By Nancy Brumback, Contributing Writer
Westborough -Towne & Country Jewelers has redesigned its store to showcase the new jewelry designers and unusual necklaces, bracelets and earrings it offers, making it an ideal spot to shop for Valentine's gifts and wedding jewelry. Jim Sinerate has owned the store in the West Meadow Plaza at the intersection of Routes 9 and 135 since 1977.
“We'se added more designer jewelry, including pieces from Bastian Inverun of Germany and Frederic Duclos of France, along with American designers such as Arlee Kasselman of Arizona,” Sinerate said.
Traditional glass shelves with glass doors have been replaced with shadow-box wall displays that make it much easier to see the jewelry. To make way for the expanded designer jewelry selection, Sinerate has eliminated many giftware lines, keeping only baby gifts, picture frames, a line of wall mirrors and desk accessories, and jewelry chests.
Sinerate has been a member of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) for 12 years, giving him access to designers who sell their work only through IJO retailers.
If you'se looking for a Valentine's Day gift, he suggested “think beyond the heart.” Instead of jewelry with a heart motif, consider a unique piece that can be worn any time of year.
As an example, he pointed out a line of necklaces, earrings and rings set with opals, that includes opal “doublets” and “triplets.” In the doublets, the opal is fused to a base stone, providing a reflective backing that greatly increases the fiery look of the opal. In the triplets, the doublet version is covered with a layer of clear quartz for a shiny and protective finish.
Also popular now are “convertible bracelets.” These basic silver bracelets include an interchangeable clasp about an inch wide that hooks onto the two ends of the bracelet. Clasps come in seasonal, nature and activity motifs, and in abstract designs in silver and colorful enamel, so a woman can add to a collection of clasps over time, changing the clasp to fit the occasion or accent an outfit.
Towne & Country also offers mix-and-match beads and charms from Reflection and Personality to create custom bracelets.
With wedding season approaching, prospective brides and grooms can find expert advice on engagement and wedding rings at Towne & Country. A basic guide to buying diamonds from IJO is available at the store, explaining cut, color, clarity and carat weight. Sinerate is happy to sit down and discuss the different ring styles available with a couple.
Brides still favor diamonds in platinum or white gold for their wedding rings, he said, and the latest look in engagement rings is a “halo effect,” with the center stone completely surrounded by small diamonds, increasing the ring's sparkle.
Men's wedding rings show more variety these days. Some now feature a fusion of two metals, such as gold and silver. Alternative metals such as titanium and cobalt chrome are becoming popular, providing the choice of dark or even black metal in the band and a more contemporary look at a lower price.
In addition to the range of contemporary and traditional jewelry, Towne & Country offers full jewelry and watch repair service.
Towne & Country Jewelers is located in the Westmeadow Plaza, 164 Milk St., in Westborough, 508-366-7232. It is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, and is closed Sundays and Mondays.
