Jeweler Ash Matta offers an array of hard–to–find pieces at his newly opened boutique in the Plaza, OC Estate and Jewelry Company.
A third–generation jeweler, Ash Matta has taken his legacy to new heights with the opening of OC Estate and Jewelry Company at the old Bledsoe Antiques space in the Plaza.
An Egyptian–born retailer who has previously owned shops in Costa Mesa, Irvine and Lake Forest, Ash came to Orange in December to open a shop on East Chapman. A few months later, the Plaza location became available and he relocated.
“I went to Starbucks one day and happened to notice that Bledsoe Antiques was moving,” Ash said. “It’s not every day you see a place available inside the Circle. I’m thrilled to be at this location.”
Specializing in one–of–a–kind pieces, Ash’s boutique offers estate jewelry including gold, diamonds and watches, plus handmade furnishings. Among the more unusual items includes a replica of King Tut’s chair in gold leaf, as well as wooden side tables with Mother–of–Pearl inlay.
In renovating the space, Ash removed an existing counter and brought in brand new showcases. He even had the store blessed by a Catholic priest.
“I saw a priest from my church walking by and I asked him to come in and bless my store,” Ash said. “He sprinkled it with Holy Water.”
The jewelry business runs in Ash’s family. He has been in the industry for 30 years. His father was a successful businessman in Egypt, and both his grandfather and great–grandfather were involved in the jewelry trade.
For a time Ash had a retail store in Lake Forest, but decided to sell it and deal only with private clients. Then an opportunity presented itself in Orange, where he was inspired by the sense of community and the character of the area.
“I have been getting a lot of good compliments since I opened. Many of the locals have come in to welcome me. Some have even brought coffee. I am blessed to have such a good reception from everybody around me.” ●
Published in the Sep/Oct 2011 edition of the Old Towne Orange Plaza Review
Written by Karen Anderson, Photograph by Jeanine Hill
To view other Sep/Oct 2011 “New to the Neighborhood” articles:
Orange Circle Tattoo / Spotted Moth
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