Unlocking Treasures in Darlington jewellery boutique to open

Offering shoppers a curated range of handmade pieces and unique local finds Unlocking Treasures by Melissa Flint has confirmed it will open on Friday, July 4. 

Located on Skinnergate, the jewellery shop will welcome customers from 10am to 4pm throughout the weekend. 

Melissa Flint, originally from California, has settled in Newton Aycliffe and is set to open her store in Darlington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO) The boutique will then operate from Wednesday to Saturday, 10am until 4pm each week.

Founded by Melissa Flint, the shop marks the first permanent retail space for the business, which has built a strong following online and at local markets across County Durham and Darlington.

Originally from California, Melissa moved to County Durham five years ago after meeting her husband, who is from Newton Aycliffe. 

Melissa Flint, originally from California, has settled in Newton Aycliffe and is set to open her store in Darlington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO) Now based in Aycliffe with her family, she’s bringing her signature Californian boho-chic jewellery style to the Darlington high street- but with a commitment to local sourcing and community values.

Among the boutique’s highlights are permanent bracelets – a growing trend in the jewellery world – which are custom-fitted and welded directly onto the wrist for a clasp-free, long-lasting accessory.

The shop on Skinnergate is set to sell hand crafted and sourced jewellery as well as offering the current viral ‘permanent jewellery’ (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) In addition to Melissa’s handcrafted pieces, the boutique will also feature a dedicated room named ‘Local Treasures’, showcasing products from other small businesses across the region.

Melissa said: “I am excited to help support local businesses and give them a place to shine as not all of us can get into the likes of John Lewis for trading.

“We need to support the community and people like myself and give them a place to sell, and that is why my shop will be local makers.”

Unlocking Treasures already boasts an online presence through its website and Instagram account @unlockingtreasures.uk, where customers can explore Melissa’s existing collection of handcrafted silver jewellery and unique gifts.