G Marie Luxuries in Virginia Beach, VA, stands out as a premier destination for fine jewelry, earning its reputation as one of America's Coolest Jewelry Stores. Under the visionary leadership of owner Gale Marie and manager Carla Carter, this 1,900-square-foot establishment has been transformed into an immersive, gallery-style salon. Every element of the store, from its ocean-inspired custom carpeting made from recycled fishing nets to its carefully selected mid-century chandeliers and original artworks, contributes to an atmosphere of refined elegance. The curated jewelry collection is presented as a diverse banquet, embodying Marie's philosophy that "every flavor is valid," ensuring a unique and personalized experience for every visitor. This blend of exquisite design, thoughtful curation, and dedicated customer service truly sets G Marie Luxuries apart in the retail landscape.
The store's exterior, adorned with striking blue metal awnings and window graphics, immediately signals its unique identity, showcasing renowned designers such as Single Stone, Sethi Couture, and Fope. This deliberate choice positions G Marie Luxuries not as a transient mall stop, but as a sought-after destination where clients intentionally seek out a personalized shopping experience. This approach allows the team to provide undivided, one-on-one attention, free from the typical distractions and rush of conventional retail. Inside, the design narrative continues with custom carpet, echoing satellite images of the world’s oceans, establishing a soothing palette of blues and golds that subtly reflects the interplay of sea and sunlight, precious gemstones, and metals. The spacious, open layout is an explicit invitation for clients to relax and linger, as Marie herself encourages, "Take off your jacket and stay a while."
Throughout the salon, thoughtful details enhance the luxurious and engaging environment. Two plush blue velvet stools invite clients to sit at a solid walnut counter, one of several bespoke pieces crafted by a local cabinetmaker. Overhead, illuminated glass panels cast a gentle glow, contributing to the warm lighting and layered textures that define the space. These elements are meticulously arranged to encourage a slower, more deliberate engagement with the jewelry, fostering an experience where clients can truly appreciate each piece. Seating areas feature crystal chandeliers, gilded oval mirrors, and upholstered wing chairs, creating intimate settings. Marie's discerning eye is evident in her selection of mid-century German chandeliers, sourced from European hotels via 1stDibs, adding a vintage charm that has been lauded by judges for its unique touch.
European shagreen desks introduce a rich tactile quality, inviting clients to sit, layer, and compare pieces at their leisure. Blue-backed wall niches, elegantly trimmed in gold, display sculptural pieces, reinforcing the gallery aesthetic and Marie’s belief that the jewelry offered at G Marie Luxuries is wearable art. The salon also features a rotating collection of paintings by artists such as Evelyn Hamilton and Jon Kuhn, seamlessly integrated throughout the space, a testament to Marie's background as the owner of Kane Marie, an art gallery specializing in glass art and jewelry. This artistic sensibility pervades the store, making every visit a journey through a curated exhibition of beauty and craftsmanship. The distinct zones within the store cater to varied preferences, with one side featuring "bread and butter" pieces for everyday wear, and the other showcasing high-end jewelry and valuable gems, offering clients a spectrum from "basic to extraordinary."
Gale Marie's personal philosophy deeply influences the store's selection. She gravitates towards unusual, one-of-a-kind, and highly artistic pieces, prioritizing aesthetic appeal and emotional connection over mere carat weight. This approach is exemplified by an exquisite 18-karat white gold ring featuring a blue star sapphire encircled by diamonds and violet sapphires. Marie embarked on this venture at 69, after successful careers in art and real estate, driven by a desire for a new purpose that would engage and enchant her. Her vision is brought to life by manager Carla Carter, a GIA-certified gemologist and appraiser, who expertly manages buying, inventory, marketing, and operations. Carter, who previously worked with Marie at her art gallery, is described by Marie as "the heart and soul" of G Marie Luxuries, instrumental in actualizing the owner's creative concepts.
The store actively encourages an interactive and immersive experience, often bringing out entire collections for clients to explore how designs harmonize, rather than presenting pieces one at a time. This allows clients to "eat with their eyes first," followed by the crucial tactile engagement—"Once you touch it… that's what matters." In-store events are also a cornerstone of their client engagement strategy, ranging from book signings with authors like Linda Kozloff-Turner to visits from jewelry artists and meditation sessions. These "out of the box" events, as Carter describes them, foster a community atmosphere. The store's marketing primarily thrives on word-of-mouth referrals, cultivating a sense of personal connection and trust. This holistic approach ensures that G Marie Luxuries is not just a place to buy jewelry, but a destination for unique experiences, artistic discovery, and personalized luxury.