your business and introduced the Diamond Boutique alongside your jewelry store. Could you tell us about the inspiration behind this move and how you source diamonds for your clients?
John Buonocore Jr.: In 2020, recognizing the growing demand from our bridal clientele, we decided to expand our business and introduce the Diamond Boutique, seamlessly integrated with our jewelry store. Within this boutique, we offer a concierge service that simplifies the process of diamond sourcing for our clients. It all starts with a personalized consultation where we dive into the specifics of the client's dream ring, including the diamond's shape. From there, we design the ring and embark on sourcing GIA-certified diamonds from around the world. Our efficient network ensures we can have these precious gems in our store within 24 hours of that initial chat. In an era when clients seek a more private, exclusive experience, we take pride in providing exactly that—an intimate and memorable journey to find the perfect engagement ring.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: Expanding your business in 2020 must have brought its unique set of challenges. How did you navigate this transition?
John Buonocore Jr.: Expanding our business in 2020 wasn't without its share of challenges. We had to deal with the unexpected closure of our doors for a few months, and the future was uncertain. It was a time of nerves and contemplation, as it marked the first time I had ever stepped away from work. But when we did reopen, it was a resounding success. It seemed like everyone was ready to embark on their journey of love, and our business took flight once more. Despite the initial uncertainties, this expansion turned out to be one of our best decisions.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: With your long-standing presence in the community, are there specific charitable organizations or foundations you support?
John Buonocore Jr. Our ties to this community run deep, and we've consistently extended our support to local schools and churches over the years. Additionally, I have been a member of the Rotary for ten years and now proudly serve as the President of the Gateway Rotary of Staten Island, an organization committed to making a positive impact on the Staten Island community.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: With your long-standing presence in the community, are there specific charitable organizations or foundations you support?
John Buonocore Jr.: Our ties to this community run deep, and we've consistently extended our support to local schools and churches over the years. Additionally, I proudly serve as the President of the Gateway Rotary of Staten Island, an organization committed to making a positive impact on the Staten Island community.
Staten Island City Lifestyle: To wrap things up, how would you summarize what Buono Jewelers is best known for and the reputation you've painstakingly built?
John Buonocore Jr.: Buono Jewelers is synonymous with unmatched customer service and a profound knowledge of our craft. Our reputation is built on the foundations of honesty and reliability, forging a legacy of excellence in the world of fine jewelry.
