“The Entertainer”: Jewelry Judge

While shopping with a client at the Westfield Mall on Market Street in San Francisco, my attention (momentarily) strayed from my client when I spotted this man. With a heavyweight boxing belt, massive faux gold chains, and an oversized wall clock hung around his neck, how could I NOT notice?!

the entertainer 1

the entertainer 2

Throw in the bedazzled top hat, the huge gold-tone watch and the weighty ring, this guy was truly a jewelry conundrum! During our brief chat, I don’t know if he was all-together “there,” yet he was cheerful as can be and kept reiterating that he was The Entertainer! Though I have no idea what his act actually is, he certainly entertained me. While I would not recommend his taste in accessories, I think it’s great that it clearly makes him happy. He could not stop smiling. That’s what life is all about, isn’t it?

Pade Vavra: Designer

OK, I have yet another jewelry designer to add to my list of favorites. How does this keep happening?! I discovered Pade Vavra and her line while at the Women’s Jewelry Association “Designers by the Bay” event.

Amy and Pade
Amy and Pade

This petite designer has got great energy and was overflowing with love for her craft. In fact she told me, “It’s truly my love. I don’t know how to do anything else!” With a “raw meets refined” look, I first tried on this fan-tab-ulous aqua quartz double-fingered ring.

Yes, please!
Yes, please!

Now based in Healdsburg, she began her business in 1999. She has two branches of her collection, which includes Pade Vavra Fine and Pade by Pade Vavra. One of the things that has put her on the map are her diamond-embellished shark tooth necklaces. Here is a beautiful example in a blond/peach color scheme.

pade vavra 18K peach gold blonde shark tooth necklace

In fact, Mila Kunis wore one of these awesome necklaces throughout the whole movie Forgetting Sarah Marshall. (I’ll have to add that to my Netflix list.)

Mila Kunis
Mila Kunis

I also thought this Herkimer diamond bracelet would be amazing stacked with some of my bracelets.

pade vavra bracelet

And how cool is this grey quartz necklace?

pade vavra grey quartz necklace

She has a new “ribcage” ring, which can be worn three different ways. Very clever design!! It can be made in 14K gold or sterling silver, accented with black or white diamonds. She can also make it in just the metal, sans sparkle.

pade vavra ribcage ring

Wear it three ways!
Wear it three ways!

Pade, whose pieces have been featured in numerous fashion magazines, also does custom work, using either her own materials, or re-working the clients’ jewelry. Not only does she design jewelry, but Pade is also mom to two boys and is married to a vintner — owner of Red Car Wine in Sesbastopol. Where does she find the time? I love her work and look forward to seeing more!

Hello Kitty Pearl Necklace by Mikimoto

I know that my love for jewelry has been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt since I launched this blog in 2011. And I will now admit a secret to you that very few know — I was completely obsessed with Hello Kitty (and Little Twin Stars, etc.) when I was a child. Every spare cent I could save was carefully spent at the Sanrio store at the local mall. I still have a collection of these products from the late 70’s and early 80’s in my mom’s attic. (Heck…those are probably worth something today!) At any rate, my love of both these items did NOT coincide when I saw this necklace, set to launch in January 2014 by Mikimoto.

hello kitty pearl necklace

Retailing at $290,000, it’s designed with Akoya pearls (click here to read more about what those are), diamonds and onyx.

I always say that the more you pay for something, the more you should wear it. In that way, the cost-per-wear goes down. But really, where does one possibly get enough wear from this necklace to justify the cost? It’s not suitable for most workplace environments (where most adults spend the majority of their waking hours), and I hardly envision it on a hot date night or fancy cocktail party. So unless you are just a die-hard collector of Hello Kitty paraphernalia, I think this necklace is definitely a fashion “don’t.”

Etienne Aigner in Soho, NYC

Although it’s been over a month since I worked in NYC, I’m still basking in the lasting shopping glow. During one of my “exploration” days, I wandered up and down every street in Soho. I took a double-take when I saw the Etienne Aigner shop on Greene St. I hadn’t seen this brand around in quite some time, and if memory serves, it was quite conservative, and I’ll just say it…boring. Never one to let this stop me, I entered the newly opened store, and boy was I in for a nice surprise! The line, which includes clothing, shoes, leather goods and jewelry, has gone through a complete transformation! Thoroughly modern and very wearable, I spent quite some time examining all the jewelry.

