Bottega Veneta Jewelry

I don’t know about you, but when most people think about Bottega Veneta, their luxurious woven handbags come to mind, right? What many people may not realize is that they also have a selection of both fashion and fine jewelry. I stopped into the San Francisco store recently to see what they were showing, and I must say that I really enjoyed the diversity in the fashion jewelry cases. Made in Vicenza, Italy, I couldn’t help but be lured by the colors and sparkle of these Pepita (meaning “nugget”) necklaces.

bottega veneta pepita necklaces
They come in two lengths. The shorter ones (14.5 inches) have a small silver link between each crystal, while the longer ones (18.25 inches) have a longer, more decorative link. I think this pyrite version is quite lovely and versatile. I learned that, “Pyrite is a unique protector, drawing energy from the Earth through the physical body and into the aura creating a defensive shield against negative energies, environmental pollutants, emotional attack and physical harm. It also supports one with a spirit of boldness and assertive action when protecting others, the planet, or in standing up for important issues of community.” Interesting that that’s the stone I was drawn to…

bottega veneta pepita necklace
It’s easy to layer these necklaces as well. Currently, this line comes in five colors: ciel (blue), saffron (the saturated yellow), new ascencio (deep green–their newest color), natural (clear) and pyrite.

bottega veneta pepita necklaces
If you just want a hint of this look, then you may find the rings right up your (style) alley.

bottega veneta rings
I couldn’t help but try on the turquoise pieces as well, as you know my inner bohemian goddess just gravitates towards it! Here’s a bracelet and a couple rings I played with.

bottega veneta turquoise bracelet
bottega veneta turquoise rings
And how sweet is this headband? Perfect with a diaphenous dress at an outdoor party on a warm evening, don’t you think?

bottega veneta headband

There were also two major silver necklaces that were quite the center of attention. While they look heavy, they are in fact extremely light-weight. The maltese cross with the druzy in the center is just fabulous. J’adore!

bottega veneta silver necklace
bottega veneta silver necklace
If you’re a big fan of the iconic woven texture of Bottega, then you can rest assured that you’ll find it in silver. Here are a couple pieces with their signature look.

bottega veneta silver intrecciato ring
bottega veneta bracelet
Thanks so much to Karina at the SF store for showing me around the collections!

Accessorize Me: Sparkle On T-shirt

I have been looking for a cool graphic t-shirt for at least a couple years. I have so many outfits I want to style it with! But I have such specific parameters in my head, that I haven’t been able to find what I’m looking for…I prefer a v-neck, scoop or tank (none of those tight, high crew-necks), I want it to be in MY size (not that of a pre-teen), I like neutrals, and puh-leese, it’s got to have a message that I support. Given that my pursuit has been fruitless, I decided to take matters into my own hands. Along with my blog-master, Jeff, and the website Teespring.com, we’ve come up with these t-shirts and tank, which in my mind, say it all. I purposely chose the distressed, industrial font in juxtaposition with the message.

sparkle on t-shirt and tank
Yes, this is currently for sale for the next ten days (Yay!), and there are five different options of brand/colors (all in the white/black/grey family). Check them out! I, personally, am ordering both a tank and a scoop, and I want to share with you how I’m going to style them.

First, let’s go with the weekend casual look, for which I’ll select the tank. For this, I want a pair of lightly distressed boyfriend jeans and a military jacket. I think the ideal jacket is by Current/Elliot. I bought one a while back, and it’s become a true staple in my wardrobe. Clearly, it has staying power, as they offer a similar design each season. This goes to show that it’s more than a trend. I think the shorter sleeves are perfect for changeable weather, which you definitely find in San Francisco.

current/elliot infantry jacket
For the distressed boyfriend jean, I don’t want anything too sloppy, but more of a relaxed, tapered leg. This pair by Kut from the Kloth seems just right, paired with the oversized jacket. You want to balance out an oversized top with a narrower bottom.

kut from the kloth catherine distessed slim boyfriend jeans
Given that this is a casual chic look, sneakers are the preferred shoe. Vince has come up with a new classic with their slip-on perforated style. (Reminiscent of the Van’s I used to wear in college!)

vince blair 5 slip-on sneaker
Yes, I must admit that I own these as well. Sometimes I wear them barefoot, but if it’s a little chillier out, then I prefer to wear a ped with them. I particularly like these by Hue. They have a little non-slip thing at the back, and as soon as I wear them for about 10 minutes, and my feet heat up, they stay in place all day.

