diamonds – Jewelry Fashion Tips

What Gems Does Your Body Crave?

Call me crazy, but not a day goes without me wearing either labradorite, moonstone, quartz (rock crystal) or raw, organic colored diamonds (grey, cognac, black, etc.). Some days, I’m wearing all of them at once! But you currently can’t pay me to wear a ruby, lapis or emerald. Why is this? I’ve been thinking about it a lot. Here’s what I’ve concluded — if you really listen to your body, it will tell you what you need. These needs include nutrition, activity and yes, even the gems you wear.

There's a reason this Audrius Krulis grey diamond ring beckoned me from inside the case! — There’s a reason this Audrius Krulis grey diamond ring beckoned me from inside the case!

Some days my body will tell me to get out for a hike and eat salmon and veggies for lunch. Other days, my body wants to relax on the couch and have some comfort food. (I try to accommodate its wishes.) I know it’s often difficult to listen to what messages your body is giving in this fast-paced, somewhat chaotic world. It’s even harder to listen and not argue with the message. But in the long run, I think being in tune with oneself is a great gift, leading to a happier, healthier life.

I recall back in 2010 my hairdresser broke the news to me that I had lost about half my hair. (I was wondering why I was suddenly getting sunburns on my scalp!) This is just about the time when I HAD to wear rutilated quartz every day, and I had no idea why. And guess what…it turns out rutilated quartz promotes hair growth. I got chills when I discovered this fact.

Given what I’ve come to believe, I wanted to investigate what these four crystals could possibly mean for me. A great place to start is this poster I received from Jacquie Aiche at the Couture show. It shows different gems, and what chakra they are attuned to. On the back, it has some information about each gem, along with a list and description of others.

Labradorite

This gem truly makes my heart sing, especially when I put it on. The mystical depths of blue-greens remind me of the sea, and I love how each stone has its own unique beauty. I started craving it on my body just a couple years ago.

This stone has a very high vibration and is instrumental in helping one open spiritual pathways and explore intuition and psychic abilities. It’s a gem of transformation. It’s also an excellent stone of protection, shielding oneself from negative energies. All of these things definitely resonate with me, and they are areas I have been putting attention toward. Interesting….

Moonstone

I started craving this stone about 5 years ago, just after my best friend was murdered. I found a moonstone ring in a consignment store, and as soon as I saw it, I knew I’d leave wearing it, no matter what it cost. Quite a visceral reaction, right? As I started researching moonstone, I was certainly not surprised to read, “It is a stone of calm and relief from emotional stress.” It was one of the most stressful periods in my life, and wearing that ring truly makes me feel better — more grounded.

Moonstone also is associated with “goddess energy,” bringing balance between masculine and feminine energy. It encourages love and passion. Yes, I can use more of that in my life, so I’ll continue to wear it! It’s said to be even more powerful when worn during the full moon. Noted.

Clear Quartz

My love of clear quartz, also known as rock crystal, has a long history in my life. One of the first purchases I made in 1987, when I moved to Los Angeles for college, was a crystal pendant, which I wore on a long silver chain around my neck for years. I felt naked without it. Now almost 30 years later, I’m as drawn to the stone as ever. What does it mean?

Though it’s one of the most common stones in the world, that doesn’t diminish its high vibration. It helps open one’s mind and heart to higher guidance. It also amplifies the powers of other stones. I take this to mean that it would strengthen the powers in the stones in other pieces of jewelry worn at the same time. It is also a very healing stone, which is always a good thing in my book!

It’s a crystal that provides clarity and protection from negative energy. Interesting, as that’s the second stone to have that property on my short list! I know that I’m a very sensitive person, and I often absorb the energy from people around me. Though that can sometimes be a good thing, it can also be a not-so-good thing. I guess my labradorite and rock crystal help shield me from the not-so-good.

Diamond

I’m not talking about traditional white diamonds, but rather those that are in the more earthy tones, from brown to grey to even black. I’m drawn to those with an organic feel, not overly polished, but more of a raw or rose-cut variety. According to Jacquie’s chart, ” A diamond is one of the most powerful crystals in the universe. Diamond is a protector, an enhancer and amplifies the strength of all other crystals.” Wow–another similar meaning. It seems all my gems are empowering each other and protecting me!

