Splendor: A Celebration of Jewelry Designers

SOPHIA FORERO

2012-01-25T11:19:00.000-06:00

Gold Ring with Pink Sapphires

The agora located near the south end of the Acropolis is one of many ancient meeting places in Greece.

Agoras not only served as a place for social gatherings but were also a platform for political discussions and for seeking out marketplace goods. Greece is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Sophia Forero.
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REGINA FLORES MONTES

2012-01-24T11:33:00.004-06:00

.950 Silver and Amazonite Abundance Earrings

Trujillo City, located in Peru, was once a thriving arena of luxury as agricultural exports provided much of the city’s wealth.

Today archaeological centers highlighting structures of pre-Incan cultures provide historical insight into the city’s heyday. Peru is also home to featured jewelry designer Regina Flores Montes.
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MIA STRAKA JEWELLERY

2012-01-23T14:42:00.001-06:00

Sterling Silver Cold Shoulder Necklace

Located off the northeastern coast of New Zealand are the rugged landscapes of Poor Knight Islands.

The islands are a prime locale for activities on the land and in the water including snorkeling, scuba diving and hiking. New Zealand is also home to featured jewelry designer Mia Straka.
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LESLEY STRICKLAND

2012-01-22T15:17:00.000-06:00

Plastic and Sterling Silver Orbit Pendant
in Tortishell

Warwickshire, England is the location of a popular tourist attraction; a market town called Stratford-upon-Avon.

This wonderfully quaint location was once the homestead to legendary playwright William Shakespeare. England is also home to featured jewelry designer Lesley Strickland.
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SEMIHA DURAK | GÜZEL JEWELRY DESIGN

2012-01-17T12:59:00.000-06:00

Crochet Wire Pearl Earring

Located in Istanbul, Turkey is the lavish Dolmabahçe Palace. Constructed during the mid-1800s, the palace boasts some of the most spectacular amenities known to the world including an elaborate staircase and ceilings gilded with gold leaf. Turkey is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Semiha Durak.
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ROBERTO SALVATO

2012-01-16T10:04:00.001-06:00

Sterling and .950 Silver and Pearl
Popocatepetl Snow Charm Bracelet

A one-time prison and police station, Italy’s Bargello Museum now contains splendid antiquities dating back to a time-frame between the 14^th and 17^th centuries. Italy is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Roberto Salvato.

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ALEXANDRA AMARO | GLOBAL FUSION JEWELRY

2012-01-11T10:04:00.000-06:00

Blackwood Espirala Ring from Contempora Collection

With the exception of three short weeks, California’s Santa Monica Beach is graced with nearly nonstop sunshine. Well-groomed sands make for great fun-in-the sun, lounging and kicking back. California is also home to featured jewelry designer Alexandra Amaro.
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AOIFE O'MAHONY DESIGN

2012-01-10T10:12:00.000-06:00

18-Karat Gold Eye Candy Stacking Rings

Ireland’s Newgrange monument is considered one of Europe’s “finest achievements of European Neolithic art.”

The mound-shaped passage tomb is constructed of engraved kerbstones; and according to Irish mythology the structure is the dwelling place for Oenghus, the god of love. Ireland is also home to featured jewelry designer Aoife O’Mahony.
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PRIYO SALIM

2012-01-09T09:46:00.001-06:00

Sterling Silver and Amethyst Leaf Trio Pendant Necklace

Located in the Bali village of Ubud is the Amandari Resort. The resort contains a plethora of stunning, natural landscapes that include the Ayung River Gorge and lush forests. Indonesia is also home to featured jewelry designer Priyo Salim.
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CUBIC ZIRCONIA: AN INFERIOR DIAMOND SUBSTITUTE?

2012-01-05T09:43:00.004-06:00

The highly dense and refractive cubic zirconia (or CZ) has been a strong competitor to the well-loved and ubiquitous diamond for a little over three decades and counting. Unfortunately, however, this flawless isometric crystal has been marred for years by a derisive reputation.
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KASIA PIECHOCKA | KASIA PIECHOCKA JEWELLERY

2012-01-04T10:24:00.001-06:00

18-Karat Rose Gold Plated Sterling
Silver Fish Weight Pendant Necklace

Poland’s Wieliczka Salt Mine is a centuries-old burrow situated within the city of Krakow. A one-time location for producing table salt, the mine is now a popular tourist attraction holding “mythical and historical” figurines made from rock salt and an underground lake. Poland is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Kasia Piechocka.
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DANIEL ESPINOSA | DANIEL ESPINOSA JEWELRY

