Most of our pieces are made from fine silver, sterling silver, gold filled or 14k gold. A few items are brass with 14k gold plating. All should withstand years of wear with proper care. Remember to clean jewelry with a soft Sunshine Cloth.

We do our utmost to deliver quality and value your business! 

Pyrite and gold- what a great combination!

The Pyrite layered necklace is a beautifully designed necklace to wear on its own or layer it up with other delicate chains. It is 18” long and features shiny gleaming beads of pyrite (foolsgold) one a 14k gold-filled chain.

his Pyrite piece It is a wonderful everyday necklace and an easy addition to any outfit you wear. It‘s an amazing way to dress up an outfit.

What Makes Pyrite Layered Necklace So Shiny?

The exuberant shine and brilliance are the two factors that make this necklace so shiny, and credit for this goes to Pyrite, a sulfide mineral used in this necklace. It is famous for its metallic gold shine in various jewelry items. Due to its association with gold, it has come to be known for bringing protection and luck to those who possess it. This perfect Pyrite layering piece adds instant class to any ensemble. So wear it to flaunt your style.

Reasons You Should Wear a Pyrite Layered Necklace

Aesthetics

The Pyrite layered necklace is not only a sign of sophisticated taste, but the stone is known for luck and abundance.

Different Occasions

Unlike other jewelry items, you can wear this necklace on different occasions, whether formal or informal. The good thing is about it is its versatility in its styling and neutral colors.

At Pam Older Designs, we offer this pyrite layered necklace and others like our Inspire Heart Double strand necklace at affordable prices. For the convenience of our clients, we provide free shipment and free returns so that you buy these jewelry items from us without any problems.

Briefly Put!

What are you waiting for? Whatever your occasion or what outfit you consider putting on, buy a Pyrite necklace to adorn yourself with it. You will look chic and dazzle your onlookers. 

Source: Much content in this blog is from Rio Grande a well-known high quality jewelry supplier to the jewelry trade! 

At Pam Older Designs we are often asked what Gold-Filled means. We use it often along with 14K

and 18K gold, silver and vermeil and the primary reason is it's affordable and a good way to show off our beautiful semi-precious stones.

Since the cost is more economical than solid karat gold, it’s a great metal to use for our eclectic jewelry line- it is NOT Gold Plate which uses a microscopic layer of gold. Gold Plate is not a quality plating since it will wear off quickly. It is also different from Vermeil which is a thicker layer of real gold over silver with a much more durability.

To be marked with a "GF" stamp, the metal must have a layer of gold that is at least 10-karat and 1/20 (5%) of the items total weight. All of our gold-filled products, including ear wires have a 14-karat gold layer and meet the federal quality standards established by the FTC.

So How is Gold-Filled Made?

Gold-filled is made by adding a layer of 14 karat gold to a brass core, creating a tarnish-resistant surface where only gold is exposed. The metals are permanently bound together using heat and pressure, then are rolled and drawn to exact specifications. The industry shorthand notation is "14/20". This metal cannot be cast, but we use wire for most of our designs and in our ear wires.  

Hope that helps you understand the difference between gold plate and 14k & 18 karat gold. Gold filled is a quality product that will retain its color indefinitely. It can be polished with a soft cloth or with a non-abrasive jewelry cleaner.

There are many items like opals, pearls and oxidized and plated metals that need special care. You are usually safe using a soft jewelry polishing cloth. Oxidized metal will turn white if you drop it in liquid silver dip. Most other jewelry will fare well in a liquid dip made for fine jewelry, but be cautious. Diamonds can take a bath of vodka and come out shiny but never use a toothbrush with toothpaste as it can scratch the stone.

If you have any questions just come into our shop at 42 Merrimac St, Newburyport, MA and we can also help you.

I just returned from my third visit to the island of Sardinia, Italy.The water, the food, the friendly people and the language (which I continue to try and learn) draws me there and this visit did not disappoint me. I traveled with my adult kids, a cousin and two friends and it was conflict free and pure contentment from the time we jumped in the water after 19hrs of traveling to the moment we left 7 days later. 7 days was not nearly enough but Pam Older Designs needed me!

 I am hoping to return in Sept. 2023 with a new group of people who are intrigued.

A picture of our cove just steps from our little house.

A wonderful trip to Cagliari, Pula, Nora, Chia & Teulada!

So while I have started a few paintings inspired by this enchanting Island, I am still processing my ideas for jewelry.

The subtle pastel colors and the vibrant pinks and reds of the flowers, fruit and vegetables are going to show up somewhere soon! 

