Sarah Leonard Fine Jewelers, a cherished family-owned business in Westwood, has officially closed its doors after over 80 years of service. Founded in 1946 by Sarah “Sunny” and Leonard “Lenny” Friedman as Crescent Jewelers, the store has deep roots in the community, with six family members attending UCLA across generations.
Despite being busy and successful, the reason for the closure was not low sales, but the desire of the current operators, David and Gail Friedman, to retire and spend more time with their grandchildren. Linda Abell, the original owner’s daughter, expressed mixed emotions about the closure, noting the enduring relationships they developed with clients over generations.
Reactions from the community highlight the store’s significant role; local business owners and directors praised the family’s dedication to personalized service. As Westwood faces changes with the closure of longstanding businesses, there is hope for new opportunities and developments in the area. Customers have shown an outpouring of support, with some traveling considerable distances to bid farewell.
