Imagine a shop dedicated to serenity, balance, and good karma right on Purchase Street. Alex and Ani, Rye’s newest jewelry store, boasts pieces of unique beauty with positive energy.
By Janice Llanes Fabry
Imagine a shop dedicated to serenity, balance, and good karma right on Purchase Street. Alex and Ani, Rye’s newest jewelry store, boasts pieces of unique beauty with positive energy.
The shop’s eco-friendly collections, all manufactured in the United States, have caught on like the “vital force” that is the company’s core principle. Having become a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world as well, Alex and Ani boutiques have cropped up across the country.
The brainchild of jewelry designer Carolyn Rafaelian, the first store was launched in Rhode Island in 2004. Named for Rafaelian’s first two daughters, Alex and Ani ‘s distinct bangles, necklaces, earrings, and rings became an overnight sensation. At the heart of the jewelry are the positive messages their symbols represent. Each piece is created to be inspiring and empowering. As Rafaelian says, “Take the inner journey, the rewards are great.”
A “wall of meaning” describing the symbols incorporated in the jewelry is a focal point of the new shop. Some popular ones include: doves for truth; starfish for intuition; butterflies for renewal; St. Anthony for guidance; and paw prints for compassion.
Previously the site of Gallery 52, which moved up and across the street, the renovated space is very attractive and has clean, simple lines. It seems Alex and Ani’s positive energy permeates through the store, as all the sales personnel seem happy to be there and eager to help.
Some of the jewelry-filled glass cases are dedicated to Charity by Design. Rafaelian works closely with organizations on creating designs that reflect their own mission. Subsequently, a percentage of each sale is allocated to the charity.
Also, look for the new collegiate, armed forces, color crystal, religious, and vintage lines. New collections are introduced regularly. As one of their medals prescribes, “live for the moment.”
The shop, located at 52 Purchase Street, is open Monday through Saturday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sundays from 12-6 p.m.
