how it all started
While founded in 2004, Alara's bio actually starts in the 1990s when founder Babs found herself starting over in Denver after years in Houston, with a vision to build a jewelry experience worth loving.
Alara Jewelry
Focused on Making
Jewelry Shopping Fun.
The "Alara concept" began in 1998 with a quiet conviction: that fine jewelry could be ethical, considered, and personal — but also a fun experience for guests. Babs had her own design work, plus a handful of designers she trusted, and the certainty that craft outlasts trend.
What started as one small gallery in Denver is now a destination gallery plus atelier in downtown Bozeman — over 80 designers, a circle of clients we now count as friends, and a Barbet named Ida Bijoux who oversees every appointment whether you booked her or not.
If you've come for an engagement, for a re‑setting of your grandmother's stone, or simply because you've heard there's a place out west that still does it by hand — you're in the right spot. Make yourself comfortable.
just a few of the feathers in our cap
Recognition by the
numbers.
80+ independent designers, each chosen for their craft and ethics
2010
Named #2 Coolest Jewelry in North America by InStore Magazine
2017
JCK #5 Top Retailer Of Designer Fine Jewelry in North America
2020–2025
Gallatin's Greatest Jeweler Bozeman Daily Chronicle
2021–2025
Best Jeweler & Best Custom Distinctly Montana
HERE'S A LITTLE TIMELINE OF OUR
Milestones & Awards
With a strong foundation in strategic leadership, I’ve led teams, streamlined operations, and driven meaningful growth across industries.
a few highlights along the way…
Experience
Shaped by Real-World Leadership and a Passion for Business growth
With a strong foundation in strategic leadership, I've led teams, streamlined operations, and driven meaningful growth across industries.
our symbol
THE GINKGO LEAF
Alara adopted the gingko leaf as its symbol in 2015. The gingko is a living fossil — a sign of rebirth, tenacity, and survival, in addition to having a beautiful form. The tremendous support of our wonderful community of friends and clients allowed us to survive, and then thrive. And then thrive some more… thank you for helping us grow.
Philanthropy
to the tune of over
10% of our profits.
We are part of something bigger than ourselves. A very important way we acknowledge that is through contributions to local-area nonprofits — to the tune of over 10% of our profits.
We donate silent auction items to any local-area 501(c)(3) organization that makes a request with at least four weeks heads-up. This approach is unusual and special — it far exceeds small business and industry standards. We also design jewelry items in collaboration with non-profits for on-going charitable fundraising.
Philanthropy
to the tune of over
10% of our profits.
On a micro-level, Alara supports Downtown Bozeman through every event — from Bridal Walk and Ladies' Night to the Cruisin' on Main Car Show. Babs has been president of the Downtown Bozeman Association since 2005.
Alara is also active in Prospera Business Network, Montana Women's Business Center, Sky Oro Women, and Women Who Wine (founded by Babs in 2006). Babs has been invited to speak at the nation's largest jewelry trade shows on topics including her grassroots efforts to eliminate child labor in the jewelry industry worldwide.
Since 2004
of Profits Donated
Since 2006
Nonprofits Supported
Since
DBA President
Since 2004
Orgs Founded / Led
A design-focused gallery.
Our collective sense of design encompasses many styles
“Ready to find your perfect piece? Let's talk.”
no McJewelry here.
Our Montana jewelry specialists offer free consultations — ring sizing, custom design, styling advice, or anything else. No pressure, just expertise.
