By Christine Gibbs
That odor coming from the basement could be the sweet smell of an MIT scholarship… if your kids are playing with the classic Chem C3000 Experiment Kit. Available at thamesandkosmos.com.
It’s elementary: building a better brain starts early with handmade Periodic Table Blocks. Available at uncommongoods.com.
The ballplayer in your family will love the hand-rubbed and broken-in Shoeless Joe 1910 Fielder’s Glove. Available at handmadebaseballgloves.com.
You can relive the disco era without all the polyester thanks to the Desktop Disco Ball, which is illuminated with a quartet of powerful LEDs. Available at scientificsonline.com.
Go ahead and stick a tiny piece of gum under this painstakingly accurate miniature replica Shaker School Desk. Available at shakerworkswest.com.
Break out the old LPs and the new laptop and let them play together with the retro-style USB Record Player. Available at urbanoutfitters.com.
Super-size your mind excursion with the 250-ounce LAVA brand lamp. Available at lampsplus.com.
Nothing brings out the timeless beauty of a backyard paradise like a Retro Metal Garden Chair. Available at doitbest.com.
The Nicole Ergonomic Recliner from Lafer of Brazil launches the 1940s-era Barcalounger firmly into the future. Available at leifpetersenfurniture.com.
Now your kids can simultaneously develop their slicing and geometry skills—as well as a sense of irony—thanks to the Pizza Pi Cutter. Available at coolstuffexpress.com.
Products with an Edge
By Christine Gibb
This graceful Cool B Chairs furniture set is fashioned from natural fibers and imported from the Philippines. Available at opulentitems.com.
The Stone Door Knocker combines natural beauty and exterior design in ways Fred and Wilma probably never imagined. Available at festaco.com.
Each elaborate Toggle Switch Plate is a unique work from a fabulous father-son artist team. Available at uncommongoods.com.
What you don’t see can help you, thanks to the LED Table Lamp from ABC Home. Available at abchome.com.
Artistic 4 Chaise made of British Oak, is ideal for the well-sculpted lifestyle. Available at opulentitems.com.
John Carter’s Road Tested Chair combines free-spirited interior design with social commentary. Available at uncommongoods.com.
This ornamental Julia Child Birdhouse is fashioned from a vintage copy of her French Chef Cookbook. Available at uncommongoods.com.
Carol Braden’s License Plate Guitar gets its unique look (and sound) from antique license plates. Available at curategifts.com.
Margarita Mileva uses 14,325 colored elastics to create her Rubber Band Dress…14,325 paperclips sold separately. Available at milevarchitects.com.
The LP Record Bowl puts a new spin on classic 33s with the ultimate off-label look. Available at curiocityonline.com.
Neide Ambrosio crochets old soda pull-tabs into a line of accessories, including the Pop Top Purse. Available at novica.com.
Something tells us you’ll never tire of the Recycled Inner Tube Backpack. Available at wannakes.com.
Who says literary jewelry has tobe high-brow? The Marvel Comic Book Bracelet turns mini-comic charms into high fashion. Available at sweettreatsjewelry.com.
The design on these Bookworm Unisex Socks is woven right into the fabric. Available at alwaysfits.com.
Archie McPhee’s latex-free Jane Austen Bandages turn “owies“ into teachable moments—and come with a free prize inside!Available at mcphee.com.
The Shakespeare Brass Cuff Bracelet features famous quotes from the legendary playwright. Available at alwaysfits.com.
The Banned Book Bracelet by Carolyn Forsman is a true conversation piece. Available at loc.gov/shop.
Shoes of Note flats turn those dreaded composition notebooks from junior high into an adult fashion statement. Available at modcloth.com.
Luciana Frigerio transforms hardcovers into Folded Book sculptural works of art. Available at lucianapaper.com.
The Fully Booked Tent can accommodate two campers and is built to withstand Tempest conditions. Available at fieldcandy.com.
The Shakespeare Pill Box by Unemployed Philosophers Guild features one of the Bard’s better quips about the medical profession. Available at philosophersguild.com.
The New York Public Library marble Lion Bookends celebrate one of the literary world’s most iconic Beaux Art works of art. Available at nytstore.com.