Ciao,

Pam

Start your day in Newburyport is with a bagel, egg sandwich and a cup of coffee from Abraham’s Bagels or Changing Tides Donuts. Both are a  quick walk to the Waterfront Park, where you can sit along the boardwalk, watch the boats, enjoy your breakfast and perhaps sign up for a whale watching tour aboard the Captain's Lady! You will enjoy a lovely tour around the harbor and may catch sightings of seals and whales. Our home on the Atlantic Ocean is right where humpback whales, right whales, blue whales come for the summer in one of the most incredible migrations in the animal kingdom. We have a great beach too if you go to the Plum Island Reservation!

When you are back on land, it’s time for lunch. Our suggestion is to walk through Market Square up to Loretta on Pleasant St. to enjoy their incredible lobster rolls and chicken salad wrap and their wonderful service. You may enjoy Loretta's Jazz brunch on Sundays at 11am. If it's a weekday Middle Street Food will be open and we think it is a MUST for their amazing soups, sandwiches and home baked bread and cookies.

Along the way you'll notice the sidewalks and buildings downtown are all brick. In 1811, a fire broke out in town. This was a town that made wooden ships and all the buildings were made of wood, so the fire spread quickly and destroyed most of the town. It was rebuilt once again with wood.By the turn of the century, the town’s economy had mostly switched to shoemaking with many factories located in the downtown area. In 1934, one of these factories caught fire and again the town was leveled. The town would be rebuilt again, but this time with the red bricks that you see today as a means of fire prevention. You can learn all about these fires and the historical sea trade at the Custom House Maritime Museum- a wonderful building designed by architect Robert Mills, who also designed the Washington Memorial.

Enjoy the afternoon visiting the best local shops! A visit to Newburyport wouldn’t be complete without a walk out of the hustle and bustle of State St, and down to 42 Merrimac Street, where you will find Pam Older Designs (above pic), famous for unique handmade artisan jewelry. Whether you need jewelry for an upcoming event or a trinket to remember your visit to Newburyport- you will find it here. Custom work is done here as well so If you don't see what you want we can make it- sometimes on the spot.  

The Tannery is another off the beaten track find that you are bound to love. Among the shops is Port Plums a culinary boutique and more! We also love Red Bird for sophisticated home furnishings and clothing! 

To end your wonderful day try the Tuscan Sea Grille ( located behind Pam Older Designs) for their magnificent river view. Try their crab cakes and linguine vongole. People also rave about the fried clams at Park Lunch. If it were me I would head out to the Plum Island Grille on Plum Island to enjoy some of the best fresh fish and oysters while watching the gorgeous sunset over the marsh. To wrap up the night, head back in town for an ice cream cone from Harbour Creamery at 39 Pleasant St. for their famous homemade flavors. 

Follow this itinerary and you’ll be heading back to visit us soon!   

Come to Newburyport (it's a perfect day trip) and discover why we love it so much! I hope you come visit our unique jewelry shop located at 42 Merrimac Street, right next door to the Black Cow and the Tuscan Seafood Grille.It is a pretty jewel box that you will enjoy. Take a sneak peek on www.pamolderdesigns.com.

So here is the Newburyport Guide my shop local guide:

It's also on North Shore Macaroni Kid page as well. https://newburyport.macaronikid.com/guides/5fc2128d5c3d8a47371e9b5a/north-shore-and-newburyport-shop-local-guide

Gem quality Sapphires were first found in 1865 by early gold prospectors mining the Missouri river near Helena, Montana. Sources today are Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, Tanzania, Australia, and the U.S. (Montana).

My favorite sapphire and perhaps favorite stone of all is the the padparadscha, known as the rarest sapphire variety in the world. Their color is made of unique pink and orange hues like a sunset!

Sapphire value is determined by its color and blue sapphire remains the most valuable because it is also the rarest type of sapphire.

To the ancient and medieval world, Sapphire of heavenly blue signified wisdom, hope and faith and was believed to bring protection, good fortune and spiritual insight.

The sapphire has been seen as  a guardian of innocence, a bestower of truth, a promoter of good health, and a preserver of chastity. It is believed to brings gifts of fulfillment, joy, prosperity, inner peace and beauty. Below is a custom necklace we created for a woman who wanted Pam Older Designs to find an excellent yellow sapphire and then to create a sapphire and diamond necklace. She already had this design in mind.

Let us find the perfect sapphire for your own custom necklace or ring! We use many trusted sources to procure just what you need! Contact us at pamolder@mac.com or 978-358-8352

Did you know Peridot was originally mined by the Egyptians on an island in the Red Sea and it was referred to as the Gem of the Sun? This is truly a stone from the ages- this semiprecious stone possesses the quality of having a calming effect on the wearer and for bringing peace and harmony in relationships. Like many stones it is said to be protective and to alleviate jealousy, resentment, spite, hatred and greed, while enhancing confidence, and motivating personal growth. 

