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Jewelry found in deceased jeweler’s safe. Is it yours? Fresno sheriff wants to know

The Fresno County Public Administrator’s Office found jewelry within several envelopes inside a safe owned by a deceased Selma, California jeweler.
The Fresno County Public Administrator’s Office found jewelry within several envelopes inside a safe owned by a deceased Selma, California jeweler. Special to The Bee

Fresno County officials are asking for the public’s help to determine who owns jewelry found inside the home of a deceased Selma jeweler.

The jewelry – rings, necklaces and earrings – along with watches and coins, was found in a safe belonging to Selma resident George Garabedian.

He operated a business called Geo’s Jewelry at 1937 High St. in Selma for years before it permanently closed in 2010 after its roof collapsed, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office said Monday. It’s believed Garabedian continued to work as a jeweler at his home.

Public Administrator staff who are currently managing Garabedian’s estate found the jewelry in several envelopes, some dating back to the 1980s.

“The envelopes contain minimal information, so we are not sure who these items belong to and would like to return them to their rightful owners,” sheriff’s office spokesman Tony Botti said. “If you or someone you know thinks one of their items may have been in Mr. Garabedian’s possession, please contact us.”

Callers will be asked to provide a detailed description of the item, and a receipt/claim ticket if available. People can contact Scott Stacey at 559-600-8660 or scott.stacey@fresnosheriff.org.

Carmen Kohlruss
The Fresno Bee
Carmen Kohlruss is a features and news reporter for The Fresno Bee. Her stories have been recognized with Best of the West and McClatchy President’s awards, and many top awards from the California News Publishers Association. She has a passion for sharing people’s stories to highlight issues and promote greater understanding. Support my work with a digital subscription
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