A great gift for a great lady

"Inspired by Greatness" is the name of the pin created by Perry's Fine, Antique and Estate Jewelry's custom jewelry designer Tom Organ especially for former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. It was gifted to her when she was in Charlotte recently for the opening reception of the Mint Museum Uptown's new exhibit, "Read My Pins: The Madeleine Albright Collection," that's on view through Sept. 23.

The Perry family presented it to her personally and she wore it during the opening festivities. As you can see from the photo, it's absolutely stunning and a fitting tribute to both a great lady, who was the first female Secretary of State, and our great Queen City.

The 18 karat gold brooch is encrusted with 2.75 carats of diamonds and capped by a single old European cut diamond. The base of the crown is hand engraved with "Albright" and set between an olive branch and a bundle of thirteen arrows.

Perry's, located across from SouthPark mall at 6525 Morrison Blvd., was also inspired to create its own pin display. Titled "Perry's Pin-tastic Exhibit," it features a collection of its pins from the Victorian era through modern times. All the pins are for sale. The exhibit runs through Sept. 23. Details: 704-364-1391; www.perrysjewelry.com.