Heather Alston designed these metal Fairy Tale Bookends, which feature hand-cut silhouettes of a prince, princess and castle. Available at notonthehighstreet.com.
Laptops may have replaced trusty Smith-Coronas, but their spirit lives on in the Typewriter Satchel. Available at theliterarygiftcompany.com.
The stylish ThunderShirt by Thunder Works transforms crazed canines into calm ones by exerting gentle pressure during stormy weather. Available at petexpertise.com.
The EMWave2 is Heart Math’s newest personalized biofeedback device, which enables users to monitor their heart rate and even display it on a computer screen. Available at heartmath.com.
Precision-designed Haus Computer Glasses are the answer to digital eye fatigue. Is that actually a thing? Available at gunnars.com.
The feathery light and super-strong, identity theft-thwarting Carbon Fiber Wallet blocks radio waves to keep hackers out of your purse or pocket. Available at hammacher.com.
The Philips Wake Up Light Plus uses UV-free halogen illumination to bring dawn gently into your bedroom and also mimics the fading light at dusk to help you fall asleep. Available at philips.com.
The Smart Home Kit by Little Bits Electronics offers home automation solutions for the do-it-yourselfer. Available at littlebits.com.
The Tabletop Wood Stump Fountain is an artisanal take on an age-old secret for reducing stress. Available at builddirect.com.
The Ergo Desk Chair features an award-winning lo-tech/hi-tech design that promotes balance, posture and rock-hard abs. Available at theergochair.com.
The Feel Good Hug rice-heated Ginger Body Wrap soothes the soul with ginger and lemon essential oils. Available at origins.com.
Me Stressed Earrings are a fashionable way to remind friends, family and co-workers to just chill out. Available at cafepress.com
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Sit straight, shoulders back, head up—your Mom was right, but she probably didn’t have the Swarovski-studded Lumo Lift Posture Alert in mind. Available at lumobodytech.com.
The Wrap-A-Nap is a combination neck/headrest, eye- and ear-covering that helps you fall asleep almost anywhere. Available at wrapanap.com.
Step out in style while supporting circulation with these kicky Compression Knee-Highs. Available at supportplus.com.
The breathable, flexible and perfectly cushioned Asics Gel Harmony TR 2 was picked by Fitness magazine as the top cardio/cross-training shoe for women in 2014. Available at asicsamerica.com.
The Soothera Foot Massager proves you don’t have to break the bank to bring a little Shiatsu action into your home. Available at amazon.com.
There’s nothing fun about a foot or ankle injury, unless you count MediFashions’ line of Medical Boot Accessories. Available at healinstyle.com.
Kangoo Jumps combine the latest spring technology with athletic training footwear to provide a crackin’ good workout. Available at kangoojumps.com.
Bella Grip Socks are a colorful and sure-footed way to get through your next yoga class. Available at toesox.com.
Classic styling with a fresh, casual feel make the Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph a true standout timepiece. Available at audemarspiguet.com.
The Ora Unica Watch, by Denis Guidone for Nava Design, tells time with the ends of the signature squiggle. Available at shop.walkerart.org.
A gold-sprinkled dial with the iconic signature dot helps the Movado Bold Glitter Watch stand out in a crowd. Available at nordstrom.com.
The diamond-studded mother of pearl Floral Watch features Art Deco styling and an interchangeable strap. Available at michele.com.
Keep your eye on the hands, not the numbers, of the What Time? Watch from Rakani. Available at rakani.com.
The rugged men’s Block Watch is stamped in squared-off brass surrounding a circular face. Available at shop.walkerart.org.
The Infinity Ring circles endlessly, finishing with an exquisite Japanese Akoya black pearl at its focal point. Available at artfulhome.com.
Mikimoto’s Spring Ring sets off a perfectly cultured pearl with a burst of sapphires, tourmalines, amethysts, and diamonds. Available at mikimotoamerica.com.
The Erica Courtney Wrap Ring combines gold and green tourmaline in a trend-setting modern design. Available at ericacourtney.com.
The bold and smashing Sapphire Ring from Brilliant Earth showcases a beautiful blue sapphire center gem with a halo of diamonds. Available at brilliantearth.com.
