NORWICH – Days after the 97th anniversary of the opening of Skillin's Jewelers, owner Hal Skillin has announced he will be retiring effective May 12 and closing the store––but not before a final celebration sale beginning Tuesday.

Skillin, who bought the business from his father, Harold, in 1974, said while business has been good this year – up 25 percent since January 1 – the time is right for him to retire.

"I don't know what it's going to be like to tell you the truth, might go into shock a little bit," said Skillin. "But I have a lot of things to do; some travelling, [spending time with] grandkids, so, I'm looking forward to that."

Beginning Tuesday and running until Thursday, Skillin's Jewelers will offer a final celebration sale.

"We're having a big sale, it's taken us three days to set up," said Skillin. "So we're getting ready for that. I've got some friends in the jewelry business who are helping us with this and we're bringing in some extra jewelry, too, so we're not going to run out."

Skillin said he recommends people visit the store during the sale's first few days when the selection is the best, but noted they will have deals on jewelry until the store closes on May 12.