hue no-show socks
I definitely want a hands-free bag while I’m out for the day, and this cross-body by Alexander Wang is very hot. The double slinky chain strap and soft, washed leather totally fit the vibe of the outfit.

alexander wang brenda camera bag
Having a scarf handy is never a bad idea, so toss in this Alexander McQueen scarf for a little ‘tude.

alexander mcqueen skull chiffon scarf
Keeping with the hassle-free look, I’m opting for a short, mixed metal necklace by Rachel Zoe.

rachel zoe mia sphere crescent necklace
Tai has become a household name with their bohemian bracelets, and this layered look is a perfect example of why.

tai pave disc bracelet set
Stacked with a watch by Shinola (go made in the USA!), I think it’s a great combination.

shinola runwell stainless wach with gray alligator leather strap
To top off the look, just a little sparkle (of course!) in the ears with these warm/cool mix earrings by Rebecca Minkoff.

rebecca minkoff rhinestone stud earrings
So now on to a more refined look, using either the v-neck, or the scoop, depending on your personal style.

sparkle on scoop tee
This ensemble will take you out on a date (he should know how you feel about bling!) or meeting your friends for margaritas and guac. To step it up, I’m pairing the tee with this Alice + Oliva blazer, which features a very inspired design in back.

alice + olivia cady open-back blazer
A skinny, darker wash pair of jeans is definitely in order for this look, and I am a huge fan of AG Prima jeans. (Many of my clients who swear they will never wear jeans are addicted to these!) They come in various washes, and are beyond soft.

ag prima mid-rise cigarette jeans
A heeled bootie elevates everything, and a recent client will testify that these Paul Green booties were super-comfy first wear out, for the whole day. (Thanks to Elizabeth for road-testing them!)

paul green bellini peep toe bootie
I want a mixed-neutral bag that’s a bit more uptown for this outfit. Diane von Furstenburg has just the right one. It can be worn over the shoulder, or carried as a clutch, with the strap tucked inside.

diane von furstenburg 440 large envelope clutch
Statment earrings are a must. Loving these by Dannijo for a Navajo meets fashionista edge.

dannijo navi earrings
In lieu of bracelets, I’m going for a multi-ring look. For a bold punch that’s in harmony with the earrings, I like this ring by House of Harlow.

house of harlow 1960 shakti stack ring
Add in this Vita Fede double layer ring.

vita fede titan lalin crystal band ring
And then include some midi-rings to make it your own.

house of harlow 1960 shakti midi ring stack
So what do you think of these ensembles? Would you wear them? Or how can you use them as inspiration to adapt it to your own personal style? Do tell!

And don’t forget…if you’d like one of these t-shirts, then be sure to order by next Wednesday!

SPARKLE ON!

Zaffiro

Do you know what granulation is? I had an idea, but I didn’t truly understand what it was until I met Jack and Elizabeth Gualtiere of Zaffiro at the Couture show. Granulation is an ancient goldsmithing technique which is, “…a decorative process that consists of applying minute spheres of gold to a surface of similar gold alloy and then heating the entire piece to a temperature high enough to form a permanent bond between the surface and the spheres.” Impressive, right? Take a look at this pair of earrings. As described by Elizabeth, “These are our one-of-a-kind classic “Fern Curl” earrings that are set with amethyst briolettes and teal diamonds in granulated 22kt yellow gold, with 18kt yellow gold posts.”

zaffiro earrings
Being a fan of all shades of aqua, I was immediately drawn to the hue of this necklace in their case. The pendant is the surface skin of an aquamarine, which is very reminiscent of Roman Glass. It’s basically what the stone looks like when it comes out of the ground. J’Adore.

zaffiro necklace
Jack and Elizabeth originally discovered Etruscan granulation while on a study abroad program during college. They began working together 22+ years ago, and they were friends before the whole dating/marriage thing. (Love that!) They live and work in Portland, Oregon, where each piece is completely hand-crafted. I thought it was so interesting that they consult on each others’ designs, yet each one makes their own pieces from start to finish. Apparently Jack is more drawn to architectural, geometric designs, while Elizabeth gravitates towards curves. Though through it all, granulation is the core, common thread.

