

Top: Maria Sharapova, InStyle magazine, August 2009 issue
Bottom: Myself at the Hoorsenbuhs jewelry studio, May 2009


Top: Maria Sharapova, InStyle magazine, August 2009 issue
Bottom: Myself at the Hoorsenbuhs jewelry studio, May 2009

…I will be able to wear necklaces like these, jewelry so amazing it belongs in a museum. There are 559 carats of moonstone and 13 carats of diamonds! Assil New York has all the bold, statement-making jewelry you would only find on red carpets. Always fun to browse online! Moonstone has been more and more a favorite of mine–the more I see pieces featuring moonstone, the more intrigued I get. And seeing moonstone in person–breath taking!

Sometimes it’s hard to resist something that is so ugly, it’s cute. Do you know what I mean? Like that “World’s Ugliest Dog” contest?! A lot of people have a soft spot in their heart for ugly/creepy things. Some examples include your creepy pet spider, your first boyfriend in Middle School, and your best friend’s newborn. Some sparkly examples…these jewels:

Lori Leavitt always has some inspiring jewelry, this vintage ring is no exception. Although said to be a Lion, I feel it’s more of a Lion/Dragon combination: a Ligon? Either way, it is sort of scary, yet I kind of want one. Let it be known that it is a one of a kind piece, 10k yellow gold with a diamond in the mouth. Price: $1250

These pearl skull charms are very much unlike the trendy skull jewelry often seen on gothic teenagers. These are creepily cute, designed around the natural shape of each pearl. Check out Belmacz for more info. (Can be found under >Current Collection >Charms.)

Solange Azagury-Partridge has a heck of a talent, she is always creating jewelry that surprises even jaded jewelry collectors. Here we have a crocodile skull ring, that opens and shuts, revealing a ruby. As you can see, you can have this piece customized with or without diamonds.

If I ever want to buy a pearl ring, this is going to be it! Solange Azagury-Partridge does it again with these clawed pearl rings. I like the addition of the enameling, to really accentuate the effect of a claw. Which do you prefer, the gray or white pearl?
Happy 4th of July! 2009 marks the United States of America, 233 years!

Patriotic brooch from Lang Antiques, “V for Victory!” A truly retro era piece of jewelry, outfitted with rubies, diamonds and sapphires. It is done in 14k yellow and rose gold–very unique. I love the half-moon cut diamond at the top. Price: $2950.
Summer is all about antiquing and checking out flea markets–but I was in over my head with the added summer heat. I checked out the flea market at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds, in Nashville. After enduring 95 degree haziness, lots of walking, lots of sweating, I spotted a beautiful antique brooch. The vendor was from Florida and had an amazing assortment of antique and vintage fine jewelry. Luckily his tables were extremely crowded, because when it was finally my turn to ask about the pin, he knocked $100 off of the pricetag!

My knowledge about jewelry led me to believe I got a really good deal, but to make sure I brought it to be thoroughly cleaned and checked out by a local antique jewelry shop. Turns out the brooch is circa 1890 and used to have a watch attached. It also has a folding bail that folds outward so a chain could be strung through, turning it into a necklace. Antique jewelry was often very versatile and came as 3-in-1, or 2-in-1.

A concern of mine before purchasing the brooch was the evident oxidizing of the gold. It almost looked dirty or tarnished. At first I was questioning the hallmark of 14k because I thought real gold never tarnishes. However, the antique jeweler informed me that because of its age, it had oxidized and most of it was removed after the brooch received a deep cleaning. If the brooch were 10k rather than 14k, the entire piece would have been blackened from oxidization.
Some interesting knowledge to pass on to my readers!
NEW PAGE ADDED: READERS–IT IS YOUR CHANCE TO CONTRIBUTE!!!
Family Heirlooms

There are some jewels and gems that are just, well, jewelry…then there are those special pieces that have meaning, that are incredibly significant, and represent an entire soul. We call these family heirlooms–jewelry meant to be passed down from one generation to the next. Treasures like these are what I love about antique jewelry, and what captivates me most. So many pieces of antique jewelry have a secret story behind them, often left untold. That is, not unless we share our stories behind our passed down treasures.
This is where you, as readers, come into play. I’d love for you to share your story behind any significant piece of jewelry that you own which has been passed down to you. Add pictures for others to see, to capture your story, and make it come to life. Let the sharing begin!
Email your stories behind your gems at: charitybracelet@gmail.com


