People have always had a fascination with estate jewelry, making it a popular choice in the world of buying and selling. For many, selling estate jewelry represents the opportunity to pass on meaningful heirlooms steeped in history, allowing others to appreciate their beauty and craftsmanship.
The allure of unique pieces often sets estate jewelry apart from contemporary items, attracting collectors and enthusiasts alike who are drawn to the rich stories behind each item. As tastes evolve, sellers also find joy in curating and sharing their collection, while buyers appreciate the chance to own something that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also carries a sense of character and legacy. In this vibrant marketplace, both sellers and buyers engage in a dynamic exchange that celebrates the art of jewelry and the memories they evoke.
The problem that many estate jewelry owners face - especially in the Palmetto State - is finding trustworthy estate jewelry buyers in Mount Pleasant, SC, who offer fair pricing and a pleasant experience. If you've searched "estate jewelry near me" on Google without great results, Colucci Jewelers could be the solution you need.
Before we tell you more about Colucci Jewelers and why so many clients refer friends and family members to our estate jewelry shop, let's first examine what estate jewelry is.
Jewelry is categorized as "estate" when it has had a previous owner. However, contrary to popular belief, the original owner of estate jewelry could still be alive. Another frequent misconception is that the age of a piece determines whether it qualifies as estate jewelry. While many items on the market today may be 50, 100, or even over 150 years old, age is not a criterion for classifying estate jewelry in South Carolina.
So, what does "estate jewelry" really mean? It essentially refers to "pre-owned jewelry." A piece doesn't need to be acquired from an estate sale to be considered estate jewelry, nor does it have to meet a specific age threshold. Any previously owned jewelry fits the estate classification, regardless of the terminology you prefer.
The most popular estate jewelry pieces to sell are those that combine timeless appeal with unique craftsmanship and potential for high resale value. Some of the most popular types of estate jewelry that we buy at Colucci Jewelers include:
Marriage is a life-changing experience. With time, though, you may find that it makes sense to sell the diamond engagement ring your partner bought.
High-quality diamond engagement rings, particularly those featuring exceptional diamonds and distinctive settings, tend to excel in the resale market. These rings, often crafted with meticulous attention to detail, showcase stunning diamonds that boast premium cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. Unique design elements, such as vintageinspired settings, halo arrangements, or intricate metalwork, can significantly enhance their appeal and value.
Earrings with distinctive designs and rare gemstones always sell well. Some of the most sought-after estate jewelry earrings have gemstones such as:
Styles inspired by the Art Deco era are also very popular and are known for their bold geometric shapes and intricate motifs. These earrings attract fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike, making these pieces a statement of personal style and artistry.
Intricate designs that feature precious stones such as diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires, as well as luxurious materials like gold and silver, are highly coveted for their craftsmanship and historical significance. Each piece reflects exceptional artistry and cultural heritage, showcasing the meticulous skill of artisans who invest countless hours to perfect every detail.
Art Deco remains a standout design era in estate jewelry, cherished for its timeless allure. This period is defined by bold colors, geometric shapes, and diverse materials. Diamonds dominated the era, often combined with rubies, sapphires, and emeralds,
while black onyx provided striking contrasts with white diamonds and rock crystal. Iconic jewelers like Cartier, Tiffany, and Van Cleef & Arpels created some of their most famous pieces during this vibrant time, highlighting Art Deco's lasting impact on jewelry design.
Art Nouveau is characterized by its decorative style, emphasizing flowing curves and elaborate designs. This artistic movement often incorporates motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves, and curling vines. Additionally, popular themes include dragonflies, peacocks, snakes, and the female silhouette. Renowned designers in this genre, like René Lalique and Louis Comfort Tiffany, were pivotal in crafting exquisite Art Nouveau jewelry.
