Despite the pandemic and uncertain economic times, Chestnut Hill has a new jewelry store in 8600 block of Germantown Avenue aptly named Kathie Provost Design + Jewelry.

“It’s been a long time coming as I’ve been working for other establishments for 35 years,” said Kathie Provost, a resident of Lower Gwynedd. “I’m happy to have my name on the sign.”

For close to six years Provost was affiliated with Chestnut Hill Jewelers until the partnership ended.

“I have such a strong customer base that its not like I’m starting from scratch. That would be a lot scarier,” said Provost, who has brought on her sister, Jeannie Mercier to handle the bookkeeping and inventory.

“I’m just learning this end of the business, but it’s exciting,” said Mercier.

Provost said her strong traits are beading and pearl stringing and finding new uses for dated pieces.

“I love taking old estates jewelry and turning it into newer pieces. As an example, a grandmother’s old pin could be turned into a ring or even a necklace,” said Provost, noting she works with another jeweler who does the CAD design so a customer can see the finished product on paper.

Recently she worked with Ann McNally of McNally’s Pub to go through her mother’s old jewelry.

“We decided what was worth something, what was faux, and what to discard,” said Provost. “It was a fun project.”

Asked if Chestnut Hill can support another jewelry store, Provost was optimistic.

“That’s why they have Jewelers Row in Philadelphia,” Provost said. “I’ve been doing open houses on Sundays to keep things going and have gotten a nice response.”

Phil Dawson, Executive Director of the Chestnut Hill Business Association, was on hand for a ribbon cutting in front of the store on Saturday.

“I think Chestnut Hill can support another jewelry store and Kathie has the expertise and the focus with years of experience in this field,” said Dawson. “This is the third new store opening in 60 days and we are optimistic about business despite the pandemic and challenging times.”

Provost, who had her little dog, Polly, in the shop also creates specialized collars for pets as well.

Wyncote resident Linda Wright Moore had only well wishes for Provost.

“I think it’s great. She is very talented, a fabulous salesperson and she’s great at fixing jewelry that I’m always in need of. I’m glad to see her back,” said Moore.

The 1000–square-foot slick black and white design used to house My Little Gallery, which merged with another gallery recently.

“I worked with the business association and when this came up it was a reasonable rent and I came and looked at it. I like the size. It keeps it more personal,” said Provost.

Next door at Elle Laurie boutique, worker Raquel Jonello was pleased to see the store occupied.

“It’s exciting and new and I hope it will bring us some new business as well,” said Jonello.

For now the hours are 11 to 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, but the store will expand those hours with the holiday shopping season. Appointments can be arranged by calling 267-335-2370.

The store has a Facebook presence and can be found on Instagram at KP JewelryandDesign.

Correspondent Barbara Sherf can be reached at Barb@CommunicationsPro.com.