I’ve shopped the Lafayette 148 clothing line for many years with some of my clients. They have clean lines, often some very unique color palettes, and they have an extended size range (woot!). But much to my surprise, I was very impressed with the fashion jewelry shown in their latest catalogue that appeared in my mail box. Is this something new for them? Or have I just been missing the boat? I’ve never seen any of their jewelry shown in the San Francisco stores that sell their clothing, but I think it might be time for the buyers to clue into these hidden gems. Here are some of the pieces that intrigued me the most. Aside from the first necklace shown, the rest of them are in the $198-$248 range. I think it’s a lot of look for the price point.
So what do you think? These are certainly larger scale pieces, so not for the faint of heart. They will definitely make a statement! Could you see yourself wearing any of these designs? Have you ever seen them for sale near you? I’d love to hear from you.
With the ever-increasing popularity of multiple piercings, stud earrings are gaining a lot of momentum in the jewelry world. I have to say they’ve certainly become a staple for me this past year or so. Especially during winter, when I often have scarves wrapped high around my neck, stud earrings give sparkle without getting in the way of my outfit. When you think about building your stud wardrobe, I suggest you start with your metal of choice (silver or gold) with neutral colored stones. As you build your collection, then it makes sense to start adding in more color. I’m going to share 11 hot looks, many of which have been road-tested by either yours truly or by one of my clients. This selection ranges from $165-$2000, and they are listed in order of price, lowest to highest.
First up are these Sharon Zimmerman “In the Rough” recycled diamond stud earrings in 14K gold. Hand made right here in San Francisco, I love the eco-friendly aspect that they are from recycled materials. Sold in singles or as a pair, I bought one for my second piercing, and I love it! It’s only 5mm in diameter so perfect for piercings higher up on your ear.
Corey Egan, another San Francisco designer, created these studs with a unique hand-carved shape. They are offered in both brushed silver or oxidized silver. Which would you choose?
Melissa Joy Manning, who has stores both in Berkeley, CA and Soho in NYC, is the queen of organic beauty. Last fall when I was working in New York, I picked up this pair of pyrite and yellow gold studs. I’ve been amazed at how effortlessly they blend with my wardrobe. The pyrite has a cooler tone, but it’s warmed up with the pyrite. I get constant compliments on them.
Though I’ve yet to see Alexis Russell jewelry live, I’ve visited her website more than a few times. This tiny trio of diamonds is such a cool alternative to the traditional singular diamond stud. You can order them in yellow or rose gold. They would be perfect on their own, or as a lovely compliment higher up on your ear.
Kendra Renee has a fashion-forward take on the stud with her white topaz and gold pyramid studs. It would be fun to play with the angle you wear them — either vertically, horizontally or slanted.
Have you been to Lauren Wolf’s store, Esqueleto, in Oakland? (And she now has one in LA too!) Her store carries a wide array of jewelry, both vintage and new, as well as curated objects de art. But I digress…Lauren’s octagonal rutilated quartz studs in yellow gold are fabulous. They truly have a presence when worn.
Meredith Marks makes her Jacklyn studs in a variety of stone combinations. This particular pair combines grey moonstone with black diamonds, but there are eight varieties currently available on her website. The price varies with the type of stones in the earring.
This list would not be complete without Nak Armstrong’s rainbow moonstone pyramid earrings. When Nak was having a trunk show at Barney’s in San Francisco I, of course, had to stop by. He selected these for me to try on, and I knew I had to invest in them right there on the spot. Though they weren’t inexpensive, I’ve worn them so many times, the cost-per-wear has dropped significantly. (In a few years, they’ll basically be free!) If you have small earlobes like I do, then the curved design of the earring gracefully cups your earlobe. Architectural genius!
Tura Sugden is a master with the German blow torch. When I visited her at her studio, I was dazzled by her diamond slice earrings. The cage-like setting really takes the diamond slice to the next level. My client who purchased a pair agrees, as I know they’ve become one of her go-to pieces of jewelry.
Black diamonds are definitely both avant-garde and chic in my book. When combined with white gold by Sethi Couture, you’ve got an alternative classic design on your hands. (or in your ears, for that matter) The rose cut diamonds create a black glow, rather than a harsh, black look. Perfection.
I conclude this list with a pair by English designer Polly Wales. The way she sets white sapphires in 18K gold in such a sophisticated yet unstructured way is awe-inspiring. Jaw-meet-floor.
Though I could go on and on with stud suggestions, I’ve got to stop here. As you contemplate what earrings to add to your jewelry box, I urge you to ONLY buy what you love — what makes your heart truly sing. These are the purchases which will go the distance for you. Don’t settle. Be patient and save up for what will work best for you. I promise you’ll be happier in the long run.
