Ridgefielders Just Back from Far East

How's this for an exotic twice-a-year, month-long trip: Thailand and Bali. 

That's where Pennyweights owners Geoff and Kelly Sigg just returned from on Friday—though the Ridgefield residents are there for more than a vacation break from their Elm Street business, Pennyweights, in New Canaan.

For the past 13 years, after hitting gem shows here early in the year, they pick out and purchase stones, then design jewelry and head to the Far East to work with artisans there—once in the spring for summer merchandise and again in the late summer for Christmas. 

"It's a very nice perk obviously to go to other side if earth and meet with indigenous people who are so incredibly talented," Geoff said Monday. "And it's incredible to me that everyone there has a hand in everything around them."

The Siggs also buy some jewelry that's already made. 

Pictures here are some items they've just returned with, all sterling silver: clockwise from top left, paua bracelet with hammered silver finish; cuff with a woven design; foil finish turquoise cuff with a vermeil bezel; and matching rings for each. 

It's all for sale at their shop, Pennyweights. Read more about the shop's recent renovations here.