Ashley Shook, the owner and curator of Honeybee Fine Jewelry in Mountain Brook, developed a passion for fine jewelry — especially estate and estate-inspired pieces — while working for fashionable retailers in New York and Atlanta. She left traditional retail to raise her children, but Ashley never lost her love for jewelry.
She began dreaming of offering women a one-stop shop for classic, estate-inspired pieces with a modern twist, including rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. This was the origin of Ashley’s Honeybee Collection, which she named to symbolize light, joy, and natural beauty — the characteristics of the fine jewelry that she cherishes.
“Beautiful jewelry to me is timeless jewelry,” Ashley says. “Certain aspects I look for in jewelry are craftsmanship, design and the emotional ‘pull.’ I look for pieces that will last generations.”
Ashley launched Honeybee Collection as an online store in 2007, and in 2024 she opened Honeybee Fine Jewelry as a brick-and-mortar to showcase her Honeybee Collection as well as a wide variety of other fine jewelry.
“We designed the space to be cozy and inviting,” she says. “It’s like a little jewel box in Mountain Brook Village.”
Ashley’s shop is a unique retailer in the Birmingham area, in part because she carefully curates the selection. “I handpick every piece in my shop,” she says. “I offer a wide range of fine jewelry and services to appeal to all types of customers’ jewelry needs. From custom designing and building a customer’s engagement ring or updating an inherited piece of jewelry to offering a wide range of fine jewelry pieces and price points. We are excited to be carrying a collection of estate pieces as well.”
Honeybee Fine Jewelry also carries well-known jewelry designers, including Devon Woodhill, Vice Versa, Lauren Rubinski, and Campbell & Charlotte. “Stay tuned for more designers becoming a part of the Honeybee family,” Ashley says.
The Honeybee Collection is designed to accentuate the wardrobe of today’s woman with pieces that are classic and timeless, not trendy. The pieces blend platinum and gold with a mix of diamonds, precious stones, and semi-precious stones.
The collection simplifies accessorizing your everyday wardrobe with pieces that make you feel beautiful and confident. They are understated and versatile, and are meant to be enjoyed and worn every day. No more hiding away your fine jewelry in anticipation of a special occasion.
Ashley is also available to meet with customers looking to have custom pieces made. They can walk in or make an appointment. Whether your vision begins with an existing piece ofjewelry you wish to revive or from an original idea, she will bring your custom design to life.
Ashley will briefly educate you about precious metals and stones, and about gemstone sourcing, so that you’re able to participate in the design process and leave your personal touch on the final product.
