In the early 1990's their business travels sent Wayne Dubois and his business partner Karen on frequent trips to the Europe, Mexico and ultimately South East Asia. They both shared a love of finding unique items indigenous to those areas, and so began their obsession of collecting special "treasures" on their adventures. They would spend hours roaming the local markets to find that "must have" or "one of a kind" item. It was an on-going search for the unusual and unique. On one particular trip to South East Asia, on which Karen was unable to accompany him, Wayne went in search of a gift for his absent friend. He was introduced to a local silversmith, and it was here that he found the perfect present. "Wearable art" created from silver and shells, an unusual and unique treasure that would take her breath away.
It is now 2006 and Wayne has moved to Charleston SC. He wanted an adventure, something new to dabble in, and his first thoughts drifted to creating jewelry. Tropical Treasures was born in the modest dwelling of his own garage in Charleston SC. Wayne was inspired by his many trips to Southeast Asia, and the local silversmith. He wanted to recreate that "wearable art"; the jewelry with a special WOW factor. From that passion and inspiration Tropical Treasures Jewelry was created. The only venue at that time to display and sell his art was the local Charleston open-air market. The same setting in which he had become accustomed to finding his own treasures throughout the years. Another local merchant upon seeing the unique designs encouraged Wayne to become a wholesaler. Broaden the reach so others would be able to purchase his wonderful creations. The local merchant just happened to own a jewelry store, and purchased several pieces to sell. Alas the Tropical Treasure line had found its first retail home.
The ardent entrepreneur, Wayne wanted to continuously evolve and expand Tropical Treasures. He had the notion of combining the exotic beauty of the Far East with a little Lowcountry appeal. The southern flair is perfectly matched with the iridescent and luminous allure of the silver and shells. The end result is a breath-taking and beautiful design. Exotic accented with a dash of Southern charm.
With the addition of Retail and Marketing Director, Tony Marra whose aesthetic artistry in displaying Tropical Treasures, one will wonder how these beautiful creations are available outside the finest jewelry districts of New York City. Currently Tropical Treasures can be found throughout the state of South Carolina in specialty jewelry and gift stores. Whether you are in the market for bold, whimsical, or elegant; Tropical Treasures is sure to have something to fit your taste or mood.