Mayors Jewelers, the U.S. subsidiary of Canada’s Henry Birks & Sons jewelers, plans to open a jewelry manufacturing and product development center in Woonsocket, R.I.

The new facility, whose date of operation has yet to be announced, will “draw from the state’s rich pool of jewelry designers, silversmiths, and craftsmen,” said Tom Andruskevich, president and chief executive officer of Birks and Mayors, in making the announcement July 30.

The facility will occupy a renovated and retooled building in Woonsocket Highland Corporate Park, where luxury jeweler Tiffany & Co. also has a manufacturing plant.

The 20,000-sq.-ft. operation will consolidate manufacturing and handle most product development for Birks’ and Mayors’ exclusive silver, gold, and gem accent pieces.

“This initiative supports our group strategy to internally develop, manufacture, and distribute product to both Birks and Mayors,” said John Orrico, group vice president of supply chain operations for both companies. “In addition, with greater control of our supply chain, we’ll enhance product quality and consistency, while expanding retail margins.”

The company declined to provide further details or comment on the project.

Birks in headquartered in Montreal and operates 38 stores in Canada. It’s celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. Mayors, founded in 1910 and headquartered in Sunrise, Fla., operates 28 total stores in Florida and Georgia. Birks acquired majority control of Mayors in 2002.

JCK