Hoffman Estates jeweler specializes in one-of-a-kind designs

Before he came to America in the 1980s, Janusz Goralski designed some of Europe's finest jewelry.

He created a silver rosary for Pope John Paul II. A Polish museum commissioned him to create several pieces made from amber, and his work has been featured in art books.

But then, while on a business trip in Italy in 1981, there was a solidarity uprising in Poland and Goralski was unable to return home. He ended up going to Austria, and sought political asylum in the U.S.

Once here, he embarked on a successful jewelry design career, producing pieces for large chains. In 2006, he opened his own jewelry design studio in Hoffman Estates.

Jjanusz Custom Jewelry, as it's called, specializes in one-of-a-kind pieces - such as an engagement ring with a blue gem to match the bride's eyes. But he's also an expert at converting old jewelry into new jewelry. Goralski melts the gold in-house, and passes the cost savings to the customer. He donates a portion of his sales to charity.

The studio is open by appointment only. For details, call (847) 975-4765 or visit www.jewelrybycustomdesign.com.

Store specials

• Donate old clothes to charity, and in exchange, you'll get a 20 percent off coupon that's good for everything - even cosmetics - at suburban Carson Pirie Scott stores. It's part of their annual Goodwill Sale, which runs from now through Tuesday, March 24. One coupon is given for each donated item.

• For every woman who goes for a bra fitting between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Friday, March 20. at Neiman Marcus in Oak Brook Center, Wacoal will donate $2 to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure breast cancer research charity. It will donate an additional $2 for every Wacoal bra, shapewear piece or b. tempt'd bra purchased.

- Jamie Sotonoff