"We've chosen to close the store because the nature of the business has changed over time," said Todd Williams, president of Howard Williams Jewellers.

The store first opened in Hamilton in 1878 as Claringbowl Jewellers. In 1919, Williams' grandfather, Howard Williams, bought the store, which became known for its handmade estate and custom jewelry.

Williams has been operating the store since 1985. He says it's one of the oldest jewelry stores in the country.

"Howard Williams has never had a store-wide sale in its history," he said. "This represents an outstanding opportunity to buy first-quality merchandise at prices never seen before. The response so far as been nothing short of extraordinary."

The family-owned business moved to Oakville 11 years ago.

With the rent in downtown Oakville rising and increased competition from large chain stores and Internet-based diamond providers, Howard says it's harder for small businesses to sustain themselves.

"There's a number of economic factors that made it more difficult to run this style of business."

Williams will miss going into the store every morning.

"The people are the thing I'll miss the most, however I'm excited to be taking a fresh new direction and to take all that I've learned and apply it to a new discipline."

Williams is looking forward to a little break before starting a new business venture.

"I'd like to take a bit of a break to recharge my batteries, but I would like to continue to design jewelry and produce the kinds of pieces that we've always been known for."

Howard Williams Jewellers is located at 309 Lakeshore Rd. E. For more information call 905-815-1220.