Amy Heilberg
Occupation: Owner AH Jewels, Vintage and Contemporary Fine Jewelry and mother of two.
Current Residence: Water Mill
KDHamptons: How long have you been coming to the Hamptons and why do you love it so much?
Amy: I have been coming out to the Hamptons most of my life; my childhood was spent vacationing in Montauk. I am most at peace near the ocean, which I find healing to the NYC stresses as well as an inspirational time to sit & create. Farm fresh food, fabulous restaurants, beautiful sunsets, bike rides, and bonfires on the beach all make for wonderful memories.
KDHamptons: Can you describe how you got into the jewelry business and your vision?
Amy: I am a woman who is a dreamer, a traveler, and a people lover! For ten years, I have been creating and curating jewelry for people I love. I have been fortunate to have rich experiences, and my soul is moved by my adventures, encounters, and discoveries in life. I got the “jewelry bug” at a young age as I traveled with my family and always had an appreciation for all types of design and “beautiful things”. After spending 5 years in Hong Kong I was hooked, whether it was fine tailoring of clothes or highest craftsmanship of jewelry.
KDHamptons: When did you launch your line?
Amy: Upon returning to New York in 2000, I began to work with fun semi-precious stones and building slowly into more important contemporary pieces and acquiring vintage jewelry. My obsession is the attention to detail and labor found in vintage jewelry. I love to search for wonderful gems and find the perfect piece for my clients. My own designs are inspired to fill the voids in the markets of “go-to” wearable items. I love simplicity, as well as the unexpected jolt of a mixture of whimsy with tailored style. I like to do the opposite of what is expected. Season after season, I enrich the vocabulary of my collections.
KDHamptons: How do you typically work with clients who want to build a beautiful collection of baubles?
Amy: My clientele include those looking for the “one off” occasional purchase, as well as those looking to curate full jewelry collections. Many clients have been with me for years, so I know what is currently in their jewelry drawer and can forward information when pieces become available that may work with their current collection.
KDHamptons: Do you have a summer mantra?
Amy: Stay true to yourself. The more I remain positive, the more blessings I see in my life.
KDHamptons: What is your favorite Hamptons hangout or restaurant?
Amy: I can probably be found daily at Hampton Coffee Company with my kids! Probably multiple times a day. Tutto Giorno, or Sunset Beach on Shelter Island tend to be a great date night with hubbie, friends or family! Always a great meal in a great atmosphere.
KDHamptons: Describe your perfect Hamptons day in detail?
Amy: My perfect day includes an early morning walk on the beach with my cockapoo, Cookie Dough, followed by my almost daily breakfast at The Hampton Coffee Shop. I found a great new exercise program SLT for Pilates lovers like me, but this is Pilates on steroids. Day free of any paperwork or work related calls, afternoon beach with the kids and friends or tubing in Sag Harbor, home BBQ with fresh local Hampton produce with family/friends or wonderful girls nights out full of Rosé and laughter. Our girlfriends do feed our souls and summer is also a nice time for a double dose as city life lends us to be running in circles. But a great date night with my husband at Sunset Beach pretty awesome too!
KDHamptons: Where can KDHamptons readers find out more about your jewelry collection?
Amy: Coming in Fall 2013, clients will be able to “Shop by Appointment” with me at 39 East 78th Street, New York City, or visit www.ahjewels.com