If you’re looking for some one-of-a-kind items for that special someone in your life — and especially that special someone who likes jewelry — then pop over to Polk Museum of Art during your lunch break on Thursday, November 19. The Museum is hosting its annual Gems & Jewels Artist Market from 10am – 4pm, and seven regional jewelry and wearables artists will have their work on display for sale.

Gems & Jewels is an opportunity to buy jewelry, scarves, bags, and fashion accessories. This year’s artists are Mary Bassham, Leslie Belcher, Autumn Defrank, Zenia Lis, Vicky Luffman, Punam Saxena, and Anisa Stewart.

Mary Bassham uses freshwater pearls and gemstones to create handmade silver and gold necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. She uses lost wax casting to create wearable art.

Leslie Belcher uses glass to make contemporary jewelry designs. She draws inspiration from nature and uses gemstones, pearls, copper, sterling silver, and other fine material to enhance the jewelry.

Autumn DeFrank is a custom jeweler from Bradenton, Florida, who gets her inspiration from the sea. The pieces are unique in their designs, and often depict fish, mermaids, alligators, cranes, and other Florida creatures.

Zenia Lis has been making jewelry for nearly ten years and creates unique silver pieces accented with handpicked gemstones. She has showcased her artwork throughout Ohio and Michigan.

Vicky Luffman is a silk painter who creates beautiful handpainted silk scarves and wall hangings.

Anisa Stewart jewelry is crafted from hand carved wax and cast into 14K gold and tarnish free silver. Each piece is set with precious and semi-precious stones.

Punam Saxena specializes in hand-made jewelry, handbags, and fashion accessories.

Gems & Jewels Artist Market will be held on November 19, 10am – 4pm, and admission is free. Polk Museum of Art’s annual Holiday Luncheon is also held on that day, but visitors do not have to purchase a ticket for the luncheon in order to shop at Gems & Jewels. Reservations are required for the Holiday Luncheon and may be acquired by calling 863-688-7743 x240.