2012-01-03T10:49:00.001-06:00

18-Karat Rose and White Gold Bellisma
Double Sphere Ring with Diamonds

The Mexican city of Ixtapa, located northwest of Acapulco, Mexico, is a beautiful beach resort that boasts long stretches of sand and water activities such as snorkeling and swimming. Mexico is also home to featured jewelry designer Daniel Espinosa.
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QUOTABLE GEMS | MARILYN MONROE

2012-01-02T10:00:00.001-06:00

Hollywood is a place where they'll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.

THISBE GONÇALEZ

2012-01-02T09:58:00.003-06:00

18-Karat Gold Plated Ametrine Cocktail Ring

Located within Brazil’s lush Amazon Rainforest is the late 19^th century opera house, The Teatro Amazonas. Designed in a stunning Renaissance style by Italian architect Celestial Sacardim, the structure was constructed for the express purpose of making it a grand center of civilization. Brazil is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Thisbe Gonçalez.
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TEMPORARY HIATUS

2011-08-06T12:59:00.002-05:00

I am currently going through a family/medical emergency and until everything settles down I will have to temporarily stop blogging. Feature requests will be completed once I return. I hope to return sooner rather than later.

Thank you all for your support of the blog and for your comments.

MICHELLE GUEST | MIJA JEWELRY

2011-07-27T11:40:00.002-05:00

18-Karat Gold Vermeil Constellation
Cocktail Ring with White Sapphires

Located in Washington, D.C.’s National Mall stands the grand structure known as the Lincoln Memorial.

The structure was designed by architect Henry Bacon and sculptor Daniel Chester French created the stunning marble statue of Abraham Lincoln that is flanked by 36 majestic columns. Washington, D.C. is also home to featured jewelry designer Michelle Guest.
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ERICA PACEY and ALESSANDRA FEIO | NUGAARD DESIGNS

2011-07-26T11:52:00.001-05:00

Coil Ring with Smoky Quartz

One of Brazil’s top attractions, located in Rio de Janeiro, is the quartz and granite monolith called Sugarloaf Mountain.

Standing nearly 1300 feet the mountain obtained its name due to its resemblance to a pile of sugar. Brazil is also the ancestral home to design team Erica Pacey and Alessandra Feio.
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LINDA UHLEMANN JEWELLERY

2011-07-25T10:38:00.000-05:00

Sterling Silver Medium
Fuchsia Pendant Necklace

An island located in Ireland’s County Kerry holds a towering rock formation known as Skellig Michael (or Michael’s Rock). A centuries-old Celtic monastery sits near the rock’s summit and serves as a home to puffins, razorbills and petrels. Ireland is also home to featured jewelry designer Linda Uhlemann.
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CYNTHIA CHUANG and ERH-PING TSAI | JEWELRY 10

2011-07-20T10:58:00.000-05:00

Porcelain Horse Brooch Pin
with Crystal and Art Glass Beads

First colonized by Dutch settlers in the 17^th century, the city of Taipei, located in Taiwan, has a rich history.

Over the course of many years Spain, China and Japan have each played a role in the city’s storied existence. Taiwan is also the birthplace of husband-wife design duo Cynthia Chuang and Erh-Ping Tsai.
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JANINA DIZON HOSCHKA

2011-07-19T11:59:00.000-05:00

Multi-Colored Stingray Cuff Bracelets

The Philippines’ Chocolate Hills, located in the Central Visayas region, is an area consisting of nearly 2,000, naturally occurring hills and is one of the country’s most popular destinations.

The mounds are widely believed to be a combination of marine limestone overlaid with clay and depending on the season they transform from green to brown. The Philippines is also home to featured jewelry designer Janina Dizon Hoschka.

LORNA HENDERSON

2011-07-18T11:24:00.001-05:00

Mini Cluster Flower Swirl Earrings

For nearly 1,000 years England’s Gothic church the Westminster Abbey has been the location for royal coronations.

