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NEW YORK
Calling Exhibitionist Enthusiasts
If you’re in New York City looking for attention-nabbing jewels with royal, Goth edge check out Exhibitionist. Unassumingly tucked away on Orchard Street in NoLita, the space at 177 opens back into an arresting gallery showcasing the compelling one-of-kind creations of designer Michael Spirito. All of his unique unisex designs— which feature bold sterling silver and rich gold with unusual gemstones and exceptionally cut crystals—are handmade in his backroom studio. While there, don’t forget to check out his exotic creature collection and meet his stylin’ business partner Sloan Mandell. A testament to Michael’s creativity and talent (and Sloan’s brain for biz, no doubt), he was selected in 2007 to be among America's foremost fashion and accessory designers in the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). Among his star groupies are Gwen Stefani, Beyonce and Jennifer Hudson. Exhibitionist enthusiasts can also find his jewelry in exclusive boutiques around the planet and online at exhibitionistnyc.com.
HARRISBURG
A Jewel in a Haystack
Looking for the female version of a sports bar? Higashi Pearls & Fine Jewelry in Lemoyne, Pennsylvania, just outside the state capital of Harrisburg, has been called that. A compliment, really, to jeweler Susan Fotos, who created this oasis for fashionable women among the poultry, produce, baked goods, and cheeses that surround her at the West Shore Farmers Market & Shoppes. Susan describes this Harrisburg landmark, located at 900 Market St., as “the place everyone knows.” Higashi’s boutique-like atmosphere, which is friendly and casual in earth tone colors with smooth jazz playing, is a jewelry groupie’s favorite hangout to pop in weekly for a coffee and to play with jewelry. Susan always has whatever a girl needs from exotic pearls, top designer brands and distinctive custom designs by Kristin Novinger to Slim Fast bars, moisturizer and Tylenol. Although it’s not quite the same as hangin’ at the market with your buds over java and jewels, you can also check out Higashi online at higashipearls.com.
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CHICAGO
Like Alice in Wonderland
Browsing around the windy city for a distinctive jewelry shopping experience? Venture just north of the metropolis to downtown Evanston. On the quiet block of Grove Street at No. 623, you’ll feel as if you’ve fallen through the looking glass into a wonderland of treasures. The provocative gallery of jewelry designer Eve Alfillé take you on a journey through awe-inspiring rooms with draping canopies, cozy alcoves, and curious libraries dazzling in pearls, gemstones and diamonds. Past guarding sea horse deities, you enter an imposing portal strewn with exotic pearls. Then you pass through a room to the top with sparking gems and minerals: Think crystal-filled underground cave. And, you end up in a dark, intimate recess glinting in diamonds. Both the space and the jewelry in it evoke a feeling of past civilizations and the natural origins of gems and minerals. Handcrafted in her studio, Eve fuses her experience as a field archeologist and gem expert with her passion for linguistics and medieval poetry into modern antiquities. Her gallery is a must see, and her jewelry is a must-have ( evejewelry.com).
KANSAS CITY
A Liberating Jewelry Experience
If you find yourself on East Franklin Street near #14 in historic Liberty, Missouri, outside of Kansas City, make sure to stop in The Polished Edge for an experience jewelry fans agree is second to none. Located in a beautifully restored building on historic Liberty Square, visitors step into a unique jewelry boutique featuring hardwood floors, the original brick walls, and a gorgeous renovated tin ceiling typical of the 1800’s architecture in the area. Christi and Kevin Weaver have created a comfortable, modern environment that complements their outstanding selection of jewelry, from sought after bridal to on trend fashion. The Polished Edge is a unique jewel in a welcoming hometown environment. Kevin has 36+ years of experience with a lifelong passion for fine gems and jewelry, and Christi excels in marketing and communications, allowing her to develop a calendar full of engaging and provocative in-store events. The Polished Edge is also sought after for its original designs and quality craftsmanship, excelling in custom one-of-a-kind pieces, as well as distinctive designs that are affordable in pricing and timeless in style. An authorized jeweler for such designer brands as Jane Wullbrandt, Cheri Dori and Fana of New York, The Polished Edge also carries Square Studio and Pandora. , as well as provides custom design and repair services. For more information, check out the website at thepolishededge.com.
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