Holiday Sparkle

This holiday season, two jewelry houses—Seyahan and Barry’s—shine a light on the beauty of tradition. From Turkish-inspired artistry to timeless heirlooms, both remind us that craftsmanship and heritage never go out of style—they simply evolve, one brilliant piece at a time.

Seyahan: Where Heritage Meets Modern Elegance

When you step into Seyahan on Broad Street, you feel less like a shopper and more like a welcomed guest. Sunlight falls across tables of gleaming bracelets, hammered silver, and raw diamonds. Each piece carries not just beauty but a story.

The name Seyahan means “traveler” in Ottoman Turkish. For owners Laura Parker and Matthias Weimer, it reflects the journey that began in Istanbul, where they met and opened their first shop.

“We were always traveling around Turkey, discovering artisans and techniques,” Parker says. “Each table in our Istanbul shops represented a region and its craft. That spirit of movement and discovery still guides us.”

Starting from scratch in a city with thousands of jewelry stores, they carved out a niche by highlighting overlooked traditions and presenting them in new ways. Over time they grew to three boutiques in Istanbul. In 2017, they opened their Charleston shop, bringing with them furniture shipped from Turkey and the same spirit of craftsmanship.

“On move-in day, a Turkish gentleman happened to walk by and helped us unload,” Weimer recalls. “It felt like kismet.”

At Seyahan, jewelry is more than ornament. “I believe the soul of a society is found where things are made,” Parker says. “Our role is to take handmade traditions, whether knitted, hammered, or engraved, and bring them into today’s world. We want people to enjoy them, to feel beautiful, and to wear them every day.”

The collections reflect that vision. Hatay bracelets, braided silver with gold clasps, are best-sellers for their elegance and precise sizing. Other designs feature engraved or raw diamonds that cannot be mass-produced, giving each piece character and individuality.

While much of their work draws on Turkish and Ottoman traditions, the artisans come from many backgrounds including Armenian and Syriac Orthodox. “Their traditions are older than modern-day Turkey,” Weimer explains. At the same time, Seyahan focuses on practicality. Closures must be easy, the fit comfortable, and the piece versatile enough for daily life.

Moving back to the South has brought Seyahan’s story full circle. “I grew up on a pecan farm not too far from here,” Parker says. “After years in Istanbul, it feels meaningful to bring what I learned back home.”

Her fashion background and years spent among master artisans now infuse the Charleston shop with a quiet sophistication. “People here have such an appreciation for craftsmanship,” she says. “They connect to the pieces in a personal way. To see that same spirit of beauty and care reflected in Charleston—it feels like everything has come together.”

Though Seyahan has been featured in Condé Nast and ELLE magazine, the owners are proudest of what they offer locally. Their shop is designed to feel like home, a place to slow down, try on jewelry, and discover what makes you feel beautiful. 

For those who enter, Seyahan is more than a boutique. It is a journey across time and tradition, a bridge between Istanbul and Charleston, and an invitation to carry beauty with you wherever you go. For more information, go to: seyahan.com

From One Generation to the Next, Barry’s Keeps Tradition & Elegance Alive

In the heart of North Charleston, Barry’s Fine Jewelers defines luxury and legacy. Touted as the area’s top destination for diamond selection and “where Charleston gets engaged,” Barry’s large-scale (and conflict-free) collection is matchless—making it the go-to locale for picking out or designing the perfect engagement ring, along with an array of other priceless pieces for life’s milestone moments.

Barry’s has been a Lowcountry staple for the last half century; during that time, proving its exceptional service and charm—coupled with its showroom of elegant diamonds, gemstones, and precious metals—have perpetual appeal across the Lowcountry.

In a world of chain stores and commercial operations, Barry’s business is a true testament to generational legacy and now a niche operation in the jewelry industry. From satisfying repeat patrons to attracting new ones, this beloved shop understands the recipe for customer satisfaction and entrepreneurial success. 

Because Barry and his team recognize that picking out jewelry is personal—they value the customer, treating each one like family. Team members are specifically trained with the knowledge and expertise to help customers find the next suitable addition to their collection.

Choose from among luxurious watches and stunning rings to carefully crafted bracelets, earrings, necklaces, charms and more. Purchase that perfect statement piece; find a future family heirloom; or shop for a coveted arm candy creation. 

Crafted to endure, each piece is distinct and desirable. From vintage estate collections to more modern elegant wear, Barry’s diverse inventory has something for everyone, whether classic or contemporary.

But don’t stress if a favorite sparkling accessory unravels or breaks. A critical component of the Barry’s operation, the full-service repair department is committed to promptly resurrecting your timeless treasure—even same day! 

In addition to offering high-end, exquisite jewelry reflecting geometrical symmetry, fine craftsmanship and stunning brilliance, Barry’s is committed to community participation and visibility among the population he serves. He and his team’s long-standing relationship with other organizations and commitment to give back is another reason why their mission has endured for decades and will continue to withstand the test of time.