I have become enamored by this brooch–the faceted jet, the rose gold, the rough cognac and champagne diamonds–so beautiful. Laine is new to the jewelry scene, however her remarkable talent leads anyone to believe she is a 30 year veteran. Her Lillie brooch, made of 15k rose gold, dates back to 1890. The vintage piece has been reinvented through her artistic perspective, and this is the end result. And the price? Only $300. Just picture some skinny jeans, black solid tank, and a sea green scarf wrapped and secured with this brooch–niiice!
“Joannes Treasure Hunt” jewelry items have recently been added to the amazing jewelry lineup at Ylang|23. Each piece has been brought back from various travels completed by store owner Joanne Teichman. With all the jewelry she has seen throughout her lifetime and experiences, it is certain that the pieces that are in the Treasure Hunt line are extremely unique. Each boulder opal is color coordinated with a cotton cord that compliments the stone nicely. Each is about 30 inches in length and sell for $325.





Vintage Casino chips transformed into Jewelry, designer: Page Sargisson
Heading to Las Vegas? Or the high roller table? Or maybe just having some friends over to play some cards? I have always loved the four symbols on cards: the spade, club, heart, and diamond. Over the years these motifs have worked themselves into clothing, fashion, jewelry and accessories. Here are some great picks below, maybe any of these will bring you good luck at the Casino.

The club motif done here is so great with the two diamonds and ruby. This ring is done in 18k yellow gold from Fay Cullen. Price: $1495

Can’t forget about the Queen of Hearts, this antique ring is a great example. Done in 14k yellow gold with diamonds, total carat weight is a half carat. Circa 1915, from The Three Graces and priced at $1950.

From Doyle & Doyle, this ring is delicate and perfect for everyday wear. It features a club motif with single cut diamonds. Price: $195

Another great card motif ring from Doyle & Doyle, this one is done in 14k yellow gold and has a ruby, sapphire and diamond forming the club. Price: $950

This ring is called the “Pair of Threes” from The Three Graces. I love the twisted band, which is done in 14k yellow gold. There is a row of three rubies and a row of three diamonds. This ring is circa 1880 and is priced at $725.

This ring screams deck of cards, it reminds me of the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland. It is actually an Art Deco piece from Fay Cullen, featuring a 0.91 carat diamond. The ring is set in platinum with the red and black enamel embellishments. Price: $4500

Pewter Oyster Keepsake Box: Price $82 from Michele Varian
Pearls are classic, elegant and a staple to any girl’s wardrobe. Go ahead and see for yourself how vast and popular this gem is by counting how many women you see wearing pearls. Whether it’s pearl stud earrings or a strand of pearls, June has a wonderful birthstone. And there are so many varieties: keshi pearls, blister pearls, Tahitian pearls, South Sea pearls, cultured pearls, freshwater pearls…with so many colors: grey, black, white, peach, pink…
Below are my top choices for pearl jewelry!

Pearls make many gemstones pop when used together in one piece of jewelry. Here you see this done with emeralds. The bypass design is always a favorite since it creates the illusion of stacking without actually having to wear two rings. This one is from the Ross-Simons Estate Collection and features two cultured pearls set in 20k yellow gold. From the 1970s and priced at $1270.

Tassels are a vintage collectors dream, with these earrings showcasing the style beautifully. These are done in platinum with ten strands of pearls on each earring. From Meriwether Estate Jewelry and priced at $7800.

This bracelet twists pearls with gold, making it no competition compared to a pearl strand bracelet. From 1965, this vintage piece is done in 18k yellow gold. It can be purchased at Beladora for $1750.

If you already have a strand of pearls and are looking for an alternative pearl necklace, I highly suggest this one! Not only does it give you a different feel by featuring a snake as the bail, but it can be personalized with your own choices. Each version is slightly different due to the uniqueness of the pearls and the hand work. You can choose golden,white, silver, or black Tahitian pearl, and the price range is $2800-3800 (depending on quality, color, and size of pearl). Or you can choose 9-10mm silver, black, or white freshwater pearl, and the price is $2200. The snake’s eyes come in any color stone or even diamonds (add $300). Each pendant is a one-of-a-kind and bears Carolyn Tyler’s signature. Orders take 3-5 weeks. Click here to order!

