Mother and son, Joyce and Ken Saunders, joined their talents and
experience 20 years ago, in June 1987, to open Ken Saunders Jewelry
& Design. Joyce, an elementary school teacher, took an interest
in jewelry making while living in South Dakota. Inspired by this
exposure, Ken attended a two-year program at Paris Junior College
in Paris, Texas, studying gemology, jewelry repair and stone
setting. After graduating, he worked over the next seven years
developing his skills while working at Wheelers Jewelry and doing
trade work in Kalispell. When Joyce moved from South Dakota, she
and Ken sought out the ideal location to open their own store and
the downtown Helena Walking Mall was perfect.
The jewelry store and shop have grown and evolved during the
last two decades. There is a large selection of jewelry in every
price range for any occasion, including sterling silver and gold,
titanium rings and watches, fine quality pearls, William Henry
knives, and an abundant collection of beautiful colored gemstones,
Montana sapphires and exceptional diamonds.
The shop has continuously been updated with the latest
technology such as a laser welder, microscopes at every workbench
and the right tools for each individual job. All of the goldsmiths
have attended training seminars, providing new information and
techniques for jewelry repair and fabrication.
Ken possesses a natural aptitude for creating aesthetically
pleasing designs and is a meticulous craftsman. He has accomplished
a remarkable portfolio of original designs and won numerous awards
for originality, excellence of design and craftsmanship.
Saunders Jewelry has attained its reputation for quality and
service with the help of its dedicated and accomplished staff. Dave
Barnes began working at Saunders 18 years ago, in 1989. He brought
with him 11 years of prior experience and four years of training in
watch repair and jewelry making. Sarah Reid was hired in 1999,
after completing six months of training in jewelry repair and
design at the Gemological Institute of America. Clare Clum is a
graduate of the American Jewelers Institute and came to work at the
store in 2005. She brought with her seven years of prior experience
in the industry. Sherri Fox married Ken in 1998, and began working
at Saunders in 2001. She puts to use her background in fine arts
and is instrumental in acquiring exceptional diamonds, Montana
sapphires and colored gemstones for the store.
Above all, Saunders Jewelry is committed to providing excellent
customer service, quality merchandise and craftsmanship to its
customers. Congratulations to Saunders Jewelry & Design for 20
successful years in business.