Talner Jewelry & Giftware in New Rochelle to Close After 96 Years

Co-owners Albert Tarantino (L) and Brian Heaps (R)

For nearly a century, Talner Fine Jewelry & Giftware has served customers in New Rochelle and the surrounding areas in Westchester County. Now, as one of the longest-standing businesses in New Rochelle, it will be closing its doors as the owners begin their well-deserved retirement.

Retirement Sale for All Budgets

To mark the passing of an era, Talner Fine Jewelry & Giftware is holding a retirement sale open to the public starting Thursday, November 14. The sale allows customers to own a piece of the Talner legacy, with discounts on classic diamonds, estate pieces, contemporary designs, gemstones and more. Other items for sale include platinum, white, yellow and rose gold rings, bridal jewelry, pendants, earrings and a wide selection of watches and giftware.

The sale is expected to attract long-time patrons and new customers alike. “There’s something for everyone,” said co-owner Albert Tarantino, who began working at the store at age 14 in 1967. Expect prices for every budget, from $30,000 jewelry pieces to $10 items. 

Legacy of Service and Craftsmanship

Shopkeeper Leonard Italiano founded the store in 1927, and his brother Joseph joined it before taking over its management duties after Leonard died in 1941. The store has been a fixture on Main Street for 97 years.  

Eventually, ownership was passed down through generations to Arnold Heaps in the 1950s. That’s where Tarantino entered Talner Jewelry’s story. He began working at the store at the age of 14 and has been there ever since. Brian Heaps joined the business in 1983 after Arnold retired. He and Albert remain as co-owners.

Multiple Generations of Customers

Serving multiple generations of customers over the years, Heaps and Tarantino said their business philosophy is founded on integrity and exceptional personal service, which keeps shoppers coming back. “Someone will come in and say, ‘My grandmother and mother got their engagement rings here,” Tarantino said.

“To have their children and their children’s children continue to shop here is something special for us,” Heaps said. “It’s great to know that people and families have had the confidence in us all these years.”

Grateful for Community Support 

As Talner Fine Jewelry & Giftware prepares to close, Tarantino and Heaps expressed appreciation for the community’s loyalty and support. 

Both are looking forward to retirement but find the decision to close the store bittersweet. “It has been a significant part of our lives and our customers’ lives,” said Tarantino. “I’m excited for retirement, but it will be a big change for me and the community.”

The Talner Fine Jewelry & Giftware Retirement Sale has begun. Sale hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday-Monday. 

The store is located at 565 Main St, ( corner of Main Street and Centre Street) New Rochelle, NY 10801. For more info.: Visit https://talner.net/ or call 914-632-3692