ST. CHARLES – A lot has changed on Main Street in St. Charles during the last 30 years, but through it all, Goldmine Jewelers has remained a staple retailer.

Jay Montgomery has run the business with his wife, Lynn, since Jan. 1, 1983. Back then, yellow gold engagement rings with a marquise diamond cut were all the rage. Today, most women are looking for white gold engagement rings with round or princess diamond cuts. And the prices have changed dramatically, Montgomery said.

When his business first opened, he said, an ounce of gold was worth $350. Today, it has skyrocketed to $1,890 per ounce. The price of gems also has increased.