Who couldn't appreciate personal growth, peace and harmony with others?

Pam Older Designs can make custom rings or pendants for you using this ancient stone, or choose from a few new styles on our website- just search "peridot".  These pieces were created with gift giving in mind.

Hope to hear from you! If you are in the Newburyport, MA are we hope you will drop in and visit us. Custom work by appointment- call us at 978-358-8342.

In reality, pearls are formed when a foreign particle like a grain of sand or a microorganism enters an oyster shell. Mollusks secrete a substance called nacre around the foreign body and layer by layer the nacre covers the particle until a pearl is formed and harvested.

Cultured pearls or artificial pearls are formed by artificially inserting a mantle tissue or a mother of pearl shell bead into a mollusk. The same process occurs, and a pearl is formed. Normally, it takes at least 3 years for a natural pearl to form, but industrially produced cultured pearls can be produced within a year.

What Do Pearls Stand For?

Pearls were originally associated with purity and humility and were gifted during weddings to the bride. As a birthstone pearls are synonymous with simplicity and purity and are said to bestow a long prosperous life upon their owner. In ancient times pearls were believed to heal indigestion and hemorrhages in Asian culture and 19^th-century Arab physicians prescribed them in powdered form for improving eyesight and easing depression. They are even said to provide soothing energy to help with labor pains!

We just think pearls, whether South Sea or Freshwater are just plain pretty! If all you have are one pair of pearl earrings or a necklace you are dressed for every occasion and need little more in your jewelry box!

As the birthstone for May, the emerald, a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. Emerald, derived from the word “smaragdus,” means, quite literally, “green” in Greek.

Like aquamarine, emerald is a variety of beryl, a mineral that grows with six sides and up to a foot in length. Emerald color can range from light green (though there is some argument whether these very light beryls are truly emeralds) to a deep, rich green. Emeralds are also like aquamarine in that the way the color is presents itself in jewelry depends on a good cut by a skilled gemologist.

The deeper or more green an emerald, the more valuable it is. The rarest emeralds will appear to be an intense green-blue.

Emeralds are found all over the world, including Colombia, Brazil, Afghanistan and Zambia. The availability of high-quality emerald is limited; consequently, treatments to improve clarity are performed regularly.

Emerald History

The emerald was mined in Egypt as early as 330 BC, but some estimate that the oldest emeralds are 2.97 billion years old.

Cleopatra is perhaps the most famous historical figure to cherish emeralds. She even claimed ownership of all emerald mines in Egypt during her reign.

The Egyptians used emeralds both in jewelry, and in their elaborate burials, often burying emeralds with monarchs as symbols of protection.

On the other side of the world, the Muzo Indians of Colombia had well-hidden and prized emerald mines. These mines were so hidden, it took the Spanish conquistadors nearly twenty years to find them.

Like other gemstones, the emerald was believed to have many mystical powers that accompanied its beauty. There were those who thought the emerald could cure stomach problems, control epilepsy and stop bleeding. Maybe due to its soothing green color, it was also thought to be able to ward off panic and keep the wearer relaxed and serene.

Today, emerald is a symbol of loyalty, new beginnings, peace and security, making it not only a beautiful gem to wear, but also a meaningful gift to be treasured by the receiver. It is still widely prized by the rich and famous, with Elizabeth Taylor’s famous emerald pendant selling for $6.5 million in 2011.

Please contact me at pamolder@mac.com with a brief introduction and your objectives.My rates are affordable for small businesses and entrepreneurs.Larger companies interested in email and digital marketing can also benefit.

Moonstone Summer Party Earrings

Does your mother love jewelry that is simple yet exquisite? Get this amazing pair of Moonstone Earrings Summer Party which are simply the epitome of class. Made with Moonstones and fine silver nugget, Carnelians and other semiprecious stones to make mom smile and think of you every time she wears them. https://www.pamolderdesigns.com/earrings/summer-party-moonstone-earrings/

Flutter Necklace

Available in 4 different color combinations: Mulitstone, Pink tourmaline, Carnelian and Tanzanite, any of which look cute and have been very popular sellers. An unusual beaded necklace in oxidized silver and scrumptious colors is an easy A+. https://www.pamolderdesigns.com/necklaces/customer-favorite-necklaces/flutter-necklaces-2019-limited-edition/

Lemon Sunshine Hoops 

Some woman prefer vibrant hues & colors that reflect their vivaciousness. Our Sunshine Hoops are custom made just for them!

These gift ideas are among our most sought after designs, but check out the rest of our jewelry collection at Pam Older Designs. We have a cornucopia of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings, all unique and beautiful.