Designed by local jeweler, Sarah Magid, the jewelry collection is quite diverse. I know that customers with a wide range of personal styles will find something they like.

etienne aigner jewelry

These refined spike pieces definitely have a modern, rock n’ roll edge.

etienne aigner jewelry

And this case appeals to those with a more bohemian vibe.

etienne aigner jewlery

And if drama is your style, then you might be drawn to this statement necklace.

etienne aigner jewerly

This collection of costume jewelry has very accessible price points, and includes materials such as leather, semi-precious stones, and 12K gold plate. It’s nickel-free as well, for those with sensitivities. And what did Amy go home with? Because you KNOW I didn’t leave empty handed! Well I surprised myself with this necklace, made from African jade stones. It’s perfect to layer with some of my other necklaces, and very different than anything I own.

stone blocks necklace

I think this reversible leather cuff with a magnetic clasp is pretty chic as well.

leather reversible cuff

Though this is currently their only shop in the US, they do have their jewelry available on their site. Click here to check it out.

Downton Abbey Jewelry: Jewelry Judge

I, like many of you reading this post, am a HUGE fan of the British series, Downton Abbey. In fact, I’ve got Jan 5, 2014 on my calendar for the premiere of season 4 here in the States! The series starts towards the end of Edwardian England in 1912, and the third season ended around 1920. Aside from the perfectly cast actors and the compelling story lines, I eagerly await each episode to see what the characters are wearing. (Kudos to the costume designer!)

The period costumes are truly beautiful!
The period costumes are truly beautiful!

Imagine my surprise when I spotted this display while shopping in Macy’s over the weekend.

downton abbey jewelry at Macy's

I took a closer look at many of the pieces.

downton abbey jewelry

downton abbey earrings

downtown abbey hair pins

While the line definitely evokes the feel of the era, I really don’t see how this collection is going to take off. Granted, if you were dressing as one of the characters for Halloween, then this is ideal. But are people really going to go for it in real life? I’m dubious. Perhaps someone with a romantic personal style may opt for a piece here and there, but I don’t see myself or most people I know running out to Macy’s to purchase. What’s your opinion? Would love to hear from you!

Elyria Jewels

I recently attended the Women’s Jewelry Association event “Jewelers by the Bay” which featured 20 fabulous jewelry designers. With their wares artfully displayed in the iconic Shreve’s building in Union Square, I was definitely in jewelry heaven. Elyria Jewels caught my eye right off the bat. I was so happy to speak with Elisa Browsh, the designer.

Amy and Elisa
Amy and Elisa

This formerly SF-based company (now in Boulder, CO) was founded in 1996. Each piece of the collection is hand-made in the USA, and it has a very distinct voice. The line, “balances industrial chic with a luxurious bohemian aesthetic.” Case in point, this necklace, with blackened metals, diamonds and moonstones.

Capella necklace
Capella necklace

I was very drawn to this necklace, featuring a large disc pendant with black diamond slices. It’s a stellar mix of primitive and modern, fine jewelry.

elyria necklace

And take a look at this necklace, with a rough aquamarine set in sterling silver chains.

elyria necklace

When I tried on this emerald-cut moonstone and diamond ring, I must admit that I had to lift my jaw up off the floor. To-die-for!!!

It looks good on me, right?!
It looks good on me, right?!

In fact, she also makes some amazing stacking rings.

Rumi stacking rings
Rumi stacking rings

Rumor has it that some of her pieces may be available near Union Square soon — I’m keeping my eye out!

Haunting Jewelry for Halloween and Beyond

You may not know this about me, but I taught 3rd grade for 8 years. Being a fashionista, I know that you won’t be surprised to learn that I had THE most amazing collection of holiday jewelry for every event from Valentine’s Day to Thanksgiving — wood cut-out pieces, necklaces that required batteries, and many home-crafed gifts from students. My 8 and 9 year-old audience loved it! I had many items like these below in my jewelry box.

Perfect for a grade school teacher!
Perfect for a grade school teacher!

When I “retired” from teaching to enter the world of fashion 15 years ago, I quickly realized that I wanted my holiday jewelry to be a bit more refined and subtle. (and BOY did my teacher jewelry sell like hotcakes at my garage sale!!) With that in mind, I wanted to share some hauntingly cool jewelry befit for October 31st — or really, let’s be frank, any day. Enjoy!

Skull bracelet by Alexander McQueen
Skull bracelet by Alexander McQueen

Bing Bang rose gold skull and chain earrings
Bing Bang rose gold skull and chain earrings

REAL spider web preserved by Dolly Bird Design
REAL spider web preserved by Dolly Bird Design

Pearl and spider earrings by Anna Ruth Henriques
Pearl and spider earrings by Anna Ruth Henriques

Snake moonstone ring by Colette
Snake moonstone ring by Colette

Borgioni snake bracelet
Borgioni snake bracelet

Happy Halloween!! And I hope that you get some M&M’s in your trick-or-treat basket, because let’s face it, it’s the best candy out there! 😉

Tips for Preserving Your Jewelry

I’m excited to have a guest contributor today. Thanks to Emma for the informative article!