How is it that December has FOUR birthstones? If you’re lucky enough to be born this month, then you can choose from tanzanite, turquoise, zircon and blue topaz. With it’s blue-violet hue, tanzanite is the subject of today’s article. Coming from only one place on the planet (Tanzania in East Africa), I was surprised to find out that this gem can actually be found in browns and yellows. It is heat, either from the earth or by man, which changes the stone to the most prized blue-violet color. Originally discovered in 1967, this stone is both rare, valuable, and fairly fragile. (Translation: Use care when wearing and never put it in an ultrasonic cleaner!)
Tanzanite is known as the stone of transformation, aiding in metaphysical healing and spiritual exploration. In addition, tanzanite helps with:
-happiness and freedom from worry
-compassion
-finding your calling
-getting rid of old patterns and opening oneself to growth
-self-awareness
-strengthens your immune system
I’m in! Are you? If so, here are some fantastic tanzanite creations by some very talented designers.
I think these selections will resonate with a wide variety of personal styles — from edgy to bohemian to luxe and beyond. If you had the *infamous* bottomless wallet that I dream about having, which piece would you desire most? Do tell!
I have been receiving quite a few inquiries from readers about jewelry gifts that fit in their holiday shopping budget. With the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals upon us, I’ve gathered a range of ideas for you that fall in the $50 and under range. Some are as low as the $20 range, yet they have no shortage of style in my opinion. In no particular order…
Some of these items are already marked down on the websites, yet others may have a code you need to enter at checkout, so shop carefully. Also, act fast, as these deals won’t last long. Happy clicking!
It all started when Roseark posted this photo on Instagram, featuring rings by Ana Katarina and K. Brunini. I was mesmerized!
Ana-Katarina Vinkler-Petrovic launched her Venus in Furs collection just this past September in Paris, France. This line “…taps into the feminine mystique; the duality of seductive and demure.” And can’t you just see the sensuality in the enticing curves in her designs?
As a huge proponent of ethically sourced and made jewelry, Ana Katarina is a member of both the Ethical Metalsmiths and the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). She uses 18K recycled gold and palladium, and all her stones, diamonds and fossils are conflict-free and fair trade. In addition, each piece is hand crafted in NYC. Fabulous!
Ana Katarina jewelry truly is art to be worn. Take a look at how these rose gold and diamond earrings perfectly complement the shape of the ear.
Her rings come in a variety of styles, and they enhance ones hands, as shown in the photo from Roseark. Here are four styles to show you the range in design.
They are all so unique and different, I honestly can’t decide which one is my favorite!! If your neck is in need of some adornment, then this necklace would be perfect, with its combination of blue and pink opals, blue/green diamonds, rose gold and palladium. Wow!
If you’d like to keep up with Ana Katarina, then follow her on Instagram. And if you’re in southern California, you can see her jewelry at both Roseark in West Hollywood and Seaside Luxe in Santa Monica. I’m hoping to see it in San Francisco one day soon!
Those of you lucky enough to be born in November have not one, but two birthstones! (If you missed last week’s article on Topaz, click here.) While topaz is known for it’s calming and balancing properties, citrine is here to bring you success and abundance. In fact, citrine used to be known as the “merchant’s stone” as traveling merchants always carried a piece with them to assure profitable sales. Coming in a range from pale yellow to brownish tones, it’s really a lovely stone.
Citrine sounds pretty darn awesome, bringing the wearer:
-cheerfulness and joy
-confidence
-self-esteem
-generosity
-personal power
-AND it combats negative energy
I’m loving this list! While I don’t (yet) own any pieces of jewelry with citrine, it might be the time to add some to my jewelry box. If I were, here are some of the gorge items I may consider. (in no particular order)
I never knew monkeys and jewelry could blend so effortlessly, but Marc Alary demonstrated how it’s a perfect fit. Though he doesn’t have an explanation for exactly why he loves monkeys so much, Marc definitely has made them come to life in fine jewlery!
And what’s even cooler? Check out how it moves!! (Enjoy this 17 second video I shot.)
I throughly enjoyed chatting with the charming Marc Alary at the Couture show in Las Vegas. With his French accent (born in Toulouse) and passion for his craft, I was completely intrigued by his line. Have you ever seen two monkeys fighting over a banana in a necklace? I certainly haven’t.
And then there’s a diamond-encrusted monkey, and monkey earrings, dangling with bunches of bananas.
Marc started as a print designer in NYC, working for DKNY, Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs. While at Marc Jacobs, he discovered he wanted to focus on jewelry design. In 2009 he was given an opportunity to sketch for 2 hours and show them to Marc Jacobs. The feedback was definitely positive, and he headed back to the studio to work. The result was three animal charms — a jaguar, a zebra and an elephant. When they overlay, it creates a more abstract piece. In 2011 he left Marc Jacobs to pursue his jewelry career full time.
As Marc explained to me, “The tangible object of jewelry is what my passion is; it’s better than print.” I’m with you, Marc! His collection of charms continues to grow, and he talked about how you can create different stories by stacking the different charms.
