Endless talk of all things sparkly.

My Jewel Box

Pawn Shop Treasure Hunting

The treasure hunting in the Nashville area is unreal!  There are so many great antique shops and flea markets.  The Tennessee State Fairgrounds has flea market event dates set for five times a year.  Here are the dates:  November 21-22-23 Holiday Preview December 19-20-21 Last Chance January 23-24-25 Winterfest Feb 27-28-1 Spring is the Air March 27-28-29 Spring Fling I have to admit, I've never been into a pawn shop before.  However, after stubbling upon one which had a large sign that said "Estate Jewelry" I was intrigued and decided to have a look.  The musty, old shop had two long cases filled with some amazing vintage finds!  I had fun looking through, and trying some pieces on.  After admiring/wishing/wanting, I decided to purchase!  Check out the two rings I picked in the photo.  The Victorian, filigree ring on the left is set in 14k gold, with sapphires and diamonds.  This is a bold ring, and definitely makes a statement.  I like how it elongates any finger it is on, and feels delicate as well.  The other ring I purchased is a trendy panther ring said to have come from an estate in Louisiana.  The panther's eyes are two tiny diamonds and its spots are black enameled.  I was able to talk down the prices, and get a great deal since I bought two items.  Treasure hunting is definitely fun and you never know what you will find!  I will have to put my adventures on hold though, since I am all out of money! Read More

Auctions

Rago Arts Estate Jewelry Online Auction: set for December 7, 2008

The Rago Arts auction house has another Estate Jewelry auction scheduled for December 7th.  The company has many years of experience dealing with antiques, decorative arts and furnishings.  Something fun and exciting to do is browse the archives.  They have a complete catalogue of past auctions, including what the predicted estimate was for each item, and what the final bid price ended up as.  These results give you a good generalization of how to price estate jewelry, and are great "study guides" if you are interested in bidding in the future.  The next estate jewelry auction at Rago is set for December 7, 2008.  The items are currently up to browse...and there are some amazing estate pieces!  Below are a few lots of auction items that are my favorites!  These are sure to get high bids. Read More

Engagement/Wedding Rings

isee2 Diamonds: Beauty Beyond Compare

A ring is a ring, is a ring.  I love it when I see diamond companies creating unique settings that show off a diamond's true beauty.  There are too many times where we see the same old, same old.  Coming across the brand isee2 Diamonds is a breath of fresh air!  As you can see below, their designs are interesting and are not something you see everyday, in every jewelry shop.  They would catch people's attention and get compliments forever!  Whether used as a right-hand ring or the engagement ring, any of these would be beautiful--all live up to the company's slogan: Beauty Beyond Compare. Read More

Shop My Picks

ShopGemGossip.com

Designer Jewelry

Van Cleef & Arpels

If you are wanting a website that not only showcases jewelry but will transport you to another world, Van Cleef & Arpels website will do just that!  Make sure you have your volume turned on, because the soothing music will have you in a relaxed trance.  The Jewellery Collection tab has a drop-down list of clickable collections, each are fun to explore.  Their jewelry has been worn by celebrities, featured in movies, and has walked down red carpets.  I like the trinket boxes that are bejeweled in diamonds and sapphires.  Luxury overload! Read More

Designer Jewelry

Got my eye on nylon from Luis Morais

I love jewelry designers who combine the luxury of real gold with materials that aren't so luxurious. Here is a great example--bright nylon paired with white and yellow gold. Designer Luis Morais is the creator behind these amazing, trendy bracelets. Wear one, two or five...you can't go wrong! Make this your signature bracelet--you've always got to have it on, it's your good luck charm...while you mix and match other bracelets daily. Similar to the Gem Gossip Charity Bracelet, you have some great colors to choose from--so pick one you like. These bracelets range in prices from $190-340. You can pick one up by going to Aloha Rag or finding other retailers through the designer's website. Read More

Engagement/Wedding Rings

New David Yurman Bridal Collection

After such high demand and extensive waiting time, David Yurman has finally released the bridal collection.  His classic American look he has always been known for resonates into the bridal collection as well.  The famous cable-like metal work is featured in the engagement rings.  I love the crossover band, as seen in the picture.  It is so simple, yet has such character and would stay beautiful for years to come.  The diamond even has a patented cut, called the David Yurman Signature Cut.  It gives the brilliant cut a run for its money, while adding a cushion cut component to it.  Besides the David Yurman Signature Cut, another favorite of mine is his spin on the oval cut.  Usually turned vertically, David Yurman has horizontally placed the oval cut diamond to give the ring such a unique look.  For more information, check out the website.  There, you can see a few other designs as well as make an appointment to view/purchase. Read More