Obsessions

Jewelry News: September 2009

September 25, 2009

Some of the best jewelry news on the web this month--three stories: 1. Over at Firstwater News, an interesting trend alert is being reported. The third C of diamond grading, the clarity--no longer crucial if the diamond is clouded up or resembles an ice cube. Those diamonds that were once "ugly ducklings" now have a second chance. And these rings are proof that poor clarity can look really cool. Check out Firstwater News for the full story. 2. An amateur treasure hunter finds over 1500 pieces of Anglo-Saxon gold stashed underground near Straffordshire, England. Items include many helmet crests composed of gold, enamel, garnets, and others. One piece features a puzzling emblem of five snakes. Another has this written in Latin, "Rise up, O Lord, and may thy enemies be dispersed and those who hate thee be driven from thy face." All so interesting to have happen to a man who just loves his metal detector. This find, which dates back to around 675-725 AD, is being compared to the unveiling of King Tut's tomb! Read more here and here. 3. An amazing Lucky Deal of the Day, coming from designer Bario-Neal. This cute little ring called the Knottedrush ring is 50% off! Just for today only--make sure to use code LUCKYDAILY3 at checkout in order to get a 10k yellow gold choice for $77 rather than regularly $154. Read More

Obsessions

Jewelry LookBook: Double Medallion Pendants

September 17, 2009

Given: Ashley Olsen has the best jewelry ever. But anyone can have nice jewelry--it's how you wear it that sets you a part from the rest. I like how she wears two medallion pendants at the same time, only difference: the chain length. This look is easy to pull off if you have two different chains; one long, the other about 24 or 30 inches. Of course two medallion pendants are needed: go for an Art Nouveau one and another that has gemstone detail. Matching yellow gold is the right idea as well! This medallion pendant is from Doyle & Doyle's Heirloom collection, which is designed by the Doyle sisters. So these pieces are modern jewelry, with an antique style. These come in several different choices for gemstone choice--I like the jadeite which is shown above. 18k yellow gold, price: $350 Doyle & Doyle also has this great Art Nouveau medallion pendant. Art Nouveau often features silhouettes of women, all done in yellow gold (often found on lockets). This one is done in 10k yellow gold and features diamonds. Price: $1200 Read More

Obsessions

Obsession: Delicate Seed Pod Flower Rings

September 16, 2009

Seed Pod Flower rings; comes in small, medium or large sized flower These seed pod flower rings designed by Blanca Monrós Gómez are the epitome of daintiness. The way they are designed lets you stack them in such a neat way--rings don't need to face straight-on when worn. I also like the idea of taking one and stacking it with a large solitaire ring. It is done below with tinier stack rings. The juxtaposition of the two is so unexpected. Would make a great addition to anyone's wedding set--just stick a little seed pod ring in between your band and wedding ring. How great would that be?! Blanca Monrós Gómez also custom designs wedding sets that are just as beautiful and dainty. The tiny diamond stack ring gives this set just the right look. The seed pod flower rings are all done in 14k rose gold, with the center of the flower being oxidized. Prices: Small seed pod ring- $98-100 Medium seed pod ring- $110-115 Large seed pod ring- $155-165 Single Black diamond stack ring- $120 Blanca Monrós Gómez ♦ blanca@blancamonrosgomez.com ♦ 718-594-2869 Read More

Obsessions

Obsession: Jamie A. Kelsch’s Dainty Solitaires

September 7, 2009

These little solitaire rings by Jamie A. Kelsch are my latest obsession. These have a vintage feel and are so versatile. I can see them worn alone or stacked, and be equally as beautiful. Each can be customized in 14k yellow or white gold--even platinum by special request. Below, in order from top to bottom are a blue topaz, amethyst and blue sapphire. Diamond and pink tourmaline are also available (and possibly others by request). Prices range from $350-400. Jamie A. Kelsch is an Austin-based designer; you can find her designs at Austin-based jewelry store Eliza Page. Read More

Obsessions

Glimpse into the Past: Large, Button Earrings

August 28, 2009

Nothing is prettier than having your hair pulled back, showing off a pair of large, button earrings. And in this case, size does matter, because the perfect look is having them about the same size as your ear lobe. A nice round pair, featuring pearls, coral, or enamel are great choices. Actress of the 1960s Tippi Hedren is seen above portraying this look exactly. These earrings are 18k yellow gold and embellished in enamel, with center diamonds. They are from Beladora, and are contemporary--black, white and gold is a classic color combination. Price: $995 Mabe pearls are perfect for the round, button earring look. These are done in 14k yellow gold, at a great price of $295 at Beladora2. The color of these are described as a bronzy grey and are circa 1980. Designed by Van Cleef & Arpels, these button earrings are done in a rare natural coral, which is such a pretty color. This pair was purchased by Beladora from a prominent California estate, and is now for sale for $4250. Circa 1980, a necessary designer collector's piece for any jewelry collection. These are designed by Tiffany & Co. and feature stunning Mabe pearls in 18k yellow gold. They are contemporary, can be purchased on 1stdibs--provided by seller Hollis Reh and Shariff. Read More