Unique jewellery and gifts from online antique store
Elaine Hoyne, co-owner of Carus Jewellery, says the company has seen a surge in business as customers hunt for hand-picked items that suit them – without having to leave the house.
“Sometimes the traditional jewellery shop is intimidating for people and they find it easier to browse and buy online,” says Elaine, who set up Carus Jewellery with her husband John in 2012 and quickly developed the website in response to growing demand.
“We try to engage only with customers when they contact us with a question or request to ensure that we respect this peaceful way of shopping in their own time – but of course we are really happy to assist with customer enquiries.”
The beautifully presented website at carusjewellery.com offers earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings and brooches; there are sections for the perfect gift and a treasure trove of new finds, along with a gentlemen's jewellery offering packed with tie pins, signet rings and cufflinks.
Those hunting for the perfect period piece can search for Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian or mid-century jewellery, as well as Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles; there are also retro and modern finds listed.
Eye-catching items currently include an elegant pair of Edwardian aquamarine and diamond earrings, a Georgian garnet and split pearl brooch, a 5ct gold swooping swallows brooch dating back to the early 1900s that’s bang on trend, and a stunning 1940s jade bangle that looks like it’s straight from the pages of a fashion shoot.
With a 14-day money-back guarantee on all purchases and free re-sizing for all rings above £250, engagement rings are a frequent purchase for couples seeking something with more individuality than they can find on the high street. “We rarely get returns as we try to ensure when curating the jewellery that we express the quality with accurate descriptions and photographs which are true to reality,” adds Elaine.
Carus is the Latin word for precious – which is fitting for the fine jewellery on sale, she explains, with each hand-picked piece bringing its own bit of history too.
“Fine antique jewellery tends to be classically designed and as such remains timeless and fashionable through the ages,” she says. “This not only makes antique jewellery environmentally friendly and sustainable, but it also makes your purchase a future family heirloom as they in turn get passed down and loved within your own family.
“The initial idea for the business was born from a deep interest in and love of the production and history of antique jewellery. There is nothing to compete with the feeling of wearing a century-old piece of jewellery and wondering about those that have worn it before you.
“Personally, I am partial to the Art Nouveau period but I also have a great appreciation for the craftsmanship of each period. It is a great privilege and a link to the past in a very real form: wearing something that was loved and cared for by someone of another era is very special.”
Discover more at carusjewellery.com.