Found on Locust Avenue in Des Moines’ East Village is Leona Ruby, an elegant jewelry boutique. Ellen Martinson, owner of Leona Ruby, has always been a bit of an accessory enthusiast.   

Originally located on the corner of East Sixth and East Walnut, the Boutique took over two years to expand to its current location. 

Martinson worked with Coach Handbags for seven years and only had nine weekends off a year. Martinson knew she wanted to open her own boutique rather than stay with Coach.

She had a great experience working for Coach and learned a lot, but she wanted to make her own schedule and have more free time to spend with family. 

“I always knew I wanted a jewelry store,” Martinson said. “It was something I thought about a lot, but never thought I’d actually do it.”

Martinson has introduced several brands to the Des Moines market through Leona Ruby. The boutique carries 50 different national designers and nine local designers. 

“[The brands] are all so different. It’s a very eclectic group,” Martinson said.  “I have a lot of moms and daughters that come in. A lot of girls say there’s nowhere I can go where my mom shops, but we can both find stuff here.”

Mary Kacere, a local customer, first heard about the store through a friend when she commented on her earrings purchased from Leona Ruby.    

“What keeps me returning to the shop is their unique jewelry and fair prices,” Kacere said.  “The earrings at Leona Ruby are styles I don’t see anywhere else, which I like.” 

Leona Ruby offers merchandise that can be anywhere from $12 to more than $100.

“There are things in here that are $12, and you’re definitely going to get your $12 worth, but they aren’t going to be something that you pass down to your grandchildren,” Martinson said. “But there are some things in here that will last forever, like sterling silver, and can be passed down generations.” 

Kacere said she loves the friendly atmosphere of the store. 

“If I ask about a piece, I enjoy the owner telling me where she purchased that item,” Kacere said. “Also the feel of her store makes it a relaxing shopping experience. It is a delightful store.”