These two pendants begged to be tried on, and who am I to ignore jewelry saying, “Hello, Amy!” These are Anglo Saxon bronzes from the 6th Century, which were dug up in London. They truly take “one-of-a-kind” jewelry to the next level!

zaffiro ancient pendants
While 22K gold is their main medium, they have also added oxidized silver to their repertoire. Their Etrusco group showcases their metal work, alongside colorful gems.

zaffiro etrusco rings
The cuffs in this series blew me away, Here’s one I tried on at the show.

zaffiro cuff
And here’s another design from the same collection they recently posted on social media. The main stone is Australian boulder opal, accented with teal and white diamonds.

Zaffiro cuff
These “nebula” cuffs, part of the Etrusco series, are, “..inspired by the imagery of distant constellations, points of light against a dark universe, and the harmony of seemingly randomly arranged objects..” I completely see it, don’t you?

While speaking with Jack and Elizabeth, I couldn’t help but notice the color of this bracelet, as it wasn’t rose gold, yet I couldn’t quite nail down what I was looking at. It is apparently a new patina they’ve been working on called the “orchid patina.” It’s still in the experimental stages, and they have yet to achieve the color on gold. I would not be surprised if this has now been accomplished.

zaffiro bracelet
I was e-mailing with Elizabeth this week, and she shared this image of a new necklace, most definitely fit for a princess! It is a one-of-a-kind Etrusco pendant, set with a tanzanite cabochon, purple sapphires, teal diamonds and a mint green tourmaline in 22kt yellow gold, with forged and oxidized sterling silver. They truly have a gift with color.

zaffiro necklace
If you’d like to take a closer look into the intensely complex process of making a custom piece, then you’ll most certainly enjoy this 4 minute video. I know I did!

I likely took up a bit too much time asking a million questions of this dynamic design duo, but I truly appreciated every moment of it. I am very excited to see their most current designs at Couture again this year!

elizabeth gualtiere, amy roseveare, jack gualtieri

Hutchinson @ Marin Country Mart

I always make it a point to visit the Brentwood Country Mart in southern California when I’m down there — love the cozy layout and the variety of stores, including jewelry gems Broken English and Pippa Small. When the Marin Country Mart opened in Larkpsur, I certainly made it a point to visit. Though I must say, in it’s infancy, there were still many open storefronts and NO jewelry to mention. Girl, this has all changed with the opening of Hutchinson Fine Jewelry at the end of 2014. This now makes stopping at the Mart a must when I’m up in Marin.

hutchinson fine jewelry marin
As I entered this jewel box of a store, I was stuck by the stunning display, with three walls of glass-fronted vignettes, representing over 20 different fine jewelry designers. (Note to self: when assisting clients design their new closets, keep this idea in mind!)

hutchinson fine jewelry marin
Manager Kellie Phinney was very generous in showing me around and letting me play with all the jewels. She told me that the owners, Kary Chendo and Miranda Abrams, choose lines that are utterly unique in their own way. “They want the jewelry to be loved and worn every day, and then passed down.” My philosophy exactly!

I was amped to see they carry The Woods, who I’ve desperately missed seeing ever since Carrots closed in San Francisco. There was a magnetic pull to this mother-of-pearl necklace on a silver and pave diamond chain.

the woods fine jewelry necklace
Hutchinson is also one of the few places to represent Carolina Bucci. She weaves magic with gold and silk on a loom from the 1800’s. Take a gander at these necklaces — the detail is amazing.

caroline bucci necklaces
caroline bucci necklaces
I tried on this wide bracelet, and it felt like buttah on my wrist, without the calories!

carolina bucci bracelet
Monique Pean is always one of my faves, both for her designs and her environmental consciousness. How can you go wrong with fossilzed wooly mammoth scrimshaw and diamonds? (Once again, if I had a bottomless wallet…this would be mine.)

monique pean ring
Pippa Small is right up there at the top of ethical designers as well. She hand selects each stone she uses, designs around their natural beauty, and uses clean gold, which is, “Gold mined without impacting the environment, respecting labor rights and often produced by community cooperatives.” Brava.

pippa small earrings
I was also very excited to see Bay Area local, Susie Fox, glittering in the cases. This double drop ball pendant necklace with cognac diamonds is what I would describe as subtle luxury.

susie fox necklace
I know the collection at Hutchinson is only going to grow, so I will make it a point to stop in more often. Have you visited yet? Do tell!

