all photos: Emma McAlary

Don’t tell anyone this – but Valentine’s Day is this weekend. And sure you could go the expected route of flowers (some great winter suggestions here), chocolate (maybe from DC’s first fully fledgled chocolate factory), Making-A-Murderer VDay cards (those exist) and standing in line for Rose’s Luxury in 7 degree weather. But you could also get that special someone a super cool, DC area designed and made piece of jewelry.

To help you select something for those you love (and that includes yourself), we handpicked some of our favorite area makers and pitted them against flowers. We think they won. And while there are some very special, extremely treasurable pieces you’ll find below, sometimes it is truly the thought that counts (and not money): pieces below go for as low as $21.

Fully shoppable list of sites is at the bottom of the article (including some great local retailers that carry them).

Obviously, we start with putting a ring on it.

>>>>>>>>>>>> Here is a Featured Event >>>>>>>>>>>>

Friday 08/18

Damon Wayans Jr. @ DC Improv

$25

You've seen Damon on the big screen -- "How to Be Single," "Let's Be Cops," "The Other Guys," and of course the unforgettable "Dance Flick.") You've seen him on the small screen, with his roles on "New Girl" and "Happy Endings." Now you get to see him on the DC Improv stage for the first time. Join us this summer for another great DCI debut as we continue to celebrate our 25th year in business.

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Tickets>>

>>>>>>>>>>>> Ok, back to the article! >>>>>>>>>>>>

Below: Silver Band, Mallory Shelter Jewelry, Black Onyx Ring-$135, Emma Marty; Pink Agate Ring – $135 Emma Marty; Silver Hand Cast rings – $95, UDOP Jewelry; Rhodochrosite Ring – $80, Emma Marty; Triangle Ring – $85, Emma Marty

And we continue with…. More rings? MORE rings.

In the pictures below: Pink Cobalto Calcite Ring, $182 – Rachel Pfeffer Designs; Heart Scratch Ring $72 – Rachel Pfeffer; Triple Onyx Ring $135 – Emma Marty

The Bar / Swiss Blue Topaz Ring -$85, Emma Marty; Flower of Hearts Ring – $25, Chris Bergman

The Knucks – $95, UDOP Jewelry

A bright, young and thingy mix of stepping up your every day accessory game.

Below: Flower heart pendant – $25, Chris Bergman; Woven Bangles – $21, Kicheko Goods; Handmade Pink Cloud Necklace – $65, Chris Bergman; Flying Amazonite Pendant – $112, Rachel Pfeffer.

You know what your jewelry game was missing? A healthy mix of Seinfeld references AND Stevie Nicks inspiration.

Below: Shmoopy necklace – $42, Rachel Pfeffer; Geometric Faceted Heart Pendant – $55, Chris Bergman

Below: Bronze textured amulet – $120, UDOP Jewelry; Hammered Disc Necklace – $115, Mallory Shelter Jewelry

You stud.

Below: Fang earrings, $45 UDOP Jewelry; Prism Topaz Studs, $72 – Rachel Pfeffer; Polymer diamond necklace – Chris Bergman;

A “thinking of you” pendant for any occasion (and any hashtag)

Nameplate pendants $25 – Chris Bergman

And, in case you couldn’t decide on any one thing, a charm necklace that has IT ALL.

Necklace, $325, Chris Bergman.

Shopping Guide:

• Emma Marty
• Rachel Pfeffer Designs
• Mallory Shelter Jewelry
• UDOP Jewelry by Whitney Staiger
• Chris Bergman Handmade Jewelry + Design
• Kicheko Goods

Great retailers to score locally made jewelry & accessories at:

• Salt & Sundry
• Redeem
• Stitch & Rivet
• Nomad Yard