Treasure hunting is my absolute most favorite thing to do. Whether it’s at an antique shop, looking for gold frames and vintage jewelry, or at a gem mine, sifting through piles of gravel and dirt–I love the thrill of finding something to be treasured. The beach is one of my favorite spots. It is fun to be on the hunt for sea shells and sea glass. In the above photo, I am searching for sea glass in Southern California. Below are some pieces of jewelry with elements of raw mother nature. Not your typical, finely polished gemstone–just a smoothed beach stone, some quartz found in Central Park and some raw black diamonds. Enjoy!

The alluring seafoam green color of the chrysophrase beads goes great with the simple beach stone. This necklace is designed by Renee Garvey and can be found at Eliza Page. Priced at $375.

I love the concept of this necklace, along with some other pieces that match in BYLU’s Compass Rose collection. The quartz encased in the gold setting is found in Central Park, each is unique. The necklace is done in 14k yellow gold and is $550.

Maya Brenner has some great jewelry designs and this black diamond bracelet is a great example. The black diamonds are drilled so they look like beads, and the delicate 14k chain is perfect. Check out Maya Brenner’s website to take a look at her other designs. The bracelet is priced at $220.





The Cathy Waterman Love of My Life Collection. So. Beautiful.
For info and pricing check out Cathy’s website or Ylang|23

Starred shorts, denim button-up, black socks with open-toe heels: it sounds so wrong, but it look so right. And the jewelry combination is just as interesting. An angel skin coral ring, woven gold bracelets, and a three-strand pearl bracelet--check out this look below! All look-alike pieces are vintage and were found at Beladora 2.

This three-strand pearl bracelet has 14k white gold bars to keep the pearls tame, and I love the white gold filigree clasp. It is 7.5 inches long and is circa 2005, so only a few years old! Price: $695 from Beladora2.

This coral ring is classic and simple. Known as “angel skin” coral when portraying this light peach color, rather than the other, darker versions coral can be found as. This ring, circa 1965, is done in 18k yellow gold and is a size 6. Price: $316 from Beladora2.

Although difficult to tell exactly what the stack of bracelets look like worn on the left wrist, I believe some are woven gold. I love this example from Beladora2. It is from the 1970s and is done in 14k yellow gold. The thickness of the piece makes it beautiful. Price: $1450

A circular link bracelet is also stacked on the left wrist, this one is also from the seventies and done in 14k yellow gold. The clasp is actually disguised as a link, which shows great craftsmanship. From Beladora2 and priced at $1125.

Ashley Olsen was photographed at the CFDA Fashion Awards on June 15, 2009 sporting an interesting way of wearing a pearl drop necklace--backwards! From the front, I thought she was wearing a simple yellow gold chain that was choker length. Then I saw pictures of the stunning back of the dress and realized she was wearing the necklace backwards. She may have started something here! Looks beautiful…love the dress and jewelry!
Us adults need our version of the friendship bracelet. This is where designer Scosha comes in, bringing you a mix of friendship-like bracelets reminiscent of our childhood’s past. Only this version is much cooler, has some diamonds added, and made of vintage fishing line. Give a girlfriend one of these, and I’m sure you’ll be best friends forever. Love how these bracelets can be worn with other stackable kinds. They have just the right amount of sparkle.

This bracelet comes from the Poetry Wheel Collection in Scosha’s line. The turquoise, yellow gold and black color combination is just beautiful. This dainty, little bracelet is made of antique silk fly fishing line that has been braided. Can you believe a single line can hold up to 120 pounds?! All the gold is solid, 10k yellow. Price: $550

These bracelets come from the Caravan Collection--with your choice of ruby, emerald or sapphire. This one has a 14k button closure, with a black and white braided fishing line look. Price: $235 each.

