A new jewelry store, St. Armands Jewelers, is set to open on St. Armands Circle in Sarasota, Florida, replacing the long-established Jewelry by Cole. The change in ownership signals a shift in the local retail landscape, offering overseas jewelry buyers a potential new sourcing or partnership opportunity in the U.S. market. The store will feature a mix of classic and contemporary styles, along with custom jewelry and repair services.
Ownership and transition
St. Armands Jewelers will take over the location at 7 N. Boulevard of the Presidents, previously occupied by Jewelry by Cole. The former shop was co-owned by master goldsmith Stephen Cole Powell, who began handcrafting fine jewelry in 1974, and Karyn Powell. New owner Mia Tohar Eylon announced a soft opening soon, with her family involved in the transition. Diane DelloRusso, a 36-year jewelry industry veteran and former manager at Jewelry by Cole, came out of retirement to assist with the change.
Product and service offerings
The new store plans to offer a blend of classic and contemporary jewelry styles, along with custom jewelry design and repair services. DelloRusso expressed confidence that both longtime and new customers will enjoy exploring the updated inventory. This focus on customization and repair services may appeal to overseas buyers looking for partners with flexible manufacturing or after-sales support capabilities.
Local retail context
St. Armands Circle is a prominent shopping destination in Sarasota, attracting both residents and tourists. The opening of St. Armands Jewelers coincides with the arrival of other new businesses, such as Chocolate Emporium, which is opening a second location nearby. For international jewelry buyers, this indicates a vibrant retail environment that could support new brand partnerships or distribution opportunities in the U.S. market.
What buyers should watch
Overseas jewelry importers and distributors should monitor the new store's product mix and pricing strategy, as it may signal consumer trends in the Florida market. The emphasis on custom services suggests a growing demand for personalized jewelry, which could influence sourcing decisions for OEM/ODM partners. Additionally, the store's location in a high-traffic tourist area may provide insights into retail performance and consumer preferences in the U.S. jewelry sector.
Source: Read the original report | Published: June 16, 2026