Matt Stuller has kept his company’s focus on helping the independent jeweler succeed for 50 years.Stuller Inc., well-known to independent retailers as one of the largest jewelry manufacturers and distributors in the country, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
“Since our founding in 1970, we’ve been fortunate to be part of the ever-evolving jewelry industry,” Danny Clark, Stuller’s president, says. “We couldn’t be more excited to see what is on the horizon for us – yet it’s inspiring to see how far we’ve come.
“The company was founded by Matt Stuller, who saw an opportunity to provide superior service to the independent jewelry markets via fast delivery of quality products with friendly service,” says Clark. “That same philosophy drives us today.”
With operations in North America, Spain and Thailand, Stuller provides a wide range of goods and services for jewelry professionals. “In North America, we have two manufacturing plants,” Clark says. “Our other operations provide technology services, product acquisition hubs and distribution services.” Its products include diamonds, gemstones, finished jewelry, mountings, findings, bridal jewelry, tools and supplies, along with services such as diamond cutting, stone setting, custom imprinting, shop set up, digital solutions and CAD/CAM for custom work.
Partnering with Independent Retailers
Stuller’s Global Headquarters in Lafayette, Louisiana.In the early years, Stuller’s focus was on building relationships and understanding how Stuller could help independent jewelers thrive, Clark says. “We got to know the needs of the customer, and the categories evolved over time based on what their needs were. Today, Stuller has millions of ways to meet the jeweler’s needs – always with a smile.
“This is our passion,” he adds. “We spend thousands of hours per year learning from our customers and evolving our business based on their suggestions and feedback. We host a variety of events at Stuller (such as Bridge®, Bench Jewelers Workshop and training events) that enable us to continually have one-on-one conversations about what our customers need. In addition, we have territory managers who are positioned throughout the nation to assist business owners in driving sales in their market.”
From its inception, Clark says, “Stuller has been focused on providing the jeweler with what they need – not only what we have in stock. That desire has led to numerous innovations. In the last decade, parametric modelling has allowed our customers to design on the go with their customers via tools such as CounterSketch® design software. In addition, we are able to customize our flexible 3C designs to meet specific requests by utilizing our state-of-the-art CAD/CAM services.
“Along with those invaluable customer relationships, staying ahead of the technology curve is key,” Clark says. “Faster and more efficient design and manufacturing techniques will emerge and allow the artistic expression of jewelry to come to life in ways we can only imagine today. Stuller is dedicated to staying on the forefront and being a part of this evolution.
“Obviously, technologies will change and shape how product is manufactured and delivered worldwide. With that said, we believe that staying close to our customers and understanding their needs will help us continue to grow. Jewelry is an ever-evolving story that always has a happy ending.”
In 2018, Stuller entered into a Strategic Service Agreement with GIA (Gemological Institute of America) by offering GIA’s Melee Analysis Service inside its global headquarters in Lafayette, La. Melee used at Stuller’s facility is screened on-site by GIA staff independently operating the GIA-owned analytical instrumentation in a dedicated, secured space. This allows GIA to quickly analyze a higher volume of melee diamonds, which in turn helps to protect the consumer. “By having the number one gemological authority in the world stand behind our quality assurance, we are able to give our customers the confidence they need in the products they are purchasing,” Clark says.
Stuller earned certification from the Responsible Jewellery Council in 2019. RJC is an international body, headquartered in London, that certifies fine jewelry product manufacturers and suppliers for responsible ethical, social and environmental practices throughout their operations. Certification and membership requires an independent third party audit covering all aspects of operations from supply chain and production to business ethics and employee health and safety. “This certification reaffirms to our customers what our company has been built on for the past 50 years,” says Clark. “The RJC is a standards setting organization, and we strive to meet those standards in order to better serve the industry.”
One surprise Stuller didn’t expect during its golden anniversary year of business was dealing with a global pandemic. According to Clark, Stuller itself has risen to the challenges of COVID-19 and appreciates the support shown by Stuller’s loyal retail clientele.
“First and foremost, we’re doing everything in our power to protect our associates’ and customers’ safety and wellness,” he says. “Our associates have been incredible in their support of our efforts to maintain our business operations, and our customers have responded to those efforts. We know there’s a long road ahead, and we want to do our part as we navigate this ever-changing dynamic.”
For more information about Stuller, call 800-877-7777 or visit www.stuller.com.
