Shreve, Crump & Low, a Boston, Massachusetts business in its third century of operation, is the oldest jeweler in North America and has built such prestigious trophies as the Davis Cup and the Cy Young Award. [1][2]
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The present-day Shreve, Crump & Low is the last of a line of firms that began in 1796 with watchmaker and silversmith John McFarlane, who opened a workshop across the street from Paul Revere. In the 1800s, the firm changed its name to Shreve's and grew in its prestige. In 1869 the consolidation of firms that created the name Shreve, Crump & Low was complete.[1]
Shreve, Crump & Low remained at their original location until their property was destroyed in the Great Boston Fire of 1872. Its new location at 225 Washington Street pioneered the use of plate glass and artificial lighting in a retail establishment. This Italianate building had showcases of black walnut trimmed with holly and ebony.[2][1]
A relocation in 1891 brought Shreve, Crump & Low to its largest building, a six stories high Italian Renaissance style edifice of limestone and marble. In 1929, Shreve, Crump & Low moved to 330 Boylston Street, one of the earliest examples of art deco architecture in New England.[1] In 2006, they celebrated a new chapter in their rich history, introducing new ownership by the venerated local jeweler, David Walker, and opening an exquisitely renovated flagship store in Boston’s Back Bay at the corner of Boylston and Berkeley Streets.
At various points in its history, Shreve's has also sold antiques, imported fine linen and stationery, and exhibited artifacts from Ancient Greece and Rome. With an enduring reputation for service and expertise, Shreve, Crump & Low is renowned for classic fine jewelry and timepieces, tableware, and a distinctive collection of Boston-themed gifts, many exclusive to Shreve, Crump & Low.
In 1974, Shreve, Crump & Low opened a second location at The Mall at Chestnut Hill.[2] In 2009, Shreve, Crump & Low consolidated the mall store into their Boston store and a year later opened a store on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts.