Connecticut Attorney General's Office

Press Release

Attorney General Announces Christian Bernard Going-Out-Of-Business Sale Underway, Consumers Can Collect Items Brought For Repair, On Deposit

January 21, 2009

Attorney General Richard Blumenthal today announced that Christian Bernard jewelry stores has reopened for a going-out-of-business sale, allowing consumers to collect items left for repair, bought on layaway or for which they placed deposits. The sale could last into March.

The jewelry chain with stores at Westfarms Mall in Farmington and the Stamford Town Center in Stamford filed for bankruptcy and closed immediately after Christmas. Blumenthal's office worked with the bankruptcy trustee to assure consumers can collect jewelry left at the store for repair and items for which they fully or partially paid.

"Consumers needed protection when Christian Bernard suddenly slammed shut, leaving them in the dark about items left for repair, on deposit or on layaway," Blumenthal said. "The court's action allows consumers to claim their property and pay for partially purchased items. My office will continue to carefully and closely monitor Christian Bernard to assure that consumers are treated fairly and can collect jewelry they own or have paid for.

"I am pleased that my office helped assure that consumers are protected during Christian Bernard's temporary reopening, allowing them to collect jewelry they bought or brought for repair. I urge consumers to redeem any gift cards or certificates as soon as possible."

The U.S. Bankruptcy Court today ordered that:

• Consumers who placed a deposit or bought on layaway may collect the item after paying any remaining balance;

• Customers who no longer want a layaway item or the item is no longer available may receive a refund subject to the store's refund policy after presenting a receipt;

• Jewelry brought for repair will be returned to consumers upon presentation of a receipt;

• The store honor any gift certificates or gift cards.

The Bankruptcy Court also allowed "augmentation" -- adding inventory during a going-out-of-business sale. Augmented merchandise must be comparable in quality to items normally sold at Christian Bernard.

Consumers with questions or concerns can contact the Attorney General's Office at (860) 808-5400.