Buju Jewelry, Malibu

It’s always fun to come across a line that I’ve never seen before, and it’s even better when the pieces are selling at accessible price points. This was the case when I visited Red Bird recently over in Berkeley. I saw this 52-inch long necklace of chains tied on a thin leather cord from Buju Jewelry. Hmmm…what could I do with that? I was intrigued. It seemed like a perfect layering necklace.

buju necklace
Well, I thought it might be fab with the Arielle de Pinto necklace from Metier, right?! They seemed to speak the same language, with their chains and coloration.

buju and arielle de pinto necklaces
Loved the combo, and I’ve already worn it a few times in the past week. (Just fyi…I prioritize jewelry purchases over buying groceries. And I know I’m not the only one out there!)

Checking out their website, I learned that the co-desigers are two gals from “Bu” (aka Malibu) who were looking to create a line that’s ethnic and organic, yet still completely current. I think they’ve really struck this chord with their designs. Here’s a selection of bracelets and necklaces from their website.

buju necklace
buju bracelet
buju necklace
buju bracelet
buju necklace
I think it’s fresh and fun, and it fits in perfectly with my “urban bohemian” personal style. What do you think? Could you see yourself donning this line?

Field Trip to San Francisco

What?! Don’t you live/work in SF? Well, yes…I do.  I am a Bay Area native. I work in San Francisco many days a week, and I lived in Pacific Heights for a few years as well. (I currently live 15 miles south of the city.) But don’t you find that when you live somewhere, you often don’t take the time to visit all the cool, local places as opposed to when you’re visiting somewhere new? Heck, I know SF born and bred people who have never been to Alcatraz or walked the Golden Gate Bridge, but I know all my friends who’ve visited from abroad have done these things!

This was the impetus for Friday’s field trip, with my fabulous co-hort, Jennifer Bressie. There were a few jewelry stores in areas of SF we don’t often frequent which have been on our “must see” list. So we both cleared our schedule for the day to check them out. Jen was the driver, and I was the the direction girl…(Jen probably should have been worried when I had my directions scrawled on a piece of paper, instead of using Google maps on my phone!)

 

Off on our adventure!
Off on our adventure!

Our first stop was going to be D & H Sustainable Jewelers in the Castro. Now I know that directions aren’t my strong suit, but the streets in the area where Noe and Market (and others?) meet are so catywompus, that we found ourselves stuck behind this trolley, at a dead stop. (Please note the “Dead End” sign to the right. It’s true, signs don’t lie.) Oops! Let’s do a “creative” U-turn. Perfect. Did I mention I’m not the best navigator?!

the castro, sf
But it was all worth it, and Jen’s superb driving skills got us to our destination. In a matter of about 10 minutes, I knew that I wanted Shawn Higgins, half of the duo behind D & H Sustainable Jewelers, as a new best friend. His humor, expertise, and openness are infectious.

shawn higgins and amy roseveare
This store is among the first that will be SCS certified, meaning that 100% of their products are ethically sourced and sustainable. What a fabulous feat! They sell their own designs, as well as representing many other jewelry designers. It’s clear that bridal is a huge category for them. Being the magpie that I am, I went straight for the bling-iest ring in the case, featuring a flawless yellow canary diamond. (This is one of their own designs.)

yellow canary diamond ring from d & h sustainable jewelers
Another one of their amazing pieces is this cage pendant, which took over a year to make, to get it just right. It’s made of sterling silver and 14K gold, and housed an incredible Alexander the Great coin, dating back 2500 years. Adore.

d & h sustainable jewelers pendant
You can open it up, and really put whatever sort of talisman you’d like inside.

d & h sustainable jewelers pedant
I also thought this necklace, made from a re-purposed 1910 Edwardian lingerie pin was quite fantastic.

d & h sustainable jewelers lingerie pin necklace
If you’re looking for a supremely unique wedding ring for your guy, then check out this Gibeon meteorite set in rose gold by Lashbrooke!

lashbrooke meteorite ring ad d&h sustainable jewelers
After briefly meeting Lindsay (the other partner), we had to run. Lunch was most definitely next on the agenda, and you can’t go wrong with the croque monsieur (for me) or the burger sans bun (for Jen–she’s so good!) at Absinthe in Hayes Valley.