Diamonds also help relieve stress, anxiety and nightmares. This is interesting, as I suffer from horrible nightmares. I’m going to try and wear some to bed! This gem also encourages abundance and love, another overlap with moonstone.

I’m going to continue researching this topic, as I am very intrigued. What about you? What gems MUST you wear or have around you? Which ones can you do without? And has this changed over time? I would love to hear your thoughts.

Scrabble Jewelry

So do you have fond memories of playing Scrabble while growing up? I know I do, as do millions of other people around the world. Well Hasbro Inc., the creators of this uber popular game, has teamed up with World Trade Jewelers to create a whole Scrabble jewelry line! Famous for their Hershey Kiss jewelry, this line will be available to the public sometime this fall. (Jewelry collections for My Little Pony and Candy Land are also in the works.)

Of course, the stars always have first access to the hottest items, and the Scrabble necklaces are being spotted all over Hollywood, from Olivia Munn to Brooke Burke. Initial or monogrammed necklaces are all the rage right now, so it’s no surprise that stylists are swooping them up for their celeb clients. Here’s Carly Rae Jepsen sporting a “C.”

The first pieces that will hit the market are the pendants. They come in sterling with white diamonds and 14K yellow gold with black diamonds.

When I spoke with World Trade Jeweler’s CEO, Murray Shabot, last week, he said that this is only the beginning. There will be some pieces made of wood (birchwood and mahogany), cufflinks, and even a bangle where you can add letters to spell out what you want. Cool! The price range will run from $50-$1000, so there’s really something for every budget.

One thing I love about this whole concept is that it really appeals to both kids and adults — it’s nostalgic and current at the same time. I also think it will be a great necklace for layering. Here’s Amanda Crew wearing an “A” with a simple tank.

I would style it layered with a couple longer necklaces to create a fun look. I will get to see this line in person this week, as it debuts at the JCK jewelry show in Las Vegas. Can’t wait!

(Photo credits for Carly and Amanda: Look Los Angeles PR. Photo credits for pendants: Lazar Advertising)

Jewelry Box Basics: The Rock Star

Get excited — it’s time for the third article in my series “Jewelry Box Basics!” To catch you up, this is a six-part series outlining the basic pieces you should have in your jewelry box based on your personal style: the lady who lunches, bohemian, rock star, romantic, minimalist and trendy. True, everyone is a unique individual and may adopt aspects of various styles, so just use this as a framework. Use the images as a jumping off point to inspire you and send you in the right direction. Don’t let the price tags affect your vision. Instead, shop at the price points that you’re comfortable with and have fun!

So let’s get back to the style du jour. Now granted, not everyone can be a successful rock star, belting out songs on stage, yet I know that there are many people who have an inner rock star living inside them. (regardless of their musical talent) If this sounds like you, then you should let this aspect of your personality shine through in your wardrobe and jewelry!

The jewelry for the rock star conjures up images of metals in oxidized silver and gunmetal…motifs such as skulls, spikes, angel wings…leather cuffs…and black diamonds. But you have to select pieces carefully, as you don’t want to appear like a parody of an actual rock star. Here are some examples of jewelry that would strike the right note.

Watch
Oversized and in black, there are many options for a rock’n roll watch out there. Karl Lagerfeld’s new collection is right on the money with this vibe.

Bracelets
The rock chic needs a chunky link bracelet to complement her style. This one by Moritz Glik is tremendous.

But there also has to be a leather bracelet in your jewelry box. I think this wide leather cuff by Erika Honig with woven pewter and silver would look fantastic worn on the opposite wrist as your watch.

Rings
I’m thinking of one particular friend in Austin, and she is definitely the rocker. Her husband really chose the ideal wedding ring for her — a large, black diamond. For the right hand, I think an edgy ring like this one by Stephen Webster would be just fantastic on her.

The "rapture thorn" ring — The “rapture thorn” ring

Earrings
You might be in shock that the pair I’m recommending for a basic for this personal style is actually not a hoop! I could, of course, but I’m going a step further with these dangling chain earrings by Alberian and Aulde. I love the movement of the chains accented by diamonds.

