Get Familiar: Karen Karch
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Cute Critter Jewels
There has been an increase in animal and critter jewelry lately. Have you noticed? It kind of started off with the enamel bangles that were zebra or leopard that became popular. Now, the trend has transformed into something less tacky, where there is a subtle creature encrusted in diamonds on a necklace or ring. I've seen owls, panthers, turtles, crabs, and many snakes. I found a few favorites that I would wear...these are two little birds and an alligator! I don't necessarily recommend wearing them all together though! The first little bird comes from designer Elisa Solomon. This necklace is so charming and I just love the yellow gold/turquoise combination. That precious metal and stone combo creates such a pretty look. The bird has a diamond for an eye set in 18k yellow gold. The price on this necklace is $600. Do you have a thing for Lacoste polos? That cute little embroidered alligator? Well here's a golden and diamond encrusted version of that same alligator! Lena Wald has created this unique necklace, which is 14k yellow gold and 16" long. It is $242 and can be found at Twist. I love this little enamel birdie ring designed by eclectic designer Solange Azagury-Partridge. I wish I knew price details. On her website, you can view her interesting jewelry designs--like none other! She is located in London, so I'm not even sure if her pieces can be found for purchase here in the U.S. Read More
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
Shop My Picks
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 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
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