The idea of using gemstones and minerals as birthstones traces all the way back to biblical times. In the 1^st century, the Jewish historian Josephus believed there was a connection between the 12 stones of Aaron’s breastplate, from the Book of Exodus, the 12 months, and the 12 zodiac signs. Each was also associated with the 12 tribes of Israel. The list of stones is not conclusive, depending on the translation, but the generally accepted list is emerald, sapphire, diamond, topaz, carbuncle, sardius, agate, ligure, amethyst, onyx, jasper and beryl.

Centuries later, religious treatises began associating each stone with a disciple. It then became common practice for a person to own all 12 stones and wear the corresponding one for each month. This practice stood for centuries. Read more here here!

In our studio we make all sorts of personalized custom jewelry!  Everything from religious symbols, message charms like BELIEVE or INSPIRE or a meaningful lotus flower, peace signs, sunflower and compass charms- all with your choice of stones or pearls.

Contact us at 978-358-8352 or pamolder@mac.com

Sapphire:

According to ancient Roman, Italian and Russian traditions Sapphire was deemed the birthstone for anyone born in April. Sapphire is a precious gemstone whose composition is the mineral conundrum. It's available in a wide variety of beautiful hues, the most popular being the brilliant blue we are all familiar with. Sapphire’s metaphysical properties bring inner peace and healing Tangled thoughts disappear along with depression. It is even said to promote self-expression.

Sapphire comes in pink, blue, yellow, orange, white and even black shades giving you the opportunity to select your favorite color. 

Opal:

Opal reflects light and in the metaphysical world, it works as a prism bringing a full spectrum of light energies into your system. It cleanses one’s body of negative emotions replacing them with pure joy- soothing the body, rekindling hope, enthusiasm and optimism. Like a prism, it picks up whatever is put through it- bringing traits to the surface for transformation and growth. It enhances the good and true in your soul, while dealing with things that are uncomfortable. Choose jewelry set with opals if you believe in its inherent power. Take a gander at this beautiful Ethiopian Opal & Pink Sapphire Ring on my website or the wire wrapped Ethiopian Opal earrings below!

Topaz:

Regarded as the ‘crystal of potency’, Topaz had the reputation of being an opulent item owned by those of privilege. Its metaphysical properties show it plays a great role in stimulating and charging an individual. Anyone who has been having mixed thoughts should consider wearing Topaz because like the crystal’s own clarity, it provides the wearer with clarity and increased focus towards one’s goals. 

We love using white topaz in our artisan jewelry, most recently in these beautiful  White Topaz Star Earrings. We prefer a natural gemstone instead of man-made CZ's or imitation stones. 

 These Flower clusters sparkle like diamonds, but they are actually White Topaz set in an original 14k gold design. We make them in silver too!

Understanding the needs of our buyers (and their budgets!) is important so Pam Older Designs offers diamonds for all budgets, but know there are other options!

If you too are an jewelry or stone enthusiast who believes gemstones have energies (which they do), here are 6 pieces of designer jewelry that you can wear if your birthstone is Aquamarine or Amethyst!

Tourmaline and Amethyst Drop Necklace

This is an easy to wear item principally because it is just so damn cute! But the tourmaline mixed with amethyst and rose amethyst drops should bring you good luck too. Wear this delicate necklace with everything for a feminine look. 

Green Amethyst Loops

Maybe you are a little unconventional- small gold loops with gleaming green amethyst set the mood! These earrings are lightweight, minimal yet breathtakingly ethereal. You can gift this handcrafted artisan jewelry to any woman born in February and make her smile (order a pair for yourself too).

 Modern Edge Amethyst & Labradorite Earrings

The moody colors of our Modern Edge Amethyst and Labradorite earring repeatedly win our customers over. This is  a "must have" for anyone who loves their birthstone. With contemporary styling and oxidized silver, this pair of dangling amethyst earrings may also enhance your insight. An added bonus- labradorite is a highly protective stone. It is a Unique gift option for anyone who was born in February.

Aquamarine Diamond Princess Ring

If you have been looking for something sparkly and beautifully handcrafted, the Aquamarine and Diamond Princess ring is the ring for you. This will become an heirloom piece to hand down, but enjoy it for now!

Aquamarine and White Topaz Inspiration Ring 

The Aquamarine and White Topaz Inspiration Ring is dramatic and is the most glamorous ring in our collection. It is handcrafted with love in a very limited edition. On each side is a trio of stones set with white topaz.

Om and Aquamarine Charm Necklace

The delicate vermeil charm, freshwater pearl and aquamarine stone makes this necklace a thoughtful and memorable gift for anyone whose birthday is coming in March- but order any birthstone you would like! Customization is our pleasure.

Designer jewelry is delivered to you by designer Pam Older who is always striving to do something unique! We love doing custom jewelry too- come see us in our Newburyport, MA shop!

