Ken K Thompson Jewelry Verified listing

Ken K Thompson opened the first Ken K Thompson Jewelry store in 1935 in Cass Lake, MN, starting with a small watch display case and a talent for watch repair. During the early years, he focused on repairing pocket watches for railroad conductors as they passed through town. His reputation for quality craftsmanship in watch repair grew, leading to the expansion of the store into Bemidji, MN, where it began selling, servicing, and designing jewelry.

Unlike most young men during the Great Depression who chose physical labor jobs, Ken became skilled in watch repair. He was known for being able to fix any watch or clock and make any watch part at his workbench. Building on his success, Ken K Thompson Jewelry moved to Bemidji in the mid-1950s and welcomed the second generation, Dewain Thompson, into the business. Dewain expanded the store's services and jewelry selection, enhancing its reputation for personalized service and trust.

The store transitioned from its small beginnings in Cass Lake to a prominent location in downtown Bemidji, offering a full-service jewelry department, expert watch repair, engraving, awards, and unique giftware. In 1980, a second location was added in the Paul Bunyan Mall, further boosting the business. In 2012, the store relocated and updated its tools for jewelry fabrication and customization.

Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Ken K Thompson Jewelry is the largest independent jewelry store in northern Minnesota, offering the biggest selection of diamonds and fine jewelry north of the Twin Cities. The current generation, including Dale, Brandon, and Brittany, continues to focus on personalized customer service, trust, and high-quality handmade jewelry.

Ken K Thompson Jewelry takes pride in its 87-year tradition and is dedicated to providing the best diamonds from conflict-free sources worldwide. They are committed to product excellence, exceptional value, and superior customer service. The store invites customers to discover why generations have chosen Ken K Thompson as their jeweler for life.

Our philosophy today is the same as when Ken first opened the doors in 1935: When a customer leaves our store, he or she will go away completely satisfied and in love with their new jewelry. This is our commitment to you:

• Largest full service jewelry and watch store in Northern Minnesota
• Ken K Collection, A beautiful selection of jewelry found only at Ken K’s
• The largest selection of loose diamonds in the area
• Custom designed jewelry and repairs by Ken K Craftsmen