Endless talk of all things sparkly.

Designer Jewelry

Mother’s Jewelry; The good, the bad, the ugly

When I used to work at a jewelry store, we got so many shoppers looking for mother's jewelry--something that commemorates children, like birthstones or children charms. We had a few choices to give our customers, all of which I think were very ugly and not elegant at all. Being a mother should be something someone should be very proud of, and by wearing a large golden boy charm is not my idea of celebrating that! Or a golden pacifier?! We also had mother's rings, which were very popular. Most were heart shaped, and made out of birthstones. I have some better suggestions than the "usual" for any mother out there that wants to commemorate their children in the form of jewelry. You don't have to go with what everyone else does--start your own tradition or trend. One idea is from jewelry designer John Christian. The Continuous Life Wheel Pendant features your children's names on one side, and then their birthstones on the other. They go around in a circle, which is even more symbolic. I just think wearing a necklace like this is way more elegant and trendy than wearing boy or girl charms. You can even choose between 14k or 18k gold, even platinum. Prices range from $690-$2600. Another idea is to simply buy an eternity band in your child's birthstone, and engrave their name and maybe even birthdate on the inside. It wouldn't matter what finger, you can decide which is most comfortable. You can continue to stack the rings as your family grows. This one is from QVC and priced at $161. It is blue zircon, which could be for a December baby. I've also come across something even more personalized. Those cute, little drawings your little one first makes are always memorable. Why not treasure them forever in gold? This company takes your child's drawings and turns them into jewelry! Such a neat idea and the many examples show how exact the picture is to the jewelry. Check it out! The prices are unknown since you have to send in the drawing to get a quote. Read More

Designer Jewelry

Designer Spotlight: Ronni Kappos

Up and coming designer Ronni Kappos vintage glass jewelry designs are bold and bright. When I look at her jewelry line, I first thought rainbow bright would be too flashy or gaudy, but she takes rainbow bright to a sophisticated level. Kappos uses vintage German glass from the 1940s, usually surrounded by 24k gold. All of her designs are so affordable for the detail and craftsmanship. I feel like that won't last long. As soon as America gets familiar with this designer, I'm sure we won't be seeing prices under $100. So check out her work at Twist, and check out my favorites below! This is the Propeller necklace--black, red and teal vintage German glass with 24k gold. It hangs from a nylon cord that is a kelly green color. This could be worn casually or even dressed up. It is playful and pretty, great for summer. And only $100! The Triple Ellipse earrings remind me of a modern version of the cat tail plant. The color combination here would go great with jeans. These are $140. And lastly, the Emblem pendant. Vintage glass that is a pretty sky-blue circle, contrasts the bright tomato-red diamond shapes. It has 24k gold surrounding the shapes on a brown nylon cord. Only $100. Read More

Designer Jewelry

Designer Spotlight: Donna Distefano

Makeovers are always fun, but when anyone hears the word 'makeover' they think hair salons, new wardrobe, and getting their nails done.  Donna Distefano adds one more kind of makeover--a jewelry makeover!  Ever get tired of that old diamond solitaire ring that is just sitting in your jewelry box?  Or how about that gawdy 80s style diamond cluster ring that catches and snags on all your sweaters?  Well Donna Distefano offers the opportunity to transform your old piece into a modern, up-to-date style!  She consults one-on-one in her studio, giving advice and her expertise.  You are also provided with chocolates, champagne, and gift bags...(all your favorites!)  This can even be done for small parties, bridal parties, anniversary or birthday parties for up to six ladies.  Now that would be a day to remember!  For booking inquiries, check out the website or call 212-594-3757. Below are some pieces from her jewelry line.  Her collection has inspirations from her previous work and job at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Check out the prices and other pieces on her website, and you can also order directly. Happy shopping! Read More

Shop My Picks

ShopGemGossip.com

Designer Jewelry

Ross-Simons Introduces Pet Jewelry Line

A favorite jewelry company of mine, Ross-Simons, introduces their new line of pet jewelry this week.  The line includes jeweled elastic hair accessories, necklaces, leash charms, and even pearl necklaces!  Those would look adorable on any dog.  I'm not sure how the elastic hair accessories will stay put or how they even work...I would stick with the collars. Here is one of my favorites from the new line. It is a collar made out of coral, and has a silver CZ studded bead as well. The pearl necklaces look similar. All are on sale right now for around $50-60. I don't think my chihuahua named Billy would like any of the pet jewelry. He even hates wearing his black nylon collar (pictured above on)...can't you tell? Would your pets wear any of this jewelry? Do you think it is a good idea? Read More

Designer Jewelry

Designer Spotlight: Carolyn Tyler

One of my favorite jewelry designers is Carolyn Tyler. She has an ecclectic edge to her style, and each piece looks like it belongs in a museum case. The gold that is used is 22k and 100% recycled, meaning that no new mining had to be done to make the piece. So, not only are her designs gorgeous, but eco-friendly as well. Bali, an Indonesian island, is the setting and inspiration, and on this island, artisans hand make each piece of jewelry. It is an art that cannot be done anywhere else. This video lets you take a peek inside Carolyn Tyler's world, where you can see her inspirations and her jewelry come to life. [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTWr2AWUhy0] Here are my picks from her jewelry line, which can be purchased by going to her website at www.carolyntylerjewelry.com Read More

Designer Jewelry

Diamond in a Pearl by Galatea

Can't decide whether you want diamonds or pearls for your birthday this year?  Well, I may have the answer for you!  How about both!  Galatea has their very own patent on this remarkable work of art called Diamond in a Pearl.  They take a pearl and drill into it, creating a nook for a diamond.  Surrounding the diamond is your choice of yellow or white gold.  Here is their most basic design, which starts out at $315. The pearl size is around 9mm, and the diamond is 4 points of a carat. I like how the "chain" is invisible so it looks like it is floating. It probably looks very nice on. The pearls can get very intricate as the price goes up. There are different styles of carving shown on the website. Even different pearl colors--this one is a black carved pearl with white gold, and then a diamond. This one is priced at $1695, so you can see the difference the carving makes in that aspect. As well as the diamond size, this one is 20 points and the pearl is 10mm. Galatea also makes rings, earrings and bracelets but I like these best. You can check out the full collection at the website: www.diamondinapearl.com Which ones do you like? Read More