Shop Talk : Bling therapy
By Katryn Yerdon
Published: November 19, 2009
A dreary fall day, and I needed a pick-me-up - something that will sparkle even in cloudy dismal light. Hmmmm - jewelry always brings a smile. So I made my way along Main Street in Edgartown.
At Vintage Jewelry I was greeted with the wonderful fragrance from their new line of Madame Falgoux candles with Island-based scents ($25). While the store is known for its vintage jewelry selections - everything from decorative Victorian to groovy 1970s - it carries contemporary jewelry as well. Sales associate Cherish showed me her popular add-a-bead Trollbeads charm bracelet, exclusively at Vintage Jewelry. For $25 a bead, it is a great way to start an ongoing gift for someone special. Another popular choice is Avindy jewelry with its contemporary glass and stone vintage look.
Next is Claudia's Jewelry - glamour heaven with both sides of the store lined in sparkling cases - gold to silver, diamonds to emeralds, and everything in between. Little girls will love their first enameled animal bracelet. Claudia's carries the add-a-bead Pandora bracelets.
Their most popular holiday present is earrings, as they always fit, and suit at any age, sales associates Krista and Andrea agreed, with big crystal brass earrings leading the pack at $38-$90. A close runner-up is the large selection of hair ornaments, for the same reasons.
But if your taste turns to flashy and fun, Sheila Allen brings on the glitz. The entire store is arranged in bright color sections. Everything is $25 or less, and now there is a 50-percent off sale. Bring your gift list.
A need for something sparkling has to include Whatever Sterling Silver. My thoughts turned to finding holiday presents. The stylish handmade Nantucket basket necklaces with the traditional scrimshaw top ($38-$125) would be perfect for my sisters. There's a money clip topped with opal, and cufflinks that my brother-in-law would welcome. I might also drop a hint or two to my guy, Rob, about one of the beautiful pendants on a 20-inch sterling silver chain.
For my next gloomy-day bling therapy, I'll probably catch some rays in Vineyard Haven at CB Stark, Sioux Eagle Designs, Midnight Farm, and Moonstone Jewelers.
