Billy Stagner, Founder, has always had a gift for working with his hands. From his earliest days manicuring lawns to apprenticing in carpentry, his natural talent was evident from a young age. That talent soon found its true calling when Billy began working alongside a close friend who was a jeweler. He quickly developed a passion for jewelry repair and design—a path that led him to become a Master Jeweler.
Eager to refine his craft, Billy pursued advanced education through the Gemological Institute of America. He earned his Certificate in Diamonds in 1991, followed by a Certificate in Colored Gems in 1992. Ever the dedicated craftsman, Billy continues to stay at the forefront of jewelry trends and techniques, always striving to perfect his art.
Billy opened his jewelry store in 1975 at just seventeen years old, located near the Wedgewood subdivision at the corner of FM 2351 and Blackhawk. As his reputation grew, he expanded in 1979 by relocating the business to the Stonesthrow Shopping Center in the heart of Friendswood—where the store became a staple of the community.
Billy’s journey took an even more meaningful turn when he met Connie in 1983. She joined the business in 1984, and it quickly became clear that they were meant to build both a life and a legacy together. They married in March of 1985, and together have shaped ACORI Diamonds & Design into a beloved and enduring presence in Friendswood.
In addition to his career in jewelry, Billy served as a professional firefighter with the City of Houston for 23 years, retiring in 2001. Throughout those years, Billy would work his shifts at the fire station and then return home to continue creating and repairing jewelry—a testament to his relentless dedication.
Both Billy and Connie are native Houstonians and proud third-generation Texans. Remarkably, they were both born at St. Joseph’s Hospital—the same hospital as legendary singer Kenny Rogers. Their deep Texas roots and shared passion for helping others celebrate life’s most treasured moments have made them cherished figures in the Friendswood and surrounding community.
ACORI Diamonds & Design are the official Jeweler of the Michael Berry Show and the personal jeweler to "The Czar."
ACORI also sponsors "The Road to Hope" radio show for the PTSD Foundation of America, Camp Hope.
Connie is currently serving as the Vice President of Texas Jewelers Association and Billy also serves on the Board of Directors for the TJA.
Today, as ACORI Diamonds & Design celebrates its 50th anniversary and Billy and Connie mark their 40th wedding anniversary, their legacy of craftsmanship, love, and community continues to shine brightly.
