By Nancy Brumback, Contributing Writer
Westborough – From a broad selection of wedding rings to custom-designed pieces to a simple silver bangle or trendy bead bracelet, Designer Jewelers meets the needs of jewelry shoppers in a relaxed store environment.
Back in 1969, Derek Varriale's father opened Designer Jewelers in downtown Westborough right on the rotary. In 1979, the shop moved to its present location in the Westborough Shopping Center at the intersection of Lyman Street and Route 9. Derek is now the second generation to run the family-owned business.
The welcoming, brightly lit store offers expansive displays and room for shoppers to browse without feeling crowded.
“We want our store to be inviting. It's laid out for customer privacy with lots of space,” Varriale said. Prospective grooms looking for an engagement ring, for example, can sit at a counter and examine the large selection with help and advice from an experienced sales staff.
“Some people also want to design their own wedding bands, and we can do just about anything they want. We do a huge custom design business, particularly in bridal jewelry,” he said. That custom business includes resetting stones from inherited jewelry to create a more modern look while retaining the family connection with the stones.
While diamonds set in white gold or platinum continue to be the most popular choice of brides, Varriale noted a strong trend in alternative metals such as tungsten carbide for men's wedding bands. “It's a modern, very masculine look and sophisticated,” he said.
Designer Jewelers also sells a wide range of fashion jewelry.
Bead bracelets from Pandora continue to be a very popular choice, he noted, and offer affordable options. The company has recently branched out into necklaces and other looks as well as its iconic customizable bracelets.
For customers beginning to think about special holiday gifts, Varriale pointed out that diamond earrings, either hoops or studs, or diamond pendants are always a treasured choice.
If you'se not on a diamond budget, Varriale recommended a line of handmade jewelry from Tom Kruskal that's simple and elegant, but perfect for everyday wear. The bracelets, necklaces and earrings are available in sterling silver, silver and gold combinations or gold, some with semi-precious stones or pearls. Kruskal's signature style features soft curves and links.
Varriale is also a believer in the value of a nice watch, and the store carries a good selection.
“Watches still have a place. Life does not have to revolve completely around your iPhone,” he said with a laugh. “When you'se going for a job interview, a watch signals your commitment to punctuality and a respect for others” time.”
Designer Jewelers also repairs jewelry of all kinds, doing most of the work on metals in-house.
“We have our own laser welding machine, so we can work on pieces other jewelers might not be able to handle because we don's have to use heat in welding.”
The store can arrange watch repairs on many brands, including Rolex watches, and can help customers find a service center for brands it does not work with.
“We will always clean and inspect jewelry without charge,” Varriale added.
He can do appraisals of jewelry for insurance or estate purposes, and also buys gold and silver.
The retailer's website, www.thedesignerjewelers.com, includes an education section with advice on buying diamonds and caring for jewelry, as well as guides to birthstones and anniversaries.
Designer Jewelers is located in the Westborough Shopping Center, at the intersection of Route 9 and Lyman Street. The store is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. It is closed Sundays. For additional information, call 508-366-5512 or check the website at www.thedesignerjewelers.com.
