Ridgefield’s Addessi Jewelers at 75 

With a reputation for quality craftsmanship and white glove service in the Fairfield and Westchester County areas, Addessi Jewelers is celebrating its 75th anniversary. 

Since the postwar era, three generations have helped create special moments for their customers. Enrico and his two brothers, John and Louie, opened the first Addessi Jewelers on Danbury’s Division Street and were pivotal in introducing a personalized family approach and custom-made jewelry to the area during the 1960s and ’70s.  

The family launched its Ridgefield location at 387 Main St. in 1965, and Wayne Addessi, now president, learned the business from his late father, Enrico, known as Rick, and mother, Donna. Wayne has since brought two of his three children into the business. Son Thomas serves as vice president, overseeing daily operations, customer and vendor relations, marketing, custom projects and more, while daughter Kate was store manager for a number of years. 

 The Addessi family engages with the local community, with Wayne helping to launch the “In Ridgefield” marketing initiative, and Addessi Jewelers serving as longtime supporters of local organizations and nonprofits, including the Ridgefield Playhouse and Keeler Tavern. Additionally, the family donated the 1712 Scott House to the Ridgefield Historical Society to help preserve Ridgefield’s legacy.  

In turn, the community has watched how the business has developed into a Ridgefield institution. 

“Anita and I have been loyal customers of Addessi Jewelers since 1987,” said Ridgefield resident Nick Donofrio of his and his wife’s relationship with the store. “From our very first meeting with their father and grandfather, who treated us with such respect and dignity, we felt like part of the family. (Rick’s) promise, when I wanted to make a major commitment to Anita with two incredible pieces of jewelry, still echoes in my ears. We’ve always trusted each other, and that bond has made us  clients for life.”

Anita added, “We’ve shared so many treasures and experiences over the years. Designing and wearing bespoke pieces from Addessi Jewelers has been a joy. As the years pass, we’ve come to know the Addessi family as both friends and family. And Donna, their mother and grandmother, is as sweet and beautiful today as when we first met her.”   

“Being able to continue the family legacy with my children is a dream come true,” Wayne said by way of response. “And while every generation brings new ideas, energy and knowledge, the commitment to our customers and community have remained intact. We invite everyone to join in the festivities and be a part of our journey into the next chapter. It’s a celebration of both our business and the community that has supported us along the way.  

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