Strike It Rich: the Jewelry of Central Texas

by Lauren Montgomery

Like almost everything else in Central Texas, the jewelry in Austin is as diverse as the people who wear it. From Texas bluebonnet pendants to brightly colored handcrafted glass beads, or polished turquoise set in sterling silver to large glittering diamonds, you are sure to find something breathtaking that will leave people asking, “Wherever did you get that?”

The unique jewelry found in Central Texas is fashioned from just about every material you can imagine.  Local jewelers carefully select the materials they use to create their works of art. Jewelers craft earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets and pendants from a large assortment of glass, wood, bone, gemstones, metal, beads, crystal, shells, pearls, and precious stones.

If you are looking for something timeless and classic, Austin has an excellent selection of reputable fine jewelers in the downtown area.  Many of these established, upscale stores sell nothing but the finest quality of exquisite jewelry made from silver, gold, platinum, diamonds and other precious stones. In addition to jewelry, they offer watches, pens and other gifts by exclusive name brands such as Tag Heuer, Tacori and Mont Blanc.

If you are in the mood for something more bohemian, Austin has it.  Visit the local street vendors who pedal their unique handcrafted wares on the Drag next to the University of Texas and in booths during First Thursdays on South Congress Avenue. The artists who make this jewelry produce distinctive designs using colorful glass beads, durable hemp, shining sterling silver, and a variety of sparkling gemstones.

When you are desperate to find a special souvenir to take home with you, try some of the Texas-themed jewelry sold near the Capitol building or at gift shops downtown. The perfect keepsake may be jewelry in the shape of the Lone Star State, or brightly colored bluebonnets. There is also an abundance of Southwestern style jewelry, belt buckles and bolo ties made from sterling silver, turquoise, coral, malachite, black onyx, pink mussel and lapis.

If you’re shopping on a budget, you can discover inexpensive adornments at vintage stores and wholesalers. Stores like Hannah D’s in north Austin offer great fashion jewelry, accessories and handbags at low prices. In addition to day-to-day fashion jewelry, Hannah D’s sells an assortment of watches, belts, toe rings, charms, tiaras, pins and seasonal jewelry for most holidays.

Don’t lose hope if you’ve searched the city high and low and still can’t quite find something that suits you.  Explore your artistic potential at one of the many do-it-yourself boutiques in Austin, where professionals help you design and create your own pieces. Check out Nomadic Notions, a wonderful shop on UT’s Drag that carries an overwhelming selection of beautiful beads from which to choose. Once you’ve selected your beads, you can make jewelry as simple or ornate as you desire, and the friendly staff will help you create something one-of-a-kind.

Whether you make it yourself or buy it from a jeweler, in Austin, you are guaranteed to strike it rich and find the perfect piece of jewelry to reflect your style.