A New Chapter for Cape Cod Jewelry Enthusiasts
Cape Cod jewelry lovers have experienced a shift in their summer traditions as Eden Hand Arts made the decision to stop selling its signature screwball bracelets in-store this summer. This change left many fans of the popular Dennis shop feeling disappointed, as the bracelets had become a staple of the season. Instead, the shop now focuses on limited online sales, marking the end of an era for those who had grown accustomed to visiting in person.
However, this change has paved the way for a new opportunity. Jonathon Palino, a former Eden jeweler, has taken the spotlight with his new venture, J. Palino Jewelry. His business has quickly gained attention, drawing crowds that once flocked to Eden. On weekends, Palino operates from The Glass Jar, a refillable grocery store market located on the other side of town. The lines outside the store have become a common sight, as customers eagerly await the chance to purchase the handcrafted pieces that once made Eden famous.
Social media platforms like TikTok are filled with posts showcasing the newest additions to what is now being called the “Eden Stack.” Some individuals have their wrists and even elbows covered in Cape Cod-style bracelets, highlighting the enduring appeal of the designs. One user on TikTok remarked, “The only constant is change!” while another exclaimed, “Adding to our Eden Stacks!!” These sentiments reflect the excitement surrounding Palino’s new collection.
Meghann Lazott, the owner of The Glass Jar and Palino’s partner, described the situation as “wild.” She explained that when Palino decided to return to making jewelry, they thought it would be a small endeavor. However, things quickly escalated. Two TikTokers came in and took a video, which led to an overwhelming response. Women can often be seen lining up with their beach chairs at 8 a.m., even though the store opens at 10 a.m.
Palino noted that women seem to embrace the wait, forming friendships and cheering each other on as they come out with their new pieces. “They’re making friends. They’re cheering each other on when they come back out with their pieces. It’s a really good atmosphere,” he said.
Palino’s journey into jewelry making began by chance in 2010 when he was working in construction with his father at the Eden Hand property. He was invited in and eventually became the chief jeweler when his mentor stepped away due to health reasons in 2020. However, the demands of the job and communication issues with the owner led him to leave the business in April 2024.
“I didn’t know what I was doing at that point,” Palino admitted. But he found himself drawn back to the joy of creating jewelry. After some time, he returned to his passion, spending about 8 to 9 months building a studio and acquiring the necessary equipment. He announced his new business in January, and his products were ready just two months later.
Palino also helped Lazott open The Glass Jar in the winter of 2024. Initially, he planned to sell his jewelry there, not expecting the immediate success that followed. He encourages those waiting in line to grab a snack or stock up on pantry essentials while they wait.
Palino’s pieces are all original designs, yet they carry the influence of his years at Eden Hand Arts. The aesthetic is similar — clean and coastal — with a focus on functionality. The jewelry is smooth and seamless, designed to avoid snagging on sweaters. Each piece is crafted from sterling silver with gold accents, inspired by natural forms and textures. While Eden was known for its precise sizing, Palino has chosen a more streamlined approach, offering standard sizes from small to double XL.
Many customers have added the bracelets to their stacks, and Palino humorously notes that people often tell him he’s like a cult leader because of the following he has gained. Both he and Lazott admit that they come home with faces hurting from smiling too much.
For updates on times, stock, and when to buy, visit Palino’s Instagram page.
