Scottsdale-based high-end jeweler Scott Gauthier has selected State Street as the site for his third bricks-and-mortar store, according to the Santa Barbara-based real estate commercial broker who arranged the deal. The Arizona retailer has leased the 1,560-square-foot space at 921 State St., formerly occupied by Paper Star.
“The Santa Barbara area has definitely been on his radar,” said Michael Martz of Hayes Commercial Group who, along with Kristopher Roth, represented Mr. Gauthier in the lease. “This is a good market for him in terms of business expansion.”

“Purveying one-of-a-kind, handcrafted creations, it’s the sort of store that helps preserve the unique character of downtown Santa Barbara,” added Mr. Martz. In terms of the consumer demographic, “The market has good, solid retail concepts like Bryant and Sons and Silverhorn Jewelers,” which makes it good sense for a high-end jewelry business to put out a shingle, said Mr. Martz. He expects the new store to do well with locals and tourists.

Mr. Martz said the retailer is shooting for a summertime opening and will hire local sales staff.

Mr. Gauthier also intends to put down roots on the South Coast.

“Over the years, my family and I have had the opportunity to make Santa Barbara our primary vacation location, “ said Mr. Gauthier in a prepared statement. “I’ve decided not only to expand our business there, but also to buy a home and enjoy this wonderful gem of a city on a full-time basis. We are excited to be part of such a special community.”

According to a news release, Mr. Gauthier designs and molds each piece himself, accented with some of the world’s most precious and rare gemstones.

The jeweler is a four-time winner of the Spectrum Award, an international competition sponsored by the American Gem Trade Association, and is one of the youngest designers to ever receive the honor.

Mr. Gauthier has a 10,000-square-foot flagship store in the center of downtown Scottsdale and his studio/shop there is also open to the public.