Three Generations of Jewelry and Timepiece Sales and Service in Evanston
1900s — Peter Virag (grandfather of the current owners) works as a second generation watchmaker in his father's jewelry store, located in a predominantly German community in Eastern Europe
1921 — Peter and his family immigrate to the U.S. and settle in Chicago
1921–1935 — Peter spends 14 years working as a bench jeweler in the Jeweler's District at Madison and Wabash in Chicago and eventually at a store in Evanston. When the Great Depression hits and his employer can no longer afford full-time employees, some of Peter's loyal customers encourage him to open his own jewelry store
1936 — Peter Virag Jewelers is founded, originally located on Chicago Avenue just north of Main Street in Evanston
late 1930s — Son Adam follows in Peter's footsteps after graduating high school, and son-in-law Frank Schneider also joins the business. The name is changed to Peter Virag and Sons Jewelers.
1942 — Adam is drafted into the Army. Utilizing his watchmaking skills, he repairs essential timepieces and rangefinding equipment in the U.S. and eventually England before returning home in 1945
1960s — The store relocates to 703 Main Street, where it stands today
1970s — Two of Adam's sons, Tony and Pete, begin working full-time in the store
1986 — Frank retires; Adam continues to work part-time. Tony and Pete become owners and change the name to Virag Jewelers Ltd.
late 1980s — Adam's youngest son, Joe, joins the business full-time
late 1990s — Adam retires after 60 years in the jewelry business
2003 — Adam's daughter, Terri, begins working behind the scenes as jewelry buyer and appraiser. Creating a line of handcrafted jewelry, Sky Blue Jewelry Design, her jewelry can be purchased online or in the store
2007 — Tony leaves Evanston to own and operate a jewelry store closer to his home in the south suburbs
Today — Pete, Joe, Terri and the friendly staff at Virag Jewelers continue the legacy of quality sales and service that their grandfather started so long ago