High End Jewelry – Making a Statement Without Saying a Word

When it comes to jewelry, there’s a place for baubles and then there’s a time for bling. And by sparkles, I don’t mean rhinestones. I’m talking about diamonds, precious stones, pearls, 24k gold, etc. The list goes on, so pardon me as I swoon at the fashionable possibilities.

Whether you’re looking for that special ring (the kind that comes along with a question) or just something jaw-dropping to don during an event, here are a few high end jewelry stores in downtown Boston that truly shine.

Skylight Jewelers (44 School Street, ): This is where I use the pun “the sky’s the limit.” Inspired by the natural light shining through their original 1974 location’s skylight in the famous Jewelers Building, Skylight Jewelers is the place for fine, hand-made, unique, one-of-a-kind designs. Beyond the basic 14K, platinum and sterling, owner Edward Spencer creates alternative metal pieces in 24k gold, rose gold, blackened steel and palladium. Think ancient coin rings, small steel figures swinging from earring posts and bracelets with carved Ceylon moonstone from Sri Lanka. The inspiration can come from anywhere. Go with one of their creative ideas or bring in a drawing of your own. Armed with his background as a gem cutter, Spencer approaches each new jewelry piece’s design from a 3D mindset. Consider his work mini sculptures, seen artistically from top, bottom and sides. After all, you never know what angle that admiring eye will come from.

E.B Horn (429 Washington Street, ): You’ve seen the blue and white awning. The storefront is a landmark in Downtown Crossing. Next time, stop in and check out this famous local jeweler. Their experts have the art of fine jewelry set it in stone, so to speak. Established in 1839, the store is full of glittering gems and gold, as well as a brilliant chandelier that has hung in place since the store opened 175 years ago. Yes, it’s been almost two centuries of draping Bostonians in luxurious glamour with diamonds, jewelry and watches. You can make a statement without saying a word when you wear pieces from such notables as Armenti, Sethi Couture, Martin Flyer and more. Indulge your fancy – fleur de lis earrings set with amethyst, a pink sapphire eternity band or perhaps a South Sea pearl necklace.

Long’s Jeweler (100 Summer Street, ) Carrying a who’s who in jewelry design, a visit to this Financial District shop shows you cases full of the top players in jewelry and watches – Rolex, David Yurman, Mikimoto, John Hardy and TAG Heuer. As a family-owned and operated jeweler founded by Massachusetts native Thomas Long in 1878, this store (and its four other locations) has long since been synonymous with luxury. They have a wide variety of diamond, gold, sterling silver and pearl jewelry including tennis bracelets, necklaces, pendants, rings and earrings, as well as bridal sets. Get in on the hot new trends with yellow gold pieces from Italian designers like Roberto Coin and Marco Bicego, super long funky pearl strands from Mikimoto, or rare colored gemstones like Kashmir Sapphires set in classic styles.

It doesn’t matter what it is or who it’s for – a watch for your man, a brooch for your mom or a sinfully glorious ring just for you – there’s style and substance to wearing a luxury item of jewelry. The only question is – can you stop at just one?