Galerie Noel Guyomarc'h - Unique Jewelry in Montreal

Type 'unique + jewelry + montreal' into Google search, and I expect to see one of my talented jeweler friends' websites like Harakiri, Pearls Before Swine, or Thierry Huard's line to pop up. No such luck. However, if you are looking for a unique and artistic piece of jewelry while shopping in Montreal, the under-the-radar place I send my pals and styling clients to for quality, design-conscious, handmade jewelry from around the globe is Galerie Noel Guyomarc'h Bijoux d'Art.  Already a fave among Montréal ladies with good taste and cash to burn, this shop front gets bypassed very easily I'm afraid, because of its wordy name and its low-key signage on the exterior.

Although the word 'curate' is thrown around too loosely these days (in place of where one should say 'filter' instead), and especially in hybrid artistic/commercial settings, this gallery-meets-shop is one case where the fact that it is actually curated is appreciated. Owner Noel, chooses lines based upon instinct, and appreciation of fine craftsmanship. In most cases, he is the sole Canadian vendor of many international designers' work. Noel also holds exhibitions in the shop much in the same way one would hold an art opening but in this case, you actually get to handle the wares! The other factor to make this store exceptional is that Noel himself is incredibly kind and helpful, a rarity on Laurier West - the boutique street where his shop can be found.

This is not a shop for the trend-oriented: so don't come here for the goth-meets-hiphop-meets-rock-punk accessory of the season. There is nothing here to satisfy your craving for Pamela Love'ischt nor Urban Outfitters-waspiness. This is jewelry for art lovers and fashion-forward femme fatales. Jewelry for women who fit in nowhere but are comfortable everywhere.

My next acquisition from the store will be from London-based Karola Torkos - be still my hearty heart!

** UPDATE: the store has relocated to 4836 Bd St Laurent **