Want one with more sparkle? This one’s for you. It features small, gold rondel beads with the middle bead set with diamonds. From the Jessijean Collection, this bracelet consists of black fishing line crafted so that it adjusts to fit any wrist. A couple of these on and you will sparkle into the night! Each are $179.

The sun is shining, temperatures are soaring…it is a hot mess being outdoors these days, especially living in the south. It is a good idea to be aware of what jewelry you are wearing in the hot summer months. One must think of what your day will entail, and then plan what jewelry would be practical. Like today, for example, a BBQ was planned–had to leave the rings at home! BBQ sauce on diamond rings is not fun. Or places like amusement parks and swimming pools: proof that the less jewelry you wear, the better. You wouldn’t want to lose something valuable or sentimental at a park or pool.
I have picked out a few pieces below that are great summertime options, that stand out on their own without needing to accessorize any further. Wearing one of these pieces alone will be a perfect, you wouldn’t need anything more.

This bracelet can easily stand alone on any wrist and be bright and beautiful. The flowers give it a summery look and bracelets are less likely to get dirty, making it a perfect option. Great for those who need to wear diamonds but want to wear less during summertime activities. From Dumont Estate Jewelry, circa 1950s, it features a foxtail link all done in 18k white gold. Price: $4775

If you have a camping or boating or bike trip planned, but you feel “naked” without your rings, this is a great option. Not only is it very earthy itself, but the craftsmanship of this ring will allow you to put your mind at ease while wearing it. Although opal is tough to clean, the bezel setting is much better than a classic prong setting which allows dirt to get up underneath the stone. This ring could easily be wiped with a soapy rag. Designed by Californian, Melissa Joy Manning and priced at $350, can be found at The Clay Pot.

This bracelet is perfect for warm weather. It is easy to throw on and it molds to fit your wrist, so you won’t have to worry about it falling off. Complete with 18k yellow gold caps, it is priced at $286, found at Persimmon and designed by Francisca Botelho.

Hulu is a great resource for those who can’t find anything worth watching on television. The National Geographic Specials are my favorite, and I recently found a very interesting documentary about the African diamond trade. The special, called Diamonds of War: Africa’s Blood Diamond, provides a whole new aspect about diamonds that most never talk about. Aspects that are normally hidden and kept mum are revealed and put on center stage. The journalist, Dominic Cunningham Reid, explores the non-glamorous parts of the diamond trade first-hand, and takes viewers on an eye-opening experience.
A shocking statistic shown says: 20% of all diamonds are illicit diamonds. Even more daunting is are the scenes of wars that have been linked to African diamonds, as well as the shear fact that diamonds are incredibly easy to smuggle. Watch the special for yourself to broaden your perspective about diamonds, and help others become more aware!
http://www.hulu.com/watch/70093/national-geographic-specials-diamonds-of-war-africas-blood-diamond

Brand Liaison, Kether Parker showing off some designs
Gem Gossip hit up the west coast and was graciously invited to check out the jewelry design studio of HOORSENBUHS, located just outside of Los Angeles. Greeted by Designer & Owner, Robert Keith and Brand Liaison, Kether Parker, we walked into the 1940s Quonset Hut, where HOORSENBUHS calls home. One would never expect this hut to be a jewelry designer’s stomping grounds, yet it serves as a great decoy for the looming paparazzi when some of their celeb clientele stop by; people such as Paris Hilton, Rosario Dawson, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Dave Navarro, amongst others.

HOORSENBUHS jewelry studio

Jeweler's Work Bench, Where all the magic happens
Gem Gossip had an inside look into how this high-end jewelry company is doing things differently and easily succeeding, while catching everyone’s attention. We also got a feel for how each customer gets their very own personalized jewelry buying experience when walking through these doors.

left, Kether Parker, Brand Liaison, right, Robert Keith, Designer & Owner
A “customer” is the wrong word to describe someone who purchases a piece from HOORSENBUHS. The experience of buying is so hands-on, you get “play around” with the jewelry, and choose what metal you prefer, what diamonds you want. Designer Robert Keith and Brand Liaison Kether Parker are passionate about what they do and want you to feel the same way. You basically walk into a whole new dimension of jewelry design with a whole new level of personalization.
At HOORSENBUHS, this is where you take control, and Robert & Kether are there to guide you and make the experience fun! Make an appointment, stop in, hit up the punching bag, play a diddy on the guitar or bang on their drum set, all while customizing any of their classic Tri-Link motif jewelry pieces. Now, that’s much better than talking to a stuffy sales associate at any jewelry store, right?