While speaking with him, I couldn’t help but notice his bracelet, which is part of his Caravan collection.
As a runner-up for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award in 2013, there’s no doubt that Marc is on the rise. This is why it was no surprise when I saw his rings featured in the latest issue of Harper’s Bazaar magazine. Way to go, Marc!
I’m also very excited about Marc’s latest collaboration with Spinelli Kilcollin, a long-time favorite of mine. It’s truly a perfect alignment of designers, and the result is tres chic. Here are a couple photos they shared on Instagram.
I’m so glad I had the opportunity to meet Marc and explore his line. I look forward to seeing what he has in store next!!
How is it that it’s already November?! I truly don’t know where the time goes. November is another month that has two birthstones — topaz and citrine. In this article, I’m going to focus on topaz. Many of you are likely familiar with this stone, as both blue and smoky topaz are very popular in the marketplace. But they can come in a wide range of colors, from colorless to orange, yellow, pink and purple. The word topaz comes from the Sanskrit word for “fire” although it’s popular meaning, being know as a calming stone, is certainly the polar opposite of fire! Perhaps the fire element was referring to the color of certain stone specimens.
Regardless, topaz can help you with many things, such as:
-it heals and energizes
-balances emotions
-brings synchronicity to your life
-helps with love and hope
-brings good fortune
Going on yet another one of my virtual shopping sprees, I discovered some lovely topaz designs. Do any of them pique your interest?
And because I’m truly a princess at heart….I just NEED this Ray Griffiths Regency tiara in 18K yellow gold, white topaz and diamonds! Absolutely INCREDIBLE!
Best wishes to you November birthday readers out there. I will have an article about your other birthstone coming soon.
While I certainly enjoy ripping into a sweet baguette right out of the oven and pairing it with some creamy brie, the baguette I crave even more is that brilliant cut of diamond. Suzanne Kalan is a master of creating out-of-this world designs with various colors of diamond baguettes. The top of my list? Her Fireworks bangles. Coming in three sizes, they are beyond comfortable to wear.
While at the Couture show, I couldn’t stop trying them on, and for the life of me, I could not decide which was my favorite…There’s also rings in the collection, oh my!
Based in Northridge, CA, Suzanne has been in business for over 25 years now and it’s truly a family affair. Her husband selects and sets the diamonds; her daughter, Patile Kalandijian, now is working on KALAN by Suzanne Kalan, their 14K gold collection which features beautifully colored stones and diamonds. Just during my time in their exquisite booth, I could feel the warmth of their family. They are passionate about their jewlery as well as their clients. I learned that Suzanne sold her own diamond tennis bracelet, which was a wedding gift from her parents, to get the funds to start the company! Every piece is still made in house in southern California. Awesome.
Here are a couple more examples of how Suzanne creates harmonious chaos with baguettes.
And what do you think of these statement ruby earrings, highlighted with a frame of baguettes?
Or perhaps a linear design is more your cup of tea?
Suzanne was showing a “Starry Night” collection as part of the Rio Tinto collaboration. I was lucky to try on this double star ring.
The Vitrine collection is also mesmerizing. In this group, she takes a gemstone and cuts it flat on the top and bottom. This stone is then a window of sorts to peer at the diamonds behind the stone. Ooh la la!
Giuliana Rancic showed off some Suzanne Kalan earrings at the Met Gala.
The 14K KALAN by Suzanne Kalan line is a perfect complement to the 18K line. Originally developed for a younger audience and at more accessible price points, this colorful collection truly works for everyone. (Check out more of this line at Sak’s.) I first tried on this topaz and moonstone ring.
J’Adore these long topaz earrings!
This design, with it’s off-kilter rectangular stones, is so harmonious with the Fireworks collection, don’t you think?
These earrings once again show how they reign supreme at unique stone configurations, really taking it to the next level in style.
Time definitely flew by while trying on all these dazzling gems. Thanks to Suzanne and her team member Rebeka for the tour!
I remember when those thin, gold chain ankle bracelets were all the rage back in the 1980’s. I still unfortunately sometimes see them still worn (under suntan hose even!), but I think the idea has morphed into something new — dare I say MUCH bolder. This was the look on the Calvin Klein spring/summer 2016 runway.
I’m not sure I could pull it off personally, but I think it’s a much more current interpretation of the ankle bracelet idea. And what about this rendition? I found this on srta-pepis.tumblr.com. Very boho-meets-sporty, if that’s your personal style.
Then, there’s the version where you wear a solid cuff on each ankle. While I’m trying not to see shackles or those prison-issued ankle bracelets, I’m having a tough time wrapping my head around this one.
I think I might like it better if it was only worn on one ankle, not both. What about you? What’s your opinion on the trend? Are you going to head to your jewlery box to see what bracelets you have that would fit around your ankle? Or will you just let this one pass? I’m oh, so curious!
