About us
Welcome to Mary`s Jewelry: Where Every Handcrafted Piece Has a Story
Hello there! I’m Petra, the founder and passionate creator behind About Petra Jewelry. Let me share with you the journey that has shaped my dream into reality, a story that began when I was just a teenager.
A Young Beginnings with Grand Ambitions
At the tender age of 15, I started selling handmade jewelry alongside my grandmother’s cherished pieces at local flea markets.
It was more than just a hobby; it was where I discovered the magic of connecting with people through the art of jewelry.
Selling my handcrafted jewelry at a flea market, 1975
Paris: The City That Rekindled My Fire
Despite my deep love for jewelry, I pursued a degree in economics in Chicago, believing it was the sensible choice.
However, my heart never left the craft. It was a life-changing trip to Paris that reignited my passion.
The city’s artistic spirit, its streets lined with history and romance, overwhelmed me.
Paris was where I fell in love all over again—not just with the city but with the art of jewelry making.
Determined to delve deeper, I traveled across Europe, studying under master craftsmen who taught me the age-old techniques that now define my creations.
Walking through jewelry markets in Paris, France
Building Dreams on a Shoestring
Returning to Chicago, life brought love and partnership in the form of my husband, and together, we embarked on building my dream.
At 27, with very little money and a lot of determination, I opened my first boutique in a quaint corner of Chicago.
Those early years were a rollercoaster of highs and lows.
Balancing the demands of a new business with family life, especially with my daughter Lisa, was challenging.
But with each challenge came a new opportunity to grow, to improve, and to create jewelry that touched people’s lives.
Craftsmanship That Touches the Heart
Today, Petra`s Jewelry is a haven for those who seek pieces with soul, crafted by hands that care deeply about every detail.
My designs blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, each piece telling its own unique story.
We prioritize sustainability, using recycled metals and ethically sourced gems, ensuring our creations are not only beautiful but also kind to the Earth.
Crafting jewelry by hand in my boutique.
Jewelry Worth the Journey
As the years passed, my small boutique transformed into a destination for jewelry lovers.
The word spread far beyond Chicago; people began driving more than five hours just to visit our store - and even newspapers published articles about it.
It was humbling and exhilarating to see customers from distant towns, eager to experience the magic of our handcrafted pieces firsthand.
They came seeking more than just jewelry—they sought the stories, the craftsmanship, and the personal touch that each piece promised.
This incredible response fueled my passion further, inspiring me to continue creating jewelry that was worth the journey, no matter the distance.
Our Newspaper Article
An Invitation to Experience Our World
I warmly invite you to explore my collections at Petra`s Jewelry Online Shop.
Discover pieces that resonate with your style and spirit, whether it's a necklace that seems to have been made just for you, or a bracelet that becomes part of your daily expression.
Each item is crafted with passion and is waiting to become a part of your story.
Now, the beauty of PETRA'S Jewelry can reach you wherever you are, bringing our unique, handcrafted pieces right to your doorstep.