Henne Jewelers began as a vision, dreamt and made a reality by Rudolph J. Henne.
We invite you to experience the legacy of Henne Jewelers as we continue to serve generations of customers.
HENNE JEWELERS: HISTORY OF THE FOURTH-GENERATION BUSINESS
1887: THE FOUNDING GENERATION
Rudolf J. Henne and his wife, Margaret, opened the business after making a $5 down payment on a building located at 6018 Centre Ave. in the East Liberty section of Pittsburgh.
Henne originally began selling and repairing watches for the railroad industry and served as an optician, which was common practice at the time.
And so began Henne Jewelers’ rich history of quality jewelry, customer experience, and service to the community.
1934: THE SECOND GENERATION
Rudolph's son, Rudolph G. Henne (aka "Gerry"), took over the Henne Jewelers business, managing it through the difficult years of the Great Depression, World War II and the post-war boom.
1975: THE THIRD GENERATION
Gerry's son, Jack, took over the management of Henne Jewelers. In 1978, Jack Henne moved the store to Filbert Street in Pittsburgh's Shadyside neighborhood and added manufacturing and repair capabilities. Henne Jewelers continued to grow and thrive.
1999: THE FOURTH GENERATION
Jack's children assumed management of the store. Henne Jewelers also became an Official Rolex Jeweler and began focusing on engagement and bridal jewelry. Today Henne Jewelers continues to be operated by fourth-generation owner John Henne, and has expanded its wide selection of fine jewelry, watches and jewelry and watch services.
2003: A NEW STORE LOCATION
Henne Jewelers moved to its current location at 5501 Walnut Street, with an expansive new store. In memory of Gerry, Life Savers candies were passed out. In 2012, Henne Jewelers celebrated its 125th anniversary with a grand celebration.
2017: A prestigious award
In 2017, National Jeweler magazine named John Henne to its Retailer Hall of Fame.
2020: RESILIENCY THROUGHOUT THE PANDEMIC
In 2020, the world changed as we knew it due to the COVID-19 virus. In response to the pandemic, Henne Jewelers adapted and extended its services online with virtual appointments, curbside pickup and an expanded e-commerce experience -- services that we continue to offer to customers today.
2022-2024: a STORE expansion for the ages
In 2022, Henne began planning for an expansion at its current location in Shadyside. Construction took place throughout 2023 and completed in 2024, expanding Henne's footprint to three floors.
Store features include a luxurious Rolex showroom, a second-floor bridal suite, ADA accessibility, private virtual selling spaces, a number of new luxury brands, and more than double the sales floor space.