We’re better together

Christine and I met in the mid-1970s. We lived through the era of the real hippies, and we thoroughly enjoyed those enriching years. So today, when we’re in our 70s, we have decided to have a shop that reflects our younger days. We hope to convey a bit of Christine’s spirit and artistry in her jewelry and a some of the spirit of the 1800’s in the artistry of the wine antiques we carry.

Carlos is a storyteller

I’m Christine’s proud husband of 45 years—all good ones. If I sound like a proud husband, that’s because I am!

I like to regale visitors with interesting facts and tales about my highly curated collection of antique wine-related artifacts. Browsing my collection is like visiting a fascinating museum where drama and intrigue abound!

Christine is an accomplished jeweler.

In the early 90s, while on a trip to Patagonia (the area of southern Argentina where Carlos grew up), Christine became inspired by the intricate silver work of the Mapuches, the native population of that region. Upon returning home, she dedicated herself to learning the craft of silver-smithing. After several of years of self-study, she succeeded in conquering the techniques required to shape metal and stone into intricate jewelry. Today her pieces are a reward to her persistence and creativity. She is quite prolific and dedicated to each piece as a work of art.

Gatuchi is our shop kitty

He was born feral and with some health issues. He is partially deaf and totally blind. We picked him up off the street near our shop and our love began. We believe he is a Maine Coon, but in our hearts his breed is “Courageous Plus.”

A true companion and extremely affectionate, he lives a full life, eating well and roaming around our house and the shop. He is an inspiration; he’s never depressed or feeling sorry for himself.

He has an avid fan club and our clients come to visit him as a family member. He’s a great addition to our environment, and now yours. Viva Gatuchi!

The story behind the name Pumacasu

Christine and I were on a trip to Patagonia, the area of Argentina where I grew up. As we were taking photographs of my childhood home, the current owner came out and asked us why were we taking pictures of her house.

I replied, “We’re visiting from the USA and I wanted to show my wife the house I grew up in. My grandpa built it for my family, my parents and my three siblings.”

The owner asked if I knew why the house was named Pumacasu. “Yes, it’s a made-up name,” I answered. “It’s the combination of the first 2 letters of each of our names, Pu-Ma-Ca-Su.”

Pupy, my brother.
Marta, my sister.
Carlos myself.
Susana, my younger sister.

I was somewhat shocked that the woman knew the name of the house, so I asked her where she’d heard it. She responded, “I found a sign in my garage. Would you like to have it?”

So Pumacasu, the name of my childhood home, is now the name of our shop. And each piece of jewelry in Christine’s collection has the name stamped in the back to commemorate it.

Christine Lyman-Cerecedo is a true artisan. She designs and creates beautiful jewelry and silver with some of the most amazing stones I’ve ever seen. Her work tells stories and has so much meaning, it feels great to wear something she’s created. Visit her (and her sweet kitty, Gatuchi) in Los Olivos, CA when you are there!

— Ladies of the Valley, Facebook

I love that Christine was able to give me loads of info about the stone and explain each piece of the design. I see more pieces in my future. Stop in and say hello, you won't regret it.

— Mickey G, Yelp

Christine makes beautiful jewelry, she really listens to you and offers all the options you may or may not think of, super fun to get something created just for you! Carlos has so much knowledge of the antique items he sells and can tell a story better than most! Just a great place to visit.