Aspen is not for shoppers on a budget: High-end stores such as Burberry, Louis Vuitton and Prada are the norm rather than the exception on the ski town’s main streets.

So imagine my surprise when I found Harmony Scott, an independent jewelry shop where the prices were as appealing as the pieces themselves. The shop is located at 411 E. Hyman Ave., right on the city’s pedestrian mall.

Harmony Scott herself has one of those life stories that inspires instant jealousy among those who hear it. Raised by bohemian parents who split their time between Hawaii (island of Kaua’i) and Aspen, she has a home in Bali where she spends several months.  She has two stores, one in Aspen and one in Carbondale, just down the valley. Plus, she’s gorgeous.

My friend Kathryn and I acted like kids in a candy store when we entered the shop. Harmony Scott is currently having a 30 % off sale (applicable to pieces on her website too!) and there were additional discounts on certain pieces in the store.

Most of the intricate pieces were in the $200 and under range. But there were several unique necklaces that were less than $100!

Kathryn went nuts with the earrings. She bought those dangling green ones that you see on the bottom rung.

I debated buying on the embroidered bags that Harmony commissions from workers in Bali. But I have enough bags, and not nearly enough necklaces, so I chose a double pearl strand that will look great with a dress I’m planning to wear to an upcoming wedding.

Speaking of weddings, Harmony Scott’s jewelry is very popular with brides. In her store, there’s a bulletin board with photos of wedding parties that are wearing her pieces. Very cute.

Jewelry has become my favorite souvenir when I travel. It’s easy to pack, for one, and it’s fun to have a story behind a favorite bracelet or necklace. Plus it’s a fun way to explore the local styles and art scene. Right now I can’t stop wearing a butterfly necklace that I bought in Old Jaffa, outside Tel Aviv in Israel, as well as a silver Day of the Dead bracelet from Guanajuato. Then there’s the necklace from Quebec and a bangle from New Orleans and …. you get the picture.

What’s your best shopping find from the road? Tell me below!