Merchant Milestone
by Renee Leininger

The Jewel Box
since 1950

The Jewel Box, founded by Peter Capponi Sr. and his wife Angela in 1950 was originally located near the current location of the Rome Savings Bank, Liberty Plaza, Rome.  Peter, who was born and raised in Rome, was a skilled watchmaker.  As a young man he entered the Air Force and was stationed at the former Griffiss Air Force Base.  There he utilized his watch making skills to install and repair clocks in airplanes.  After the service, he attended Bowman Technical School in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and returned to Rome to start his business.

As in the case of many family-owned businesses, Peter Capponi Jr., chose a different career path.  He attended the University of Potsdam where he earned a Masters in Music Education and began teaching music in a local school,  However, when Peter Sr. passed away in June 1975, Peter Jr. left his teaching profession to take over the reins of his father's business.  Through continuing education in the jewelry industry, Peter Jr. became proficient in the knowledge of diamonds, gold, jewelry and precious stones.  He has earned a diamond-grading certificate from the Gemological Institute of America.  His expertise in diamond knowledge has helped many engaged and married couples select a ring of their choice.

Today Peter and his staff at The Jewel Box continue to serve their customers at their current location in the Black River Boulevard Shopping Center, Rome.

Courtesy of
Peter Capponi, Jr., The Jewel Box
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