As estate jewelry buyers in Mount Pleasant, SC, we know that there's a lot of confusion out there about pre-owned jewelry. For example, people often wonder if estate jewelry is the same thing as vintage or antique jewelry? Is estate jewelry good quality or bad quality? Let's take a look at some common estate jewelry misconceptions and why they're wrong.
Estate jewelry is often confused with vintage or antique jewelry, but they are not the same. While estate jewelry refers to any pre-owned piece, regardless of its age, it can sometimes fall into the categories of vintage or antique, depending on how long ago it was made. Specifically, vintage jewelry is classified as any piece that's at least 20 years old, whereas antique jewelry must be at least 100 years old.
So, although estate jewelry is not inherently vintage or antique, it can certainly include exquisite vintage and antique finds, especially in collection like those at Colucci Jewelers. However, it's important to remember that just because a piece is labeled as estate jewelry doesn't automatically mean it's vintage or antique.
Some people believe that estate jewelry is always of poor quality, while others think it is always high quality. The truth is that estate jewelry can vary widely in quality since "estate" simply means "previously owned." However, estate jewelry available for sale is often very high quality. Most individuals don't bother trying to sell poor pre-owned jewelry since most estate jewelry appraisers would struggle to resell them.
It's important to note that not all estate jewelry is created equal, and jewelers may have different standards for their inventory. However, at Colucci Jewelers, we maintain rigorous standards for the pieces we display. Every item of estate jewelry we carry is thoroughly inspected - which is great for both estate jewelry buyers and sellers.
Many people mistakenly believe that estate jewelry carries "bad energy" or is "unlucky." We don't share that viewpoint. Estate jewelry is just previously owned, and there are many reasons why Colucci clients choose to sell it. Often, individuals sell their jewelry because they no longer find joy in wearing it. Sometimes, they may have inherited a stunning and valuable piece that doesn't match their personal style. Rather than keeping jewelry that won't be worn, they opt to sell it, allowing them to invest that value into something they'll truly appreciate, whether it's a vacation or even a different piece of jewelry that resonates more with them.
Wondering whether your estate jewelry will fetch a nice price that you can use for a night out or a trip to Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park near Mount Pleasant, SC? Keep this short list in mind when you come by Colucci Jewelers to sell your estate jewelry collection.
Estate jewelry typically exhibits signs of wear, with older pieces often displaying these marks more prominently. Many people believe that minor blemishes related to age add a unique "character" and "charm" to an estate piece. However, any condition issues that detract from its beauty or usability can diminish both its quality and value. Some of those factors include:
This concept can be viewed as a balance between supply and demand. It relates more to value than quality and is one of the most complex factors to understand. Rarity is influenced by the volume of a particular style or form created during a specific time frame, but it also depends on how many pieces have withstood the test of time and how much desire there is for them among consumers. As a result, it's possible for rare items to hold low value due to a lack of demand, while items that are more common may fetch a higher price if there is strong demand for them.
When buying and selling estate jewelry, it's quite common to encounter alterations. These alterations typically fall into three main categories: repairs, remodeling, and adaptations. Repairs are undertaken to address significant condition issues that the jewelry may have. Remodeling might involve transforming a pendant into a ring or the other way around, while adaptations cover smaller adjustments, such as swapping screw backs for posts to make earrings suitable for pierced ears. As you can imagine, the impact of these alterations on the jewelry's quality and value largely hinges on the craftsmanship behind them.
When you're craving a great meal in Charleston, you don't pull up to a fast-food restaurant and expect quality food. You make a reservation at Langdon's Restaurant Wine Bar near Mount Pleasant, SC. Similarly, when you're looking for reliable estate jewelry buyers, you don't select a store with low ratings. You choose Colucci Jewelers - South Carolina's premier option for buying and selling estate jewelry.
At Colucci's Jewelers, we offer a safe, secure, and easy way to sell your estate jewelry. As a leading estate jewelry buyer in South Carolina, we have years of experience in buying and selling vintage and antique jewelry. Whether you have a single piece or an entire collection, we're interested in buying your estate jewelry.
