The History of Bockstruck Jewelers

First Generation – 1883 Henry Bockstruck

Bockstruck Jewelers was founded in downtown St. Paul in 1883 by Henry Bockstruck, a distinguished German watchmaker. Building from his basic interest in watches and watchmaking, the young entrepreneur soon expanded the business to include diamonds and jewelry. Bockstruck Jewelers soon became known for their extensive collection of quality diamonds. The word began to spread up and down Summit Avenue, in fashionable Crocus Hill that Bockstruck Jewelers was THE store that specialized in the latest jewelry fashion from Boston, New York and other eastern markets. These products were characterized by a quality and value that has become the Bockstruck trademark over the years.

Second Generation – 1919 Herbert Bockstruck

Upon Henry’s death in 1919, Herbert Bockstruck took over his father’s business. He expanded on his father’s vision and continued to grow the business emphasizing the quality, selection, integrity and service. He expanded the operation to include complete china, crystal, and silver departments. He actually stocked complete sets of every pattern they carried! If you wanted 12 place settings of a china pattern, it was available for immediate purchase. In the late 1960’s Herbert continued the expansion by buying out Bullard Brothers Jewelers and moving to 5th Street in St. Paul. A complete renovation of the property resulted in one of the most attractive and functional jewelry operations in the nation.

Third Generation – 1953 Arnold Bockstruck

After his father’s death in 1977, Arnie’s goal was to expand the operation by opening more locations. In 1983, at the 100 year anniversary of Bockstruck Jewelers, the second store was opened in downtown Minneapolis. Three years later, a third store was added in the prestigious Galleria Mall of Edina.

Arnie was very civically involved in St. Paul as well as nationally. He became very well known for his involvement and strong leadership abilities serving on many boards and committees over the years. Nationally, he was honored to serve on the Board of Governors of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). In addition, he is a past president and former trustee of the American Gem Society (AGS).

In 1990 Arnie received the prestigious Shipley award. This national award is presented to one recipient annually by the AGS for demonstrating outstanding service to society, and was given for his significant contribution to the science of gemology and for exemplifying the high purposes, objectives and ideals of the Society in the community.

Locally Arnie served as Chairman of the St. Paul Chamber of Commerce, President of the St. Paul Rotary, and Prime Minister of the St. Paul Winter Carnival.

Fourth Generation – 1981 Rob Bockstruck

In the early 1980’s, the fourth generation joined the business. Rob and Betsy Bockstruck were eager to engage and continue the growth of the business. The jewelry industry was evolving and the next generation was up for the challenge.

In 1990, Arnie passed the reigns to Rob as President of Bockstruck Jewelers. Rob’s focus was always on the continued growth and strengthening of the business. He recognized the strength of the Bockstruck brand and embraced the tradition of offering quality diamonds, jewelry and superior service.

The 1990’s were strong growth years for Bockstruck Jewelers. The Galleria store was remodeled and doubled in size. In 1997 a new flagship store also opened in downtown St Paul. The diamond business continued to expand and Bockstruck Jewelers became the go-to store for brides in the Twin Cities. The jewelry collections became more extensive with some of the top brands in the industry– Rolex, Mikimoto and David Yurman to name a few.  Bockstruck Jewelers grew to become one of the top 20 stores in the country.

With the changing retail environment, in 2006 Bockstruck Jewelers closed their retail stores. Rob shifted his focus and direction and founded RH Bockstruck, an online diamond concierge experience. In 2015 Rob’s wife, Jane Bockstruck, joined RH Bockstruck bringing a woman’s voice back to the business.

About Rob Bockstruck

Rob Bockstruck is a fourth generation jeweler. Rob offers a unique Concierge Experience and will sift through hundreds of loose diamonds to find the one that best meets your criteria. Rob is a diamond expert having over 35 years of personal experience and insider knowledge of the industry. He is a graduate of the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and is a Certified Gemologist with the American Gem Society (AGS). Rob’s education, background and experience makes him your perfect partner for choosing a ring that will be cherished for years to come.

Today with the changing retail environment, Rob has shifted the focus and direction of RH Bockstruck to an online concierge experience. With over 135 years of experience, the Bockstruck name is synonymous with exquisite and timeless jewelry, high quality, fair pricing and superior customer service. Just like the three generations before him, Rob has continued to focus on putting the customer first with attention to detail and creating memories.