New San Diego Boutique Showcases Native American Culture And Craftsmanship

SAN DIEGO, CA — A new store in downtown San Diego is showcasing Native American culture and craftsmanship.

Native Star features clothing, accessories, beauty products, gourmet food and other items from Native American tribes across the country. The boutique on Fifth Avenue is the first Native American store in the city's Gaslamp Quarter, according to the store's owner.

Native Star is owned by Ruth-Ann Thorn, a member of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians and operates out of the historic Yuma Building. The building, which is also owned by Thorn, was built in 1882, and has become a landmark location for Native culture.

"I am grateful to open Native Star, the first platform dedicated to Native American creators," Thorn told Patch. "It's time for the world to see that we are still here, thriving and creating beauty as we always have."

The store opening marks a milestone for the San Diego region, as the county is home to 18 federally recognized tribes, the most of any county in the country.

The boutique's grand opening celebration is scheduled Friday and will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 6 p.m., along with a city proclamation, remarks from tribal leaders, and cultural Native American performances. The celebration is set to continue at 6 p.m. Saturday with a drum circle and live entertainment.

Native Star is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily at 631 Fifth Ave. in San Diego.