The church is also known for its stately organ created by British organ building company Harrison & Harrison. England is also home to featured jewelry designer Lorna Henderson.
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MARGERY HIRSCHEY FINE JEWELRY

2011-07-13T10:41:00.001-05:00

18-Karat Gold Pendant Necklace
with Moonstone, Sapphires and Diamond

The Rocky Mountain National Park is the most renowned park in the state of Colorado. With an expanse of over 200,000 acres the park offers over 300 miles of hiking trails and the Trail Ridge Road; a road that allows visitors to view the state’s incredible mountain ranges. Colorado is also the current home of featured jewelry designer Margery Hirschey.
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NATHALIE SEVIKIAN

2011-07-12T10:30:00.001-05:00

18-Karat Yellow Gold Rose Pendant Necklace

A popular site of France’s Le Puy-en Velay, an archdiocese that has existed since the Middle Ages, is the Cathedrale Notre Dame.

This revered cathedral is not only known for its striking Gothic architecture but the ominous structure is the setting for the fictional story of the Hunchback of Notre Dame. France is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Nathalie Sevikian.
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LISA NIKFARJAM | LISA NIK JEWELRY

2011-07-11T13:08:00.002-05:00

18-Karat Gold Twisted Wire Pendant
Necklace with Black Leather Cord

The Central Bank of Iran holds the most spectacular display of ancient Iranian jewelry from the Safavid and Pahlavin dynasties. Iran is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Lisa Nikfarjam.
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PLANETTREASURES

2011-07-06T11:07:00.000-05:00

Bright Green Lampwork Bead Bracelet

The Australian Outback is perhaps one of the more intimidating areas of the rugged continent Australia.

One of the most arid regions in the world, the Outback is surprisingly the habitat of such creatures as the dingo, wild camels and kangaroos. Australia is also the home base of featured jewelry brand Planettreasures.
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LANDON GUNN

2011-07-05T11:28:00.000-05:00

14-Karat Gold Eagle Cuff Bracelet

Canada’s Old Quebec City is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites as it contains numerous attractions that are literal portals through time.

Surrounded by a centuries-old stone wall, Old Quebec City offers to visitors the Plains of Abraham Battlefield Park, the Chateau Frontenac, and The Citadel. Canada is also home to featured jewelry designer Landon Gunn.
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QUOTABLE GEMS | BRAD PITT

2011-07-04T11:00:00.001-05:00

I believe you make your day. You make your life. So much of it is all perception, and this is the form that I built for myself. I have to accept it and work within those compounds, and it's up to me.

TESSA GRAZZINI | ASSYA JEWELLERY

2011-07-04T10:39:00.001-05:00

18-Karat Gold Vermeil Short Necklace
with Circle Flower Motifs

The 16^th century Academia Gallery, located in Florence, Italy, houses Michelangelo’s famed Statue of David. The academy is considered one of the world’s oldest museums. Italy is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Tessa Grazzini.
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JENÉ DESPAIN

2011-06-29T10:31:00.000-05:00

14-Karat Gold-Filled Bryant Park
Pendant Necklace with Green Onyx Briolette

Located on the southern end of Brooklyn, New York smack dab along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean is Coney Island.

The name Coney is believed to be a derivative of the Dutch word “Conyne” which means rabbit. The settlement was originally inhabited by a large variety of rabbits but industrialization claimed their habitats. New York is also home to featured jewelry designer Jené DeSpain.
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TEMEL BAHADIR | TEMEL'S METALWORK

2011-06-28T10:43:00.001-05:00

Mixed Metal Ring with Copper, Bronze, Brass
Alpaca and Titanium

You can take your pick of exploring either mountain ranges or exotic beaches within Antalya, Turkey.

Walking along the beaches of Antalya provides a precursor to water activities including wind surfing, sailing and water skiing. Turkey is also home to featured jewelry designer Temel Bahadir.
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HANS MEEVIS

2011-06-27T10:27:00.001-05:00

Housing nearly fifty thousand pieces of rare paintings and sculptures the Netherlands’ Rijksmuseum is a haven for historical information on the country but it is also a place to find exquisite artifacts collected from the Far East and Southeast Asia. The Netherlands is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Hans Meevis.

14-Karat Gold and Titanium Amethyst Bangle Bracelet

So far the Netherlands has been the premier location to find the unexpected in jewelry design.

MELINA WOLRD JEWELLERY

2011-06-22T11:12:00.004-05:00

18-Karat Gold Concho Shell Charm

Meteora, Greece is the location of some of the country’s incredible landmarks: numerous monasteries poised atop rock formations.

