 Local jeweler continues tradition of quality custom work and personal service SMITHFIELD, RI — Tucked away at 180 Pleasant View Avenue, AC Jewelers has been serving Rhode Island's jewelry needs for nearly a quarter century. What started as one man's dream in 2001 has blossomed into a thriving family business that combines old-world craftsmanship with modern technology. Owner Rob Richards, who has spent over 30 years in the jewelry business, named his shop after his two sons, Anthony and Christopher—the "A" and "C" in AC Jewelers. Both sons now work full-time alongside their father, carrying on the family tradition of fine jewelry craftsmanship. "We've been operating ever since 2001," says Christopher Richards, 35, who has been working as a jeweler since he was just 16 years old. "We're going into our 24th year of being in business." A Passion Born from Observation Rob Richards' journey into jewelry began as a teenager when his mother's next-door neighbor, a diamond setter, sparked his curiosity. Young Rob would watch the skilled craftsman set stones, fascinated by the precise work. By 18, he was working full-time in the trade. After years of honing his skills, he eventually opened his own shop with a high school friend before launching AC Jewelers. Today, the shop specializes in remounting and custom design work, though they also handle repairs for outside stores and stone setting for manufacturers. Rob's sons have followed in his footsteps, both becoming skilled jewelers in their own right. Everything Done On-Premises What sets AC Jewelers apart from many competitors is their commitment to doing all work in-house. "We do everything on premises," Christopher explains. "We do diamond setting, ring sizings, custom designs—anything that falls in the line of jewelry, we do it. We don't send out anything." The shop offers an extensive range of services, including:
Designing Your Dream Ring—Online AC Jewelers has embraced technology while maintaining traditional craftsmanship. Their website, acjeweler.com, features an innovative ring designer tool that allows customers to create their perfect engagement ring from the comfort of home. "It's really helpful," Christopher says. "Even if you're just looking to browse and get ideas." The interactive tool lets users select everything from the setting style (solitaire, halo, hidden halo, or cathedral) to the stone shape, carat weight, metal type, and band details. Users can add diamonds along the band, adjust the width, choose prong styles, and even add personal engravings. The design updates in real-time, showing the ring from multiple angles. "It takes the pressure off of a lot of people," Christopher notes. "Even something that you saw online that you like, I can bring it to life." A Welcoming, No-Pressure Environment The shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary—customers can drop in whether they're selling gold, need a repair, or are browsing for that perfect piece. Beyond the Richards family, the team includes Dylan and Brent, who Christopher describes as being "just like family." With the holiday season approaching, Christopher offers a word of advice for those considering jewelry purchases: "Now is the time. Because once I get closer to the end of November, it's crunch time. We're planning for that December 25th date." A Legacy of Quality AC Jewelers represents more than just a business—it's a family legacy built on craftsmanship, integrity, and personal service. Whether you're looking for an anniversary gift, planning to pop the question, or need a cherished piece restored, the Richards family brings decades of expertise and genuine care to every project. "I'm always here to help," Christopher says with a smile. For more information, visit acjeweler.com, call (401) 349-4094, or stop by 180 Pleasant View Avenue in Smithfield.
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Deana GrenierPublisher of The Rhode Island Wave Archives
September 2026
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