In the label-driven fashion world, Kristy Braunschweiger-Smith, president of Braunschweiger Jewelers, is wagering that fresh designs can compete with name recognition. Just over a year ago, the jeweler began launching collections from independent designers. “You can fall in love with a pair of shoes or a dress without knowing who made it, the same for jewelry. These designs are beautiful and make their own statements,” she says. Founded in Newark as a watch repair shop more than 80 years ago, family-run Braunschweiger’s maintains a large inventory of well-known national brands, but is committed to taking some risks to introduce trend-setting fine jewelry. “We want to be known for lines that can’t be found everywhere else,” says Braunschweiger-Smith.
• Dreamy Diamonds Lattice 2.01-carat diamond ring in 14K yellow gold; $5,885.
• Linked in Yellow gold and oxidized silver open-circle links necklace from the Artisan Collection; $2,985.
• Off the Cuff Floral bracelet in 14K with .26 carats of bezel-set diamonds from the Artisan Collection; $1,550.
• Join a Gem! Eighteen-karat gold Jaipur earrings with bezel-set stones by Marco Bicego; $1,070.
Braunschweiger Jewelers
33 South St, Morristown
973-538-2189
1260 Springfield Ave, New Providence
908-665-1487
braunschweiger.com