With sadness in our hearts, we report the death of Laurel Burch, a dear friend of Bazaar Del Mundo.

Laurel died on Thursday, September 13, in her home in Novato, CA. She was 61.

A wonderful and innovative artist, Laurel began making jewelry as a teenager in the 60's in San Francisco. She sold her pieces in flea markets and street fairs, quickly gaining a following for her lively and exotic creations.

Over 30 years ago, she joined Bazaar Del Mundo's extended family, when we began to carry her jewelry and other accessories, brightly lit with technicolor images of cats, butterflies, flowers and mythic figures.

San Diego embraced her fanciful artwork and we opened the Laurel Burch Gallerita in our complex, carrying a wide array of items with her varied beautiful designs.

Laurel Burch leaves a heritage known worldwide -- fanciful cats, horses birds, blossoms and undersea creatures that have been reproduced in paintings, T-shirts, scarves, ceramics, fabrics, tote bags and cloisonne jewelry. The lasting and joyful work she produced will ensure that her memory lives on among us.

In Laurel's many visits to the Bazaar del Mundo, it was clear that we shared not only a love of beauty and design, but, over the years, a deep friendship with Diane Powers and the staff.

Please share our memories - and condolences, to her many friends and family.