Relationships, Food Help Make Nearby Jewelry Store Top Place to Work

 is one of the top places to work, according to the Pittsburgh Business Times.

The local newspaper used confidential employee surveys to determine the best workplaces in the Pittsburgh region. The jewelry store, located in Upper St. Clair, ranked fifth on the list of the 78 top places to work.

Employees said they weren't surprised their employer received the honor.

"I think it's absolutely true," said Lynelle Young, a Louis Anothony Jewelers employee and Upper St. Clair resident.

Young was once a loyal Louis Anthony Jewelers client, often visiting the store to check out new items and to chat. After about 20 years, she left a career in human resources and started working for the store she loved to visit.

"Everyone is really friendly," Young said. "I think a lot of times in sales you might not have that environment...we're more focused on helping our clients than sales."

Louis Anthony Jewelers is a family business owned by Louis and Veronica Guarino. Their son, Lou, and daughter, Amie, both work for the business. And their youngest daughter, Vanessa, works at the store during college breaks.

"One of the nice things is that the family aspect isn't just limited to our blood family," Lou said.

He said all employees feel like they are part of the family. The Guarinos even bring in their dinner leftovers to share with the store employees—and some clients.

"Sometimes people just come in for some of the leftovers," Lou said.

"We all think we're gourmet chefs," Veronica joked.

"The Guarinos are wonderful cooks and bakers. We all enjoy the food here," Young said.

One of the recent favorites was Italian herb pork butt.

Another reason for the store's popularity—the scenery is breathtaking. Beautiful jewels and giftware are elegantly displayed with chandeliers dangling from the ceiling. Fresh cookies and coffee greet guests.

"We are in the business for being happy...we get to be a part of so many happy occasions," Veronica said. "Working here has been the best years of my life.

"I'm really flattered that the people that work here consider it to be a satisfying work environment."

This story originally appeared on Upper St. Clair Patch.