Let us know which piece you love best! All these pieces are exclusively designed by Pam Older Designs. 

" Pamela Older of Pam Older Designs in Newburyport says diamonds are still in high demand, but her young clients now ask for assurances that they have been ethically sourced. Some of Older’s custom rings possess a nontraditional whimsy, starring the likes of moonstone and sapphire, but she’s also seeing shifts within the classic category.

“I see a resurgence of yellow gold and simple solitaire styles with personal details like engraving,” she says."

Photo is courtesy of Derreick Feole Photographer and sax player extrordinaire! Also the owner of this pretty ring.

The Summer is over and I have to say it was a great one. The weather was late in arriving but then delivered and the weeks in September have been glorious.

We have been trying out some new things and I wanted to thank our new wholesale customers who are finding us on Faire! Faire is a website for shops and galleries who are looking for unique handmade items. It is a wonderful concept that will help designers like me who find it hard to reach these customers without doing trade shows. 

If you know a shop that would like to look at my line of jewelry just send them this link and have them sign up for Faire! There are great incentives for them to sign up- a generous credit for their first time order and free shipping for a year. In addition many vendors offer a promotional selections.

Have a wonderful Fall and think about a trip up to Newburyport for a visit!

Creativity knows no bounds. Above is a pair of custom earrings we designed to set a clients diamonds into.

A pair of earrings can be made into two pendants, a gold chain or stone can be made into a bracelet or maybe we are able to melt down old gold rings and turn it it not a constellation charm set with diamonds or your own birth stone. Below is a custom silver ring with a gold bezel and a piece of treasured sea glass.

In this day and age recycling makes sense so come in to our shop (or call me) and we can help you discover a beautiful way to bring the past into the future! Custom jewelry is our favorite activity at Pam Older Designs, Newburyport, MA. 

We do it for clients all over the world.

Call us at 978-358-8352 or email us at pamolder@mac.com.

Getting Here & Places to Stay

❖ You are 1 hour from Logan International Airport or use the popular C & J Coach line for a relaxing trip (with wi-fi) from the airport, Boston, New York, Portsmouth & other points north and south. It is a stress free way to travel into Newburyport and to Boston for a day of sight seeing. A car will help you explore the towns and rural areas of Amesbury, Newbury, Ipswich and Essex & farther north to historical Portsmouth and “foodie haven” Portland, ME.

❖ Enterprise Car rental has an office in Newburyport at the Route 1 rotary that you might find helpful.

❖ Where you stay in Newburyport is not that important since the town is small & accessible by foot. Most of its stores and restaurants are concentrated downtown, a few blocks east at the Tannery and on Merrimac Street. And a few farther out from the downtown area, but still walkable.

❖ Adjacent Plum Island is a barrier island located 3 miles from downtown. It has a couple of fun restaurants, a nature reservation that is great for bird watching and miles and miles of sandy beach. A new ice cream stand and Bob’s Lobster is on the way for delicious fried clams and more!

❖ Boutique Hotels like Blue (on Plum Island) and downtown’s Garrison Inn are two upscale places that are filled with charm and ambiance. Garrison Inn is located on a grassy square that is very historical. Essex St. Inn is more basic but comfortable and is located one block from State St. Also check out booking.com & airb&b for other places to stay.

❖ A rental house on Plum Island is a wonderful option- but avoid July when the Greenhead flies are biting for almost the entire month. Locals just skip the beach and head north to the Hampton beaches to avoid these pests. Stay in town in July.

❖ A day trip to Portsmouth or Portland ME are easy and worth the ride. Portland, ME is a foodie paradise as is Kittery Foreside in Kittery ME, only 30 mins for Newburyport and well worth the ride!

❖ Another outstanding day trip is up to Cape Neddick for lunch or dinner or their spa at the Cliff House. Ogunquit is also a nice day trip.

Eating

❖ Start the day with a walk around our beautiful town and grab coffee at Commune (along with their excellent crepes). Commune is also open at night and features live music on weekends. Tiny Souffles on Merrimac St or Chococoa (home of homemade whoopee pies- even gluten free!) in the Tannery, Bldg.#1 both have great coffee and pastries.

❖ My favorite place for coffee is Plum Island Coffee Roasters located behind my shop (42 Merrimac St) on the Merrimac river. Enjoy it sitting with locals facing the Merrimac River with the perfect view of the docks and Rings Island. In the Winter they usually ave a nice fireplace roaring.

❖ On Pleasant St you have Grand Trunk for wines cheeses and cured meats and nice gifts. Grab some goodies then have a picnic in Waterfront Park, Maudsley State Park or the beach.

❖Bakery and Bread your thing? Anna Rosa Bakery on Rt 110 in Salisbury is not to be missed. Italian and French influenced with organic flour and expert bakers. They bake everything there in a special oven using whole grain flours from VT. Sweets too- beyond what you would expect to find in this strip mall. Cookies, cakes, pizzas- it is all wonderful.

