Saturday, December 24, 2011

Linhardt Jewelry Atelier Review

I looked around quite a bit for ethical engagement ring options, both online and in NYC, before I was lucky enough to stumble past a sign on the sidewalk of 1st Ave for Lisa Linhardt's sustainable rings. Lisa was able to cobble together all my disparate ideas and come up with a design that was amazing and unique. She also won me over when she was up front about which stone she thought was the best value, despite having many other options on hand which were more expensive. My fiancee and I were both happy to go back to have her design our wedding bands, which again exceeded our expections.

156 1st Ave
(between 9th St & 10th St)
New York, NY 10009
Neighborhood: East Village
(917) 338-7822

Versani Review

I have been shopping at Versani for all of my mens jewelry for years and they are truly unmatched in style and service. Now, before I even ventured into this store, I would rarely wear jewelry. My dog literaly dragged me in one day as I was walking by. The Jewelery in here for men is masculine and unique. Versanis combination of metal and wood really stand out. There is not a day that goes by where I dont' get a compliment on my watch or bracelet. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary , this is the place to check out.  Prices range from a bargain to "I cant believe you charge that much for this" Love this place

152 Mercer St
(between Prince St & Houston St)
New York, NY 10012
Neighborhood: SoHo
(212) 941-9919

Helen Ficalora Review

Last week, my much-beloved kitty passed away. My husband and I were on the hunt for a piece of jewelry that I could wear to remember her, and had a lot of trouble finding something that "felt right". I don't wear a lot of jewelry, and the pieces I do wear are usually simple and unique. It come up at my office and my fashion-savvy boss immediately suggested I check out Helen Ficalora.

I loved what I saw on the website, and knew within a few minutes of browsing what I wanted. My husband and I went to the store the next day, and I now have a beautiful necklace to commemorate my Bear. We went with the letter "B" in white gold and the paw charm in pink gold with a small diamond (see photo). It's exactly my style -- the handmade charms are lovely, and being able to customize the colors and charm combinations allowed me to feel like I could tailor it to "feel right" for this very important and somber occasion.


21 Cleveland Pl
(between Kenmare St & Lafayette St)
New York, NY 10012
Neighborhoods: Little Italy, Nolita
(212) 219-3700

Pieces Of Jewelry Review

This is my favorite jewelry designer! Guenevere Rodriguez makes beautiful delicate pieces of jewelry, from long dangling earrings to barely there rings, you can't help but want to buy everything in here! Guenevere can also custom make pieces for you. My friend had a beautiful locket from her Grandmother and she needed a chain, Guenevere took the time to really ask her about the piece and make sure my friend was happy with the measurements. My favorite pieces I wear from here are the large thin gold hoops and the layered barely there ring. This is a really special place you can't miss! Oh yes, they have special events all the time, try to get on their mailing list!

309 Bedford Ave
(between 1st St & 2nd St)
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Neighborhood: Williamsburg - South Side
(718) 387-4878

Golden Door Review

This is one of the best jewelry stores on Brighton Beach - which easily means it's one of the best jewelry stores in town. Park Avenue fine jewelry stores have nothing on this place. The owners obviously know that they're competing with Park Avenue, because everything from the store's grand entrance to its Macy's-like window displays to the (gasp!) courteous staff speaks of an expensive Manhattan shopping experience. Everything, that is, except for the price. Not only are the prices here cheaper than the prices in Manhattan (though the selection is just as dazzling, with a few Russian items that you won't find on Park Avenue), you can bargain as well. My mother was recently able to bring the price down a cool $100 on a set for her friend's wedding.

1726 Sheepshead Bay Rd
(between Emmons Ave & S Shore Pky)
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Neighborhood: Sheepshead Bay
(718) 615-4050