Cheshire jewelry store offers unique Peruvian stones - Meriden Record-Journal
CHESHIRE — Necklaces, bracelets, rings and other jewelry designed by a North Haven woman and manufactured in Peru are featured in the town’s newest jewelry store.
Achiq Designs, 1081 S. Main St., recently opened in the former location of Carbone Jewelers. It’s former use as a jewelry store and visibility from South Main Street attracted owners Fabiola and Brad Giguere. Fabiola designed the jewelry line — pieces are already sold around the country as well as the Bahamas — and Brad is the business manager and salesman.
Achiq pieces feature stones from Peru, such as black and orange Tigrillo. Brad Giguere said Peru, his wife’s native country, is the world’s third largest producer of silver and all the pieces that Achiq produces are made of 925 sterling silver.
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Fabiola Giguere creates a design and sends it to Peruvian artisans, who produce the piece. Brad Giguere said his wife never had a career in art but has natural design ability.
“She’s always been talented in that way,” he said.
The couple wanted to open a store when the line started two years ago, but didn’t want their store to interfere with other jewelry stores that sell Achiq products. The closest location is New York, which is far enough away, Brad Giguere said. Sales to other jewelry stores make up the majority of Achiq’s business, but he hopes to grow sales to Cheshire area residents.
The couple also owns Limpiex Cleaning Service in Hamden.
Sheldon Dill, Cheshire Chamber of Commerce president, said he was impressed with the couple’s enthusiasm and unique product. Achiq Design joined the chamber and Dill visited the store this week.
“It’s a different type of jewelry store,” he said. “Because it is different, I can see it having a very good chance of being successful.”
Traditional jewelry stores have suffered from online sales and a shift in the types of jewelry customers want. Dill said the Giguere’s offer something that’s not found in other jewelry stores.
Brad Giguere said pieces range from $25 to $1,200.
The store is holding its official grand opening on Saturday.
jbuchanan@recordjournal.com 203-317-2230 Twitter: @JBuchananRJ