With our appetites sufficiently satisfied, were were off to Metier. You may be familiar with this store. They spent 5 years on Maiden Lane (Union Square), 16 years on Sutter (where they were a large clothing and jewelry boutique), and then a year in the Shreve building, before moving to this new location on Laguna. This jewel-box of a boutique offers both vintage/antique jewelry as well as merchandise from current designers. The more carefully you look, the more you see. The owners, Sheri Evans and Trina Papini, have an impeccable eye, so the collection is curated to perfection. During our visit, the place was hopping with customers!

metier san francisco
I couldn’t resist trying on these Georgian rings, which are from the late 1700’s-early 1800’s. Amazeballs.

georgian diamond rings from metier sf
Or what about one of these silver bracelets, from Victorian to Arts & Crafts? So easy to mix with current outfits!

antique bracelets from metier sf
They always have a fabulous selection of lockets and charms.

locket from metier sf
lockets from metier sf
One of the current designers they carry is Arielle de Pinto, who weaves magic with metal. The ombre finish on this necklace is just perfect.

arielle de pinto necklace
Loved seeing Sheri and Trina, and I’ll certainly be back soon.

trina papini, amy roseveare and sheri evans
Our last stop of the day was in the Mission. Love & Luxe is an amazing jewelry gallery and atelier owned by artist-in-residence, Betsy Barron. She shows her own work and also showcases 40+ other hand-crafted lines in her spacious store. As luck would have it, she came to the store during our visit. Yay!

amy roseveare and betsy barron
First checking out Betsy’s line, I couldn’t help but try on a few rings.

betsy barron rings
Jen was in love with this rose gold locket from 1870. She is a total rose gold girl!

vintage rose gold locket from love & luxe
I definitely have always had a thing for turquoise, and this vintage-inspired design with Sleeping Beauty turquoise by Chris Neff made me smile.

chris neff ring at love & luxe
Definitely one of the most unique lines I’ve ever seen is James Banks, which is a collaboration between Adam Schulman and Heidi Nahser-Fink. Here is their necklace called “Lightkeeper.” On one necklace, there is a glass bulb filled with black diamonds and one ruby. Then on the other necklace are the “tools” you can use to open the bulb to add/change whatever you want inside. Have you ever seen something like this?!

lightkeeper by james banks at love & luxe
Even the box it comes in is exquisite.

lightkeeper necklace by james banks at love & luxe
There was also a lovely selection of work by Johnny Ninos. His current collection is inspired by barnacles, as shown in these rings. Organic beauty, no doubt.

johnny ninos rings at love & luxe
johnny ninos reef ring at love & luxe
Jen had to take one more look at that locket before we had to leave and get back on the road…

love & luxe san francisco
I can’t think of a better way to spend the day–with a life-long friend (We actually went to kindergarten together!) looking at gorgeous jewelry! Thanks to all of you for your time, knowledge and kindness!

Gina Pankowski: Designer

In my next lifetime, I’m going to be an interior designer — I’m obsessed with creating the perfect home environment, and I pour over all the decor magazines each month. I was so intrigued with Moen’s ad campaign that featured statement necklaces made from the parts of their new faucet collection. (In fact, I saw the ad in a magazine while on a plane to the jewelry shows in Las Vegas.)

gina pankowski moen project
Who would have known, but just a couple days later while walking through the aisles of JCK, there was the ad! And even better, I was able to meet the talented Seattle-based designer of the necklace in person, Gina Pankowski!

gina pankowsi and amy roseveare
I thought it was so interesting to watch her video about how she came up with the necklace concept.

Gina has a truly distinct look to her collection, which is inspired by “organic architecture,” such as the planetary orbits and the human spine. Each hand-fabricated piece is kinetic and moves with the body. Take, for example, her Lattis Burst necklace. Gorgeous, right?

gina pankowski lattis burst necklace
I can see how Gina’s past as a sculptor influences her work. These earrings are truly small sculptures for your ears.

gina pankowski amphora earrings

Even her variation on a stud earring goes beyond the norm…in a very good way!

gina pankowski caged sphere earrings
The construction of this bracelet is so unique, that it doesn’t even need a clasp. (Plus, you know I’m a softie for mixed metals!)

gina pankowski lattis bangle bracelet
Gina takes the ordinary hoop earring to a new level, with her Vertebrae hoops.

gina pankowski vertebrae hoop earrings
Along with the 100% recycled metals she uses, Gina also incorporates color in some of her pieces, as shown in this rose quartz ring. I adore the setting — so unique!

gina pankowski rose quartz ring
In addition to her online shop, you can also see her line in person at various shops in the United States — click here for a list. Enjoy!