We're proud to provide our customers with a seamless, hassle-free estate selling experience that's not just profitable - it's enjoyable. When you choose Colucci for estate jewelry sales, you can expect:
We recognize that parting with your estate jewelry can be a deeply personal and emotional journey. To support you through this process, we provide a service that prioritizes discretion and confidentiality at every step. Our team is dedicated to treating your cherished items with the utmost care and respect they deserve.
You can rely on our expertise to ensure that each piece is evaluated accurately and handled with the sensitivity that reflects its significance to you. Whether it's a family heirloom or a treasured memento, we are here to make the experience as seamless and respectful as possible.
We've got a team of certified gemologists and jewelry appraisers who can accurately assess your estate jewelry. Using the latest equipment, we'll check out your pieces and provide a clear and honest evaluation.
We strive to provide fair prices for every piece of estate jewelry we acquire. We take the time to assess each item thoroughly, considering aspects like its condition, rarity, and other relevant factors, to ensure that we offer you a reasonable price that reflects its true value.
As passionate connoisseurs of estate jewelry, we take pride in our role as both buyers and enthusiasts. With our expert knowledge, we accurately assess the value of each unique piece, recognizing the artistry and history behind it. Our mission is to breathe new life into these treasures, connecting them with new owners who will appreciate and cherish their beauty for years to come.
We are actively seeking to purchase a wide range of estate jewelry, encompassing everything from stunning engagement rings to exquisite antique and vintage pieces. Our interest extends to all types of gold jewelry, including ornate necklaces and elegant bracelets, as well as designer items from renowned brands.
We also specialize in the acquisition of high-quality diamonds and luxurious watches. Whether you have a single cherished item or an entire collection of heirlooms, we are eager to make you a fair offer and help you find a new home for your treasured pieces.
Some of the most popular estate pieces we buy include:
We purchase a variety of diamond cuts, including European and Mine cuts, Asscher, Cushion, Pear, Marquise, Oval, and Emerald cuts. If you have the original setting, we're interested in buying those as well.
We purchase both large and small diamond rings, focusing particularly on unique pieces from the Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, and Mid-20th Century eras. We're also interested in modern diamonds, especially larger stones and those set in rings by renowned jewelers like Tiffany & Co. and Cartier.
If you have special vintage or estate jewelry signed by one of the following companies, be sure to swing by Colucci Jewelers today for an appraisal:
Colored gemstones showcase a spectrum of colors across the rainbow. At Colucci Jewelers, we purchase high-quality sapphires, rubies, emeralds, exquisite jade, and pearls, along with nearly all other colored gemstones, as long as they meet our standards for fine quality or contribute to a beautiful piece of jewelry.
Selling your estate jewelry to Colucci's Jewelers is an easy four-step process. Here's how it works:
Feel free to reach out by phone or complete our online form to book an appointment. You can also visit our store with your estate jewelry during our regular business hours.
Our certified gemologists and skilled jewelry appraisers specialize in evaluating estate jewelry. We conduct thorough assessments of your pieces to provide a transparent and accurate evaluation of their true worth, whether they are vintage heirlooms or modern designs.
After carefully assessing your estate jewelry, we'll present you with a competitive offer that reflects the unique value of each piece.
Once you accept our offer, we'll pay you in cash or via check, whichever is more convenient for you. From there, you can enjoy a night out on the town, a trip to your favorite destination, or have some extra cash for a rainy day. The choice is yours!
If you're thinking about buying or selling estate jewelry, look no further than Colucci's Jewelers, your trusted partner since 1959. With decades of experience and expert knowledge, we're committed to providing top-notch service. At Colucci's Jewelers, we value our customers and offer you an additional 10%! Reach out to us today to discover how we can assist you with all your estate jewelry needs.
ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- (NYSE: FND), the leading high-growth retailer specializing in hard-surface flooring for homeowners and professionals, has announced the grand opening of its newest warehouse store in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, located at 1155 Holliday Farms Blvd. The warehouse store and design center has opened with a team of approximately 35 full-time and 15 part-time associates and is led by Matthew Peiffer, the store’s Chief Executive Merchant.Floor & Decor operates more than 250 warehouse-format stores and...
ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- (NYSE: FND), the leading high-growth retailer specializing in hard-surface flooring for homeowners and professionals, has announced the grand opening of its newest warehouse store in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, located at 1155 Holliday Farms Blvd. The warehouse store and design center has opened with a team of approximately 35 full-time and 15 part-time associates and is led by Matthew Peiffer, the store’s Chief Executive Merchant.
Floor & Decor operates more than 250 warehouse-format stores and five design studios across 38 states and offers a broad assortment of in-stock hard-surface flooring, including tile, wood, laminate, vinyl, and natural stone, along with decorative accessories and wall tile, installation materials, and adjacent categories at everyday low prices.
“We are thrilled to expand to Mount Pleasant,” said Peiffer. “Opening this new store allows Floor & Decor to bring our products and expertise to even more homeowners and professionals. We’re looking forward to connecting with our new neighbors and making their renovation experiences seamless, creative, and budget-friendly.”
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony In celebration of the grand opening, Floor & Decor is hosting a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. ET with the Charleston Chamber of Commerce, Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce, and special appearances by the Charleston Southern University Cheerleaders and Mascot.
Calling All Flooring & Home PROs Floor & Decor provides a comprehensive suite of services and a rewards program tailored for professionals in the construction, renovation, and flooring industries through its PRO Services and PRO Premier Rewards Program.
On Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. ET, Floor & Decor invites all PROs in the Mount Pleasant area to an exclusive PRO Industry Networking Event, featuring a boat giveaway. Pros can visit flooranddecor.com/mountpleasantpro to RSVP and register. During the event, visitors will meet the dedicated on-site PRO Services Team, interact with supplier representatives, and learn about Floor & Decor’s PRO Services and industry-leading PRO Premier Rewards program.
“Building relationships with our local professionals is very important to us. Their success is our success,” said Peiffer.
$5,000 Floor Makeover Sweepstakes In addition, the Mount Pleasant Floor & Decor store will give away a $5,000 Floor Makeover, plus a pair of 2026 Charleston Southern University Football Season Tickets, as part of its grand opening festivities. Customers can register to win from now through Sunday, February 1, 2026, at www.floormakeovermountpleasant.com/register.aspx
Super Saturday Celebration & Crack the Code Following the grand opening, the Mount Pleasant Floor & Decor store will host a family-friendly Super Saturday event on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. ET, to showcase local vendors and the new store to the community.
Floor & Decor will partner with local businesses, including Jack’s Cosmic Dogs and Spoon and Cake, while offering the first 200 customers a chance to win $100,000 from its Crack the Code game*. Customers can enter a five-digit code of their choice to see if they crack the code and win $100,000.
Store Facts & Features
For more information on Floor & Decor, please visit or follow on Instagram at .
About Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc. Floor & Decor is a multi-channel specialty retailer of hard surface flooring and related accessories and a commercial flooring distributor. At the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2025, the Company operated 262 warehouse-format stores and five design studios across 38 states. The Company offers a broad in-stock assortment of laminate and vinyl, tile, wood, and natural stone flooring, installation materials, decorative accessories, and adjacent categories at everyday low prices. Founded in 2000, Floor & Decor is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
*Must be at least 18 years old to enter the $5,000 Floor Makeover and Crack the Code.
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) — The Mount Pleasant commercial design review board is set to conduct a final review of the upcoming Patriots Point Annex development at a meeting Wednesday night.This comes at a time when the multi-million-dollar development plan for the last piece of waterfront gateway in the town has changed since the initial review and has drawn community concern. The Patriots Point Annex development project includes a Seafair Retail Village, the Grand Patriot Hotel and the Grand Lawn, but the new plans offer less...
