Boston - November 07, 2005

Rocks of Ages

Shreve, Crump & Low Reopens

Writer Anna Quindlen has observed that there are three stages in the life of women: pre-babe, babe, and post-babe.

But every once in a great while, a post- turns pre-, without scary surgery or pathetic attempts to look like someone half her age.

Shreve, Crump & Low is the biggest diva of Boston shopping. Founded in 1796, it’s sold baubles to everyone from Brahmins to Red Sox. But the once-fusty, cramped store reopens this week in F.A.O. Schwarz’s old digs — and it’s got a new lease on life.

The sparkling, 22,000-square-foot space has plenty of room for new lines like Janet Mavec, Temple St. Clair, and McTeigue & McClelland (not to mention a custom, two-story installation of Steuben glass). As for those classic Shreve trinkets — sterling Make Way for Ducklings frames, gurgling cod pitchers, timeless timepieces — they’re still there, but with more display area. Not to mention parking next door.

All gracious improvements befitting the oldest jewelry store in the country.

Finally. Someone who acts proud of her age.

Shreve, Crump & Low, 440 Boylston Street, at Berkeley Street (617-267-9100 or shrevecrumpandlow.com).