Lauren Priori, owner of L. Priori Jewelry is a antiquary of estate jewels. Lauren prides herself on creating unique collections of antique jewels, that are prominent with an array of colors, detail, and of course (in her words) it has to be cute! L. Priori Jewelry launches quarterly new additions to the estate collection, and you can check out these diamond beauties in person for her trunk show! On Thursday, June 22nd you can enjoy a night of jewels, and champagne gelatos from Capogiro. Keep scrolling to see our Q&A with Lauren about the new collection, and for more details about the event!
What was your inspiration behind the new additions?
I love so many things about estate jewelry, but mostly I love that we’re not mining new gold and diamonds. Offering sustainable and recycled jewels is important to me, and I love that I can provide beautiful things that are still ethical.
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What is your process like for choosing new pieces?
First, I review what’s been doing well for me lately and any categories where I might need more inventory. I had recently sold out of antique three stone rings and pretty 1910s jewels, so I hunted for those on my last buying trip. Next, I’ll spend some time with wholesale jewelry dealers who tend to have beautiful things at a great value. I’m selective about what comes home with me – I might look at a thousand pieces before finding one I love! My taste spans all jewelry eras, but I’m consistently drawn to quality craftsmanship and pieces that can be easily mixed and matched.
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Where are they usually sourced?
I’m lucky to have an incredible network of antique jewelry dealers. Four years of working on Jewelers’ Row gave me relationships with ethical jewelry dealers who source beautiful pieces. I travel to Las Vegas and New York several times a year to source fresh antique jewelry. I also have private clients who sell or trade in their unworn heirlooms.
Do you have any particular stones that you’re drawn to at the moment?
I’m loving beautiful moonstone right now. It’s a dreamy gem with a luminescence unlike anything else in the world. I just purchased some gorgeous new moonstone pieces from the Art Nouveau era that I can’t wait to share.
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Are there any trends that you’ve noticed? What are your best-selling pieces?
Rose gold is making a huge comeback, which means that 1940s retro jewelry is back in a big way. Stack rings also continue to be great sellers! I love mixing more contemporary stack rings with engraved and antique bands.
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What’s your favorite piece from the new additions?
I have two favorites! I love love our Haley Earrings. They’re so fun, summery, and a little bit unexpected. I love the bold geometry that still manages to feel fresh and airy.
My other favorite is our Corinne Ring. Sapphire with diamonds is such a classic combination, but I love this unexpected take. I’m a sucker for engraved details and a hexagonal shape in antique engagement rings. The Corinne was handmade in the 1920s, but it’s been impeccably maintained.
What makes each collection distinct?
Every three months, I refresh my collection of estate and antique jewelry. Just like each piece is one of a kind, each collection is unique! Some quarters have a heavy focus on fun colorful pieces, and some quarters are more engagement ring focused. No matter what, every collection will have one-of-a kind beauties!
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What do you think makes your collections unique in the industry?
I love curating pieces that look just as good today as they did 100 years ago. All of our jewels are timeless, stack, and layer effortlessly.
L. Priori Jewelry Showcase
Thursday, June 22nd, 2017
5-8pm
1601 Walnut St, Medical Arts Building, Suite 1218