Business Details
29 Years
experience
Your Trusted Jewelry Store in Bluffton, SC
Since 1997, High Tide Beads has been a trusted destination for gemstones, pearls, and handcrafted jewelry in the Lowcountry region. Our owner, Steve Mardell, brings decades of expertise in working with glass, precious metals, and natural stones to create unique wearable art. We specialize in transforming raw materials into custom-designed jewelry while maintaining a strong commitment to preserving heirloom pieces through meticulous repair services. Our relocation to historic Bluffton allows us to continue serving both longtime collectors and new customers with personalized attention. Our inventory features an extensive selection of beads and semi-precious gemstones sourced globally, complemented by a distinctive collection of vintage and contemporary jewelry.Steve's hands-on approach ensures every repair and custom creation meets exacting standards, whether working with delicate antiques or modern designs. Our shop maintains a bench for on-site repairs, including traditional pearl knotting and stone replacement. We pride ourselves on helping clients select materials and designs that reflect their personal style while maintaining the integrity of their jewelry investments. Our 23-year legacy on Hilton Head Island demonstrates our dedication to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. We remain committed to evolving with our community while upholding the artisan values that have defined our business since inception.
Services
Jewelry Repair
Custom Jewelry Design
Handmade Jewelry
Vintage Jewelry Sales
Gemstone Sales
Pearl Sales
Bead Sales
Glass Bead Creation
Jewelry Restringing
Pearl Knotting
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- Over 23 years of experience in jewelry crafting and repair
- Custom design services tailored to your style
- Expert repair of vintage, antique, and modern jewelry
- Handmade and vintage jewelry collection from around the world
- Owner-operated shop with personalized service
Services
Jewelry Repair
Our expert repair services handle vintage, antique, and modern jewelry with precision. We specialize in pearl knotting, stone replacement, soldering, and restringing. Steve Mardell personally oversees all repairs using traditional techniques while maintaining the integrity of original pieces. Our on-site bench allows for direct consultation and quality control throughout the repair process.
Custom Jewelry Design
Transform raw materials into personalized jewelry through our custom design service. We collaborate with clients to select gemstones, pearls, and metals that match their vision. Steve Mardell crafts unique pieces from earrings to pendants, incorporating both contemporary and traditional elements. Our process ensures each creation reflects the wearer's individual style while maintaining structural integrity and wearability.
Gemstone Sales
We offer an extensive collection of semi-precious gemstones sourced globally. Our inventory includes both loose stones and finished pieces showcasing various cuts and colors. Customers can select materials for custom designs or add to existing collections. Each gemstone is carefully curated to meet quality standards while offering diverse options for different styles and budgets.
Handmade Jewelry
Our handmade collection features unique pieces created using traditional glassworking and metalcrafting techniques. Steve Mardell's signature glass beads capture Lowcountry tidal patterns, available as pendants in sterling silver or gold. The collection combines artistic expression with wearable functionality, offering both contemporary and vintage-inspired designs that showcase artisan craftsmanship.
Vintage Jewelry Sales
We curate a distinctive selection of vintage and antique jewelry spanning multiple eras. Each piece undergoes careful evaluation for authenticity and condition before being offered for sale. Our collection includes both wearable items and investment pieces, with documentation available for select items. Customers receive expert guidance on vintage jewelry care and maintenance with each purchase.
People
Steve Mardell
Owner
Steve Mardell has specialized in jewelry crafting and repair for over 23 years. He creates handmade glass beads and custom jewelry using traditional techniques. His expertise spans from delicate antique restoration to contemporary designs, maintaining a hands-on approach at the Bluffton shop since relocating from Hilton Head Island.
Questions
What jewelry repair services do you offer?
We provide pearl knotting, stone replacement, soldering, and restringing services. Steve Mardell personally handles specialty repairs for vintage, antique, and modern jewelry pieces.
Can you create custom jewelry designs?
Yes, we offer custom design services where we help select materials and create unique pieces like earrings, pendants, and knotted pearls based on your preferences.
What types of gemstones do you carry?
We offer a wide selection of semi-precious gemstones from around the world, including loose stones and finished jewelry pieces in various cuts and colors.
Where is your store located?
We're located at 52 Calhoun Street in historic Old Town Bluffton, South Carolina, following our 23-year presence on Hilton Head Island.
Do you sell handmade jewelry?
Yes, we create handmade glass beads that capture Lowcountry tidal patterns, available as pendants in sterling silver or gold wire settings.