Tura Sugden: Designer

Tura Sugden’s designs have been on my mind since I first saw her collection last fall at the WJA Designers by the Bay event. Since she’s a local designer here in San Francisco, I decided to invite myself to her studio in Noe Valley for a visit. She’s so kind, and she was more than happy to show me around.

 

Starting the morning off right at Tura's studio!
Starting the morning off right at Tura’s studio!

There’s nothing like seeing an artist’s bench and trays of gems just waiting to be tried on!

tura sugden's studio
tura sugden earrings
I asked Tura how she got started in the jewelry business, and here’s her reply:

“I studied fine art and graduated with a BFA in sculpture. During school I was always very fabrication-focused; I loved the process of making an object. I was most comfortable working on a small scale and my work had a very natural progression towards jewelry. I started a traditional jewelry apprenticeship in my last year of college, and I continued working for jewelers for seven years. I developed my line while apprenticing and just last year I went full time with it.”

I am SO not surprised how this new line has been steadily growing in popularity. (This girl is going places!) I find it truly unique, and I love the cage-like settings around diamond slices.

tura sugden champagne diamond slice cluster earrings
She has mentioned that she uses a German blow torch, and I asked her to explain what this is:

“This type of torch changed my life! It feels so intuitive and natural to me. It incorporates the power of breath to supply oxygen and a gas (I use propane), which is controlled by a hand-adjusted valve. You’re using your breath and your hands together to control heat, which makes it easier to solder pieces that might otherwise become easily overheated. It’s a deeply traditional way of soldering that is no longer widely used – many jewelers I talk to have never heard of it!”

tura sugden using her german blow torch
I can only imagine all the hard work that goes into designing and making a jewelry line. I asked her what her favorite part of it all is, and she told me, “I am in love with executing a project. Most of my work is one-of-a-kind, so each piece I produce presents new challenges. It never gets boring and it allows me a freedom with my work that I’m really grateful for.”

I wanted to know what her current favorite piece is:

“A few weeks ago I produced a new cuff that is my ultimate favorite every day piece. The Needle Eye Cuff incorporates a design motif I’ve been using in my work and is the most luxe weight. It’s a really streamlined piece and I’m proud of the engineering of it— it features an invisible clasp and a fantastic fit, and I love how it stacks with other bracelets and bangles. I’m about to produce it in multiple sizes!”

I must admit, I love it too!

tura sugden bracelet
Since she’s a local, I decided to ask some flash questions as well, as I’m always looking for hot tips!

Favorite SF restaurant
La Ciccia or Locanda, I can’t pick!

Favorite SF store
ZGO – I’m a scent junkie

Favorite thing to do when you’re not working
Cooking is my favorite way to unwind after work. Second favorite is eating!

Clothing item you can’t live without
A cashmere sweater!! I have one on me at all times.

Dream travel destination
I can’t wait to get to Bali…

I have to say, I truly enjoyed getting an inside look at Tura’s work and life. Thanks so much for having me! If you’re interested in seeing her line, click here for a list of stockists.

 

white gold oval ring
white gold oval ring

 

Blanc in San Anselmo, CA

Some days my schedule works out effortlessly, and Monday was one of those days. Even though I went to SOMA to pack a client for a month of travel in the morning, met a colleague for lunch in the Marina in SF, and had another client in Marin later in the day, I still found myself with a whole free hour! And not only was this a lovely gift in itself, but my break just happened to be right near Blanc, a store which had been on my “must visit” list for quite some time– in fact ever I learned they carry Thalia Jewelry. (You may remember I wrote about seeing her line at the WJA Designers by the Bay event last fall.)

blanc in san anselmo, ca
When I walked in, I couldn’t believe it, but there was Ashley Morgan, another jewelry designer extraordinaire! (Click here if you missed my article about her.) Universes colliding!

