Jewelry…own it, love it, wear it!
I’m sure it’s no surprise that after my pre-Christmas sea glass find of a lifetime (click here if you missed the excitement!), that I’ve spent a bit of time looking at sea glass jewelry online. There are so many talented artists, but one I came across, Delphine Nardin from Paris, really takes it to a whole new level by incorporating diamonds in her designs. I’ve never seen the two combined, and I think the result is fantastic!
The awards season officially opens this Sunday, with the Golden Globes. For me, the Red Carpet is usually more of a draw than the actual show (but shhh…don’t tell the actors!), as I sit perched on my couch with my cocktail and notebook in hand, awaiting the elegant gowns and jewels…or the ensembles worthy of a fashion citation. But it’s not only the actual jewelry that is sparkling, but also the evening bags and shoes. In my book, they count as a whole other category of jewelry. Don’t you agree?
With that in mind, I went on a virtual shopping spree to find some bejeweled and sparkling bags that are definitely worthy of the Red Carpet. Some are a major investment, while others are not. Here they are, in no particular order. (And if you’re interested in finding out more, then just click on the blue links for each one.)
Speaking of which, definitely think about what you need with you on a night out, as that will determine the size bag you need. For instance, if you need an epi-pen with you at all times, make sure to have that with you when you shop, so you can make sure it fits in your evening bag. And also consider if there are any prongs or other things that may catch the delicate fabric of your outfit. You wouldn’t want that to happen!
Start with choosing a a bag or two in versatile neutrals (which may include a metallic) that will mix and match with your wardrobe. It’s an investment that many don’t consider when building their wardrobe, but it’s an important one. Many people just leave their bag as an afterthought, which I don’t recommend.
I, myself, recently found a great, simple black one on clearance during the holiday sales. It’s patent (which is now a year-round material), with a neutral metal long strap, so I can go hands-free. Yes, it still cost a pretty penny, but I then came home and got rid of all my old “prom-y” looking ones. I know I’ll get great cost-per-wear with this one, and I feel much more confident having a stylish choice in my closet, instead of having to weed through bags I don’t particularly love, while I’m trying to get out the door. In fact, I’ve already used it three times since purchasing it in December. Not bad, right?
Hope this article got you thinking about the evening bags in your own closet, and if you watch The Golden Globes, enjoy the fashion show!
I believe one of life’s greatest gifts is when a person finds their true passion in life, and then can make a living pursuing it. This is exactly what happened to Toby Pomeroy. Gracefully allowing me to interview him during his lunch break at the JCK show in Las Vegas, Toby described how he discovered his love for jewelry design. He was in medical school, but signed up for a jewelry making class as an elective during his senior year. His professor, Max Nixon, could clearly see he had a talent, and gave him a key to the jewelry lab so that he could work any time he wanted. Toby was hooked (He said he practically lived in that lab!), and he never looked back.
Toby has a gentleness about him and a sparkle in his eye! He was so open and eager to tell me about his work. One of the things that he’s world-known for is his commitment to environmentally sustainable, socially responsible jewelry. He explained to me that his real focus is on the impact of the mining industry, and he says it’s up to jewelers to request ethically sourced materials. He, himself, goes down to the mines in Columbia and works directly with the miners, staying with families there. He told me how they’re so proud of what they do, and they never thought that they’d be recognized for their hard work. This is amazing to hear! Here are a few photos he shared with me, including the mine entrance at the Canada mine, and a couple images from La Llanada. What a gold nugget!
Now that you’re surely excited about the materials, let’s take a look at Toby’s beautiful designs. He’s most famous for his Eclipse hoops, which I first saw at Manika Jewelry in San Francisco. Toby described them to me as, “..an elegant marriage of form and function.” This photo shows a style with a shiny finish and diamonds.
Imagine the work that goes into pieces like these, from the Oasis collection.
One thing I truly love to do is explore new shops and neighborhoods. I’m always amazed how many great places there are, practically in my own back yard. My friend Laura (you may remember her from my great piercing escapade), is like a walking tour book of amazing stores. It’s not just because she loves shopping as much as I do (and she does!), but she is a rep for many home, jewelry, and gift/accessory lines with Aesthetic Movement, so it’s her duty to know all the happening places.
We set our itinerary for various places in Berkeley, Piedmont, and Oakland. I picked her up in SF and headed over the Bay Bridge. First up was Zaver & Mor in Berkeley. I’d met the lovely owner, Rada Sahney, at a couple Women’s Jewelry Association events, so I was very eager to check out her establishment, and it definitely did not disappoint.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that Mania Mania is branching into the fine jewlery business, and I love this ring by them!
I cannot believe that three and a half years have passed since I first interviewed stellar jewelry designer Meredith Marks. (Click here to read that article.) I love how this line has grown and evolved since our last meeting, and I was pretty blown away by three different pieces I tried on at the JCK show in Las Vegas. Here they are, in no particular order.
Abalone and emerald “Lia” cuff, set in rhodium plated sterling silver
Yep, it’s true, Christmas is less than two weeks away. As you scan through your “to do” list and your stress level starts rising, don’t forget that jewelry can always make for a great gift, be it for a friend, family member, or even yourself. (You know that I’m the queen of self-gifting!!) I’ve done a little cruising through the web, and I’ve come up with 13 ideas that won’t break the bank. I hope you like them, and let me know if you have some great ideas as well!
Tai bracelet — The perfect neutral with a little sparkle that’s lovely on its own or layered.
Labradorite earrings — totally versatile color in a sleek, modern design.
I have been hearing about the clothing store Betty Lin (in the Sacramento Street shopping area) for a while now, and I finally was in their neighborhood this week, so I got to pop in. I love a little field trip between client appointments! The stylish owner, Betty, was there manning the shop, and I couldn’t help but stare at the delicious ring she was wearing.
This one was a definite favorite of mine, and wow, what a statement!
She designs many rings with a high profile, so you can easily stack them with other rings.
This design, with an open center surrounded by diamonds, is really unique!
I was invited to an event at a private (gorgeous) home over the weekend, which featured many different vendors, from handbags to make-up to jewelry and more. But I must admit (and I know you’ll be shocked!), that the real reason I went was to see the jewelry line Muse Refined. While I had seen their website, I wanted to see the goods in person and try them on. I was definitely not disappointed, and I think this delicate collection is quite lovely. The line’s founder, Sophie Kwon, told me that her family has been in the jewelry business for 30 years, and she finally launched her own business this past year. Here are my 5 favorite items I tried on.
What’s better than a gracious, handsome Italian gentleman with a twinkle in his eye? One that designs incredible jewelry! That exactly describes Sergio Antonini, the designer of the venerable Milan jewelry line, Antonini. I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Sergio at the Couture show, and he gave me a tour of his lovely line.
If you’ve been following my blog for a while, then you’re likely aware that searching for sea glass is one of my favorite pastimes. Sea glassing is a seasonal thing, and you really need some good storms to churn up the sand and reveal the real treasures. With California’s on-going drought, there’s been a corresponding drought in sea glass on our beaches. I think that’s what got me started on my new collection…small rocks (found along the beach, rivers, or lakes) that have a thin-lined complete circle on them.
Rings by Millie Behrens for Norwegian Crafts