the leather wrap-around bracelet makes a great headband
And there’s so many goodies to choose from. Want to shine like Rihanna? Then pick the Phantom ring...Rihanna has two! Or go for a classic and get the Quad Link…Snoop Dogg never takes his off, I don’t think you will either! My favorite? The Phantom ring, customized in 18k yellow gold with black diamonds! A ring this fierce can change the way you look, entirely. The fast-selling, leather wrap-around bracelet is killer and made to fit.

HOORSENBUHS on every finger!
Gem Gossip cannot wait to get a glimpse of the jewelry set for Fall 2009. From what Robert & Kether described, the style and uniqueness will be unprecedented. I can already imagine the designs on runways.
Be sure to check out some upcoming important dates for HOORSENBUHS, such as the trunk shows for Barneys New York. To learn more, click here.

falling in love with their rings
The latest happenings at HOORSENBUHS:


Something that always interests me is jewelry combinations and how each individual puts together their jewelry for the day. Ashley Olsen never ceases to amaze and always comes up with some great mixtures. From what can be seen, she is wearing her Cartier watch, a large black stone ring, and possibly a crowned diamond heart ring. Not sure what the other rings are! Take a look at some similar choices if you are wanting to achieve this same jeweled look.

A crowned heart is a known symbol of love and loyalty. This one is priced at $5500 from Fay Cullen. It is a 1 carat heart shaped diamond set in platinum. A definite necessity in anyone’s ring collection.

Although Ashley’s black stone ring is larger and pear-shaped, this one still gives a similar effect. Designed by Pippa Small, the black stone is actually a Labradorite. I think Ashley’s ring is an onyx. The Labradorite is set in 22k yellow gold, found on TWIST for $1685.

This is the exact watch Ashley has and was featured in her book Influence. Found the match at AuthenticWatches.com, not sure how reputable this company is, although they have high ratings under Bizrate. It is called the Cartier Pasha Seatimer Men’s Steel Watch and sells for $4975 on their website.
Summer is surely on the way, nothing like some tutti frutti jewelry to cool things down! Trying to decide if these colorful pieces of jewelry are for summer only, or if anyone would rock these during the winter? I’m not even sure! What do you think?

This bold, multi-stone ring screams Tutti Frutti just like Little Richard would. It is set in 14k yellow gold and all of the stones are actually sapphires. The ring can be found on Israel Rose and listed for $3250. Size 7.5

I love the chunkiness of this bracelet, and the gems used couldn’t be more perfect. You’ve got some rose quartz, some malachite, amethyst, and other topaz, all cabochon cut. From the Ross-Simons Estate Collection.

Like a treasure washed up on the beach, this necklace reminds me of some bright sea glass strung together. Apatite, amethyst, citrine, fire opal, garnet, tanzanite, emerald, peridot and pure, 24K gold beads make up this necklace. Designed by Yossi Harari and featured at TWIST, price: $1810.
See you in a week…we will be back with many exciting posts! Stay tuned!

xoxo Gem Gossip
Drop Necklaces are beautiful, and that extra length can drape wonderfully upon the neckline. It is always a bit of a dilemma finding the perfect top to wear with this sort of necklace. Something with a deep v-neck or a sheer floral blouse would be ideal. I found some great examples, check them out below! All are antique and needed in anyone’s jewelry collection.

This one has an Edwardian style to it, although it does not specify what time period it is from. It is done in 18k white gold and features sapphires and diamonds. That sapphire is very pretty and weighs .80 carats. Priced at $850 from Israel Rose.

A piece from the Art Deco Era, this drop necklace features a gorgeous black opal that is bezel set, dangling from an opal that is also bezel set. All set in platinum, this piece is truly awesome! Priced at $4800 from Doyle & Doyle.

Eye-catching! Circa 1930s, this drop necklace shows off a large ruby and old mine cut diamonds. Of course it is all set in platinum and is priced at $4950. You can find this piece on 1st Dibs.