Many of these religious establishments house treasures and relics and the Megalo Meteoro monastery sits on top of the tallest rock formation in Meteora. Greece is also the home base of featured jewelry brand Melina WorldJewellery.
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NARAYANI

2011-06-21T11:07:00.000-05:00

Lapis Lazuli Natural Sophistication Torsade Bracelet

Pilgrimages to India’s Girnar Temples occur annually. Considered as an “anthology of mountains,” eight thousand steps lead to stunning architecture amidst the backup of spectacular mountain ranges. India is also home to featured jewelry designer Narayani.
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STEPHEN EINHORN

2011-06-20T10:25:00.002-05:00

Sterling Silver and 9 Karat Gold
Ourmite Jar Pendant Necklace

For ninety-one years England’s Imperial War Museum has provided visitors with historical information and memorabilia of WWI and WWII.

Letters, full-size military vehciles, and ammunition are a portion of the attractions within its walls. England is also home to featured jewelry designer Stephen Einhorn.
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ALEXANDRA BETH DESIGNS

2011-06-15T11:21:00.001-05:00

14-Karat Gold Plated Fan Ring

Just over 100 years old New York’s Flatiron Building, located in Manhattan, is a unique structure designed by Daniel Burnham.

The building is patterned after Greek columns as it sits on a “triangular block with Beaux-Arts styling.” New York is also home to featured jewelry designer Alexandra Beth Samit.
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ANUSARA KONKAM

2011-06-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

Pearl and Rose Quartz
Sweet Spirit Choker Necklace

There is plenty of gorgeous scenery to take in when visiting Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands including picturesque beaches, stunning coral reefs, and “limestone lookouts”. Thailand is also home to featured jewelry designer Anusara Konkam.
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KIRSTI DOUKAS

2011-06-13T08:53:00.001-05:00

Sterling Silver and Porcelain
Blooming Earrings

The town of Ivalo, located in Finland, harbors a wealth of activities to take part in including a canoe ride down Ivalojoki River, fishing, mountain hiking and even panning for gold. Finland is also home to featured jewelry designer Kirsti Doukas.
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VIV & INGRID JEWELRY

2011-06-08T11:27:00.002-05:00

14-Karat Gold-Filled Amazonite
Skinny Wrap Hoop Earrings

Tourists frequently opt to take cable cars or hiking trails to see the incredible scenery of China’s Huangshan Mountain Range.

China is also the ancestral home of the design team for featured jewelry brand Viv & Ingrid Jewelry.
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GILDA VEGA

2011-06-07T10:42:00.002-05:00

.950 Silver Angel Glow Pendant Necklace

Formed by the powerful Urubamba River, Peru’s Urubamba Valley was highly revered by the Incas for its wealth of precious minerals and fertile soil. Peru is also home to featured jewelry designer Gilda Vega.
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ESTYN HULBERT

2011-06-06T11:22:00.002-05:00

White Pearl Constellation Necklace

The 13^th century Eilean Donan Castle, located in Scotland, has served as a stunning backdrop in many feature films including Highlander.

The fortress also makes the perfect setting for a wedding. Scotland is the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Estyn Hulbert.
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SARAH ELLIOTT JEWELRY

2011-06-01T14:48:00.000-05:00

Aquamarine Bracelet with Sterling Silver

Known to some as the Grand Canyon’s smaller cousin, Arizona’s Oak Creek Canyon is just as well known.

With its unusual and colorful rock formations, clear swimming holes, and Native American handicrafts it is a location that satisfies the craving for an assortment of beauty. Arizona is also home to featured jewelry designer Sarah Elliott.
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QUOTABLE GEMS | LENA HORNE

2011-06-01T12:14:00.000-05:00

You have to be taught to be second-class; you're not born that way.

AYAKA NISHI

2011-05-31T10:40:00.003-05:00

Model Wears 18-Karat Gold Plated
Honeycomb Necklace, Earrings, Rings
and Cuff Bracelet

Erected to honor the Japanese goddess Amaterasu-omikami, the Ise Shrine, located in Japan’s Mie prefecture, is a complex compound of hundreds of Shinto shrines.

