Argento World of Silver
2nd Floor-Portage Place
203-393 Portage Avenue, 957-2424

When you’re walking through Portage Place, it’s hard not to notice the glittering sliver necklaces and earrings winking at you from Argento World of Silver. This elegant shop has called downtown home for 10 years (in fact it’s their 10th anniversary this February) and it’s a favourite with downtown crowds.

Owner Jeff McKay certainly didn’t start out in the jewellery business. He started out in wholesale meat then moved on to car repair, finally landing on importing jewellery from Mexico—the country where his wife hails from and where his in-laws also work in the biz.

“One of my favourite things about this business is that people are always so happy,” says Jeff. “No one is in a bad mood when they’re buying a gift or something beautiful for themselves.”

It’s that love of people that Jeff prides himself on. “I take care of my regulars. I treat them with respect and that’s why I get a lot of repeat business.”

His regulars include the downtown office crowd and Jeff even offers a 15 per cent discount to anyone that works downtown. Just let him know when you’re making your purchase.

Jeff’s jewellery collection is one that is classic and traditional, making his pieces perfect for gift giving. “I try not to carry anything too out there—I try to focus on pieces that are very wearable.”

But don’t let that fool you into thinking this is your run-of-the-mill jewellery. Beautiful coloured stones, unique settings and eye-catching designs are the hallmarks of the store. Jeff says he likes to deal in silver because it’s become very popular over the years, and it’s in a price point anyone can afford.

“My stuff ranges in price from $20 to $200 and that’s within reach for almost anyone,” Jeff says. And with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Argento is the perfect place to pick up something for your loved one.

Although most of Jeff’s jewellery used to come from Mexico, it now comes from all over the world including Italy, England, the US and Israel. He’s also just started carrying trendy Elle jewelry.

“I believe that having a lot of variety is important,” says Jeff. “We usually carry only one of everything. You need to offer people something new to look at all the time.”