Jewelry – we use it to express our individuality, to spice up an ensemble, to demonstrate our love to others and perhaps even to honor our lineage with heirlooms. With how much we love it, it’s surprising how so many of us fail to take proper care of the pieces we hold dear. Regular maintenance is certainly not difficult or time consuming, and it truly is an investment to make sure that the treasures lasts for years to come. Below are some tips to get you started!

The composition of your jewelry is the most important thing to consider when cleaning and storing it. It dictates how often your pieces should be cleaned, and with what. As a general rule, silver and gold can withstand much more abrasive cleaning than gemstones, which require extra special care. All-gold and all-silver pieces can be submerged in water without risk of damage. In contrast, jewelry with gemstones, glued bonds or loosely set stones should never be submerged in cleaning solutions, as they may discolor the material or even cause glue bonds to break. It’s better to be safe than sorry when dealing with family antiques!

First we’ll talk about all-metal pieces made of gold and silver. To clean these materials, there are several equally effective options to choose from–all depending on your personal preference and the type of jewelry you’re cleaning. The first option is jewelry cleaning cloths. These are widely available–they can be purchased online or in jewelry stores for only a few dollars–and do a good job of removing brightening and shining tarnished silver. They are not as useful for cleaning gold, which doesn’t tarnish. Simply use the cloth to buff the piece until it is looking shiny and new. You can use these cloths whenever your silver beings to look a little dingy.

For pieces with harder to reach nooks and crannies, a jewelry dipping solution may be a better bet. For example, Connoisseurs is a well-known commercial jewelry cleaning solution offering several different kinds of products and is widely available online.

liquid_dip_cleaner_silver_bath

If you prefer a more natural method, silver and gold can also be cleaned in a mixture of hot water and baking soda. You can either make an abrasive paste and scrub the jewelry (for tough stains) or soak the piece overnight to see best results. Some people also elect to use toothpaste to clean, as its granules do a great job of removing tarnish. Warning: these methods are not recommended for silver pieces with matte finishes. Matte finishes should only be cleaned with commercial dip–even soft polishing clothes can be too abrasive. It is, however, great for cleaning gold, which reacts well to toothpaste cleaning. Simply apply and scrub with a soft-bristle toothbrush.

No matter your cleaning method, each piece should be thoroughly dried with a soft, clean cloth after washing.

When it comes to cleaning jewelry with gemstones, special considerations must be accounted for. While metals like gold, platinum and stainless steel are mostly immune to daily soap and water exposure (they can usually be worn in the shower), many gemstones–like pearl and amber–should never come into contact with hot water, soaps or chemicals. For these sensitive gems, even perfume and natural body oils can damage the natural luster of the gem. A good rule of thumb for soft gems like pearl and amber is to wipe them down after each use with a soft, clean cloth. Don’t let them get wet. In fact, getting a string of pearls wet can stretch the silk string out! It may sound like a lot of work, but it will pay dividends in preventing your grandmother’s necklace from yellowing over time. For harder gems like diamonds and sapphires, it’s usually safe to clean them with a dipping solution. When in doubt, you can always ask a jeweler; he or she will be able to give you specific advice for the piece you need to care for. Jewelers can also steam clean jewelry (great for diamond rings) for a nominal cost.

Now onto jewelry storage. Ask yourself: does the metal tarnish when exposed to air? Can the gem be scratched if it comes into contact with another? Again, the kind of jewelry dictates how the piece can be stored safely. Silver pieces, which do tarnish when exposed to air, should be kept in plastic bags or airtight spaces to minimize oxidation. And while silver can usually be stored with other silver, it’s a good idea to keep it away from any gemstones so as not to scratch them.

brittany jewelry armoire

Gold can also be kept with other gold as it is less sensitive than gemstones. Keep gold in soft, fabric-lined container for extra protection. Most boxes are perfectly suitable to storing gold pieces, though it’s helpful to look for ones with bountiful compartments to stop pieces from becoming tangled, like the jewelry organizers found here.

Gemstones, on the other hand, should be individually separated. This means that even individual pairs of earring should ideally be kept away from one another–if they are made of particularly sensitive gems. Generally speaking, it should be fine to keep each piece in its own cloth bag or fabric-lined box. For pearls, silk pouches are ideal, as they are very soft and allow plenty of ventilation.

