We talked to: beryl
Hi, Maya! Could you tell us a bit about yourself, your business, and why you chose downtown Northampton as a location?
Hi! I moved to Western Mass in the late ‘90s and attended UMASS for my Masters in Art History. I also needed a job at that time, and there was a position available at the Don Muller Gallery in downtown Northampton. This appealed to me, as I’d worked in a similar store in Portland, Maine.
I ended up working at Don Muller for 12 years, then I purchased the business from him in 2012. In February of 2020, I rebranded and renamed it Beryl, which is a mineral that includes emeralds, aquamarine, and various other gemstones.
In terms of location, I have always loved working and living in Northampton. It’s such a vibrant town when it comes to arts and culture, and the store just fits in the heart of downtown.
What are some exciting things coming up in the store, from new items/artists to events, etc.?
I am excited about welcoming a new jeweler named Rachel Quinn. She makes earrings and necklaces in the shape of clouds with raindrops, and I’ve been coveting her work for a while so I decided to go for it this year. We also have new pieces coming in from some of my favorites, including Corey Egan.
I’m also cooking up the first trunk show since before the pandemic, featuring jewelry from Rachel Atherley. That should happen in early June–I’m just working out the details now!
Which piece of jewelry/artist’s line that you sell/carry are you personally wearing regularly of late?
I’ve been consistently wearing Hannah Blount, from her modern cameo rings to one-of-a kind gemstone pieces. I’ve also been wearing these large gold-filled hoops by Freshie & Zero. They are simple but more dramatic, so I tend to wear those on the weekends or when I’m going out somewhere special.
What’s your favorite current food and/or beverage?
I’m always cold, so you’ll find me drinking chai lattes or matcha all year ‘round! If I’m dining out, I always go for the chicken at Calico in Easthampton.
As a business owner, what do you do to unwind/relax/rejuvenate?
I love to read and knit. Both are a great way for me to unwind at the end of a long day or week.
