Chicago - February 16, 2007

Bend It Like Bengtson

Amy Bengtson Jewelry

Being a trendster can be frustrating when your pals (and your pals’ pals) gank your finds. Imitation may be a form of flattery, but lately it’s more like highway robbery.

The best way to stop the copycats in their tracks? Birds. More specifically, Amy Bengtson’s fetching wood and mother-of-pearl bird necklaces.

Each of the tiny masterpieces is carved into rosewood, inlaid with an iridescent bird, then backed with a single piece of sterling silver. The inspiration for the unusual combo comes from Bengtson’s everyday surroundings: the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest (she lives in Seattle) and midcentury modern motifs (note her retro nods to sleek woods).

There are six different designs, so don’t be surprised if your friends take to the collection.

After all, birds of a feather flock together.

Available at Habit, 1951 West Division Street, at Damen Avenue (773-342-0093); online at amybengtson.com.