Atlanta - March 10, 2008

Made in India

Bombay Gal Jewelry

Mystery rashes. Jet lag. Cell bills that could fund a PhD. Tripping the moonlight fantastic halfway around the world is cool and all, but living the life vicarious sure is easier.

Especially if you’re living through Shahnaz Hughson, the globetrotting local designer who sources from Rajasthan, Bali, and North Africa to create jewelry line Bombay Gal Designs.

The bold, ethnic pieces are just as at home with a white tee as they might be on safari. No wonder: Hughson hunts down Massai glass temple beads; laced copper disks; and wooden bracelets with delicate, ornamental pin closures on frequent travels overseas.

She keeps a stock of raw materials — polished horns, silver breast plates, coral and turquoise nibs — and takes custom orders at her cozy downtown shop.

Plus, the half tank of gas to get there beats the hell out of transatlantic airfare any day.

Bombay Gal Boutique, 238 Auburn Avenue, Sweet Auburn District (404-399-7224 or bombay-gal.com).

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