Thalia Jewelry was beautifully displayed in a big case when you walk in the store. I can never get enough of her bracelets with pave diamond clasps! And I love how the rings and cross were artfully sitting on an old book. That completely fits the old world luxe aesthetic of the line.

thalia jewelry
thalia jewelry
Ashely’s gems were showcased at the opposite end of the table, and her rings gave me complete jewelry envy. (btw, I can’t believe I didn’t snap a photo of Ashley, as the earrings she was wearing were to die for!!)

ashley morgan ring
ashley morgan rings
There were definitely some new designers for me as well. The ombre on this multi-chain bracelet by Daniele Basta is a little bit rocker and a little bit boho at the same time. I seriously have a thing for Italian design! And Italian food…and Italian men…I’m seeing a theme here…hmmm

daniele basta bracelet
These chunky rings by Lee Brennan Design have a similar vibe, and they blend perfectly with the clothing sold at the store — edgy leather jackets, shoes from Calleen Cordero, and many European designs,  just to mention a few.

lee brennan design rings
I was also taken with these mixed metal bracelets by Bash Jewelry (hand made in New Mexico). They have such a great weight to them!

bash jewelry cuffs
Natalie Hicks, daughter of the store’s owner, Nancy, also has a line at the store — Justine Alexandra. She has some great pave diamond pieces, including a bangle with polki diamonds. Beautiful!

justine alexandra jewelry

I thoroughly enjoyed whiling away my break trying on jewelry, and I know I’ll be back!

blanc san anselmo ca

Jewelry Shopping in Portland, Oregon

Thanks for the great response to my “Observations on Portland” article — so fun! And as I promised, here’s the follow-up post with the jewelry lo-down from the ‘hood. As I mentioned, one of the reasons I went there was to visit Twist. (This store is up in the 23rd Ave. area.) I’ve ordered from them online before, and I was so psyched to see the store in person. Not only was it much bigger than I had envisioned, but they carry items for the home as well. Who knew? The first case that magnetized me was filled with work by Judy Geib. This opal bracelet left me speechless. (There are so many times I wish I had a bottomless wallet…)

judy geib bracelet at twist portland
I was also fascinated with these crystal lockets from Loquet London. You can select from a vast variety of charms to put inside. Such a darling take on the charm theme!

loquet london at twist portland
These lovely studs by Suzanne Kalan with a black diamond halo “sparkled” my attention as well.

suzanne kalan studs at twist portland
Oh, and you can’t help but be intrigued by the signage and light when leaving the store!

twist portland oregon
Only a couple blocks away on 23rd Ave., I visited Gilt. They specialize in both vintage and antique fine jewelry (on the main floor), and vintage costume jewelry and new items from local designers up on the second floor. It was brimming with customers, and I was told that Sundays are a BIG day for engagement ring shopping. (I’m always learning something new!) Given Portland’s eco-conscious attitude, I’m not surprised that vintage rings are a hot commodity. They have a very clever color-coded box system, and the color of box tells you what metal the ring is set in. Here’s a (very small) sampling of their fabulous selection.

gilt vintage diamond rings
They have a large collection of lockets and Native American jewelry as well.

lockets at gilt portland
gilt portland native american jewlery
I did make a little purchase here. It’s a necklace by Amira (a Portland artisan), made of woven nylon thread, glass beads, and brass. It definitely appeals to the boho girl in my soul, and I like the mixed metals. And I just haaad to take home some sort of souvenir, right?!

amira necklace
Walking back towards my hotel downtown, I stopped at Frances May on SW Washington St. They carry some of my favorite clothing designers, and they have a well-edited selection of modern jewelry as well. I liked this large statement necklace by Erin Considine.

erin considine necklace
This necklace by Arielle de Pinto is made from woven metal. Total work of art!

arielle de pinto necklace
During my exploration of the east side, I went to Altar, as recommended by my fashionable bartendress, Emily, from the previous evening. I may have missed this had I not been chatting with her. This establishment features “northwest alternative handmade” items, and it’s definitely worth a stop. This organic wall display of necklaces was awesome!

iron oxide designs necklaces
iron oxide designs jewelry
It turns out that the designer of this line (called Iron Oxide Designs) is Amy Fox, and she is part-owner of the store and was manning the front desk that day. Cool!

These necklaces by Fox Tail Jewelry are very industrial boho, and they fit in perfectly with the Portland aesthetic.

fox tail jewelry portland
I unfortunately failed to note the designer of these tassel necklaces, but I love them!

tasssel necklaces from altar portland
While I tried to really pack in my shopping time during my two-day stay in Portland (and I certainly saw a lot!), these were my jewelry highlights. As you can see, there’s a real range in offerings. To be honest, I found more diversity in the jewelry than I did in fashion. Hope you enjoyed this virtual tour! And please let me know if you have a favorite spot to shop there as well. I always love hearing from you.