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) — The Mount Pleasant commercial design review board is set to conduct a final review of the upcoming Patriots Point Annex development at a meeting Wednesday night.
This comes at a time when the multi-million-dollar development plan for the last piece of waterfront gateway in the town has changed since the initial review and has drawn community concern. The Patriots Point Annex development project includes a Seafair Retail Village, the Grand Patriot Hotel and the Grand Lawn, but the new plans offer less green space and no clear interconnected pathway.
Ahead of the meeting, Mount Pleasant councilmember and resident Mike Tinkey says the fact the plans are up for final review at a meeting right after the holidays and aren’t specifically listed as the Patriots Point Annex development is also concerning. The items are also last on the agenda. Dozens of residents submitted public comments also voicing their concerns.
“It seems like we need to take a deep breath and pause, start the process of reviewing what we have here and then have a deliberate approach to taking our time to get it right because it’s in the best interest of everybody to get it right,” Tinkey says. “And that means a holistic approach to it.”
The initial plans had the Grand Lawn as a waterfront location of 1.62 acres, but now it reflects a green space of 0.68 acres, similar to a courtyard.
Tinkey says the new plan needs more time for discussion and analysis. He believes the Grand Lawn should be returned to the Patriots Front waterfront so it can be enjoyed by the community the way it was intended to.
“It is not as inviting for the public,” Tinkey says. “It’s such a beautiful spot, a spot that is really iconic, and we want to plan, protect and preserve this waterfront for our public access to all.”
He is also urging the review board to look at the need for a continuous walkway that the new development should ensure it builds for residents and tourists.
The Patriots Points Annex development is currently governed by the Waterfront Gateway-Cooper River District which includes specific development and design standards:
Many residents believe the current design doesn’t comply with the zoning standards.
“I also think it’s important that we look at the project as a whole, not just three different pieces of an entire project, especially when the Waterfront Gateway District calls for the green spaces and the waterfront promenades and walkways to be done first before there’s final plats done for buildings,” Tinkey says.
The Charleston-based real estate developer Bennet Hospitality secured 30 acres for the project. They didn’t respond to a request for comment in time.
The development is located at 40 Patriots Point Road.
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) –A major redevelopment project at Patriots Point will go to the Mount Pleasant Design Review Board for final approval on Wednesday.The site proposes a Grand Patriot Hotel, Seafair Village, and Grand Lawn in place of the parking lot at the U.S.S. Yorktown.Renderings show Seafair Village will be a mix-used development with shops, businesses, restaurants and public gathering areas closest to the Yorktown.Behind the village, the plan shows a grand lawn and then the Grand Patriot Hotel....
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) –A major redevelopment project at Patriots Point will go to the Mount Pleasant Design Review Board for final approval on Wednesday.
The site proposes a Grand Patriot Hotel, Seafair Village, and Grand Lawn in place of the parking lot at the U.S.S. Yorktown.
Renderings show Seafair Village will be a mix-used development with shops, businesses, restaurants and public gathering areas closest to the Yorktown.
Behind the village, the plan shows a grand lawn and then the Grand Patriot Hotel.
“It is going to generate jobs and we’re so excited to have that economic development,” said Rebecca Imholz, the executive director at the Chamber of Commerce Mount Pleasant. “Having this development coming where people can live here, shop locally, keeps dollars in our community so we’re really excited to see this happen.”
Mount Pleasant Councilmember Mike Tinkey is supportive of the site but wants to see public access and green space when it comes to design plans. He encourages residents to come to the meeting Wednesday for public comment.
“What we see in the plans here are reduction in green space,” said Tinkey. “I’d like to see people come and talk about the importance of protecting the green space and enhancing it in a public realm. So, you feel comfortable being there and invited to be there you don’t feel like you have to spend some money just to come and be on the waterfront.”
