Scottsdale History: Fashion Square Once Considered a Risky Addition

While some longstanding residents may remember a time before Scottsdale Fashion Square opened its doors, many of us have grown up going to the iconic shopping center.

But here’s something you might not know: “the mall” was once considered a risky business venture.

See, back in the 1940s, would-be developers said the location was too far from Phoenix and Scottsdale and worried shoppers wouldn’t make the trip.

If not for the vision of a man named Harry Lenart, who eventually purchased the site, Scottsdale Fashion Square may not have become one of the premier shopping destinations in the state.

A Shopper’s Paradise

Now the largest mall in Arizona and among the biggest in the country, Scottsdale Fashion Square is just one of many reasons why Scottsdale is considered a shopper’s paradise. What started out as just a few stores in 1961 is now a booming retail venue that attracts 11 million visitors annually.

With more than 200 unique stores, visitors have no trouble finding the latest fashion trends—from clothing and accessories to our personal favorite: jewelry.

SWJB is Proud to Serve Our Local Community

Like Scottsdale Fashion Square, Southwest Jewelry Buyers is proud to be one of the many businesses that keep our local economy thriving. For nearly two decades we have been providing our community with an honest and ethical choice for selling their unwanted jewelry—and we hope to do so for another two decades!

As jewelry trends come and go and you head to the mall to update your collection with newer pieces, Southwest Jewelry Buyers looks forward to being your first choice for selling your gold, diamond, silver, and platinum adornments.

Our GIA-graduate diamond and jewelry buyers will evaluate each piece with care and offer the highest level of professional, friendly, and courteous service. Call 480-773-8004 or make an appointment today to visit us in the Scottsdale Airpark. We are open 6 days a week for your convenience.