The sudden and unexplained closure of two prominent jewellery shops in Brighton has left customers devastated and triggered a formal police investigation. Crown Diamond, located on Union Street, and Platinum Fine Jewellery, situated in Brighton Square, have both shut their doors without prior warning, sparking widespread concern among local residents and patrons.
Police Confirm Enquiries into Circumstances
A spokeswoman for Sussex Police has confirmed that officers have received multiple reports regarding the abrupt closure of both Crown Diamond LTD and Platinum Fine Jewellery LTD. The police are actively conducting enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the shutdown and the whereabouts of customer property that was held by the businesses.
The police statement emphasised: "We are aware of concerns from customers regarding property held by the businesses owner on their behalf and are conducting enquires into the circumstances of the closure and whereabouts of the property. If you have been affected by this, please report online or phone 101."
Customers Express Distress and Frustration
Affected customers have shared their anguish and frustration over the closures. One long-time patron of Crown Diamond recounted a personal connection, stating: "I would go in the shop to see him; we’d drink Jack Daniels together. I can’t sleep at night sometimes because of all this."
Online reviews and reports detail similar experiences of bewilderment and loss. A customer who had left a ring for repair at Crown Diamond explained: "Took it back in recently for a repair job and all was cool, owner said he would fix it and he contacted me to let me know that it was ready to collect. Went to collect it on 30/12/25 and the store had a note on window saying they’d be back open on 29/12 but it was shut! And now I’m not able to get it back."
Another individual, who ordered a bracelet on Christmas Eve, added: "I was told to collect the following week. I tried phoning no answer, so decided to go to the store both stores are closed."
Signs of Permanent Closure Emerge
Physical evidence at the locations suggests the closures may be permanent. A notice of forfeiture, dated January 20, is currently displayed at the Crown Diamond store. Meanwhile, all signage has been removed from the Platinum Fine Jewellery premises, further indicating a definitive end to operations.
The situation is compounded by earlier assurances given to customers. Crown Diamond had reportedly displayed a note in its window towards the end of the year, promising to reopen on December 30. However, the store has remained closed since, contradicting that commitment and deepening the mystery.
This incident highlights significant issues of consumer trust and business accountability within the local retail sector. The police investigation continues as authorities seek to unravel the reasons behind the sudden shutdowns and address the mounting concerns of distressed customers.