According to custom, the shrines are “rebuilt every twenty years” so that architectural styles are not mimicked. Japan is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Ayaka Nishi.
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BASTIAN INVERUN

2011-05-30T10:01:00.003-05:00

14-Karat Gold Plated Sterling Silver
Circle Necklace

Dresden, Germany is the location of the 18^th century fortress Zwinger Palace. Built over the course of eighteen years, this structure holds a museum with a collection of paintings by Raphael. Germany is also home to featured jewelry brand Bastian Inverun.
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THE SCOOP ON 2011 JEWELRY TRENDS

2011-05-26T13:09:00.005-05:00

If keeping up with jewelry trends is not your thing it may become rather overwhelming. However, if you enjoy making sure your jewelry collection contains an eclectic mix of styles and materials then you my friend are a die-hard fashionista!

While I have touched on various jewelry trends in blog posts over the last two years (and in many cases without knowing it) for this Splendor Sidebar you will learn some of what is abuzz for jewelry trends in 2011.

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ANNA RUTH HENRIQUES

2011-05-25T11:01:00.000-05:00

Oxidized Sterling Silver Nugget
Holon Pendant Necklace

The Daily News Building in New York was once the location of The New York Daily News for roughly seventy years. With its crisp Art Deco architecture it is said to have been the model for the fictional Daily Planet. New York is also home to featured jewelry designer Anna Ruth Henriques.Read more »

MONALISA OKOJIE | NEHITA JEWELRY

2011-05-24T10:04:00.000-05:00

14-Karat Gold Pendant Necklace
with Purple Jade

Anambra is a tiny city located near Africa’s River Niger. One of the city’s top attractions is its Omaba festival but the city is also known for its variety of artworks. Africa is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Monalisa Okojie.
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PHILIPPA HOLLAND

2011-05-23T10:04:00.004-05:00

Oxidized Sterling Silver Scorpion
Pendant Necklace with Tsavorite Eyes

Holding an array of modern art dating back to 1990 is London, England’s Tate Modern gallery. Eclectic art spanning the work of Claude Monet to Andy Warhol is exhibited on separate levels of the building. England is also home to featured jewelry designer Philippa Holland.
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MICHELE and WHITNEY HENDERSON | HENDERSON DESIGN

2011-05-18T10:05:00.005-05:00

Abalone Shell and Gold Vermeil
Teardrop Earrings

Though small in size the Village Creek State Park, located in Lumberton, Texas, is known as “The American Ark” due to its wide variety of wildlife. Texas is also home to featured jewelry brand Henderson Design.
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MONIQUE PÉAN FINE JEWELRY

2011-05-17T10:44:00.001-05:00

Woolly Mammoth Ivory Diamond Necklace

Opened to the public just seven years ago in 2004 is the U.S. National World War II Memorial. Located in Washington, D.C.’s National Mall it is described by some as “evocative of federal architecture during the New Deal Period.”

The site boasts majestic pillars with arches that encompass a plaza and fountain. Washington, D.C. is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Monique Péan.

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BARRY WILSON

2011-05-16T10:47:00.001-05:00

Sterling Silver Killerwhale Pendant Necklace
with Abalone and Turquoise Inlay

Let’s take a trip along the Gaspe Peninsula in Quebec, Canada to see the island known as Percé Rock.

A hulking mass of lime stones at over 1,000 feet long and nearly 300 feet wide it is one of the world’s largest natural arches. Canada is also home to featured jewelry designer Barry Wilson.

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LEEORA CATALAN | nOir JEWELRY

2011-05-11T10:23:00.003-05:00

Gold-Plated Brass Wonder Woman Ring with
Cubic Zirconia

A fixture in Columbia County, New York for nearly three hundred years, the Clermont State Historic Site is where the former estate of the influential Livingston family is located. New York is also home to featured jewelry designer Leeora Catalan.

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ANNA-KARIN HALLSTRÖM | BLACK DAISY DESIGNS

2011-05-10T10:56:00.007-05:00

Copper and Rock Crystal Like a Dragonfly Bracelet

The City of Roses is the nickname of Visby, Sweden and it houses some of the world’s most stunning medieval architecture including the Historical Museum of Gotland and the Dominican Monastery of St. Nicholas. Sweden is also home to featured jewelry designer Anna-Karin Hallström.

