Selecting a souvenir should not be a stressful feat but rather a fun and unique experience that matches the time you had during your travels. Souvenirs are crafted for the purpose of reminiscing on the time gone by. They ease the ache of leaving such beautiful places behind and bring back waves of memories rather than allowing time to wash them away.
What better way to have a constant reminder of the great adventures you had than a piece of artwork strung from your body. Jewels are an extension of yourself as your body becomes a display of your adventures–much like the life lessons and cultural experience you obtain from travel. No matter the type of jewelry you find, you can continuously accumulate these treasures with a common thread.
Below is a carefully crafted list of the what I think are the most unique jewelry boutiques that I have personally shopped at and purchased from.
Nestled within a quaint neighbor in the capital of Scotland lies the charming Aetla. This fine jewelry store in Stockbridge curates both modern and antique pieces from local and global artisans. Each piece is so incredibly unique, yet every single one radiates the same majestic feel alongside a natural beauty.
The ring on the top is a 1861 antique pink sapphire ring with pearls and engravings on the side.
The earrings on the bottom include vibrant blue opals holding on to asymmetrical fresh water pearls.
Perhaps the best stores are the ones you happen to stumble into by some sort of inexplicable pull. In the case of Les Delices de Candice, it was the charming sketch of twin umbrellas on the door (the boutique is the oldest in Nice that used to make and sell umbrellas). The historic quality of the home matches the antique nature of the residing jewelry as it is a mixture of vintage and modern pieces. These pieces are affordable and perfect for everyday wear yet still hold a certain sense of unique and sustainable quality.
The bracelet to the left is crafted out of raw brass and peach-colored enameled discs.
The Ponte Vecchio is no secret spot with its rich historic nature and status as one of the most famous bridges in the world. However, this place is a must if you are looking to make a purchase of a lifetime that you will make into a new family heirloom. The bridge holds true to its medieval lineage as every store is held within strong wood and topped with a rusted banner. There is an endless array of glittering jewels and shinning gold to choose from.
The necklace to the right is a gold chain stringing together flower shaped green stones.
