About Us
In 1935
Our story starts in Palermo, Sicily in 1935 with Nicolo Raineri Sr. At the young age of 8 years old, Nicolo began studying jewelry design, manufacturing and repairs. By the time he had reached his early 20’s he became a master jewelry craftsman and opened his own jewelry manufacturing facility. In search of a better life for his family, Nicolo immigrated to the United States in the early 1960’s. After a few years of hard work, Nicolo Sr. opened Nicolo Raineri Jewelers in the heart of New York City's "Diamond District".
12 years old
At just 12 years old, Nicolo’s son Roy was determined to follow in his fathers footsteps and join the family business. After graduating from high school, Roy earned his graduate gemology degree from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and began working with his father full time. Together Roy and Nicolo expanded what was originally a six foot by five foot booth at the Paramount Diamond Center. After years of dedication and hard work, Nicolo passed down his business into the capable hands of his son Roy.
Nicolo's retirement
Shortly after Nicolo's retirement, Roy's son Nick followed both his fathers and grandfather's footsteps by obtaining his Graduate Gemologist Degree from GIA and joined the family business. Once again father and son continued to elevate the company into a new era with the addition of fine watches to their store. They also have expanded by hiring full time Jewelers, Diamond Setters, Wax Model Makers, Polishers, Watch Makers and sales staff to service all their customers’ jewelry and watch needs.
Over 50 years later
Over 50 years later, Raineri Jewelers is located only a few doors down from our original location and has maintained the position as the largest Jewelry business on the Bowery.
Roy and Nick believe the businesses continued success is, "based upon the trust and relationships we develop with our customers by providing them with the best product and experience possible, without their happiness and recommendations, we wouldn’t have been able to grow so extensively over the years."