The middle class is changing its approach to buying jewelry and affordable luxury goods, the NRF said.
‘America’s first jeweler’ opening second store
Black, Starr & Frost is expanding, with a new location in Phoenix slated to open later this year.

Newport Beach, Calif.--Jeweler Black, Starr & Frost is expanding, with a new location in Phoenix slated to open later this year.
Gemologist and jeweler Alfredo Molina acquired the Black, Starr & Frost brand in 2006 and opened a showroom in Newport Beach, Calif. in 2011.
He said he’s now focused on expanding the historic brand, which at one point had more than 30 locations.
The new store will be located in Phoenix’s Biltmore area within the existing Molina Fine Jewelers building, occupying about 2,000 square feet. It’s expected to open in the fall.
An in-store display in the salon will showcase early photos, antiques and original pieces from the store, which first opened in 1810, hence the company’s tagline, “America’s first jeweler.”
An upstairs area will accommodate VIPs and allow private viewings of rare pieces, while an enclosed outdoor front patio will be used for special events and parties.
In addition to one-of-a-kind pieces, the new store will offer custom jewelry design and manufacturing, cleaning and inspection, fine jewelry repair, jewelry appraisals, private appointments and estate jewelry.
“We are thrilled to expand our footprint into Arizona and see the Phoenix and Scottsdale area as a perfect market for our rare jewels … timepieces and finely crafted jewelry,” Molina said. “This is an important step as we continue to focus on revitalizing the Black, Starr & Frost brand with new collections, signature pieces and new locations worldwide.”
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