National Rarities’ July Employee Spotlight

At National Rarities, we love to express our appreciation for our amazing team of experts.

We pride ourselves on having a stellar team that is educated and trained in various areas of estate buying and estate jewelry. For that, they deserve to be recognized for their hard work and dedication to National Rarities and our customers.

This July, we are proud to announce our Employee Spotlight of the month, Chad Blackburn.

Q1: Describe a brief history of yourself and your relevant training.

I got into this business at the end of 2008; 13 years ago!  My parents owned an estate buying company, and I left my job in California to come to St. Louis and help them build the business.  Dennis, Louis, and I all worked together for a couple of years at Lindstrom and McKenney. 5 years ago, I decided to join my friends at National Rarities. While my training and expertise are the results of a culmination of on-the-job experiences, I recently earned my AJP (Applied Jewelry Professional) certification from the Gemological Institute of America.

Q2: What does a typical day look like for you when you aren't on the road?

When I am not on the road, my typical day is to lead the avenue of sale for the merchandise we acquire on the road. I work hand-in-hand with the inventory department to determine specifically how we will sell the item. I help with determining which buyers to send on specific events and assist in our travel schedule planning. I provide product knowledge support to the buyers who are out on the road when they need it. I also assist in house training for our staff.

Q3: What is your favorite thing about working at National Rarities?

I have two favorite things about working at National Rarities: Firstly, I enjoy traveling to different parts of the country. I have the opportunity to experience not only local cultures, but also the foods we don't have in Missouri. Secondly, I love meeting with and listening to customers who have stories to tell about their valuables. The excitement that customers express about the history and intrigue of their pieces is contagious.

Q4: What is your favorite piece that you have purchased or sold? Do you have a story behind it?

Out of all the items I have purchased, my favorite estate item remains a Continental Naval Commission document signed by the John Hancock.  More specifically, the document concerned Captain Joseph Olney's commission for the brig Cabot.  I was able to touch and examine the very same document that John Hancock signed in 1776! It is almost hard to believe. It was an exhilarating and memorable experience.

Chad holds a history of experience and always gives our customers a reason to smile. Our Director of Operations, GIA, AJP was a no-brainer as a choice this month! Congratulations Chad!

Stay tuned for our next National Rarities employee spotlight in August. Our team of “rarities” are always here for you, and they deserve to be recognized!