Tinkey also noted he hopes green space will be a priority before construction begins.
“The green space we have there and make sure that goes first before the development of the buildings themselves.” said Tinkey “We preserve that and that becomes the frame within which everything is developed. Taking in mind this is a public space for families and generations to come.”
Bennet Hospitality, the project developer, said public access is important to the project. In a statement to News 2, Development Director Ian Duncan said the goal is to create “a high-quality public realm, in which people want to work, live and play. As a Mount Pleasant resident, I personally look forward to enjoying the waterfront multiuse path, public fountains and green spaces that surround a vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, offices, and hotels”
The project has been in the works for years. If the Design Review Board recommend final approval Wednesday, developers can begin plans for construction.
The Design Review Board meeting is open to the public and begins at 5 p.m. Wednesday at Mount Pleasant Town Hall.
Throughout her new EP, released on Nov. 14, Ballerini grows out of old patterns and returns anew.Only a few months after the release of the deluxe edition of her 2024 album “PATTERNS,” Kelsea Ballerini has returned. Her new body of work, “Mount Pleasant,” was released on Nov. 14, an extended play consisting of six new tracks. As her stardom rose significantly after her 2023 EP “Rolling Up the Welcome Mat,” Ballerini began writing about her life in a way only comparable to a personal letter to...
Throughout her new EP, released on Nov. 14, Ballerini grows out of old patterns and returns anew.
Only a few months after the release of the deluxe edition of her 2024 album “PATTERNS,” Kelsea Ballerini has returned. Her new body of work, “Mount Pleasant,” was released on Nov. 14, an extended play consisting of six new tracks. As her stardom rose significantly after her 2023 EP “Rolling Up the Welcome Mat,” Ballerini began writing about her life in a way only comparable to a personal letter to a friend or family member, especially in the wake of her recent breakup and reunion with “Outer Banks” actor Chase Stokes.
Ballerini’s new EP tackles everything from romantic insecurity to the mental health of those around us. Similar to the themes of unpacking baggage and personal vulnerability heard throughout “PATTERNS,” Ballerini brings casual listeners and fans alike into the world she now lives in, following her last year of selling out arenas across the country and experiencing life on her own once again.
Ballerini opens “Mount Pleasant” on a fairly somber note, as she describes her trips to parks to see her lifelong dreams unfold in front of her, but not in the way she had hoped they would: “I sit in parks, it breaks my heart / ‘Cause I see just how far I am from the things that I want.” Even though she got some things that she wanted, such as an arena tour and critical success, she wonders if it is too late for her to become a mother and start a family, something she ponders while a happy couple has a picnic and their kids spend time on a playground.
This song is fairly self-explanatory solely based on its title: Ballerini labels herself as a “people pleaser,” something she has described herself as many times in the past, and goes through the meaning of that self-description. Ballerini describes some of her actions of people pleasing, such as jumping into water despite fearing what is in the ocean and buying art even though she hates it, while simultaneously unpacking why she acts in such a way.
Jealousy and insecurity play the main role here, as Ballerini compares herself to another woman, who is presumably her partner’s former love. With musical elements most reminiscent of her country roots, Ballerini introduces the important role of colors, particularly the color green, in this song. She compares her eye color, her lip color and even being her partner’s “emerald city” to this past partner, hoping she is still not in the picture.
Between Nashville, Tennessee, where Ballerini lives, and Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, the presumed inspiration for the title of the EP, 587 miles separate them. This physical distance between Ballerini and her partner is reflected in the lyrics, which detail a break in their relationship. Ballerini asks about her presence in her partner’s life following their time apart, before describing the impact of their distance within her own life.
Based around a simple piano track, Ballerini explores the concept of wanting to “erase a bad decision,” implying that her mistakes, no matter how recent, sit with her forever. She explains her desire to erase them from her memory or possibly “outwrite it,” but then she begins to understand that nothing can be changed. However, she calls “the revisionist” to hopefully change these actions as a last resort.