A final note on storing your jewelry: If your gems are strung on silk (as is usually the case with pearls), it is very important that they not be hung. Hanging a string of pearls can stretch the silk and warp the sizing, causing you to have to have the pearls restrung prematurely. While those cute jewelry racks may be a great way to display your favorite pieces, they are really more suitable for costume jewelry, which isn’t as sensitive to these factors.

pearl necklace

And it should go without saying that all jewelry should be stored in dry climates, without constantly fluctuating temperatures. Frequent changes from hot to cold can weaken glue bonds and cause breakage!

There you have it. A guide to caring for and storing your jewelry so that it is preserved for years to come. A little care in this lifetime can make all the difference when it comes time to pass jewelry on to future generations. And remember: when in doubt, see a jeweler!

Extra tips: Don’t experiment with cleaners that “seem” like they will do a good job. Bleach may sound like a great option, but it can permanently discolor your jewelry. And while some jewelry can be boiled in hot water for extra cleaning power, you should never submerge any jewelry with glued bonds into water or cleaning solutions–especially if the water is hot. Instead, apply the solution as needed with a Q-tip, and wipe dry with a soft, clean cloth. One more tip: if you have costume jewelry that leaves a weird stain on your skin (that green hue caused by certain metals), there’s an easy solution. Apply a few thin coats of clear nail polish to the inner side of the jewelry. No more unsightly stains!

Statement Hoops: Jewelry Judge

So the “statement necklace” has been a big trend (no pun intended) for quite some time. But as I was paying for a garment at Bloomingdale’s at Stanford this week, I was struck by the earrings the darling gal ringing me up was wearing. Now mind you, it’s the “uniform” at Bloomies that they have to wear black, and so many of the employees lack a personal touch with their outfits. I love how this woman made a major fashion statement with some very large scale hoops.

hoop earrings 1

hoop earrings 2

Now you have to know, that this is a very petite gal, and the inherent scale of earrings for her would normally be much smaller. (Read about choosing the scale of your jewelry here.) But by choosing these large hoops, she was deliberately making a dramatic fashion choice. I also think her big smile really helped balance them out. In addition, her slightly upturned eyes gives her an exotic look, which is complemented by the bold earrings. It’s not necessarily the earrings I would have first though to pick out for her, but as Tim Gunn would say, she made it work!

Brumani

Brumani is a Brazilian-based jewelry line that I’ve been seeing more and more of on the Red Carpet and adorning celebrities about town, from Jennifer Lawrence to Penelope Cruz. Here’s Jennifer Lopez wearing earrings and multiple rings from their “Looping Shine” collection in NYC recently.

jennifer lopez in brumani

I was thrilled to check out the collection live while at the Couture jewelry show. The array of dazzling colors and gem-laden pieces was enough to get my inner princess drooling!! And visiting their booth was like having a little vacation, including perfumes of the most popular scents of the country.

Though this is relatively young brand, founded in 2005 by three brothers (Eduardo, Emerson and Rodrigo Bruner), they have a 50+ year family history in jewelry making. The essence of the line is all about Brazil, “…inspired by Brazilian music, by the magic and colors of the Carnival, the feminine universe, the arts, the nature of Brazil and by the connection of different cultures brought together by a shared history.”

Their “Looping Shine” collection strives to “connect the many bonds people have in life: friends, relationships, experiences…It’s a tribute to love, to affection, to companionship, to friendship and to fellowship.” The pieces are made from rose gold with diamonds and double faceted translucent quartz, which has been polished with a diamond powder. I would SO wear one of those big rings!!

brumani looping shine collection

They also have a collection based on the very exotic Baobab tree. Here are some rings from this group that sparkle like crazy!

brumani baobab collection

This following image showcases pieces from the “Baobab Grass” collection. I was so taken by the frosted, matte look of the lemon quartz. (It reminded me of sea glass, which you know I love.) In combination with brown diamonds, chrysoberyl, and Mandarin garnet, these truly are jewels fit for royalty.

brumani  baobab grass collection

The “Baobab Parahyba” collection features white gold and diamonds with hues of blue, including aquamarines and the rare Parahyba tourmaline.

brumani baobab parahyba collection

I also thought their “Nude” collection was very cool. Perhaps a bit more casual, these pieces make a statement about the range in human skin color, “..a way to show appreciation for the ethnic diversity in colors that range from white to beige; from champagne to pink; from brown to black.” Love that inspiration! Here’s a lovely pair of earrings with stunning faceted smoky quartz drops.

brumani nude collection

This line just really makes my jewelry soul smile. Their goal is to “design jewelry that represents the joy of living from the Brazilian soul” and I think they’ve done just that!