Yellowknife (May 19/04) - After 18 years in business, Sasha's Jewellery and Giftware is closing. The final date for operations is expected some time in the third week of June, said Sasha's owner Eileen Dent.

Eileen Dent, owner of Sasha's Jewellery and Giftware, holds up a Canadian diamond. Sasha's is going through a closing out sale. While a final date for closing has not yet been set, Dent expects the final day to be sometime during the third week of June. - Stephan Burnett/NNSL photo

Dent says she has been spread too thin for too long between her jewelry business and her other business, CJCD.

"Of the two, this is the one we decided to close," said Dent.

The response from her customers has been overwhelming, said Dent.

"We have a very loyal and large clientele. It's been overwhelming. For our closing out sale, 1,000 people came through," she said.

Dent would not comment when asked whether there is a potential buyer for the business.

She did say it wasn't a quick decision.

"I've been thinking about doing it for a year and I wasn't able to let go. I reached a point where I decided I had to do it," said Dent.

Dent's husband, territorial cabinet minister and Frame Lake MLA Charles Dent, has not been involved in the operation of CJCD for 10 years and has never been involved in the operation of the jewelry business.

Store manager Evelyn Murphy has been with Sasha's for 10 years.

"She's been an absolutely incredible co-worker and kept the store together for me when I haven't been able to be here," said Dent.

"I'd just like to say thank you. It's been a privilege and an honour to serve our patrons, and I'd also like to thank my other staff, Avis, Janet and Karen."