❖One of my favorite dinners is a glass of Prosecco with oysters & grilled swordfish at Plum Island Grille. Get there before sundown. A back booth in the bar room is yours of you can get there before 5:30 or have a drink on the deck with the locals and enjoy the fantastic view of the marshes at sunset! Food is consistently tasty!

❖A more casual choice is Bob Lobster on the turnpike connecting NBPT to Plum Island. Lobster in the rough with great chowder and fried seafood too. You can buy fresh fish, fish pies & chowder there for special take out.

❖If you are cooking at home also consider David’s Fish Market on Rt. 1 (10 mins from town- cash only) and FISH across from that Tannery for great fish, shrimp, oysters and lobster.

❖Loretta is one of my favorite Newburyport’ restaurants. There is something for everyone there- ranging from delicious shrimp scampi over linguini, a burger or a pastrami sandwich! Sit at the bar and enjoy the local ambiance and their delicious Grilled Romaine Salad! Tell the owner Ted I sent you!

❖ My favorite coffee place is Plum Island Coffee Roasters located behind my shop on the Merrimac river. Enjoy a latte sitting facing the Merrimac River with the perfect view of the docks and Rings Island.

❖ If you want an all American Breakfast try Angie’s on Pleasant Street, but my favorite breakfast or lunch is a an outside or communal table at Joppa Fine Foods at the Tannery where you can try their delectable breakfast sandwich or a variety of avocado toasts. They also carry soups, salads, wine, gourmet ice cream, chocolate and cheeses from all over the world - good baguettes too! Grab some goodies then have a picnic in Waterfront Park, Maudsley State Park or the beach.

❖ Two other very good breakfast spots- off the beaten path are Pat’s Diner in Salisbury on rt 110 Bridge St. over the Gillis Bridge(1Open breakfast and lunch only.)

❖ FM Station at the Rotary on Rt 1 South. FM also has a limited Brazilian menu that is delicious. Open breakfast and lunch only.

❖ One of my favorite dinners is champagne or Prosecco, oysters & grilled swordfish at Plum Island Grille. Get there before sundown and sit in the bar room. Reserve a back booth, get there early and have a drink on the deck with the locals and enjoy the fantastic view of the marshes at sunset!

❖ A more casual choice is Bob Lobster on the turnpike connecting NBPT to Plum Island. Lobster in the rough with great chowder and fried seafood too. You can buy fresh fish & chowder there too.

❖ If you are cooking at home also consider David’s Fish Market on Rt. 1 (10 mins from town- cash only) and FISH across from that Tannery for great fish, shrimp, oysters and lobster.

❖ The Deck and Portside restaurants are great places to view Newburyport’s skyline! Go over the Gillis bridge on Rt 1 - you can walk it too! Portside is quieter than the deck. Valet parking is necessary due to the shortage of spaces but don’t let that discourage you.

❖ We have great Pizza in Newburyport! My favorite is Anchor Pizza- ask for it crispy- it always tastes better when the cheese is brown and bubbly! No atmosphere - great pizza. Stone Crust- on Pleasant Street, and their California and Greek salads and Patty Melt are also big and delicious. The ambiance is “fast food”- but clean and new. On Pleasant St.

❖ Take out at Otto’s is gourmet pizza. Located in Leary’s liquor shop is pizza and a fantastic Cheese and gourmet shop. It’s one stop shopping for a party. Located on Merrimac St. Going north out of town or they deliver.

❖ The old time town people hang out at informal Park lunch for good fried fish and clams, comfort food and a local bar scene.

❖ The Grog is an institution in NBPT. Everything from burgers to Ahi Tuna. Sit at the bar for the best experience. They also have music, check their schedule online.

❖ I love the atmosphere of Brine on State street. Portions are small and it is expensive but the food is well curated. It’s trendy in a good way. Fresh oysters are available all the time. Same thing with its sister restaurant Ceia across the street where you can get things that are a bit different from normal Newburyport fare.

❖ For the best views for lunch or dinner go across the river on Rt 1 and view beautiful NBPT from across the river. The Deck and Portside offer good drinks and food. The deck gets busy & valet parking is a nuisance but worth the outside dining & the view for lunch, drinks or dinner.

❖ For the best Thai food- try a little hole in the wall on 110 in Salisbury try Mali's Thai Zap. It is the authentic & great for takeout.

❖ One of the most wonderful establishments is Middle Street Foods- just 2 blocks off State St. on Middle Street. Homemade breads and pastries, great salads and sandwiches, things to go too. Very casual New England style. Closed Sundays.

