Contemporary jewellery in Chicago
January 18, 2016 6:32 AM Subscribe
I want to buy some lovely jewellery in Chicago next week, where should I go to look?
I've been visiting friends in Chicago regularly for the last 15 years or so, and am coming back next week for a wedding. I really love it there and would like some sort of memento that reminds me of my friends and the nice times I've had there every time I look at it. The last time I came I nearly got a tattoo (but hadn't finalised my design in time so didn't in the end) - but I've been thinking about buying myself a piece of nice jewellery for a while now, and thought this trip might be a good chance to do it. I just don't know where might be good places to look!
I'm only in town for a few days before I head to New York, so anywhere suggested needs to be open on Thursday, Friday or Sunday. A quick Google has turned up Pistachios which is definitely the kind of style and budget range I'm looking for (up to about $500, contemporary or maybe 1920s style preferred) but would be delighted to hear any other recommendations local Mefites might have!
I've been visiting friends in Chicago regularly for the last 15 years or so, and am coming back next week for a wedding. I really love it there and would like some sort of memento that reminds me of my friends and the nice times I've had there every time I look at it. The last time I came I nearly got a tattoo (but hadn't finalised my design in time so didn't in the end) - but I've been thinking about buying myself a piece of nice jewellery for a while now, and thought this trip might be a good chance to do it. I just don't know where might be good places to look!
I'm only in town for a few days before I head to New York, so anywhere suggested needs to be open on Thursday, Friday or Sunday. A quick Google has turned up Pistachios which is definitely the kind of style and budget range I'm looking for (up to about $500, contemporary or maybe 1920s style preferred) but would be delighted to hear any other recommendations local Mefites might have!
Best answer: I visited a friend in Chicago a month ago, and we did some Christmas shopping in the Ravenswood neighborhood. I got some great finds at Hazel, the Lillstreet Gallery (mostly ceramics, but I remember some jewelry) and Minerology.
posted by maggiemaggie at 6:56 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by maggiemaggie at 6:56 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
I'd visit the Andersonville Galleria to see pieces by a wide range of artists/designers (and equally wide range of styles/prices). Even if you don't find the perfect piece of jewelry, you can get some unique Chicago souvenirs. (And it's right near the epic Swedish Bakery. Don't miss it!)
posted by dayintoday at 7:04 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by dayintoday at 7:04 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
For 1920s vintage, House of Kahn estate jewelry on Walton between Michigan and State is a good choice. It's high-end, mostly precious stones, but they usually have a good selection from the 20's.
There's also a string of vintage shops on North Avenue in Wicker Park with less expensive and well-curated vintage jewelry. but their pieces tend to be more mid-century than 1920s.
posted by crush-onastick at 8:23 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
There's also a string of vintage shops on North Avenue in Wicker Park with less expensive and well-curated vintage jewelry. but their pieces tend to be more mid-century than 1920s.
posted by crush-onastick at 8:23 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
Seconding the MCA gift shop.
posted by sarajane at 8:44 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by sarajane at 8:44 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
The Chicago Architecture Foundation has a great gift shop on Michigan Ave, just south of the Art Institute—saw some nice things there the other day.
posted by listen, lady at 9:03 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by listen, lady at 9:03 AM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
The Silver Room, which is now in Hyde Park (was in Wicker Park). Gorgeous, very modern jewelry.
posted by Fig at 10:31 AM on January 18, 2016 [2 favorites]
posted by Fig at 10:31 AM on January 18, 2016 [2 favorites]
You can always go to Jewelers' Row on South Wabash. : )
posted by SisterHavana at 2:51 PM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by SisterHavana at 2:51 PM on January 18, 2016 [1 favorite]
I have a friend there who makes amazing stuff, here is her site.
posted by persona au gratin at 1:34 AM on January 19, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by persona au gratin at 1:34 AM on January 19, 2016 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: Thanks everyone! I went to lots and lots of your suggestions but have just bought myself this beautiful ring from Mineralogy and I'm super happy with it :)
posted by theseldomseenkid at 12:53 PM on January 31, 2016 [2 favorites]
posted by theseldomseenkid at 12:53 PM on January 31, 2016 [2 favorites]
Oo, good find - that's gorgeous!
posted by Fig at 3:34 PM on January 31, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by Fig at 3:34 PM on January 31, 2016 [1 favorite]
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posted by nologo at 6:40 AM on January 18, 2016 [2 favorites]