Goodness Graces

As a child, I was obsessed with collecting old things. Old trinkets, stamps, coins, pillboxes, rocks, perfume bottles, costume jewelry and other stuff. I had a deep, persistent sense of wonder about them. They were interesting because they were old and that felt important, plus, aside from them being pretty I liked the mystery. My mom also loved old things and she enabled my hunting and gathering. She had a bright, expressive and highly accessorized style that I knew was uniquely hers. She stood out from other moms (not just because she was mine, I promise). She was creative and hands on, often making and fixing things, and combining vintage clothes and jewelry with pieces she made by hand. 

My younger sister and I were 1 year apart in school, and she has always been another big influence as the most artistically gifted person in our family. She trained in jewelry design and metalsmithing in college, and I studied Art History.  I enjoyed this as much for understanding the human experience that was marked by the art as I did for the beautiful old things themselves. To me beauty connected with how the artworks became what they were, why, and their meaning to people. My knowledge and perspective expanded so much during that time but I had no idea how to turn my passion into a career (major intimidation by student loan payments and bills too).... so about 20 years of corporate life passed (unrelated to old beautiful things) before I returned to where I started...

I carried my passion for old beautiful things all those years. When I was able to start buying fine jewelry for myself with my own money I realized the power it gave me. Not just as an outlet for personal style, but also for having more joyful days when I wear my pieces, for marking milestones and memories, and for turning my hard work into something lasting, tangible, and beautiful to hold my own stories too. The collection evolves so it's never "done" and that's so much fun. Mixing styles and eras is a foundation - from eclectic and bold to classic and sculptural. I'm drawn to graphic patterns and textures, and I love mixing metals.

This brand reflects how I collect so 3 Graces of Gold is pretty selective - not only about beauty but also about uniqueness, craftsmanship, the feel and practicality of wear, how pieces go together, and making sure you get it all at a good value. Our Antique, Vintage and Estate gold selection is bold and eclectic. Our custom designs combine the best of old and new for modern wear. A common thread across all is a strong, confident, joyful attitude. I love helping collectors get what they want, its such a thrill and I love hearing your stories! 

By name, 3 Graces of Gold ties to strong " 3s" in my life - the original feminine trio (my mom, my sister and me), my 3 kids - and to The Three Graces from ancient Greek mythology. The joyful goddesses symbolize beauty, connection, and service. Many artists including Botticelli and Raphael made famous works featuring them celebrating together, forever joined throughout time.

Shahnaz (Naz) has a BA in Art History from Rice and a MBA from Cornell... made no sense to academic advisors but makes more sense now