Arik Idan Wearable Art

I wear the amazing pearl ring I got here in 1999 at least 4 – 5 times a week. I remember walking by there when on holiday, seeing it in the window, and knowing if I walked in I’d buy it. Back then the dollar went really far against the loonie and I had already bought a suitcase to haul all my wonderful purchases home. But this stunner I couldn’t resist — a big sterling rose with a pearl in the center. It came with a matching tiara, which I didn’t buy, but sure wish I had. Next time I come to Toronto, I’m going back. The best craftsmanship. The best ring. Thank you Arik!

Humbled by the towering presence of the Eaton Centre to the South, and the Former Toronto Life white elephant to the East, the Atrium sits mostly undistubed on the North side of Yonge and Dundas.
You may know it as the site of the Pickle Barrel, the big Spring Rolls or the St. Louis wing joint if you’re a tourist.
If you work in the area, you probably know the foodcourt downstairs, the Timothy’s that’s never open when you desperately need a caffeine fix and can’t abide any of the nearby Starbuks lineups, or the little coffee shop that sells what may be the most underappreciated coffee in the city, along with really cheap bagel sandwiches, just before you enter the subway.
If you grew up in the city and celebrated Jewish Christmas, you know the Atrium best as the former home of Lichee Garden, where you’d go for dinner after visiting Santa and reminding him that he visits all good boys and girls.
The Atrium plays host to government offices first, a few consulting services second, and retail a distant third.
You may not know about a jewel of a fewelry shop in these corridors; midway through the main floor, mostly hidden out of view.
Arik Idan Wearable Art is a small, cluttered storefront. If you happen by their website, it’s equally small and cluttered. Stay and browse a while. Arik won’t mind.
A riot of gems in blazing colours, hand-​set in silver (a few gold pieces as well); often, historical details (and egyptian scarab here, some roman glass there) find their way into the pieces; set in gold swirls or blocky silver circuits.
The usual pre-​fab pieces are available as well. Prices are reasonable, but if he likes you he’ll deal. You’re better off with an original item; much better off if you ask him to custom design something. If you’re looking for something truly unique, you’ll find it here.
Service varies. Arik knows his stuff, and isn’t afraid to let you know he’s the expert. Wind him up and he’ll hold forth on the history of the gemstones you buy, the value of the coffee you drink or the reasons why you don’t understand international politics or law nearly as well as he does. Despite your BA in politics and your LL.B.
It’s all part of the charm. He’s a good guy, and it’s a good store.