The avant-garde Palladium Ring features a baroque pearl raised to new heights by a surround of white and yellow diamonds. Available at markschneiderdesign.com.
The joyfully constructed Szor Collection Celebration Ring features rose-cut sapphires in a gold setting.
Available at 1stdibs.com.
This Hand-Knotted Necklace features a double-strand of chunky jasper. Available at neimanmarcus.com.
These Sterling & Gold Earrings with onyx and garnet celebrate the industrial design of the Art Deco era. Available at artfulhome.com.
LIFT OFF
Anna Tai’s playful cloisonné Rocket Brooch frames an oval cabochon amethyst among floating celestial bodies. Available at artfulhome.com.
IN FLIGHT
Mark Schneider’s Montana Agate Phoenix Pendant features pavé diamonds and a ruby eye. Available at markschneiderdesign.com.
SEA CHANGE
You may not hear the ocean in these turquoise-and-diamond Anuj Carved Shell Earrings, but the oohs and aahs will come through loud and clear. Available at 1stdibs.com.
POWER UP
The Alex and Ani Energy Bracelet is part of the sizzling-hot wrist wear trend. Available at alexandani.com.
Pearls with an EDGE
Movable pear-shaped cultured freshwater pearls give the hand-crafted Abacus Cuff its name. Available at artfulhome.com.
Designed by Sukanya Thongper of Bangkok, this opulent Snow Iris Amethyst and Pearl Choker evokes the colors of a garden favorite. Available at novica.com.
Designer Martin Bernstein envelopes luminous South Sea Pearl Earrings in a gorgeous tangle of tri-color gold and sterling chain. Available at greenwichjewelers.com.
Mikimoto’s Moderna 8 Earrings are a compelling fusion of exquisite Italian design with faultless cultured pearls. Available at mikimotoamerica.com.
Renee Lewis created these magnificent South Sea Pearl & Diamond Dangle Earrings as part of a collection for Barneys. Available at Barneys.com.
The best memories stem from pictures when you have the custom-made brick Memory Vase. Available at uncommongoods.com.
The custom chocolate assortment from Totally Chocolate can say whatever you like to whomever you love.
Available at totallychocolate.com.
Game theory never looked better than engrave-able 3D Tic Tac Toe. Available at gifttree.com.
Couples will feel great about themselves when they share the Famous Couples Throw Pillow with some truly significant others. Available at redenvelope.com.
Send your favorite photos to Ronda J. Smith and a few weeks later you’ve got custom-sewn plush Picture Your Baby Pillows. Available at uncommongoods.com.
The toddler in your life can start making a name for him/herself with the personalized Learn to Play Piano. Available at melissaanddoug.com.
Your fish will have almost as much fun as you do with the Labyrinth Aquarium. Available at opulentitems.com..
Your feline friend will have hours of fun (okay—minutes of fun) in this Airplane Cat House, modeled after a WWII P-47. Available at uncommongoods.com.
Can’t afford a DJ at your next party? The Paws the Music cat scratching pad turns kitty into a party animal. Available at modcloth.com.
Give your rodent a first-class ride with the Super Dazzle Hamster Exercise Carriage. Available at wag.com.
Your puppy will be proud to display its NJ heritage with the custom Doggy Tee. Available at cafepress.com.
Classic styling with a fresh, casual feel make the Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph a true standout timepiece. Available at audemarspiguet.com.
A gold-sprinkled dial with the iconic signature dot helps the Movado Bold Glitter Watch stand out in a crowd. Available at nordstrom.com.
Keep your eye on the hands, not the numbers, of the What Time? Watch from Rakani. Available at rakani.com.
The Ora Unica Watch, by Denis Guidone for Nava Design, tells time with the ends of the signature squiggle. Available at shop.walkerart.org.
The diamond-studded mother of pearl Floral Watch features Art Deco styling and an interchangeable strap. Available at michele.com.
The rugged men’s Block Watch is stamped in squared-off brass surrounding a circular face. Available at shop.walkerart.org.
If you’re stuck for Something Blue, well, Oscar de la Renta’s got you covered. Available at nordstrom.com.
