I think cinder block can be very elegant (ie beautiful in its simplicity) as is, paired with impactful art.

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What kind of display cases do you plan to use? Using warm wood, glass, and lots of natural light will warm up the space and make it less industrial.

A lot depends on the type of jewelry you market as well. If it's hand crafted artisan pieces, cinder block will support a funkier, artsy vibe quite nicely. If it's diamond engagement rings, glam it up with crystal chandeliers and silver or white framed, HUGE mirrors. If it's pink plastic a la Claire's, let your customers go crazy with sidewalk chalk (just be sure to have a handy vac and hand wipes available too!)

Thanks for the insight. Doing elegant diamond engagement. Thinking rosewood and glass showcases. Also plan some wall features with rock and crystals in cement bordered with rosewood. Will have some red brick features as well. Have toy ever seen cinder block sandblasted and then with a clear shiny finish on it? I think might be cool.

I think the cinder block is really not an attractive look at the best of times and in a high end store with some exposed brick too I would paint it

Without seeing a photo of the walls, it's hard to say for sure. Personally I think the juxtaposition of rustic with elegance would be beautiful. You don't want everything to be shiny, let your showcases and jewelry be the standouts.

You could have it drywalled over for a smooth finish -- I think they can essentially glue the drywall right to the blocks, or use a set of shims to get everything even before drywalling. Seems like the right finish for an elegant store, especially if you will have brick elsewhere. Even painted cinderblock looks like cinderblock...

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