Humble Beginnings
Seventeen years ago, Steven Riley began his journey in the jewelry business as a young, eager salesman in a local shop in Owensboro, Kentucky. It didn’t take long for him to develop a passion for the craft, and soon he transitioned from sales to working as a bench jeweler, honing his skills with intricate designs and repairs. Over the years, his craftsmanship flourished, earning him a reputation as one of the best jewelers in Owensboro.
Mastering His Craft
For twelve years, Steven dedicated himself to perfecting his skills at the bench. From creating custom pieces to repairing cherished family heirlooms, his attention to detail and commitment to quality made him a standout in the local jewelry scene. But despite his success, Steven had a larger vision. He knew that in order to fully express his creativity and passion for fine jewelry, he needed to take the leap and start his own business.
The Birth of RYco Jewelers
In pursuit of this vision, Steven made the bold decision to venture out on his own and create what is now RYco Jewelers. But he didn’t do it alone. He teamed up with John and Tony Yager, two trusted partners who took charge of the back-office operations, allowing Steven to focus on his craft and the customer experience. With their combined efforts, the business began to grow steadily.
After four years of success, Steven and his team made a pivotal move—literally and figuratively. RYco Jewelers relocated to downtown Owensboro, where they opened their flagship store, further cementing their presence in the local community. This move marked a new era for the brand, as it became more than just a jewelry store—it became a destination for art, culture, and craftsmanship.
Partnering with Aaron Kizer: Art and Jewelry Come Together
During this period of growth, RYco Jewelers joined forces with world-renowned artist Aaron Kizer. Known for his striking portraits and live-painting performances, Kizer brought a creative and artistic edge to RYco’s branding and store design. His bold, expressive art style now serves as a key element of RYco’s identity, seamlessly blending the worlds of fine jewelry and visual art.
Not only did Kizer contribute to the branding and aesthetic of the flagship store, but his art gallery is now located within the store itself. Visitors to downtown Owensboro can explore Aaron Kizer’s gallery, featuring many of his pieces, while shopping for fine jewelry. This unique fusion of jewelry and art has created a one-of-a-kind experience for customers and art enthusiasts alike.
A Bright Future: RYco’s National Expansion
As RYco continues to grow, the brand is setting its sights on a much larger audience. In late 2024, RYco will be launching a brand-new website that aims to bring their fine jewelry and unique vision to a nationwide audience. This new digital platform will allow consumers across the country to experience RYco’s craftsmanship and artistic collaborations from the comfort of their own homes.
But RYco’s vision doesn’t stop there. The brand has ambitious plans to expand beyond jewelry, with plans to develop a bag line, a watch brand, and a clothing line, positioning itself as a premier American luxury brand. This diversification of products will allow RYco to reach new markets and establish itself as a leader in high-end, American-made luxury goods.
Looking Ahead
Steven Riley’s journey from a young jeweler working in a local shop to the founder of RYco Jewelers is a testament to his passion, craftsmanship, and vision. With a talented team behind him of John and Tony Yager and the artistic collaboration with Aaron Kizer, RYco is not only revitalizing downtown Owensboro but also preparing to take its brand nationwide. As the company expands into new product lines and solidifies its place in the luxury market, RYco Jewelers is poised to become a household name in American luxury, offering customers a blend of fine jewelry, art, and timeless design.
