The Bernard's Jewelers Story
 Bernard's Jewelers was established in 1934 by Raymond Tetrault, Sr. during a time when Salem was a bustling downtown shopping community. Ray partnered with Bernie Goldberg, hence the name "Bernard's" was chosen for their jewelry store. Since that time, downtown Salem has seen many changes, but Bernard's has remained steadfast as a destination. We'll have many more historical images of Bernard's Jewelers and Salem, Massachusetts in our Bernard's Historical Photo Album - coming soon!
Store Location - The original store address was 137 Essex Street (on land which is now part of the Peabody Essex Museum). Ray and Bernie moved the store to 173 Essex Street, and later to its present day location - 179 Essex Street - in the historic Downing Block, next to the Peabody Essex Museum garden. A map and directions are available on our Visit Us in Salem page.
 Family Tradition - Both Ray Jr. and Tom grew up in the store. They learned to sweep, then gift wrap; after those basics were mastered, they handled shipping and receiving, then on to engraving and small jewelry repairs.
Ray graduated from St. Johns Prep and went on to Merrimack, and then worked for the Government as a wage and labor inspector in the logging camps in Maine. He later transferred to Washington D.C. as a researcher. When Bernard Goldberg passed away in October 1969, Ray Sr. asked Ray Jr. to help out for that Christmas season. Back home in Salem felt right so he and his family returned permanently that spring.
Tom's mother never needed a baby sitter - she would drop him off at the store and he'll be happily occupied for hours.
A favorite pastime was taking apart the old clocks that were not repairable. Tom and his friend Phil (jeweler) worked together in the stockroom and also in Bernard's trophy store during their years together at Salem High School.
Phil stayed on full time after graduation, and Tom went to Babson for a business degree. Always returning back for summer projects and the busy holiday season, Tom knew it would be the place for him for the long term.
 The Legacy Continues - Ray and Tom officially bought the business in 1978, but Ray Sr. continued to work setting diamonds and making jewelry in the shop on the second floor. He worked until the late 1990's (he was in his 80's). We are certain that Ray would be very proud to see that his sons have continued the family tradition of unparalleled personal service. Ray and Tom feel a high level of responsibility to each customer and take pride in the fact that they personally hand-pick the jewelry and merchandise.
Bernard's Jewelers carries a large selection of 14K, 18K, platinum, gemstone and sterling silver jewelry in classic to contemporary designs. Bernard's offers a fine selection of watches, along with mantel, wall and floor clocks at discounted prices. Bernard's Jewelers extensive gifts and home decor department features Mariposa, Byers Choice, Reed & Barton, Eglomise, Willow Tree, Juliska, and many more quality vendors.
Bernard's Jewelers has won several regional merchant awards, and was voted Number 1 Jeweler in the 2010 Readers' Choice Awards, and is honored to be serving its 4th generation of customers.
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