Endless talk of all things sparkly.

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

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

Shop My Picks

ShopGemGossip.com

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

Obsessions

Obsession: Vintage Navette Rings

Navette style rings consist of any rings that are boat-shaped. This sort of style tends to elongate the finger and has a definite feminine side. Often popularized during the Victorian Era, however you can find brand new navette rings today. This shows how timeless the look is and it is here to stay! Finding vintage navette rings is fun and a collection isn't complete without a good one. Check out my favorites below! From the Victorian Era, with a Belgian origin, this ring has diamonds with a single rose cut sapphire in the middle. A true definition of navette style ring. It is set in 18k rose gold and is priced at $1620. It can be found at Adin. A more modern approach to the navette style ring is this one. It is still considered vintage since it is circa 1980. It is set in 18k gold with diamonds and sapphires. This one goes for $1420 at Ross-Simons. This ring can be found on eBay right now, from seller: Ashland_Investments. The auction ends November 30, so there is still time! You can buy it now for $910 or make an offer! The ring features 29 diamonds set in 18k gold. Take a look on eBay by looking up the seller or typing in 'navette' into the search bar, and narrowing the criteria down by clicking on vintage jewelry as the category. Read More