It might be quiet and serene when you enter Misha & Co’s showroom, but behind the big glass “M” monogrammed door it’s classic rock and roll as Misha Gilkas and his team work. That is, of course, where all that glitters is gold, sliver, diamonds, rubies, and more.
You see Misha & Co. isn’t your typical jewelry store. Every piece is custom created on site by Misha and his team of artisans. All of this takes place in a surprisingly large workshop behind the showcase that is his Green Spring Station store.
If you ask Misha about his favorite pieces, he pauses and then shrugs. A true artist, he loves something about every piece he creates. Like his clientele, his jewelry appeals to multiple aesthetics. His pieces invoke design inspiration from a variety of sources — the roaring twenties, literary masterpieces, NY Fashion week. You’ll find sleek contemporary cuffs. Earrings with a decided art deco influence. Classic strands of pearl with an intricate double-sided clasp. A turquoise necklace with stunning opal tear drop.
After a bit of prodding, Misha comes clean. His favorite pieces are the ones where clients bring in old jewelry they don’t wear and he reinvents into a one-of-a-kind piece that they fall in love with. A hand-engraved initial necklace, which are very popular around Mother’s Day. A collection of gemstones that become a stunning bracelet. A bow brooch that became a multi-band engagement ring.
{{Hint hint, ladies. If you think your guy might be popping the question, you may just want to ‘accidentally’ leave Misha‘s website up when you leave the room one night… Was oohing and ahhing over the settings on display!}}
The custom design process is as exciting for Misha as it is for his clients. After an initial appointment (out of town customers can connect with him via Skype), the Misha & Co. team creates a sketch design based on the conversation, followed by a 3D rendering of what the final piece will look like after casting and setting. Once the 3D rendering is approved, it takes approximately 8-12 weeks to complete the piece.
They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend… but they’re wrong. A jewelry designer is.