GIORGO DAMASKOS

2011-05-09T10:56:00.007-05:00

18-Karat Gold Black Cuff Bracelet
with Sapphires and Diamonds

With gorgeous landscapes and the incandescent glow of golden sand the beauty of Corfu, Greece lends itself perfectly to a tranquil, relaxed mindset. Corfu is also a great place to brush up on history within the walls of its many museums. Greece is also home to featured jewelry designer Giorgo Damaskos.
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PATRICIA JARA

2011-05-04T10:53:00.002-05:00

Sterling Silver Florid Finesse Collar Pearl Necklace

There is a plethora of sun-drenched beaches to see in northern Peru. Among these is Mancora Beach; a touch of heaven on Earth where the sun shines nearly every day and the color of the sea transforms from emerald green to blue. Peru is also home to featured jewelry designer Patricia Jara.

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ILEANA ROJAS-BENNETT | MALEKU JEWELRY DESIGNS

2011-05-03T10:45:00.001-05:00

Sterling Silver Pod Pearl Earrings

If you are a daring sort and like the ferocious beauty of volcanic activity, then Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park is for you.

With an ever present stream of glowing lava, the Arenal Volcano has become a tourist attraction where park rangers take visitors through safe, lava-free trails. Costa Rica is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Ileana Rojas-Bennett.

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BREDA HAUGH

2011-05-02T10:12:00.006-05:00

18-Karat Gold and Sterling Silver Pendant Necklaces
from Desert Leaves Collection

A historical site shrouded in lore the Rock of Cashel, located in the Irish province of Munster, is an area touted as one of Europe’s “most remarkable collections of medieval architecture”. Ireland is also home to featured jewelry designer Breda Haugh.

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QUOTABLE GEMS | GEORGE CLOONEY

2011-05-02T09:53:00.002-05:00

After doing One Fine Day and playing a pediatrician on ER, I'll never have kids. I'm going to have a vasectomy.

ARUN BOHRA | ARUNASHI

2011-04-27T10:57:00.004-05:00

22-Karat Gold Aquamarine
Pendant Necklace

Located in southern India, in the state of Tamilnadu, is the 11^th century structure known as the Brihadeeswarar Temple. Flanked by two “guardian statues,” the temple’s interior contains small shrines, a tower, and a columned hall. India is also home to featured jewelry designer Arun Bohra.

When you are born into a family of acclaimed jewelers the next logical step is to become a jeweler. Right? Right.

With his family name a fixture in India's jewelry industry for nearly two hundred years, it was only a matter of time before the junior Bohra would continue the tradition as an eighth generation jewelry designer.

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VANESSA MIMRAN | NESSA JEWELRY

2011-04-26T10:51:00.004-05:00

18-Karat Yellow Gold and Diamond
Bang Bang Pendant Necklace

One of the largest cities in Morocco is perhaps its most famous. The city of Casablanca is more than the romantic, exotic setting depicted in the film of the same name.

It is Morocco’s economic capital yet the city is also known for the world’s largest mosque, Hassan II Mosque. Morocco is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Vanessa Mimran.

From what pieces of info I have read, the traditional Moroccan aesthetic is characterized by alternately vibrant and subtle details. Men and women respectively wear subdued and vividly decorated versions of the garment known as djellaba.

Moroccan architecture, known as Dar, is also highlighted by dual styles of simple exteriors while interiors are elaborately arranged with embroidered pillows, and patterned tile work.

18-Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Aziyade Ring

Of Moroccan and American lineage, Mimran seems to draw from this longstanding design approach incorporating clean yet distinctive patterns in her airy, 18-karat gold and diamond designer jewelry.
The France-based designer, who was born in Geneva, Switzerland, studied Art History and jewelry design at New York University and Parsons The New School of Design, respectively. She would later establish her workshop in France officially launching her label, Nessa Jewelry, in 2006.

Her collections of chain-link bracelets, gold pendants, and gold diamond rings highlight the semblances of nature in open, lace-like patterns. In fact, lace fabric is the singular inspiration behind the lovely selections of pieces featured at online jewelry store FrenchJewellery.com.

For me, the crisp sophistication of her precise designs is reminiscent of longstanding Swiss brand Piaget and French-Vietnamese designer Jean Dinh Van. Like her colleagues, Mimran does not rely on grandiosity opting instead to keep outlines sleek and clean.

18-Karat Yellow Gold Snake Bracelet with
White Diamonds

The result is highly stylized yet intricate, cut-out patterns of snake forms, tiger faces, and the sun. This is classic yet modern jewelry distinguished by the lack of showy fanfare in exchange for clear-cut beauty.

