Stucki: Free jewelry if it snows

Our region’s local stores offer exceptional shopping experiences. One of the best is Stucki Jewelry in historic Grass Valley, the oldest continually operating jewelry store in the foothills. Owners James and Nicole Arbaugh have come up with an innovative program called “Free If It Snows.”

Now in its eighth year, the store offers a chance to win free jewelry. Here’s the basics: buy jewelry on Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28, and if at least one inch of snows falls at the Nevada County Airport on Christmas Day, your purchases are free. Read the complete rules at FreeIfItSnows.com.

Three years ago, James refunded $53,000 to 48 customers after it snowed 1.8 inches on Christmas Day. We’re hopeful for a repeat this year—with predictions of a strong El Niño weather pattern and the Old Farmer’s Almanac predicting more snow.

Stucki Jewelers specializes in every aspect of fine jewelry. It is one of only 75 jewelry stores in California that belong to the American Gem Society.

Twice a year, the Arbaughs travel to Antwerp, Belgium—the world’s diamond capital—to hand-select precious gems for their customers, accepting preorders. James is a graduate gemologist, and the trip exemplifies the store’s focus on exceptional jewelry and customer service.
Stucki Jewelers, 148 Mill St, GV
530-272-1266 StuckiJewelers.com

Distinctive Gifts
The Arbaughs also own Stucki Engravers & Distinctive Gifts, which specializes in quality gifts personalized through engraving. Stucki carries fine lines such as Reed & Barton and Waterford.

It has a wide range of gifts, including attractive game sets (backgammon, poker and cribbage boards); glassware (from champagne flutes to hammered-copper mugs); barware; picture frames; clocks; trophies; charms and pendants and more. All of the gifts can be custom engraved.

Stucki also has gift registries for weddings, and baby and children’s gifts. Stucki is well-known for “giving back,” donating to more than 45 local organizations.
Stucki Engravers, 124 Mill St, GV
530-274-3855 StuckiEngravers.com

Empty Bottle Art, an ETSY store
The Arbaughs also have opened an Etsy store called Empty Bottle Art: “recycled glass with class.” Empty Bottle Art features customized glass items for homes or gardens. etsy.com/shop/EmptyBottleArt

(Photo: Katie Little)