Once a little known disorder, it’s now estimated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that around 1 in 110 American children is on the autism spectrum. That statistic is a 600 percent increase in prevalence over the past two decades. In honor of Autism Awareness Month this April, West Hartford’s La Perla Fine Jewelers will hold a special autism jewelry event.
The work of noted Connecticut jewelry designer, Naomi Tussin will take on special meaning when her pieces are paired with a new, sterling silver charm – the autism puzzle piece. A special collection of Naomi’s sleek, contemporary necklaces and bracelets will be available for purchase with the charm accent – making these pieces not only desirable to wear, but important in that they also spread awareness. La Perla Fine Jewelers will unveil the ‘cause by Naomi collection’ at its showroom on April 19.
“We’re happy to help shine the spotlight on a disorder that affects so many children and adults,” said La Perla Owner, Bob La Perla. “Beyond making a statement, the ‘cause collection is gorgeous jewelry.”
As a special unveiling promotion, any parent who purchases the $400 necklace between April 19 and 30 will receive a stainless steel ID bracelet for their child for free. The bracelet is valued at $50 and features enamel with a pink puzzle piece for girls and blue puzzle piece for boys.
Additionally, 10 percent of all necklace and ID bracelet sales made within the store from April through June will be donated to HARC, a Hartford-based organization that serves people with intellectual and related challenges in communities across the state.
Further, La Perla Fine Jewelers will donate 20 percent of ID bracelet sales from the website: www.hopepage.com to other CT-based Autism charities, such as Autism Speaks, Jocelyn’s Run and the Innovative Autism Network.
There is no known cause of autism but there are various therapies to help improve the lives of those living on the autism spectrum. According to Autism Speaks, a small but growing body of research suggests that autism is less among children whose mothers took prenatal vitamins containing folic acid in the months before and after conception.
La Perla Fine Jewelers has been a fixture in West Hartford Center for more than a decade. Owner, Bob La Perla has more than 35 years of jewelry industry expertise. Since opening in West Hartford, La Perla Fine Jewelers has won five statewide jewelry design competitions and one national design competition, the 1999 National Award from Jewelers of America. Learn more at www.laperlajewelers.com.
