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Liljenquist & Beckstead is approaching five decades in business, growing from a modest jewelry store opened by two college friends into a prominent luxury retailer at Fairfax Square in Tysons Corner.

Tom Liljenquist and Sidney “Sid” Beckstead founded the family-owned company in 1978. Their goal was to bring high-end jewelry and watches to the Washington region while building lasting relationships with customers.

The business later expanded across Northern Virginia and Maryland. Members of the Beckstead family remain involved in its operations, community outreach and growth.

The Tysons boutique features private consultation areas and dedicated spaces for luxury watch brands. Its selection includes Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Omega, Breitling, TAG Heuer, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Hublot and Breguet.

The store also carries jewelry from designers including David Yurman, Mikimoto, Roberto Coin, Marco Bicego, Messika, GUMUCHIAN and Henri Daussi. Customers shopping for engagement rings can choose from existing collections or work with in-house specialists on custom designs.

Additional services include watch and jewelry repairs, resizing, appraisals, corporate gifts, financing and custom jewelry creation. Staff members assist customers with subjects ranging from gemstone grading to mechanical watch complications.

Some heavily sought-after watches, particularly Rolex sport models, may require a wait because of demand.

Beyond retail, the company supports organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Wounded Warrior Project and local SPCA chapters, along with faith-based and cultural initiatives in the Washington area. Company leaders also participate in civic organizations and advisory boards.

Nearly 50 years after its founding, Liljenquist & Beckstead continues to operate its Tysons-area boutique at 8075 Leesburg Pike in Vienna.