About Us
Our Founder
Fred J. Maloof was born on february 26, 1921. He entered the jewelry business after operating his family's dairy bar as a teenager. Back in the 1930s when economic times were tough, most kids were still scheming to cut class or line up a date for Friday night. Fred Maloof, in his mid-teens, was worried about hiring a reliable staff, doing the books and ordering enough ice cream.
Fred was probably the only kid at St. Charles Borromeo High School in Detroit who ran his own store at the age of 15! His father actually turned the family dairy bar over to him at this young age, giving flight to his illustrious retail career. Ultimately, jewelry was his calling and he opened Maloof Sales Co. which became the Maloof Jewelry & Gifts that it remains today.
With a deep commitment to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, Fred built a legacy of trust and excellence that spans generations. His keen eye for quality, combined with an unwavering dedication to personalized service, ensured that every customer receives not just a beautiful piece, but a meaningful experience that continues to this day through current owner and longtime friend Harry Thompson.
Outside of business, Fred was widely admired for his charitable work. He quietly supported numerous individuals and organizations, with a special concern for children with special needs and families facing hardship. Among the causes closest to his heart were the Capuchin Soup Kitchen and the IHM Motherhouse in Monroe. Friends remembered him as a mentor, counselor, and father figure whose generosity extended far beyond financial contributions.
Fred J. Maloof passed away on December 21, 2016, at the age of 95. His legacy lives on through the businesses he helped build, the countless customers he served, and the many lives he touched through his generosity, compassion, and dedication to his community. He is remembered not only as a successful businessman, but as a man whose greatest wealth was measured by the respect, friendship, and gratitude of those around him.
Where it began
Maloof's Dairy Bar was a neighborhood dairy store and lunch counter operated by the Maloof family on Detroit's east side during the 1940s and 1950s. It represents the family's original business before they entered the jewelry and gift trade.
It was here that a 10 year old boy whose Father had left his family walked in looking to sweep the floor to make some money. That boy was Harry Thompson, current owner of Maloof Jewelry & Gifts. This was the beginning of what would be a long lasting relationship. Fred was like a Father to Harry and took him under his wing to teach him about life and business. Fred was not only a Father to Harry but also a mentor.
The original jewelry store began on the 2nd floor of Maloof's Dairy Bar located at 7425 Kercheval in Detroit. It had two small display cases and was by appointment only.
First real home
Maloof Sales Co. opened at 14332 Mack Ave., near Chalmers — and it was here that the jewelry business known today truly took root. Fred & Harry built what has become a legendary reputation for excellence, value, and trust, a standard of service that continues to define the brand to this day.
A bigger building
By 1962, it had become clear that a much larger space was needed — the Maloof reputation for quality and excellence was flourishing throughout the Metro Detroit area. The perfect building was just a few doors down, across the street at 14423 Mack Ave. It was here that the business expanded into a full lifestyle destination, offering everything from appliances and clocks to kitchen essentials. The location remained a beloved neighborhood staple until 1975. In the wake of the 1967 Detroit riots, the surrounding area began to deteriorate, and thoughts of relocation quietly took hold.
Home Sweet Home
In 1975, the decision was made to relocate to the current location at 28525 Harper Ave., at the corner of Martin Rd. in St. Clair Shores. For over 50 years, Maloof's has continued to be the leader in value, exceptional service, and time-honored tradition.
The loyalty Maloof has built spans generations — second, third, and fourth generation customers walk through the doors today, many noting that their grandparents bought their wedding rings here too. The shop is renowned for a strong selection of certified diamonds, including round, heart, and marquise shapes, available for engagement rings, pendants, bracelets, and custom settings.
To this day, Maloof remains a multi-generational family jewelry institution — and a cornerstone of the St. Clair Shores community.
Fred and Harry
Fred and Harry's relationship goes way back to 1957 when 10-year-old Harry Thompson, whose father had left his family, went into Maloof Dairy Bar looking to sweep the floor to earn some money. At first Fred said no, but as Harry was walking out the door, Fred said "The broom is over there." It was the beginning of a near-lifelong friendship and mentorship.
Fred showed Harry the ropes on everything from business to life, taking Harry along to shine shoes at local establishments while Fred waited outside. Fred became far more than a mentor; he was a true father figure who instilled the virtues of resilience, integrity, honor, and a strong work ethic into the young Harry.
When Fred passed in 2016, Harry took over the operation, not only honoring Fred's legacy but carrying it forward with great passion. Maloof Jewelry & Gifts remains a treasured institution in Metro Detroit.
In 2018, St. Clair Shores council minutes noted that city staff spoke with Harry Thompson, who "expressed a desire to do something to honor Fred Maloof," leading to pavilion funding at Veterans Memorial Park.
The pavilion is a lasting monument to the man and legend Fred Maloof, whose philanthropic spirit touched countless lives.
In 2001, the Fred J. Maloof Family Foundation was founded as a vehicle for charitable giving. The Foundation has provided hundreds of grants and funded community projects since its inception. Harry carries on Fred's vision of helping the community to this day.
Fred passed away December 21, 2016, at 95 years old. He will be remembered not only for his incredible business reputation — built on honesty and integrity — but also for his deep love of community.
Fred's greatest legacy is the many people and organizations he helped throughout his life. His love of community led him to generously help those in need. He held a special fondness for children with special needs, whom he wanted to help in every way. The Capuchin Soup Kitchen and the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Motherhouse of Monroe were among his favorite charities. His generosity will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Harry Thompson proudly carries on that legacy.
