Thomas James and Bechtold Jewelry

What inspired you to start this business?

My journey into the world of fine jewelry began with a deep admiration for my father's craftsmanship. As a young boy, I used to watch him create beautiful pieces, marveling at the dexterity of his hands and the incredible works of art he brought to life. His hands, to me, were a symbol of his skill, dedication, and love for his work. When my father passed away, I held his hands and reflected on the memories of watching him create. It was in that moment that I realized my true inspiration for taking over Bechtold Jewelry as Thomas James and Bechtold Jewelry is to honor my father's legacy and continue the family tradition of exceptional craftsmanship that had captured my heart from such a young age. My father always wanted me to surpass his abilities some day, and I understand that. I have the same desire for those I teach. There are many areas that I feel I have accomplished that task, but there are some skills and artistry that is uniquely my father’s. I learned hand engraving from him, but I have his test plates, and graduation plates he engraved, that I can only admire, and will never surpass. He was so humble about it. I don’t think he realized how good he really was. I haven’t seen anyone match some of what he could do, and that is saying a lot. It’s been 30 years since he has been gone and I still miss that man. In addition to my love for jewelry and my father's influence, the opportunity to collaborate with my wife, Kasia, in bringing unique, handcrafted gifts from Poland has further enhanced our business and enriched the shopping experience for our clients.

How does your faith shape your work?

First, our business is consecrated to the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of Częstochowa. I guess another way to answer is this. When I arrive at work, I head to the holy water font, where I have Epiphany water, I cross myself and recite this prayer: My Heavenly Father, as I enter this work place, I bring Thy presence with me. I beseech Thy peace, Thy grace, Thy mercy and Thy perfect order into my work. I consecrate myself and all my work to Thy Holy Face, Thy Sacred Heart, and to the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and to St. Joseph Her most chaste spouse. I acknowledge Thy power over all that will be done, spoken, thought and decided within these walls and I offer all that is done for Reparation for the sins of Blasphemy against Thy Holy Name, and your Holy Catholic Church, and profanation of your Holy Sundays, and Holy Days. Lord, I thank Thee for the gifts Thou hast blessed me with. I commit to use them responsibly in Thy honor. Give me a fresh supply of strength to do my job. Anoint my projects, ideas, and energy, so that even my smallest accomplishment may bring Thee glory. Lord, when I am confused, guide me. When I am weary, energize me. When I am burned out or frustrated, infuse me with the light of Thy love. I pray that the work that I do and the way I do it bring the love of Thee, Thy joy and Thy peace to all that I come in contact with today. When my tasks of this day are done I beg Thy Mercy for any failings. Bless my family and home, so it be rightly ordered to Thy Will. Lord, I thank Thee for everything Thou hast done, everything Thou art doing, and everything Thou art going to do. In the name of Jesus I pray, with much love and thanksgiving. In the name of the †Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, Amen

What's a favorite patron saint or scripture?

My Patron St Thomas Beckett. I was born on his feast day. St. Catherine of Alexandria, my wife’s names day Saint. Of course the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, St. John the Evangelist (my confirmation Saint), St. Louie Marie DeMonfort, Venerable Leo DuPont, St. Martin of Tours, St. Veronica, and more in our daily arsenal. My favorite Devotions are the Daily Devotion to the Holy Face, with the League of St. Martin, under the direction of Fr. Lawrence Carney, our local League in Sioux Falls under the direction of His Grace Arch Bishop Thomas Gullickson. The devotion to the BVM with the daily rosary, and we are Auxiliary members of the Legion of Mary, and also the daily devotion under Auxiliam Christianorum. One of my favorite books in the Bible is the book of Tobit. One of my favorite verses is Tobit 14:10 “Hearken therefore, my children, to your father: serve the Lord in truth, and seek do to the things that please Him."

What's one thing you'd like customers to know?

Thomas James and Bechtold Jewelry is a family-owned and Catholic-operated fine quality jewelry and gift business with deep roots in the community since 1902. Our mission is to provide the highest quality jewelry, custom-designed pieces, expert repairs, and an array of imported gifts from Poland. We specialize in creating personalized experiences that go beyond simply buying or repairing jewelry. We offer exceptional customer service to help our clients find or create the perfect piece that celebrates life's most cherished moments, such as engagements, weddings, anniversaries, and more. Our team of skilled craftsmen, led by Thomas James, is dedicated to using their God-given talents to create and restore treasured pieces. We assist our clients in every step of the process, from selecting the perfect gemstones to designing a unique piece that reflects their individual style and story. In addition to our fine jewelry, we offer a variety of handcrafted gifts from Poland, carefully curated by Kasia. These unique items allow our clients to find special, heartfelt gifts for their loved ones. Additionally, at Thomas James and Bechtold Jewelry, we understand that our clients have unique preferences and financial considerations. As such, we prioritize providing pricing solutions that cater to a range of budgets without compromising on the exceptional quality that our clients deserve and that we, as a reputable business, adhere to. Our team is dedicated to working closely with each client to create or find the perfect piece that meets their budgetary needs while upholding our commitment to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. At Thomas James and Bechtold Jewelry, we help our clients by providing: - Custom jewelry design to create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect their personal style and sentimental moments. - Expert jewelry repair and restoration services to bring treasured family heirlooms back to life. - An exquisite selection of fine jewelry for every occasion, including engagement rings, wedding bands, and anniversary gifts. - A unique collection of imported gifts from Poland, offering clients a touch of international charm and handmade quality. In essence, our business helps clients celebrate life's special moments and create lasting memories through the beauty of fine jewelry and distinctive gifts. Not a day goes by where someone comes into the store and says, “This belonged to my dad, my mom, my grandma," etc... Or this belonged to my husband. I listen intently, seeking to understand how I can help them in their desire to preserve in some way the memory the piece represents. One memorable moment when I was visiting my own mother during a busy Christmas season, she slipped a ring off her finger and said, “I have been keeping this for you, and want you to have it. It was your dad’s wedding ring and I think you need him with you." I wear it still. I can’t tell anymore if I am impacting my clients or they are impacting me. I think both. I just know that I bring the love that God has given me, into my work, and try to serve people the best way I can. I can’t think of a better way to make a living. In the jewelry business, every piece has a story, and I'm honored to be a part of preserving those memories for my clients. It's not uncommon for someone to walk into our store and share with me the sentimental value of an item—a family heirloom, a wedding ring, or a cherished gift.