It’s a common occurrence in New York: you’re wandering around a neighborhood, not looking to shop. Then you stumble upon a store that you can’t resist. The low key window display makes you curious. You wander in and are glad you did. This is one place that will be on your list and, once you tell them, your friends’ lists, too.

Lori McLean’s jewelry shop in the West Village is one such place. Small and unassuming, this is a place deserving of careful scrutiny. Each glass case holds jewelry that is exceptional, many one of a kind pieces that will be worn again and again. There’s a whole section for vintage.

Tiffany made keys popular this season, but the ones at Lori’s shop provide serious competition. We loved the tiny 14K gold one on a chain, delicate yet eye-catching. And at $198, a steal. (Not surprisingly, this item is out of stock and has to be specially ordered).

Lori McLean is a self-taught jeweler and metalsmith with a background in design and silkscreen painting. Her expertise is readily on display with the 20-plus designers whose works are sold in the store. This variety of talents and styles means that you won’t have any trouble finding that perfect gift, even if the recipient is yourself.

Lori McLean
49 Grove Street
212-242-3204
www.lorimclean.com