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Obsessions

Obsession: Marine Link Bracelets

February 8, 2009

The marine link has an elegant, classic, as well as trendy look to it. Hilary Duff is spotted here with an extremely large version of the marine link bracelet. I wonder if hers is real good or fake...can't imagine the pricetag if it were real! Her other wrist dons the double link version of Cartier's Love Charity Bracelet. Below is an example from Ross-Simons done in 14k yellow gold, with a price of $445 on clearance. This option is actually from Sam's Club and priced at $275.11, very random price. Anyway, it is 14k yellow gold as well but this one has more of an emphasis on the marine links--oversized and bold! Read More

Education & Advice

Jewelry Time Periods: Art Nouveau Period

February 1, 2009

The Art Nouveau Period (1895-1915) was an uncontrived time, as it came about as an artistic revolt against all that was popular and commonplace of the 19th Century. This time period did not last too long, but created many sought after collectibles, art, architecture and jewelry. Focus was given to craftsmanship and creativity, since people felt things were becoming too industrial and imitative. Ironically, the reason for its coming to be, became the time period's demise, after it became commercialized and cheaply copied. Some motifs and distinctive elements of this time period: natural subjects: flowers, insects, birds curving, asymmetrical lines and designs female visage or silhouette with long, flowing hair enameling & plique à jour (stained glass effect) butterflies, dragonflies, swans, reptiles, snakes/serpents, orchids, irises, creepy/nightmarish things- bats, owls, vultures opals, amber, horn, ivory were often used; even glass...diamonds were used sparingly Important People of the Time: René Lalique- French designer, worked for Cartier, Boucheron, created pieces for Samuel Bing's Paris shop Maison de I'Art Nouveau Georges Fouquet Read More

Obsessions

So Jaded…

February 1, 2009

These beautiful pieces of jewelry featuring jade will never leave you feeling jaded. The combination of white gold or platinum with jade, whether it is a cabochon or carved, is just so pretty to me. Owning a piece of jade jewelry is necessary for any jewelry enthusiast. Check out the lovely vintage picks below! American made, vintage from the 1920s--these beautiful carved jade earrings are set in platinum and diamonds. Bring the roaring twenties back when wearing these, fitted with original screwbacks that were popular then. From Lawrence Jeffrey Estate Jewelers and priced at $3800. From the Edwardian Period come these platinum, diamond and jade earrings. I love the bow motif that was always seen during this time period, and having it paired with the jade is even more interesting. Priced at $9000 from Meriwether. These vintage jade earrings have the carved jade style that I love. I like the subtle etching with the tiny holes, gives it a great, almost delicate look. I've never seen jewelry done in platinum over 18k yellow gold, but here is the first example! Priced at $2450 from Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry. Read More

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

A Perfect Pair

January 28, 2009

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="3 Diamond Ring set in Jet, $65000"][/caption] Art Deco Onyx & Diamond Bangle, [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Art Deco Onyx & Diamond Bangle, $18500"][/caption]8500 Read More

Auctions

Buy a Piece from my Personal Collection

January 18, 2009

Just listed a vintage pendant from the 1980s on eBay. Check it out and bid if you love it! It was hard to let it go, but it is that time of year! Hopefully it brings someone else a smile to their face and passed down through future generations. Read More

Obsessions

Victoria’s got a Secret: Great Jewelry Styling

January 17, 2009

Victoria's Secret has always brought us beautiful lingerie, clothing and beauty products...but I've always looked forward to the release of the new swimwear every year. This year I noticed something more than just great suits and beachwear--really pretty jewelry combinations. The jewelry styling was perfect for every outfit. Whoever is responsible for this fabulous work--great job! Here are my two favorites. I love the necklace combination in the top photo and how perfect is just the one hinge bangle with the oversized blue blouse? Lovely. Read More

Journal

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How to Identify Genuine Georgian Jewelry, part 1

How to Clean Antique Jewelry — The Important Do’s & Don’ts

Where to Sell Your Unwanted Jewelry

Ten Reasons — What Makes Customers Buy Jewelry from Specific Designers

Obsessions

Obsession: Marine Link Bracelets

Education & Advice

Jewelry Time Periods: Art Nouveau Period

Obsessions

So Jaded…

Shop My Picks

Antique & Vintage Jewelry

A Perfect Pair

Auctions

Buy a Piece from my Personal Collection

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How to Identify Genuine Georgian Jewelry, part 1

How to Clean Antique Jewelry — The Important Do’s & Don’ts

Where to Sell Your Unwanted Jewelry

Obsessions

Victoria’s got a Secret: Great Jewelry Styling

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