ORINDA, CALIFORNIA – One of Orinda’s oldest businesses, a family-run jewelry store that has been in continuous operation for over a century, is sadly closing its doors.
Before you start blaming high rents or the economy, though, there’s good news as to why this store is shutting down.
The store in question is Morrison Jewelers, right by Theatre Square.
Morrison’s Jewelers traces its roots back to 1923, when founder William Morrison opened a jewelry store in Berkeley. The family business passed through multiple generations, eventually moving to Orinda in the 1990s and building a reputation for meticulous custom design, repairs, and heirloom-quality pieces.
According to the company’s own history, custom jewelry design has been at the core of the business for more than a century, alongside services like watch repair, appraisals, and bead and pearl stringing.
That story also introduced many residents to Harley Jane, the shop’s Husky mascot, who became a familiar sight peering out from behind the display cases on Moraga Way.
Morrison’s spent decades in Berkeley before relocating to 35 Moraga Way in Orinda. Over the years, the Berryhills and their predecessors built a multigenerational customer list.
Now, Morrison’s is shuttering. So why is this good news?
After a lifetime of service to the Orinda community, owners Dave and Chris are transitioning to a much-deserved retirement. A big sign in the window says as much:
Until the store is fully shut down, there are deep discounts to be had, with many items 70% or more off.
The community will be sad to lose an icon, but I’m sure everyone is happy to wish Dave and Chris the best of luck in their next chapter.
