WORCESTER—M. Pope & Co. Fine Jewelers reopened with an official ribbon cutting on Thursday to 365 Shrewsbury St., the former headquarters of The Massachusetts Nursing Association, and a stone’s throw from its former home in the Piccadilly Plaza.
Located directly across Shrewsbury Street from Reliant’s ReadyMed Clinic, the M. Pope’s new showroom sports a spacious and modern upgrade. Since the sale of the Piccadilly Plaza in 2020 to American Coast II, the owners Melissa and Michael Pope have been looking for a new home, citing a “lack of transparency and the future of the Plaza.”
The Popes purchased the property along with the adjacent lot last fall and have transformed the properties into a modern new headquarters that sets the backdrop for their fine jewelry showroom and jewelry manufacturing.
Michael said the biggest challenge in finding a suitable new home was the customer parking, according to the announcement.
“In purchasing the adjacent vacant lot at 371 Shrewsbury St.,” said Michael, “we were able to make everything work while staying in the neighborhood.”
M. Pope & Co. originally opened its doors in the Piccadilly Plaza in the fall of 2014 with a focus on custom jewelry design and engagement rings. After building a solid clientele, the Popes are celebrating 10 years in business.
The Worcester natives come from an experienced background in the industry, training at Sharfman’s Jewelers, owned by Melissa Pope’s father, along with assistance from Michael’s mother, a skilled jewelry industry buyer and merchandiser.
Before opening their own business, the Popes lived in New York City, working for jewelry designer and manufacturer IPPOLITA before returning home to Worcester.
The Popes said in the announcement they believe that education, selection and style are crucial components of what they can offer their clients.
“In welcoming new and existing customers alike, our goal is as it has always been, to make everyone feel welcome,” said Michael in a statement. “Along with staff Carly Albino, Jamie Rotman and Jennifer Glowik, our team is our greatest asset, bringing more than 50 years of dedicated passion to the jewelry industry. Without our amazing and passionate team, we would not be who we are.”
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