Vintage Jeweler Erica Weiner Opens in Lyell's Former Home

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Six years after beginning her wholesale business as a jeweler, Erica Weiner has opened her very first brick-and-mortar store. With the help of a few crafty friends, she's been able to expand her business each year, and now she has a petite boutique on Elizabeth Street in Nolita. The store officially began welcoming customers on November 20th, but on the days leading up to the grand opening, Erica was already receiving phone calls, emails, and in-store visits from customers anxious to see the jewelry.

Some pieces are entirely vintage, and others are made to look like they've been pulled from the past. "We're trying to mix it up so it has a vintage feeling," she said as she typed individual tags on a typewriter. The store carries multiple pieces of estate jewelry as well as refined Victorian pieces which Erica has collected over the years. Our favorites were the dozen or so antique engagement rings, including the one with an intricate cutout design at the top of the band and a small diamond set in the middle for under $1000.

The jewelry hangs beautifully in old trunks made of wood which compliment the many gold pieces. As far as interior design, not much was altered for her opening. The property used to house Lyell, by designer Emma Fletcher, whom Erica respected greatly for her designs. That makes this the rare retail turnover story where the newcomer and the previous tenant both have cult followings.—Jena Glick
· Heartbreak for Lyell Fans: The Label Is Shutting Down [Racked NY]
· Erica Weiner [Official Site]