Sam's Jewelry Emporium began as a short-term loan and pawn shop in 1946.

Lee Manes took over the business from his father and moved the store to its present location near the University of Akron in 1978,

Manes made the difficult decision to close the store after two years of health issues.

Lee Manes doesn’t want to say he’s “going out of business.” That sounds too negative to him.

Instead, the 79-year-old prefers to say he’s “retiring out of business.”

The banners tell the story: “FINAL DAYS! STORE CLOSING.”

Sam’s Jewelry Emporium , a landmark for nearly 50 years at 468 E. Exchange St. near the University of Akron, will shut down Oct. 31.

The distinctive-looking shop at Exchange and Spicer streets specializes in diamonds and fine jewelry, and has served generations of families.

“W

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