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Great Local Stores 2013: Real Gems

Eight great places to find eye-catching jewelry, no matter your taste or budget.

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Best Maverick Design: Jewelers’ Werk

Creations here stretch jewelry’s definition: Materials range
from precious gems to polycarbonate, like a Rebecca Hannon neckpiece in
Formica and steel cable ($3,200) and this Svenja John polycarbonate cuff
($4,000). Forty-two drawers are packed with treasures. 3319 Cady’s Alley,
NW; 202-337-3319.

Best Modern Style: I. Gorman

The 32-year-old family business showcases modern designs you
won’t see elsewhere, such as Margoni’s gemstone gems and Sarah Graham’s
bold gold-and-blackened-steel creations. This
Tahitian-pearl-and-leather-coated-steel cuff by Gellner is $2,450. 1133
20th St., NW; 202-775-8544.

Best Statement Rings: Adeler Jewelers

Most everything at this 38-year-old family jeweler is designed
by Jorge Adeler, so you can spot a unique creation—or have one made. The
bold, colorful pieces (like this jade-and-hammered-gold ring, $5,998) have
been worn by starlets including Halle Berry. 772 Walker Rd., Great Falls;
703-759-4076.

Best Old and New: Tiny Jewel Box

Founded in 1930 as an antique-jewelry purveyor, Tiny Jewel Box
is known for estate pieces. But it also carries stunning contemporary
designs and one-of-a-kind gems such as this owl pin made with diamonds and
carved petrified wood ($15,500). 1147 Connecticut Ave., NW;
202-393-2747.

Best Artisan Earrings: Mia Gemma

Owner Irene Barbieri believes good design should be accessible,
so the one-of-a-kind and limited-edition artisan pieces she sells range
from $35,000 down to $90. Earrings are bestsellers: These
purple-sapphire-and-18-karat-gold creations by Liaung-Chung Yen are
$4,235. 933 F St., NW; 202-393-4367.

Best Costume Baubles: Charm Georgetown

Washington native Jaclyn Mason stocks her pint-size boutique
with striking costume jewelry, from on-trend initial charms to bold
chandelier earrings. This Deepa Gurnani crystal-and-fabric choker is a
relative steal at $165. 2910 M St., NW; 202-298-0420.

Best Delicate Creations: Amethyst

A jewelry designer herself, Amy Hugo has an affinity for other
jewelry artists. Her shop sells pieces handmade by independent artisans,
such as this customizable Heather B. Moore necklace (around $2,500). 4808
Bethesda Ave., Bethesda, 301-907-6871; 2910 District Ave., Suite 155,
Fairfax, 703-992-9718.

Best Old-World Custom: Pampillonia

For five generations, this family of jewelers has handcrafted
pieces (suchas this topaz-and-diamond ring, $10,600) using
vintage-inspired designs. Customers are treated royally—not surprising, as
the family was once jeweler to Italy’s kings. Mazza Gallerie;
202-363-6305.
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