Local Business Spotlight: Barnes Jewellers, Fermoy

Barnes Jewellers is a second-generation family business located at 44 Patrick Street, Fermoy. They are diamond specialists and carry a wide range of engagement and wedding rings along with a great selection of Gold & Silver jewellery by all the top brands. Established in 1960 by Jimmy and Margaret Barnes, Barnes Jewellers has earned a reputation for quality and excellent after-sales service that continues to this day under the stewardship of Annette and Noel Barnes. 

This week, we caught up with Noel Barnes for our Local Business Spotlight.

Could you tell us a little bit about the history of Barnes Jewellers?

My Dad was a watchmaker and moved to Fermoy where he set up his own business in the early 1960s.

He died quite young, I was the youngest, just 10 yrs old. My mam who had very little experience took over the shop. I think it was her work ethic that kept it going.

You specialise in engagement, wedding and eternity rings. What’s involved in helping your customers find their perfect ring?

Most people have an idea what they like before they come into us, it’s always best to try on lots of different styles before you make up your mind. What you like in your mind might not suit your hand. We like to be honest with our customers and guide them in the right direction.

In addition to your range of fashion jewellery and designer watches, you also offer a jewellery repair and remodelling service. How do you go about giving an older piece of jewellery a new lease of life?

This is a big part of our business. Lots of people like to change their style of jewellery; we can take out the diamonds from peoples rings and make up a new, more modern style. Just recently we had a lady in who had a silver ring which was passed down to her. She wanted to do something with it to give it to her son as a wedding gift so we melted down the ring and made cufflinks from it. 

Create something special out of something treasured with Barnes Jewellers

In your opinion, what is the key to building a successful local business?

It is very important to be there yourself. Chat with the locals, get to know them, always be honest. It’s hard work but knowing your business is successful is the best feeling. My sister Annette is also part of the business so one of us is always there.

How has Covid-19 affected your business overall?

It has been devastating, we have only been open a few months between this and last year. We set up a website a few years ago and the local community has been fantastic in supporting our online shop. There is definitely a big change in peoples mindset when it comes to shopping local.

In better times, what’s your favourite Fermoy spot to have a bite, grab a pint, or just sit and watch the world go by?

I love listening to live music and having a few pints. Cheers Bar is a great spot. Now that I have kids I don’t get out as much. We have a great selection of coffee shops around and I try to support them all as they all support me. 

I love walking, when I was very young my Dad used to bring me down the inches walk, it’s one of my only memories of him. Unfortunately, it’s not accessible to the public anymore. We have some great walks around Fermoy.

What are you most looking forward to doing after the pandemic?

I have a 24yr old clapped out campervan so I’ll turn off my phone and head to the coast.

What does it mean to be from Fermoy? 

I love it here. I have travelled to over 50 countries but you can’t beat coming home to your own place. Fermoy has so much to offer.

Check out Barnes Jewellers on the Xplore app for more info on the services they offer, in-app calling, and links to their website where you can shop their latest collections.