MUNCIE, Ind. — Ball State Alumni gathered at an on-campus event to listen to a man share his history with his family business.
BJ Murray, a local jeweler in Muncie, brought a vast amount of rare and prized gems from his shop that most individuals would not be able to see. His collection ranged from rare rocks to cut diamonds and crafting his own pendants, rings and necklaces.
Murray also shared his stories about his travels across the country to find a rare assortment of gems, as well as finding large assortments of rocks from rock shows, and collecting pieces to make into jewelry in his own store.
With the intent of growing his family’s business, he has also been connecting with the community with his family’s long-standing business. Many came to the event wearing jewelry made in his store, including necklaces, rings and even watches.
One attendee, Sandra Wimmer, gave some insight into how she grew with Murray over time.
“I had BJ Murray as a student at Burress when I taught him at the home arts program,” said Wimmer.
After the event ended, everyone got to connect with the shop owner, as well as look at priceless gems brought from the shop to the Alumni Center. Many were astounded by the craftsmanship of the jewelry, as well as how the legacy of the store affected the community.
“When I was a little girl, my mother used to take me to Murray’s Jewelers in the Johnson building downtown,” said Wimmer.
The event has proven that the Jewelry store has not only grown the family business but also grown in the hearts of the community.
Contact Trey Lawrence with comments at trey.lawrence@bsu.edu.
