Versani is as much a state of mind as it is a design concept. Pieces are bold without being overbearing. Gemstones, be they garnets or diamonds, are luxurious but not ostentatious. It is rare to find an emporium in the elitist land of Soho where you can purchase a snakeskin and sterling silver choker for you rock star boy/girlfriend, a turquoise pendant for your mother and a custom designed platinum and diamond engagement ring all in the same place. Welcome to Versani.

Born and raised in Liberia designer Ara Mansour began as a dental technician and switched gears into jewelry design. Originally the collection was designed mostly for men. This is evidenced by heavy links and chains adding a generally masculine, almost gladiator like effect to many pieces. There is also the unexpected and liberal use of materials such as wood, exotic leathers and denim that further add to the overall aggressive feel of many of the pieces

Of course, in the urban warfare that is fashionable New York, gender lines were quickly blurred by femme fatales that could easily flatten any man. As sisters started doing it for themselves with Versani, a women’s collection was born. Today many pieces are completely interchangeable among sexes and all retain the same strong, almost armor-like signature style of Versani while remaining eminently wearable.

A trip to the newly expanded flagship Versani store on Mercer Street (there are also locations on Mulberry Street in Manhattan as well as South Beach in Florida) is like a journey to an exotic oasis where treasure seems to flow from the very walls. An eclectic symbiosis of styles, incorporating soothing Asian influences juxtaposed against rustic, free-form natural elements with just the right amount of gleaming 21st century technology. The space is as much a part of the Versani experience as the transforming precious metals and jewels.

The ingratiating staff – many of whom look as if they belong on a runway in Milan – know their product and have an innate sense of what will work for each client. Consultations with the designer and custom designs are available and there is talk of a possible house-wares collection and even a clothing line in the future. Price points range from $20.00 – $25,000.00 so break a 50 or break the bank, just have some fun!

- Mention that you read about Versani in Trigger Magazine and receive 10% off your next purchase.

On The Web | www.versani.com

 © 2007 Mikal Saint George