Endless talk of all things sparkly.

Obsessions

I like it Raw

Rough edges, blemishes, and flaws--raw gemstones create character in the jewelry they reside.  Whether it is a diamond that has been uncut, unpolished and "in the rough" or a prehistoric shark tooth, jewelry that features a raw material is beautiful and has become popular by up-and-coming designers.  You can find examples in jewelry boutiques, online or even create your own if you find a rough stone and feel it is worthy to be showcased.  I've found some great pieces that feature a Moroccan Azurite, a prehistoric shark tooth and a Kyanite crystal.  Check them out below! This necklace is designed by Melissa Joy Manning and features a royal blue Moroccan Azurite. The style of the 14k yellow gold prongs makes it resemble bird's claws, grasping the stone. The price is $940 and it was even featured in Lucky magazine. Designer Pade Vavra creates a tough, don't-mess-with-me look with this great white shark tooth necklace. Those are diamonds you are seeing at the top of the tooth, as well as three black diamonds at the end of the chain (not visible). All is set in 18k peach gold and can be purchased at Ylang|23, for $2090. I love this Kyanite crystal necklace set in 14k yellow gold from Zoe Chicco. It is geniusly designed to extend from 24-26 inches in length, giving you a nice and elongated look. This will easily layer with shorter charm necklaces. This necklace is $693 and each will vary slightly. Read More

Celebrity Jewelry

MK & Ashley’s Jewelry Influence

Have you picked up your copy of Influence yet?  The pictures and details about their vintage jewelry was the highlight of the read.  I think the twins should come out with a book which catalogs all their jewelry, with photos of each piece accompanied by a quick blurb.  Mary-Kate and Ashley have the best jewelry collection possible.  The emerald ring seen here in the photo was featured in Influence.   Mary-Kate found the ring at a vintage shop on the Rue Saint Honore in Paris, France.  Both girls are lucky enough to have traveled the world, which has allowed them to come across some great vintage jewelry.  It is always interesting to keep an eye out to what their latest acquired treasure is--since the paparazzi can't get enough of both.    I think this estate necklace from Ross-Simons would be a great match to the vintage emerald ring.  The bib necklace has an Etruscan style with a cabochon emerald that is almost a full carat.  There are diamonds framing the emerald, all set in 14k yellow gold.  Priced around $3000. Read More

Auctions

eBay Steals & Deals of the Week!

Wow has eBay really impressed me with their selection of vintage jewelry this week.  Finally!  I feel like there was not much being offered these past few weeks.  I've put these items on my radar and may even bid myself.  I will add the seller names below the photos.  Try your hand at "treasure hunting" on eBay, and post your finds in the comments section. Art Deco Brooch, seller: lonestarestates 1940s diamond ring, seller: alexanderauctions Art Deco Sapphire & Diamond Ring, seller: jewelryagain Read More

Shop My Picks

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Designer Jewelry

Bold Gemstone Bead Necklaces from Darlene de Sedle

Need a bold look for that plain, boring sweater this fall?  If you add any of these necklaces from designer Darlene de Sedle, you are sure to outshine the fall foliage.  Each are hand-strung using precious gemstones such as turquoise, opals, pale emeralds and pink tourmalines.  All three look like they've been discovered in an Egyptian tomb!  You can purchase any of these pieces on Twist while checking out Darlene de Sedle's other bold designs! [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="373" caption="Price: $5200, Turquoise with 22k Gold Beads"][/caption] Price: "Price: $3400, with Pink Tourmalines and Pale Emeralds"400, with Pink Tourmalines and Pale Emeralds [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="373" caption="Price: $8600, Peruvian Opals with 22k Gold Beads"][/caption] Read More

Designer Jewelry

Sleek Wave Rings from Ylang|23

I want to wear all of these rings somehow at once!  The sleekness and flow of these are very pretty.  All are similar, yet very different.  Prices range from $335-385 and they are done in 14k rose and 14k yellow gold.  See for yourself why I've been drawn to them by checking out Ylang|23, where you'll find that these rings are designed by the store's private label.  You will be left with wanting at least one of them, if not more! Read More

Designer Jewelry

A Few of my Favorite Charity Bracelets

I think it all started with the Livestrong charity bracelet? Maybe not...I'm no charity-bracelet-history-buff, but that is my best guess. I actually still have mine. During the time that I purchased one, they were sort of "in demand." Some were even being auctioned off on eBay for around $50!! I love these beaded bracelets that benefit the imbalances of women's opportunities because of financial and/or cultural reasons. The bracelets are handmade by the Maasai Tribe Women of Kenya. Referred to as the "Brightness of Life" not because of the vivid colors you have to choose from, but because of the brightness that lives in the hearts of the women it supports. Each is only $25, with 20% going to the charity. These can be found at Cathy B Jewelry. Another charity bracelet that can be picked up at Cathy B Jewelry website is this little red, sequined tie bracelet. Rightfully called the Children of Jaipur bracelet since a portion of the proceeds goes toward Education in Jaipur, India. This one is $35. The Diamond Empowerment Fund has a mission to develop and empower the regions of Africa where diamond mining is an important aspect of the community's resources. Each bracelet features a rough diamond that is caged inside a diamond shaped charm. Proceeds from this malachite bead stretch bracelet go toward this fund. The cost is $125 at Simmons Jewelry. Of course, we can't forget the Gem Gossip Charity bracelet. As you can see here, these are the two styles you can choose--the wrap style or single cord style. The bracelet now comes in a variety of colors, not just red! Check out the 4-step chart for ordering, and look for a favorite color. If you don't see a color that you want, send me a special request! I've already had a few...Maya from Oklahoma just received a light peach and a dark peach bracelet! Read More