❖ Try the view in back of Sea Level or sit in front and people watch. Lovely place to see the water obstructed only by a beautiful green lawn. Oysters and seafood, but something for everyone.

❖ For a fun dinner or lunch go across the river on Rt 100 and view beautiful NBPT from across the river. The Deck and Portside offer good drinks and lunch and dinner. The deck gets busy and valet parking is a nuisance but it’s worth the outside dining and the view on a nice night.

Shopping

❖ I love a little stretch of shops that begins with my shop- Pam Older Designs (at 42 Merrimac St. corner of Green Street). I will welcome you with lots more info on my favorite spots in Newburyport & you can see my jewelry! Pam Older Designs started in NY in 2004 out of my home & is now represented by galleries and shops in the USA & carried by the Sundance and the Peruvian Connection Catalogs. Most of my pieces are crafted in the shop. You will find us hard at work making jewelry or designing custom engagement rings, restoring old jewelry. There is something for everyone here! For a preview, see www.pamolderdesigns.com.

❖ Continue North to the luxury spa & hair salon called Interlocks, with a vast collection of beautiful lingerie, and fantastic cosmetics & bath & skin care products. They have a complete spa & midi-spa with world class treatments.

❖ Next door to Interlocks is Sage, a California inspired plant & home decor shop. They also offer interior design & styling for your patio and home. Great gifts and plants that will appeal to your modern sensibility.

❖ The Tannery has a Farmers Market on Most Sundays from 10-1pm. Fig Tree (also on Liberty St.) serves great breakfast treats, there are flowers and local produce, scarves and gifts, locally produced smoked meats & fish, and a great guacamole stand! There is also an Ukraine vendor serving her native home cooked items. All worth a try! Something new all the time with music and fun for everyone. Grab a table and have breakfast or lunch.

❖ While you are visiting the Tannery visit owner Pat and floral designer Lisa at Beach Plum Flower Shop. Inside you will also fine local treasure Piper & Chloe decor & gifts and a gourmet chocolate shop. The flowers at Beach Plum (real and silks) are very special as is the chocolate! Put together a gift basket and bring it home!

❖ Across the way at the Tannery is Port Plums Olive Oil with a wide offering of fine olive oils and balsamic vinegars, cook wear & things for the cook. They also offer classes that are a MUST for your visit. Meet the locals! Karen & her daughter Katie are the mother-daughter proprietors and they do an awesome job.

❖ Nauti Pearl on State has great brands and moderate prices. All the stuff you need to go out in Newburyport & back home!

❖ Amy Williams on Pleasant St. is the place to go for the coolest bags by Jack Gomme & classic clothing that is on the luxury preppy side. For men & young men try Farleys on State Street. Classic well made clothing & a mainstay of Newburyport.

❖ Inspired by California’s surf culture, Vaalbara Designs specializes in unique, vibrant and environmentally conscious bags handcrafted in the USA.`

❖ Valeries Gallery on State St. is well curated with jewelry and art and glass. Also Paula Esty Gallery on Harris St. has wonderful art and events. Call for a schedule. The Newburyport Art Assoc. across from the Tannery always has nice exhibits and an outdoor sculpture garden.

❖ For the best gifts to bring home- get NBPT and Plum Islands sweat shirts for everyone at Richdales (and a .25 hot dog too while you are there).They are colorful and cheap! A good convenience store that includes a Dunkin Donuts.

❖ Marshalls on Storey Ave. is where the locals shop. It happens to be well stocked & good finds are there to be discovered.

❖ We recently discovered the Trading Post in Kittery, ME (outlet section) for shoes and sportswear, work out stuff and even dresses and swimsuits. Extensive collection for men, women and children. All the sports & walking shoes, flip flops and sneaks you could wish for. Probably the closest “Department Store” near by. The Barbour Outlet, Tumi, Lucky Brand, Eileen Fisher, Crate and Barrel, Clark, Coach outlets are all on the strip. If you get a rainy day & love to shop this will be up your alley.

❖ Vintage Chic (Pleasant ST.), Mill 77 (Scotland Rd- out of town in the industrial Park) & Coastal Finds Marketplace (Rt 1 over the Bridge toward Salisbury) are all great vintage & gift shops for eclectic browsing.

Parks & Farms

❖ Waterfront Park on the river in the center of town is home of many outdoor concerts. It is also part of Newburyport’s rail trail that circles the town and is great for walking, jogging or cycling. You can’t cycle on the boardwalk but you can walk your bike till you get out of the congested area.

❖ Maudsley State Park is home for dog walkers and nature enthusiasts. It is also the Summer home for music and theater. Find the Italian Rose Garden!

❖ The Reservation on Plum Island is on the South side of the Island. It is beautiful natural beach with the protected plovers. You will have plenty of sand to yourself, especially if the farthest parking lots are open- ask the Park Ranger.

