Get Your Glam On

Got the November blahs?

In a month with diminished daylight and nary a statutory holiday in sight, what you need is a little pick-me-up. Why not add sparkle to your day in the form of a new pendant, bracelet or set of earrings from one of Ottawa’s funkiest jewellery boutiques? You might even find something to check off your holiday gift list while you’re at it.

First, there’s our ongoing love affair with eclectic Magpie Jewellery (three locations in Ottawa), where you can find some truly unusual pieces from creative local and international designers in sterling silver, gold, platinum and stainless steel. The name of the game here is broad appeal—we can almost always find something new and fun to love, and the prices range widely.

If you’re a strictly silver girl, head straight to Wellington Village’s Bija Bijoux, which specializes in sterling silver jewellery created by top Canadian designers at affordable prices—a nearly irresistible combination. This boutique has some wonderfully unique pieces.

Zahara Design in Westboro is the latest, and very welcome addition to the Ottawa jewellery scene. Also specializing in hand-crafted silver, Zahara’s designs involve a delicate balance of western and eastern notions of beauty, colour, shape and size, and each design is crafted from hand-cut and carved natural stones, shells, woods, gems and pearls.

If you’re in the Byward Market, check out Masala on York Street, particularly if you lean towards vibrant colour and ethnic styles, such as dot work and filigree. This place is all about rings, pendants and bracelets, featuring gemstones in a rainbow of shades—from blue moonstones to amethysts, citrines and fiery carnelians. The inspiration here is definitely Asian, with an emphasis on India, Nepal, Thailand and Indonesia. Most design work is done in-house, with pieces handcrafted by Balinese silversmiths. You can also pick up exotic Thai and Indian fabrics here, as well as Indonesian batik throws.

Nothing like a little bling to make your heart sing. Happy shopping. Tested by Patti R., Ottawa

Comments