Jewellery

Canada > Archive by tag 'Jewellery'

Hot Dates: Valentine’s Day

February 14

OMEGA's Seamaster Planet Ocean Chrono watch for men

Cupid takes flight—heart-shaped bow and arrow in tow—to celebrate all things lovey-dovey this February. Woo your sweetie with chocolate treats and fragrant blooms, or head to the newly renovated OMEGA boutique and give the gift of time. For her: the Planet Ocean steel watch encrusted with diamonds; for him: the Planet Ocean Chrono (pictured) with a clear sapphire back case. Both of these timepieces are water-resistant to 600 m (2,000 ft) and come from the new Seamaster range, a classic line dedicated to producing watches for divers.—Jennifer Patterson

OMEGA Boutique, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, 900 W. Georgia St. 604-681-8266. www.omegawatches.com

Staff Picks: 10 Classy Custom Jewellers

Two examples of Toronto jewellers' fine work—in tourmaline by Anne Sportun, and onyx by Mark Lash

Whether for yourself or that special someone, the best jewellery is unique in both design and sentiment. Our January/February issue showed off some of the city’s most desirable baubles; the bespoke jewellers listed below are glad to apply their skills to help achieve your own vision of the perfect, sparkling piece. (more…)

Hot Shopping: Glamorous (and Affordable!) Jewellery from True Bijoux

This pretty piece embodies two current trends: rock and roll chic and vintage-inspired.

You can’t go wrong with jewellery at the holidays, whether it’s for your mom, your sister, or your lady friend. And if it’s eye-catching bling you’re after, then True Bijoux is the way to go. This boutique offers affordable, unique, and glamorous pieces that will fit the bill, no matter who you’re shopping for (especially if you’re treating yourself!). And the store offers all the must-haves for this season: rock and roll chic, bold statement jewellery that’s meant to be remembered, heirloom and vintage-inspired pieces, plus handmade items from the shop’s own studio. (We’re loving this ebony and crystal bracelet, $125.) 206 Sparks St., 613-232-2229.

Hot Dates: Eastside Culture Crawl

"River" by artist Afuwa

November 18 to 20

If your boots are made for walking, step out for this weekend festival as it kicks off its 15th year. Download a map from the Crawl’s website and get set to visit over 300 artists in their studios on this free, self-guided tour. You’ll see tons of local talent, including printmaker and painter Afuwa, whose work explores myth and identity (“River,” pictured). Better yet, you’ll have the chance to talk to these sculptors, jewellers, photographers and other visual artists to see what makes them tick.—Kristina Urquhart

More information:

EASTSIDE CULTURE CRAWL (Nov 18-20). F 5 pm-10 pm, Sa-Su 11 am-6 pm. Printable map online. Free. 604-817-9130. www.eastsideculturecrawl.com

Hot Shopping: Crafty Creations

Glass jellyfish by Wayne Harjula, at Circle Craft Christmas Market

The always-popular Circle Craft Christmas Market returns for its 38th annual show from Nov. 9 to 13. You’ll find everything from eco-friendly clothing to handmade leather bags to gold and silver jewellery, thanks to the 280 vendors coming from across Canada. A conversation piece worth snatching up: the striking glass jellyfish (pictured) by Wayne Harjula of Mellon Glass Studios. After shopping, catch a glass-blowing demonstration then participate in a Ballz of Fire Workshop where you can design and create your own glass holiday ornament.—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

CIRCLE CRAFT CHRISTMAS MARKET W-F 10 am-9 pm, Sa 10 am-7 pm, Su 10 am-5 pm. $12, s/s $8, under 12 free. Save $2 if you buy tickets online. Vancouver Convention Centre West, 1055 Canada Place. 604-801-5220. www.circlecraft.net

Hot Shopping: Runway Ready

The Room at The Bay

Prabal Gurung, Jason Wu, Roland Mouret, Charlotte Olympia and Azzedine Alaïa. If the mere mention of these five designer labels leaves you feeling faint, then The Room at The Bay is the place for you. This 2,100-sq-m (23,000-sq-ft) store-within-a-store carries covetable clothing, jewellery and footwear, all prominently displayed in a pristine, super-chic setting. Another reason to stop by: Erdem’s nine-piece collection, exclusive to The Bay—be still my beating heart.—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

THE BAY Canada’s oldest department store features fashions for the home and family, as well as Canadian gift items and everyday essentials. High-fashion area The Room features pieces by Armani, Erdem and others. The heritage department stocks the iconic point blankets, outerwear and collectibles. 674 Granville St. at Georgia. 604-681-6211. www.thebay.com

Hot Shopping: Gorgeous Gems at Diamond Gallery

Inside Diamond Gallery, owner Allan Malbranck greets many clients by name. Customer service is just the first step at this Corydon Avenue jewellery boutique. Knowledge, training, education and experience set apart the family-owned business, which opened in 1992. Allan has been in the business for 41 years, starting at age 15 behind the counter at Al’s Jewellers, his family’s business. Today, with their daughter Lisa, a designer and gemologist herself, they design, custom-make and restore jewellery, from engagement to anniversary rings to pearls, pendants, bracelets and cuff links. “There’s no limitation,” Allan says. They’re also the largest dealer in platinum rings between Calgary and Toronto. “We’re really well-trained in platinum,” he says. Given the high price of gold these days, platinum is a great deal for people looking for a lot of bling for their buck. 1-1735 Corydon, 488-9813.

