Photography by Bo Carlock/Spacecrafting
Robert, Bryan and James Moeller
This year, R.F. Moeller celebrates its 75th anniversary in business. It’s fitting then that the jewelry retailer with its own diamond line, Diamonds of Wonder, marks its diamond anniversary.
“When you walk into an R.F. Moeller store and ask for a Moeller, you’re going to get one,” says President Robert Moeller. That’s been the case since 1951 when the first Robert F. Moeller purchased Harmon Jewelers in the Highland Park neighborhood of St. Paul. Shortly after serving in World War II, the elder Robert became an apprentice watchmaker, having realized that providing service to others was his highest calling. It’s a work ethic that has remained unchanged through multiple generations — from Robert F. to Mark to Robert and his nephews, Bryan and James, to Robert’s son, Alex. The family now serves clients in two locations: the original in St. Paul and a storefront at 50th & France in Edina.
The luxury jewelry destination features 10 certified gemologist appraisers accredited from the American Gem Society, exceptional goldsmiths, and brand experts in Rolex, Mikimoto pearls and more. Some employees are practically family, having worked with the Moellers for more than three decades.
“There’s no one in the state of Minnesota who can offer the scope of what we do in-house,” says Robert. That includes restoring estate and heirloom pieces as well as vintage Rolexes. These aren’t just pieces of jewelry to them, but tangible symbols of their family history.
But, the real key is joy, he says: “The thing is, it’s kind of a magical business. We get to celebrate special milestones with our clients. Every time someone comes in, it’s for something or someone important. Having meaningful ways to celebrate love and joy is core to the human experience. People’s hearts and souls go into what we create.”
