All that Sparkles on Sanibel Island: Jewels within the Jewel

Many people, foremost we ourselves, consider Sanibel Island the jewel within the crown of Florida.

Like the rest of the state, it is ringed with great beaches, has a tropical terrain and offers warm weather year round.

But, in addition to the nature and shelling that is unique to Sanibel, the nice shopping on the Island distinguishes it from many other areas of the Sunshine State.

If you come to Sanibel with a yen to buy something pretty and sparkly to take home, either as a gift for some one or a reward for yourself, you will not be disappointed in the choices you are offered.

For starters, there is the delicate and lovely work done by the Sanibel Goldsmith Gallery. Capturing the essence of the Island in their work, the artists of the Gallery offer very Island-centric pieces. There are pendant earrings with beautiful etched sea shells entwined in the design, there are dolphin charms for your own bracelet or dolphin earrings. Other sea creatures include sea turtles, a variety of fish and sea urchins. And the beach is nicely reflected in the choice of subjects as well with some lovely renditions of the sun, flip flops and sand dollars. If you love the nature of the Island, you will love the nature of this jewelry. But keep in mind these are truly works of art and done in mediums such as gold and silver, so these are not mere knick knacks. That said, the Gallery does not maintain a physical space and spares itself the rental of such, so the savings may be passed on to consumers for certain items as it appears for the quality the prices are very competitive.

And then there is the Lily & Co., dubbed (we do not know by whom) "the coolest jewelry store in America. The merchandise is beautiful and diversified, but we love the whole concept of Lily.

Along with an expansive selection of couture jewelry that also includes silver, platinum and gems, Lily Co. also provides professional watch and jewelry repair. And with the Lily & Co. Positively Precious Program they can purchase previously worn jewelry and precious metals from customers for liquidation purposes. We also love the fabulous selection of distinctive artwork created by Sanibel artists – perfect for gift-giving or to spice up any room in your home or office. Located on Tarpon Bay Road, Lily & Co. was the first Island jewelry store and features exquisite collections from world-class designers including

• Charles Garnier
• Charles Krypell
• Denny Wong
• Gurhan
• Kabana

But we have to be totally honest here. Our biggest attraction to Lily & Co. is the gorgeous brown poodle that is used in many of their ads to show off the jewelry. And, yes, the striking 4 legger is the "Lily" in Lily & Co.


But moving along and focusing on other most affordable works of jewelry that will help you bring home a real piece of Sanibel, there is Congress Jewelry on Periwinkle Way. The delightful diminutive charms that can be purchased for necklaces or bracelets are a collection of all the aspects of Island living that are so appealing. There is a pelican for only $30, a manatee for $40 and a heron for $55. These prices certainly will not break the bank, but for those who are not happy unless they spend a good deal more, you will have your pick. There are some beautiful works of art that range from $1,000 to $5,000. Literally something for everyone.


But this list is not claiming to be extensive. If you google Sanibel jewelry or just drive around, we are sure you will find many lovely places to shop til you drop!