Local Business Spotlight: Niwot Jewelry and Gifts

Whether you need a necklace clasp replaced, the pendulum on your great-great-grandfather's grandfather clock rehung, or are thinking of popping the question, Niwot's one-of-a-kind, full-service jewelry shop will save you a trip into the city. Family owned and operated since 1996, Niwot Jewelry & Gifts at 300 2nd Avenue offers a wide selection of fine jewelry, with prices to fit any budget, plus a range of expert, on-site repair services that are increasingly hard to come by. For owner and former Niwot resident Jan Kahl, the secret to the store's longevity has been a supportive community that appreciates the personal touch.

"We just have such a special niche that people aren't doing anymore," Kahl said. "Who goes out and repairs grandfather clocks on site? If we had just been standing here waiting to sell a diamond, or a gold chain, or sterling silver necklace, then we couldn't have made it through the hard times. But the fact that Jason does all the repairs and designs here, nothing goes anywhere, you don't see that much these days. "

Kahl is certainly in a position to know. Before opening the Niwot store, she grew up trailing her father Owen Irby as he operated his Boulder jewelry store in the 1960s and 1970s. After graduating from Niwot High as a member of its first ever senior class, she took a more formal role in the business, and eventually was responsible for seven different locations. Then her father retired, and she decided to go out on her own in Niwot, and 26 years later, it's a decision she doesn't regret.

"It seemed perfect to be here," she said of the decision. "I had no idea what I was doing, but it seemed easy enough, and I can't believe I've been standing behind the showcase for 26 years. But it's an easy business. People are happy when they come in here. They're either getting something fixed that they've been trying to get fixed, or buying something new for themselves, or celebrating an anniversary or wedding or something."

The aforementioned Jason is Kahl's son, Jason Scarbrough, who co-manages the store and serves as its chief jeweler, designer, and repair technician. Like his mother, he grew up "bumping my head on showcases," and learned his craft at the knee of his grandfather and the jewelers that worked for him. But that doesn't mean that Jason's skills are old-fashioned. These days, his tools also include state-of-the-art lasers and welders that have expanded the store's capabilities.

"We have a CAD program that pairs with 3D printing, so we can 3D print out a custom ring," he said. "A lot more of the jewelry business is technology centered. I do training and take classes to keep my skills up to date."

That said, the business sometimes comes with a history lesson, too. Jasonl once repaired an antique grandfather clock that he dated to the 16th or 17th century based on its inner works and the markings.

"We had an old wooden clock that was brought back from out east that when we pulled it apart, all the gears and everything were made out of wood," he recalled. "That it survived is amazing. And to be in Colorado and be made of wood and not dried out and split apart is also amazing."

As for the next quarter-century, Jan and Jason have no plans to leave Niwot, and, in fact, are hard at work training the fourth generation of family jewelers, Jason's sons Owen and Dylan. Both Jan and Jason are grateful for the longtime support of the Niwot community and their very loyal customer base, which also spans generations.

"People make a point of coming here to keep us here, and we appreciate that," Jason said. "Without the support of the community, it would be a lot tougher."

Jan added, "It's been a fun place to be, and an easy place. This has made a pretty good living for us."