Discover the Deep-Rooted Legacy of NYC’s Financial District—and the Sparkling Story of Our Storefront on John Street
When you think of New York City’s Financial District, images of skyscrapers, bustling suits, and Wall Street might come to mind. But tucked between its historic buildings and modern glass towers lies John Street—a quiet gem with centuries of stories, transformation, and timeless elegance.
It’s no coincidence that Martin Busch Jewelers has called this neighborhood home for over 60 years. The Financial District’s unique blend of history, resilience, and reinvention mirrors the qualities we’ve always brought to our jewelry collections and customer relationships.
A Look Back: The Birthplace of New York Commerce
John Street, located just a short walk from the East River, has been part of New York’s heartbeat since colonial times. Named after John Harpendingh, a Dutch settler, John Street has always served as a vital link in the early development of Manhattan.
During the 1700s and 1800s, this stretch of Lower Manhattan was buzzing with merchants, artisans, bankers, and tradespeople—laying the foundation for what would later become the global financial capital. The cobblestone streets that remain today are a reminder of those humble beginnings.
John Street’s Jewelry Legacy
Did you know the Financial District—especially John Street—has long been known as a jewelry district in its own right?
For much of the 20th century, John Street was home to countless watchmakers, diamond dealers, goldsmiths, and craftsmen. This was a place where generations of jewelers passed down their skills in small, family-run shops. It became a trusted destination for anyone seeking quality, value, and expert care—far from the flashiness of Midtown’s Diamond District.
This is the legacy Martin Busch Jewelers proudly became part of.
The Arrival of Martin Busch Jewelers
Founded in 1954, Martin Busch Jewelers opened its doors on John Street to bring exceptional service and honest valueto New Yorkers who wanted fine jewelry without pretense.
Over the decades, our storefront has seen the Financial District change dramatically—from the rise of skyscrapers to the rebirth of Lower Manhattan post-9/11. Through it all, we’ve remained committed to personalized service, expert craftsmanship, and helping generations of clients mark life’s most meaningful moments.
Whether it’s an engagement ring, anniversary gift, or custom design, our location on John Street continues to offer something rare in the modern world: the feeling of being known and treated like family.
Why We Still Call John Street Home
While many jewelers have moved on or shifted entirely online, Martin Busch Jewelers proudly continues to operate right here in the Financial District—for several important reasons:
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Historical significance: We’re part of a long line of jewelers and artisans who’ve worked in Lower Manhattan for centuries.
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Authenticity: In a city that’s always moving fast, our corner of John Street offers a moment to slow down, connect, and shop meaningfully.
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Community: We’ve built decades-long relationships with clients who live, work, and pass through this neighborhood every day.
Visit Us on Historic John Street
Today, John Street continues to evolve. High-rise residences, boutique hotels, and award-winning restaurants are giving new energy to this once-industrial area—while the charm of old New York still lingers in every stone and storefront.
When you step into Martin Busch Jewelers, you're not just entering a jewelry store. You're stepping into a space filled with history, heritage, and heart—where timeless craftsmanship meets the pulse of a modern, global city.
Whether you're a lifelong New Yorker or visiting for the first time, we invite you to stop by, explore our collections, and discover the magic of John Street for yourself.