Christmas is always a particularly special time for Lynda Rasco and Bill Rudd, the owners of Harvest Gold Gallery in Center Lovell. It was over 20 years ago on Christmas Eve’s eve that jewelers Bill and Lynda moved their wholesale jewelry business from Fryeburg to Center Lovell in order to open their own gallery. They finished all of their orders for the holidays, packed up their two young children, dismantled their goldsmith shop, and made the move! While many other people were cozying up around a Christmas tree, Bill and Lynda were setting up shop in the 18^th century building, formerly the office of Severance Real Estate.

            Lynda began making jewelry at the age of 12 at the DeCordova Museum School and continued on to the Massachusetts College of Art and Portland School of Art. She went on to receive her gemological certificate from the Gemological Institute of America. Bill started his career in the culinary arts, but began goldsmithing in Lynda’s studio. He studied under Heikki Seppa, a master goldsmith from Finland, and perfected his craft. Bill has created unique designs and a line of flexible gold and silver bracelets that are made to stand the test of time while being comfortable to wear. In addition to her other jewelry making skills, Lynda works with gems, such as famed Maine tourmaline and amethyst. Using recycled gold, they make custom jewelry pieces, engagement rings, and wedding bands.

            When Bill and Lynda made the move to Center Lovell back in 1996, they wanted to be able to showcase their jewelry, but also include other fine arts and crafts in the gallery. Having already been in the craft industry for ten years put them in touch with many artists that worked in a variety of mediums. Thus, Harvest Gold Gallery began. From the beginning, Bill and Lynda were dedicated showing fine arts and crafts that were made in America, something they continue to this day. The gallery has grown to seven rooms showcasing over 200 artists. From oil paintings, to stunning hand-blown glass, to wooden toys and puzzles, there is something for everyone. The setting of Harvest Gold itself is inspiring. Yankee Magazine awarded Harvest Gold with “Best Gallery with a View” and included the comment that “it’s hard to say which is better: the gold jewelry and the other fine craftwork inside the gallery or the views outside over Kezar Lake to the White Mountains.”

            Harvest Gold Gallery is open daily and located at 1082 Main Street in Center Lovell. It’s a wonderful time of year to stop in to explore the many treasures within the gallery and view the snowy White Mountains. Bill and Lynda are always happy to talk with customers about their jewelry and the other fine arts and crafts in the gallery. For further information, the gallery can be reached at 207-925-6502 or visit the website at harvestgoldgallery.com.