47th Street Jeweler Melvin Goldberg Dies

By Rob Bates | February 27, 2025

Melvin Goldberg, a skilled jeweler and salesperson who worked in New York City’s Diamond District for over 40 years, died of cancer on Feb. 22, just one week before his 81st birthday.

Goldberg was born in the Bronx in 1944. As a young adult, he learned diamond cutting as an apprentice of Felix Monaco, while honing his skills as a jeweler from a bench in his living room closet. From there, he began working for his father, Al Goldberg, and uncle, Harry Goldberg, at their company, G.C. & G. Jewelry Manufacturing.

When that business closed, Goldberg worked in sales for two Diamond District companies, Leon Diamond Store and the Original Diamond Center. He then partnered with Craig Rizzieri to start the Diamond Shoppe, also on 47th Street. In later years, Goldberg was the top salesperson at Diamond District jeweler Shenoa & Co.

“Mel was well known on 47th Street for his sales acumen and kind heart,” according to a family obituary. “He specialized in making one-of-a-kind engagement rings and special pieces, cherished by most of his friends, family, friends of friends, and loyal customers from all over the world.”

Goldberg’s family described him as “the life of every party, dinner, and gathering, with his deep voice bellowing, his emotions on his sleeve, and the vodka flowing. His positivity and infectious laughter will remain in our hearts…. His passing leaves an enormous void in the lives of his family and dear friends.”

In his off-hours, the obituary said, Goldberg enjoyed men’s fashion, fine dining, “lounging in the shade,” classic rock, New York pizza, and listening to Howard Stern.

He is survived by Joan, his wife of nearly 60 years; two daughters; five grandchildren; and sister Elayne Messler.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Goldberg’s name to the Melanoma Research Foundation.

(Photo courtesy of the family of Melvin Goldberg)