Raindrop Toasting Flutes may only be used once, but the memory of that moment will last forever. Available at weddingfavorsunlimited.com.
Ceramic artist Heather Shadron personalizes Nesting Bowls for the happy couple. Available at uncommongoods.com.
Nothing softens the mood at summer weddings like beach-themed Personalized Pillows. Available at zazzle.com.
Nothing says “I paid for this shindig” like a Mother of the Bride Hoodie. Available at exclusivelyweddings.com.
The fully optimized Paketa Custom Tandem Bike offers state-of-the-art transportation to the newlywed steering committee. Available at paketabike.com.
The Perfectiona Canopy Outdoor Daybed is a cozy way to keep the honeymoon going all summer long. Available at lexmod.com.
The hand-crafted mixed-metals Arts & Crafts Tray is the ultimate home entertaining conversation piece.
Available at 1stdibs.com.
What greater gift could there be than picking up the tab for a two-night honeymoon stay in the Hong Kong Intercontinental’s 4,500 sq. ft. Terrace Suite overlooking Victoria Harbor?
Available at hongkong-ic.interncontinental.com.
The Marilyn Sofa, designed by Studio 65 for Gufram in the 1980s, is the ultimate impact wedding gift. Available at 1stdibs.com.
Sophia Webster’s Brazilian-engineered Fabric Sandal takes summer footwear to new heights. Available at neimanmarcus.com.
The appeal of Chiara Ferragni whimsical Italian footwear goes way beyond cosmetic. Available at luisaviaroma.com.
Olsen Haus’s “pure vegan” Ballet Flats give a hip 80’s feel to skinny jeans, leggings and capris. Available at vickerey.com.
Badgley Mischka’s blue Bridal Pumps are among the designer’s most popular wedding picks. Available at nordstrom.com.
Kobi’s clever Bicycle Sandal was inspired by the UK’s first women’s professional cycling event. Available at kobilevidesign.com.
Fossil aficionados call this 50-million-year-old collection of knightia eocaena from the Green River formation in Wyoming a Mass Mortality Plate. Available at fossilera.com.
Glycerin-based Dead Sea Salt Rub Soap helps to lather off toxins and circulate positive energy. Available at origins.com.
This hand-carved Himalayan Salt BBQ Plank holds heat for meat off the grill…or cold for your eat-in sushi. Available at uncommongoods.com.
Unique pieces like this Natural Teakwood End Table by Pacific Northwest furniture retailer Moe’s can now be purchased in New Jersey through a Hoboken retailer. Available at battagliashome.com.
The Recycled Succulent Living Wall Planter Kit helps you “get your Spring on” all year ’round. Available at uncommongoods.com.
The Mamani Necklace features hand-washed seeds from South American rainforests, sun-dried to seal in their naturally vibrant colors. Available at greenolastyle.com.
Designer Jenny Hoople scours riverbeds for natural materials to create one-of-a-kind Rainbow Rock necklaces. Available at jennyhoople.com.
Emilie Shapiro makes a bold statement by fusing rough-cut emeralds and textured brass into her Organic Mosaic Ring. Available at uncommongoods.com.
This handmade Periodot and Turquoise Necklace by Thai artisan Sukanya Thongperm evokes a sense of jungle organics. Available at novica.com.
Thousands of families in Ecuador earn a living from the Tagua Palm (aka Ivory Palm), including makers of the fair-trade Tagua Seed Bracelet. Available at enamoratreasures.com.
The made-in-NJ Wine Barrel Garden Bench is fashioned of wood reclaimed from vintage French-made oak barrels retired by California wineries. Available at uncommongoods.com.
A hot party trend is now for the birds thanks to the Mason Jar Hummingbird Feeder. Available at birdfeeders.com.
As with all Sneeboer tools, the Hand-Forged Garden Trowel is made in Holland and guaranteed for life.
Available at sneeboerusa.com.
Extended arm cuffs and sturdy palms make eye-catching Arm Saver Garden Gloves a fashionable option for weeding, digging and planting. Available at womanswork.com.
The Traditional Trug Garden Basket is hand-built with reharvested wood and signed in Sussex, England
by a master basket-maker. Available at claringtonforge.com.
By Christine Gibbs