For more than 40 years, North Shore Gold and Diamond has been the go-to establishment for those interested in custom engagement rings, vintage jewelry or in need of watch repairs. The store at 15 Glen Street commemorated its 43rd anniversary on May 16 with a ribbon cutting ceremony, a celebration that was bittersweet: It was held in memory of founder Barry Donaldson and marked the first year of James Donaldson’s ownership of the store since his father’s death in early 2022.
James Donaldson was presented with an engraved crystal trophy from the Glen Cove Downtown Business Improvement District and citations from the City of Glen Cove, Nassau County and the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce. Mayor Pam Panzenbeck and BID Executive Director Patricia Holman both shared anecdotes about Barry Donaldson and expressed that he was a talented craftsman and honest businessman.
For the past year, James Donaldson, who specializes in custom jewelry, has been working hard to make the store his own. He worked with his father for 20 years, learning all the ins and outs of the business, and said his goal is to continue his father’s legacy. James Donaldson is also a self-taught artist, and his artwork adorns the walls of the store.
“This community has been awesome,” he said, “and I appreciate everything.”