Hot Dates: Happy Halloween

Halloween charms from Thomas Sabo

October 31
Celebrate Oct. 31—grown-up style—with autumn-inspired charms from Thomas Sabo. Sure, you’re no longer getting decked out in your ghoulish best, trick-or-treating from house to house, but that doesn’t mean you need to stop celebrating All Hallows’ Eve altogether. Pop by Thomas Sabo’s new Oakridge Centre store to choose charms of your own, or model your bracelet or necklace after the acorn and pumpkin combo shown above. Other options for ringing in this scary holiday: pints of pumpkin ale and creepy, festive decorations at HomeSense.—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

Thomas Sabo, Oakridge Centre, 650 West 41st Ave. 604-263-7226.

www.thomassabo.com

Homesense, 493 Robson St. 604-683-4406.

www.homesense.ca

Hot Shopping: A Gem of a Jewellery Store

There's something to suit every taste at Pandora.

Fashionistas who love good deals as much as they love good bling will be happy to know a Pandora Concept Store opened at the Rideau Centre in September. Here, you’ll find modern jewellery at affordable prices. But that’s not to say you can’t spend a pretty penny — in fact, with their “Moments” charm collection, you could build a bracelet that’s worth up to $30,000! (Charms start at around $30). Other noteworthy collections include the DIY-friendly Compose Earrings and Black Crown Diamond watches. Rideau Centre, 50 Rideau St., and St. Laurent Centre, 1200 St. Laurent Blvd., 613-741-7577.

Hot Shopping: Dazzling

Lovely earrings from local company Brooklyn Designs

Deck yourself out in sweet bling by local Brooklyn Designs. The new collection features cascading earrings, necklaces and rings in gold and silver (including the shoulder-grazing vermeil hoops with Swarovski crystals, pictured). Available at Fine Finds and Chloë Angus, or online at www.brooklyndesigns.ca.—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

Fine Finds, 1014 Mainland St. 604-669-8325.

www.finefindsboutique.com

Chloë Angus, 273 Dunbar St. 604-224-2456.

www.chloeangus.com

Quirky and Cute: Coombs, British Columbia

Tucked away on Vancouver Island, north of Nanaimo off the Island Highway is Coombs, a place that’s become known for its signature rooftop of grazing goats. Under that roof is The Old Country Market, a quirky grocery store that offers a huge selection of breads and sweets made in their bakery, a cheese shop and imported foods that run the gamut from English licorice to bacon-flavoured mayonnaise a.k.a. Baconnaise.

Before you head to the Market to shop, have lunch at Cuckoo in Coombs Trattoria & Pizzeria. The Italian restaurant offers pasta and wood-stove pizza in a large space with wooden tables and rustic tablecloths (which you can buy next door in Zolena). If the weather is nice, sit out back on the patio under the plum trees. Just outside the restaurant is the greenery area with large pots and Chinese statues, shrubbery and small cacti. Nestled in amongst the plants is Zolena, a shop with wool blankets from New Zealand, Chinese silk bags and bangles from India. (more…)

Hot Shopping: Top-Notch Timekeeper

Versace watch from the Destiny Collection

On the hunt for a stunning piece of arm candy? Look no further than Versace’s new rainbow-coloured watch line, the Destiny Collection. Leave it to this Italian fashion house to take a Swiss-made timepiece, fill it with gems such as sapphires and emeralds, and adorn the face with mother-of-pearl and diamonds—telling time has never looked so sexy. Available at La Swiss .—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Dates: Market Fresh

Beautiful baubles by Jen Ellis at Portobello Petite

August 4 to 27

There’s a new pop up shop in town: Portobello Petite, a mini version of the popular Portobello West Fashion + Art Market. This cute space showcases clothing, chocolates, jewellery (including pieces by Jen Ellis, pictured) and creations for kids by talented local artists and artisans. On Aug. 27 the store closes to rejoin the main market for the final summer show.—Jennifer Patterson

Portobello Petite, 186 Kingsway.

