New Kid on the Block: Nirvana International

July 23, 2010 Arts & Culture, Shopping

Amit Sharma spent 11 years working in the Diamond District, specializing in cut diamonds. “Five years ago, I started designing jewelry because clients asked me to,” he says. Realizing he needed to learn more, he enrolled at FIT. But more change was on its way: “I had always liked art, but I thought, No, jewelry is my field.” About three years ago, he leaped over that mental hurdle and began selling art. Now, he has opened a gallery, Nirvana International, on West Broadway. Unlike the many galleries that have no use for all the space in the middle of the room, Nirvana has cases displaying fine jewelry.

Why Tribeca? “I needed to be someplace where I can see people who relate to what I do,” explains Sharma, who lives in South Harlem with his wife—a director of visuals at Saks Fifth Avenue—and their daughter (another is on the way). He looked at Soho and Tribeca, and he couldn’t be happier with his choice. “It’s been so great here!” he says. “Interesting people walk in, and they understand art.”

The art at Nirvana ranges from antique to contemporary. When Sharma says that his wife collects contemporary American, European, and Indian art, I ask if she has any input on what he sells in the gallery. “No, she has no role in Nirvana,” he says. “Formally, anyway.”

Nirvana International is at 246 W. Broadway (between N. Moore and Beach); 212-789-9001, nirvanaintl.com.

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3 Comments

  1. Farrah A. Beckham Brown
    July 25, 2010 • 7:06 am

    While living in Houston, TX my husband purchased my engagement and wedding band from Nirvana International Inc. in 2008. Despite geography, Amit was able to work with him over the phone and through email to select the most perfect ring for my individualized style. We could not be happier with one of the most significant and treasured purchases in a couples life time.

    We wish you all the best in your new adventure in business and in life. We our looking forward to our next visit to NYC and your gallery.

    Matt and Farrah Brown

  2. Stacie Kinley
    July 28, 2010 • 10:08 am

    I am always impressed with Amit Sharma’s beautiful, unique designs. Here is wishing him all the best in his new Tribeca location. The store looks great and I can’t wait to see it in person soon.

  3. Michelle
    April 2, 2011 • 4:31 pm

    I live in the area and always walk by Nirvana International on my way home. It’s an adorable boutique and their jewelry and art are equally amazing. The sales staff is kind and extremely knowledgeable and I will definitely be buying my next piece of jewelry here!