As Ballerini wraps up the EP, she decides to remind listeners to check up on the people around us to make sure everyone, not just your friends, is doing their best. She describes someone acting as if they are doing well with their life but privately struggles behind closed doors. The song and EP close with an almost minute-long instrumental bridge section, followed by Ballerini reciting lyrics from “I Sit In Parks,” seemingly bringing the EP’s storyline together at its close.
As someone who has experienced a significant amount of growth, both personally and in my musical interests, during my time at Vanderbilt, I have been grateful for my connection to Ballerini’s music throughout the years, especially the growth she has showcased on “Mount Pleasant.” Solely because of that, I wonder what is next for Ballerini: Will she continue down this path of growing through her experiences, or has it come to a close? I look forward to discovering in the years to come.
MOUNT PLEASANT — A century-old tree is set to place new roots as crews prep the oak for relocation next week.The tree will be the focal point of Gather MTP, a planned entertainment and restaurant hub located on Midtown Avenue in Mount Pleasant, just off of Hungry Neck Boulevard.The 5.5-acre site is mostly cleared as the development nears a Dec. 3 groundbreaking. Many of the trees that populated the property next door, which is slated for a brewery, have already been removed — save for the 40-foot, 500,000-pound oak....
MOUNT PLEASANT — A century-old tree is set to place new roots as crews prep the oak for relocation next week.
The tree will be the focal point of Gather MTP, a planned entertainment and restaurant hub located on Midtown Avenue in Mount Pleasant, just off of Hungry Neck Boulevard.
The 5.5-acre site is mostly cleared as the development nears a Dec. 3 groundbreaking. Many of the trees that populated the property next door, which is slated for a brewery, have already been removed — save for the 40-foot, 500,000-pound oak.
Gather MTP Developers Mack Cross, a managing principal for Four Oaks Property Group, and Preston Wendell, a manager for Whitewater Property Ventures, said it was important for the gathering space to be anchored with the mature, lush oak.
“We chose not to look at it as an inconvenience, but really find the opportunity with that tree,” Cross said. “It's an investment in the tree, and in something that has been here long before us and will be here probably long after us.”
This tree will soon be relocated to the corner of the Gather MTP site, roughly 700 feet away. The move is being handled by Environmental Design, a Texas-based company that routinely transplants mature trees.
The move has been over a year in the making said Phillip Zellner, an arborist with Environmental Design. The tree’s roots were pruned to encourage new growth. Zellner said crews have kept it watered and monitored it closely since October 2024 to ensure it’s ready for the big move.
The earth around the 100-year-old tree, moss hanging from its branches and leaves crinkling in the wind, had already been cleared on Nov. 26. The tree’s root ball was shielded with a wooden barrier.
Though the tree predates much of the buildings and developments surrounding it, the oak is strong enough to withstand relocation, Zellner said. Environmental Design claims its success rate for transplanted trees is nearly 100 percent. Zellner said he’s only ever lost two trees he’s relocated, both to lightning strikes.
“Trees are not like people. It's not like operating on a 99-year-old man,” Zellner said. “If the tree's healthy, it's actually got a lot better chance for transplant success than a small tree does.”
The process doesn’t involve picking the tree up with cranes or heavy machinery, which could do more harm to a mature tree than good, Zellner said.
“When we move the tree, we're not pulling at all on the canopy. We're not pulling on the root ball.” he said.
The tree will be loaded onto a platform and then rolled along a series of inflated air bags, lining the several hundred feet between its current spot and future placement site. Crews will load the tree onto the bags with a ramp and slowly roll it to its new home on the corner of the development, where Midtown Avenue and Hancock Street meet.
The relocation will take place on Dec. 3 at 4 p.m. and will coincide with a groundbreaking for Gather MTP. Once completed, Gather MTP will contain a mix of office space, restaurants, and small businesses.