Endless talk of all things sparkly.

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Treasure Hunting with Gem Gossip Fan, Trevor

Check out this beautiful Edwardian ring that was purchased by Gem Gossip fan, Trevor. He is an antique jewelry enthusiast and has been collecting for quite some time.  The recent ring acquired (pictured) has quickly become one of his favorites.  It is all done in platinum, with a mine cut center diamond, which is over a half carat.  He purchased the ring on eBay.  Amongst his other rings in his collection, a few favorites include a ring once owned by the last empress of Iran, as well as a GIA certified .60 pear cut diamond ring.  In the works for Trevor is a special project he is excited about.  A family heirloom brooch is being fully restored--sounds like a story that needs to be added to our "Family Heirlooms" section! Trevor says when he is searching for antique jewelry he looks for anything unusual or eye-catching, pieces with filigree work is a plus!  Diamonds that are colored, rather than white are something he looks for as well. We thank Trevor for sharing a peek into his antique treasure trove of a collection.  Trevor says, "The thing I love about Gem Gossip is that I get to see some amazing finds, stories and jewelry pieces from all over.  I also like the information about antique stores that are visited and adventures.  It's very interesting." Thanks Trevor, and there will be more adventures to read about in the future! Read More

Obsessions

Jewelry LookBook: Double Medallion Pendants

Given: Ashley Olsen has the best jewelry ever. But anyone can have nice jewelry--it's how you wear it that sets you a part from the rest. I like how she wears two medallion pendants at the same time, only difference: the chain length. This look is easy to pull off if you have two different chains; one long, the other about 24 or 30 inches. Of course two medallion pendants are needed: go for an Art Nouveau one and another that has gemstone detail. Matching yellow gold is the right idea as well! This medallion pendant is from Doyle & Doyle's Heirloom collection, which is designed by the Doyle sisters. So these pieces are modern jewelry, with an antique style. These come in several different choices for gemstone choice--I like the jadeite which is shown above. 18k yellow gold, price: $350 Doyle & Doyle also has this great Art Nouveau medallion pendant. Art Nouveau often features silhouettes of women, all done in yellow gold (often found on lockets). This one is done in 10k yellow gold and features diamonds. Price: $1200 Read More

Obsessions

Obsession: Delicate Seed Pod Flower Rings

Seed Pod Flower rings; comes in small, medium or large sized flower These seed pod flower rings designed by Blanca Monrós Gómez are the epitome of daintiness. The way they are designed lets you stack them in such a neat way--rings don't need to face straight-on when worn.  I also like the idea of taking one and stacking it with a large solitaire ring. It is done below with tinier stack rings.  The juxtaposition of the two is so unexpected.  Would make a great addition to anyone's wedding set--just stick a little seed pod ring in between your band and wedding ring.  How great would that be?! Blanca Monrós Gómez also custom designs wedding sets that are just as beautiful and dainty.  The tiny diamond stack ring gives this set just the right look.  The seed pod flower rings are all done in 14k rose gold, with the center of the flower being oxidized. Prices: Small seed pod ring- $98-100 Medium seed pod ring- $110-115 Large seed pod ring- $155-165 Single Black diamond stack ring- $120 Blanca Monrós Gómez ♦  blanca@blancamonrosgomez.com  ♦  718-594-2869 Read More

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Designer Jewelry

VANCOX: Timeless Jewelry, Brazilian Soul

If you check out VANCOX, you will fully understand how the core of their business is jewelry design, rather than jewelry manufacturing.  Although they do both, the design aspect is truly calculated and meticulously planned.  VANCOX features many statement pieces that are bold and finely crafted. From their mesh dripping earrings, to their gemstone built bracelets--each piece will surely make heads turn and whispers run wild.  The company is based in Brazil, giving them access to the many gemstones that are found there.  Us Americans need some timeless jewelry with Brazilian soul!  Now check out my favorites: Tresor Collection: 18k yellow gold, South Sea Pearls & Diamonds Antique Collection: 18k rose gold, rutilated quartz & diamonds Floracion Collection: 18k yellow gold & diamonds 18k yellow gold, citrine, smokey quartz & diamonds VANCOX ♦  1-877-8VANCOX  ♦  vancox@vancox.com Read More

My Jewel Box

And I ended up choosing…

...the square! So, a few weeks prior to my birthday I asked everyone if I should go with the round or square shaped ring from Zoë Chicco's Spike Collection.  I initially was going to go with the round--but then I thought it would be fun to ask everyone's opinion. Thanks to many great comments and opinions, I ended up choosing the square!  I am very happy with this choice, I love my ring!  I also am glad that I chose a Matte finish rather than a Polished finish.  Not too many jewelry pieces have a matte finish, which makes it even more unique.  The onyx was a no-brainer for me--it is such a striking color against the yellow gold. Now that I look in both my closet and jewelry box, I am realizing an overwhelming abundance of black. Didn't even mean for this to happen either...I think the next piece of jewelry I am going to purchase is going to be bright and vibrant! {inquiries about the specifics on any jewelry items I'm wearing, feel free to leave a comment, I will answer your questions} Read More

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Glimpse into the Past: Drop Earrings & Pearl Choker

Drop earrings and a pearl choker--a classic combination, seen here on Katharine Cornell circa 1930s. I like how her necklace showcases a large, bezel set Mabe pearl, rather than just being a plain strand.  The drop earrings in the photo feature three pearls, graduating in size.  Below are some choices that would allow you to mimic this look! This vintage pearl necklace is so alluring, with its triple strands and eye-catching center piece. That central decor is comprised of 18k yellow gold and a large Mabe pearl. This piece is from the 1950s from Fay Cullen, price: $2600. Love the charm of these drop earrings. Although the inspiration photo features three somewhat large pearls in the drop, these earrings are done on more of a smaller scale. They still are gorgeous--done in platinum and 18k yellow gold. There is a pearl at the top and three diamonds below, all same sizes. The buttercup settings on the diamonds are just so adorable. From Lang Antiques, price: $2950. Read More