We all have dreams and sometimes they happen and sometimes they stay tucked away in safe corners of our minds. The late Elystan Reynold Aubrey realised one of his dreams in 1954 when he established E.R. Aubrey Jewellers on 19 Front Street East in Hamilton. The store celebrates its 45th anniversary this year! A second location was opened in March, 1996, on 101 Front Street West, just a few blocks away from the parent store.

Mr. Aubrey was born into a Bermudian family and was educated in Bermuda. His parents were Reynold and Lorna Aubrey.

As a young man he became extremely interested in gemmology and became an expert in the jewellery business. Mr. Aubrey spent years of travelling around the world studying diamonds, semi-precious and precious stones, and gold. He went directly to the mines and became acquainted with many gem dealers and made credible contacts.

He was on a mission for reliable, direct sources offering quality with fair prices. It was his ambition to import fine jewellery that all Bermudians could enjoy and afford.

His goal was to offer something for everyone, which included the ordinary working person. Additionally, he was interested in designing and manufacturing jewellery, a tradition which is still carried on in his store.

He gained a vast amount of knowledge from his travel observations as he studied gold and other stones and minerals.

He began selling simple jewellery, gold crosses, wedding bands, and watches in velvet cases door to door to everyone in Bermuda. It didn't matter that you were not rich. If you were a honest working person he would allow you to buy and pay so much every week or month.

His business grew. People trusted his judgment. His staff reports that he was friendly and outgoing and enjoyed a wonderful rapport with his many cherished customers. At one time he also had a successful store in Palm Beach, Florida.

Mr. Aubrey was a "hands-on'' manager and involved himself in running the business until his death on Christmas Eve 1994, at the age of 60.

The store has always specialised in buying their jewellery in volume which allows them to pass the savings on to their loyal customers. This feature combined with quality merchandise, discount prices and good customer service has ensured successful business over the years.

E.R. Aubrey Jewellers offer frequent specials and additional savings with coupons featured in The Royal Gazette . During the summers, the cruise ship passengers and other tourists surge in to browse the handsome showcases. The coupons featured with the already low prices create bargains for locals and tourists.

E.R. Aubrey Jewellers are thriving and celebrate their 45th anniversary with giveaways and specials throughout this year. The business continues in the traditional vein of 45 years ago -- providing quality at the best possible price with superb service to clients.

E.R. Aubrey founder the late Elystan Reynold Aubrey