The next time you’re craving a pupusa and find yourself on Washington Avenue, walk a few doors down from Tu Casa and stop in to Jen Burrall Designs (76 Washington Ave). After studying metalsmithing in Montana and apprenticing for jewelry designers back in her home state of Maine, she opened her first shop in 2007.

Even if you haven’t stopped in her store yet, you may have seen her baubles in one of the 35 galleries across the United States that carries her line - including Foundry Lane right here in Portland. Her nest designs - where wire is wrapped and wrapped and wrapped around gorgeous gem stones - are a real signature of her style - and a favorite among most that walk in her store. 

Jen uses all ethically sources gemstones and recycled metals. Her retail store doubles as her workspace. Once you’ve been able to check our her nest post earrings or amazonite necklaces in person, you might get to hear the sweet sounds of welding going on behind the scenes.

You can shop for her jewelry online or visit her on the hill. Oh, and Valentine’s day is just around the corner. I’d gladly accept this. Or this. Okay, or this too.