❖ On your way out to Plum Island you will find the Parker River Nature Reserve and the abandoned Pink House a favorite muse of artists. Locals are banding together to save it. It is across from Bob Lobster which, at sunset, has one of the prettiest views- bring your cameras).

❖ Other parks are Joppa Flats on the river, Hale Park a tiny pocket park, Cashman Park on the river with tennis court a walking trail & baseball field. Moseley Woods has wooded trails and views of the Merrimac River, a playground and a covered pavilion for a picnic looking over the river. Dog friendly- off leash allowed.

❖ Tendercrop Farm is a draw for families with its petting zoo and fields of flowers. Shop for local produce, excellent chicken & meats. It is located on historic RT. 1A (otherwise known as High Street going east toward Rowley). Pies and baked goods, flowers and plants are also sold there. Upstairs is a gift shop. Don’t miss it.

❖ Everyone loves the beautiful Cider Hill Farms in neighboring Amesbury famous for their pies and cider donuts. Take the kids. Nice views and berry picking! Fresh corn in season.

❖ In Kensington NH you will find another farm stand and restaurant owned by neighboring Alnoba, an art park and event center. Check for their event schedule, is not far out of town and walking the art park at Alnoba is fun.

❖ Sunflowers are in full bloom at Colby Farm on Scotland Rd. It is a huge installation usually at the end of August.

Craft Beer/Wine

❖ There are many local breweries that deserve your attention.

❖ Newburyport: Brewing Company, River Walk Brewing

❖ Amesbury: Craft Beer Cellar, Brewery Silvaticus, Bare Wolf Brewing

❖ Hampton: Smuttynose Brewing Company

❖ Mill River Winery, a delightful small stop just few miles south on Rt.1, 498 Newburyport Tpke.

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We will have Amy Brnger's lovely smaller works in the shop. Amy is a well known Portsmouth painter with an amazing range of talent. We are featuring her flower paintings to celebrate Mother's Day and Spring. 

We also carry her beautiful postcards in the shop along with our own handcrafted jewelry.

Come meet Amy from 1-5pm. Refreshments will be served. Pam Older Designs is located at 42 Merrimac Street. Call the shop at 978-358-8352 for more information.

Everything is ombre this year, clothing, home decorations and hair! So naturally we were inspired to design an ombre necklace with shades of pink and purple in natural stones. This one is ready to go in Pink Tourmaline and Amethyst. We can make it 14k gold too! Just ask-we have a full shop but will always make up a piece that you might be dreaming of. We have a talented team that is ready to please you! It's under $200.00 so it will fit your budget and still have something left over for flowers!

While you are at it look at this Tourmaline ring! It is the sweetest ring we know and sure to be a keepsake. Tourmaline comes in every color and this shade has to be seen in person to appreciate! We also make this delicate ring in aquamarine and morganite, some in white gold.

Our Daydream Rainbow Moonstone Silver earrings are pure simplicity, but so lovely- anyone of any age would be attracted to  these handmade delights? Smooth white moonstones reflect and flash to make you feel like a snow queen! We lightly hammered the silver tear drop hoops to add light texture and style. We think the effect is mesmerizing!

Ok you really want to splurge and show someone just HOW special they are! Here's our favorite Morganite Woven Band ring with a sprinkling of flush set diamonds in the bands. Sizing it will take at least a week so please hurry in if you want to snag this one from our shop. Otherwise allow 4-6 weeks and we can always customize one for you. We recently did one in silver with Ameythst.

Aquamarine is everyone's favorite stone and we have a pretty one waiting for you! This pretty ring can be an engagement ring that won't break the bank!  Ands it's just lovely. 

Happy Valentine's Day From Our Team at Pam Older Designs! We have gifts that start at 38.00 so you can be sure you find handcrafted  jewelry at your budget and not sacrifice quality, style or beauty.

Here is some diamond jewelry to lust after. Our Fleur de Lis and diamond circle charm necklace is one of our favorite. We carry a collection of earrings and bracelets to go with these necklaces.   

Something exotic and new in our shop are our handmade 18k gold, ruby and diamond rings. Stack them or wear one as a delicate statement ring. They are $385.00 each.

Our sparkly Aquamarine ring, with six side diamonds is ready to walk out the door with you! Makes a beautiful alternative engagement ring too! Custom engagement rings are always an option too! we specialize in making things that are unique.

Our exquisitly made silver and diamond cuff is something for an individual who likes BOLD jewelry. The handmade cuff is made with an elegant hidden hinge designed to take on and off easily. It is a piece that is truly unique and wonderful.

Happy Holidays to all and a healthy and joyous New Year!  We are grateful for our fans and followers!