Hot Shopping: Bright Lights, Glass City

An exquisite chandelier from Braden Hammond Glass

Local artist Braden Hammond began working with hot glass in 2003, and it wasn’t long before his interest heated up. Some of his most awe-inspiring works of blown glass are his curvaceous, chandelier-esque lights (pictured). If these cool fixtures are a little large for a carry-on bag, take a look at his stunning glass marbles, including a line filled with colourful floral blooms. His work—jewellery, lighting, perfume bottles and decor—can now be found in stores and galleries across Canada. Pop by Gigi B and Circle Craft to purchase one of these unique pieces, or for a full list of retailers visit www.bradenhammond.com.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Inspired Design

Lovely jewels by local designer Irit Sorokin. Photo by Tanya Clark

Imagine travelling the world to gather inspiration from different landscapes and cultures, then purchasing gems, stones and crystals to bring back home to turn into wearable art. That’s exactly what jewellery designer Irit Sorokin does. Her one-of-a-kind necklaces, earrings and bracelets are made of treasures sourced from around the globe. At Fine Finds and Jeweliette.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Happy Father’s Day

This elegant watch from OMEGA makes a great gift for Dad

On Jun. 19 it’s all about Dad. Spoil him with a classic timepiece from OMEGA Boutique, such as the DeVille 41mm ($6,200, pictured). If an award-winning novel or photography book is more his speed, stop by Chapters. Help him channel his inner Wolfgang Puck with a cookbook from Barbara-Jo’s Books to Cooks.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Local Jewellery Gem

Kate Singer is an accidental artist. The history student-turned-jeweller began selling stained glass accessories at folk festivals after a bout of academic burnout. Her Marmalade Designs creations have since evolved into silkscreened fabrics coated in resin and mounted in sterling silver. Today, the talented Toronto metalsmith has a cult following across the country with more than 20 stores stocking her trademark rings, necklaces, pendants and earrings. Pick them up here at Distill Gallery (55 Mill St., 416-304-0033), Made You Look, The Guild Shop and Red Pegasus, or see her entire collection online, here.

Vancouver Life: Cambie Street

Spend an afternoon exploring the sights and smells of Cambie Street between 17th and 19th avenues, a hotspot for great eats and the latest trends

By Carli Vierke

Cheese from Benton Brothers

The Local Gourmet
It’s foodies’ choice on Cambie. With both local and global fare, the restaurants, cafes and artisan shops offer a mix of flavours. Whether it’s gooey BC cheeses from the family-owned Benton Brothers or homemade tiramisu from Kreation cake shop, everything you need for the perfect epicurean feast is here. Feel like treating yourself without lifting a finger? Enjoy steak frites at the friendly French bistro Pied-à-Terre, or grab a slow-roasted pulled-pork sub to go at Las Tortas Gourmet Mexican Sandwiches.

Eye for Design
Suit up for a stylish stroll at Shop Cocoon, a boutique that features the latest trends in clothing, jewellery and handmade toiletries (think goodies such as hand-milled pomegranate soap), all crafted by local designers. For fashionable inspiration in the home and beyond, check out Walrus, a minimalist shop known for its fun, stylish lifestyle goods such as Scandinavian-designed lanterns or locally designed hot-pink rubber shoes. The space doubles as an art gallery and transforms one night a month into a packed cultural hub where Vancouver artists have their exceptional work showcased.

Ceramic birds from Shop Cocoon

Drink Up
No matter what type of buzz you’re looking for, you’re in good hands. At Beans coffee shop, grab a soy latte while getting cozy on one of the vintage couches or armchairs. For the beer connoisseur, Biercraft Bistro serves dozens of Belgian, imported and local beers. Develop your taste buds with a pint of the creamy Augustijn Blonde alongside a pound of fresh local mussels in a beer, cilantro and lime-butter broth. If you’re seeking libations to go, the Liquor Barn has a good selection of wine, beers and spirits from all over the world. Cheers.

Hot Shopping: Bejewelled

Arm bling from Tiffany & Co.

The quintessential Mother’s Day (May 8) gift? Jewellery. Tiffany & Co. highlights the timeless appeal of glittery baubles with the new Tiffany Twist collection. Each gold or sterling silver bangle ($225 to $1,950, pictured), pendant or pair of hoop earrings has a unique spiral design inspired by the age-old method of hand-twisting wire. Other high-end jewellery shops with something memorable for Mom: Birks and Cartier.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Birks Gets Trumped

Donald Trump’s eldest daughter is more than just a celebrity heiress. Businesswoman Ivanka Trump, who shares boardroom duties with her famous dad on The Apprentice, has launched her fine jewellery collection here in Canada, following successful market expansions in the U.S., Asia and the Middle East. Carried exclusively at the flagship location of Birks on tony Bloor Street, the pieces, ranging from $500 to $24,000, nod to the glamour of yesteryear with modern flair.