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 Six years ago,Marianne Caprioli, owner of JEM Jewelers , was traveling through Pagosa Springs on a planned visit to Mesa Verde. Immediately captivated by the charm of this small town, she decided to stop and investigate. The more people she met, the more she knew this was where she wanted to settle. “These were people I wanted to break bread with and get to know. I knew this was home”, Marianne stated as she was explaining her love of Pagosa. Three days later, after purchasing commercial and residential property, Marianne left Pagosa to settle her affairs and return permanently.
This bright cheerful jewelers’ original career was night and day different from her current profession. She spent 6 years working with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue and JFK Medical Center (home of the busiest ER in South Florida) as an EMT/Paramedic and Firefighter which followed 18 years working in Emergency Medical Services for various hospitals and physicians. She also raised 5 children during that period. During those years she encountered people when they were going through some of the worst times in their lives, as was the very nature of the business. As a jeweler, she enjoys getting to know people during the happiest moments of their lives. “I get to share a small piece of those happy, special moments when they come into my store in search of an anniversary present, birthday present or other sentiment in celebration of a special occasion.” Then out came her camera and she proudly showed me pictures of a gentleman as he proposed on bended knee to his lady in her store. Then the picture of her saying yes and then, of course, the follow-up kiss.
Her love of gemstones and precious metals began at an early age when she received an Audubon Society Minerals and Gems Kit as a birthday gift from her father. Membership provided a kit every month displaying a variety of stones in the rough to study and learn about. This sparked her interest and many times through the years, she contemplated getting her certification as a bench jeweler to be able to repair and create jewelry one day in the future. The decision was much easier to make when she was diagnosed with cancer. “At that point, I knew I had to slow down.” So she took an extended vacation, and began to study. Once she received her certification, she thought she would open a shop in Florida. But then, of course, she discovered Pagosa, and as the saying goes, the rest is history.
 Marianne’s diagnosis of cancer may have slowed her down in regards to her medical career, but it has not slowed down her community support activities. She truly exemplifies the Rotarian motto “Service Above Self”. Besides being a very active Rotarian, Marianne is also involved in The American Cancer Society, Loaves and Fishes Community Lunch Program, Women Helping Women, Organ Donation, and is a member of the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Advisory Board. She actively supports local businesses and various community events and participates in a number of charitable fund raisers throughout the year.
As one might expect of JEM Jewelers, Marianne’s business in Pagosa Springs carries within its walls the same spirit that Marianne has. Just walking into the store you are filled with a sense of happiness and sunshine. Cases of jewelry, from the traditional to the more contemporary, glitter and shine, enticing guests to look closer. Leather purses of various sizes, shapes and styles offer yet another high-end gift that all women love. Then there are the perfumes that allure the senses. The three favorite gifts for most women, jewelry, purses and perfume, can be found at JEM Jewelers.
 In addition to these great items you can find ‘on the shelf’, Marianne also has the ability to design a very special and unique piece for any occasion. “When I am asked to create a piece for someone, I feel so honored to be a part of the special occasions of people’s lives.” And of course, she can perform just about any repair that needs to be done on a piece of jewelry. She continues her professional education by attending workshops and trade shows as often as her schedule permits.
Over the past month, I have seen Marianne at Rotary meetings, at parties, in restaurants and at the grocery store. Regardless of where she is, Marianne is greeted by a large number of people. No matter how busy her schedule is she always has time to stop and talk for a few minutes, catching up on the latest news and sho wing a genuine concern for her fellow Pagosans. It is truly a humbling experience to watch Marianne as she showers the community with her generosity and love.
If you have not yet met Marianne or seen her fabulous store, located at 27B Talisman Drive, #1, I would highly encourage you to stop by and say hi. You are guaranteed to be met with a friendly greeting and a bright smile plus you may just find that special ‘something’ that you have been looking for. |
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