Hidden, Inexpensive Bead Shop close to Cambridge, MA

While I was riding my vintage sixties bike on Mount Auburn St. in Watertown, MA, close to the Cambridge town line, I discovered a bead store called "Ancient Moon," located at 409 Mt. Auburn St. (Rt. 16). Inside, one can find an abundance of fresh-water pearls, beads, and other interesting stones and beading material mostly imported from Asia. The store is much less expensive than the more up-scale area Cambridge/Boston bead shops. It is worth the trip for the casual hobbyist or for serious bead-working artists like Joanne Wiren, who prefers shopping there to competitor stores in Cambridge. Ms. Wiren got into beading by accident, when stores like Bloomingdale's and J. Crew started spontaneously buying necklaces she made at home off of her neck. Her children suggested she start her own business, and after a bit of hesitation she through herself into it with a "Why not!" attitude. She is now showcased in over 70 upscale boutiques and stores and does international shows.

So the next time you have the urge to do some bead working, head on over to Watertown, and you won't regret it. The store is open 7 days a week, from 10:30 to 6:00. Please call 617-926-1887 for more information. http://www.ancientmoon.com/