Necklaces
Layering necklaces is intrinsically part of the rocker style, just as it was with the bohemian. Therefore, a minimum of two necklaces are going to be basic, one more delicate, and the other more of a statement. For the smaller piece, I like this embellished feather by Jamie Joseph. The mixed metals (notice the gold-toned ring that holds on the pendant) make it even more versatile.

Either worn solo, or in combination with this necklace by Virgins, Saints & Angels, it’s rockin’ without being a costume.

So how do these pieces sit with you? Can you picture yourself wearing them? Or is it too much of a departure from your personal style? With the three styles I’ve now covered, you can see what a range there is out there in the world of jewelry. And just think, we’re only half way through! 😉

Julez Bryant: Re-designing jewelry

You already know that I’m a huge fan of Julez Bryant and her fabulous jewelry line! In my previous post about her from July 2011, I mentioned that she not only designs her own line, but she also will re-design your own jewelry for you. I thought I’d share some of the incredible pieces that I’ve seen her make.

The first is a project she worked on with me. (I figured I should check out the process, right?!) I brought in a couple small, loose diamonds I had lying around, the diamond ring I received for my 18th birthday, and a couple other odd, unused pieces. I was dying for a chunky diamond and silver ring, and here’s what she made for me. Love it!!

julez bryant rings — My “old” diamonds looked all new!

When I stopped by one of her trunk shows, I was able to see a couple other re-designs she did for other clients. This first necklace is so unique. It’s made from an old gold necklace and broken bracelet from the client’s grandparents. To this, she added an ivory elephant charm she got in 8th grade and a stunning piece of Sleeping Beauty turquoise. I don’t know about you, but I’m impressed with the “new” necklace!

julez bryant necklace — Wearing history around your neck!

Finally, here’s an incredible ring Julez designed using diamonds, gold and an untreated pink sapphire. Wow!

julez bryant ring — Custom ring by Julez Bryant

I have a feeling that if you take a look into your jewelry box, you have the raw materials for some incredible new jewelry! Julez has trunk shows popping up here and there, and you should really take advantage of her talents. I often post about upcoming trunk shows for designers on my blog’s Facebook page, so be sure to “like” the page and stay up to date with events in your area!

Colette: Designer

When I approached Colette’s booth at the Couture show, I assumed that the woman I saw was a model for the jewelry. But no! This beauty was actually the French-Mexican designer herself. As I spoke with her, I discovered that her personality is just as lovely.

Colette Steckel and Amy Roseveare — I so enjoyed meeting Colette!

Raised part time in Paris, and part time in Mexico City, Colette Steckel is a big-time nature lover. The majority of her designs seem to be inspired by nature, whether it be the starry sky, the sea, or even a singular leaf. In fact, she told me that her leaf logo actually was based on one she spied outside her door in Paris. She adored that it was not perfect, yet beautiful at the same time. Here is that leaf come to life in the form of a stunning black gold and white diamond bracelet.

colette bracelets — The Saint Germaine Bangle

One of her most famous collections is the “galaxy” group, inspired by the cosmos. Just like the dark sky full of sparkling stars, this collection is comprised of elements such as black diamonds, labradorite, pearls and Sri Lanka moonstones. Here’s a ring from “Galaxia” (in Spanish), made of 18K black gold, white diamonds and obsidian.

Colette’s hand-made line is very feminine, yet definitely out of the ordinary. In her words, “I like my designs to be very real, but with a twist of fantasy and edge.” She hopes to create heirlooms that will be passed down to future generations.

Most recently, her jewelry has exploded with color! After spending a month in Corsica, she was truly moved by the sea. Each day she would note the ever-changing tones and colors of the water. She also loved the colorful dragonflies that would skim above the sea, their delicate wings reflecting both sun and sea. Here is one of her dragonfly necklaces, created from black gold, emeralds and diamonds.

I was very drawn to quite a few pieces made from vintage purple turquoise. I’ve never seen such a stone! And in fact, I found out that they aren’t being mined anymore, so it’s rare indeed. Here’s a pair of earrings showcasing this purple turquoise, along with pink tourmaline and white diamonds.

While shopping with a client in NYC this week, I was thrilled to see Colette’s line at Fragments in Soho. It can also be found at other specialty retailers around the world.