ORLANDO ORLANDINI

2011-04-25T11:19:00.001-05:00

18-Karat Yellow Gold and Diamond
Open Work Ring

A great way to see the Italian coastline is to drive along the beautiful yet crowded route known as Amalfi Drive. Located in Sorrento, Italy Amalfi Drive is a one-way stretch of road that allows for glimpses of mountains and picturesque villages. Italy is also home to featured jewelry designer Orlando Orlandini.

When I recall the Italian jewelry designers I have featured on this blog such as Franco Pianegonda, Marco Bicego, and Giovanni Corvaja it is no wonder that Italy is at the forefront of the fashion industry.

Cutting-edge innovation and experimentation is central to many jewelry artisans’ design approach. However, as far as what I have learned since starting this blog, Italian jewelers have a remarkable passion for moving beyond limits of what is believed possible in jewelry making.

Their dedication, in my eyes at least, is unparalleled. Bicego spent a number of years perfecting his signature design: a flattened coil of 18-karat gold.

Corvaja took a 10-year-long journey to bring down the size of a gold wire to that of human hair while developing his Golden Fleece Collection. This truly reflects an amazing feat of patience as well as a sheer labor of love.

Orlandini of course shares the same kind of zeal. One look at the 18-karat gold bracelets, gold pendants, and gold necklaces featured at both his official website, and online retailer Forzieri.com, I knew right away he is committed to creating designer jewelry with distinctive beauty.

It has been great to learn how artistic vision ultimately makes a piece of jewelry a work of art. The offspring of artistically gifted parents, Orlandini followed the footsteps of his father and studied sculpture at the Academia delle Belle Arte.

18-Karat Yellow Gold Diamonds Drop Net Necklace

Understanding the technical similarities between sculpture and jewelry making Orlandini’s first gig designing and creating jewelry came with accepting the offer to create one-of-a-kind pieces for art galleries. Not long after, he founded his workshop, Atelier d’Arte Orafa in Florence, Italy.

An independent designer for nearly thirty years, Orlandini works with his wife and two children amidst “olive groves and lush vineyards” that provide a “constant source of inspiration.” His high-end, fine jewelry collections are created in limited production and they highlight stunning visual complexity.

His assortment of gold and diamond accented jewelry is made entirely by hand. Lithe and delicate in appearance each piece is inspired by the contours of the female body. “A woman’s body is the personification of harmony and beauty,” he says.

“The designs are created to caress the skin, and adapt to the body in the same way as fabric. Our objective is to transform gold, a solid metal, into wearable golden fabrics that drape over the skin and give a soft, silk-like sensation.”

His designs are magnificent renderings implementing an undisclosed technique that mimics the look of filigree or crochet. In some cases the gold bracelet, necklace or gold ring is actually a mesh of slender, tiny gold circle links, thin strands of gold peppered with small diamonds, or tightly packed gold discs.

18-Karat Yellow Gold Drop Earrings

His jewelry collections, influenced by medieval chain maille to sand dunes, are dazzling feats of engineering and it is no surprise they have earned him the Couture Design Award four times (in 1999, 2001, 2002, and 2005), as well as the Tahitian Pearl Trophy twice (in 2001 and 2003).

“The most important characteristic of our collections is the luminosity obtained by the meticulous labor of hand forming, giving the gold a gem-like quality; capturing and reflecting light from its many small surfaces.”

KATIE DECKER

2011-04-20T10:27:00.002-05:00

18-Karat White Gold Tulip Pendant Necklace
with White Pearl

Built during the late 19^th century, the Old World grandeur of The Bishop’s Palace, located in Galveston, Texas, is a stunning display of Victorian architecture and is listed in the American Institute of Architects “as one of the 100 most significant buildings in the United States”. Texas is also home to featured jewelry designer Katie Decker.

With the Red Hot Chili Peppers in her IPod and a penchant for decadent indulgences like Mint and Chocolate Ice cream, Decker sounds like your average 20-something.

However, in 2006, during a summer gig at Judith Ann Jewels, the economics major’s artful doodling of lacy Baroque and Gothic jewelry designs that graced the pages of her finance books captured the attention of the store’s owner, Judi Bufkin.

“My mom, Liz, was a huge influence in becoming a jewelry designer,” says Decker. “I was always sneaking into her jewelry box. I have always enjoyed drawing and anything artistic. Judi took an immediate interest in my jewelry sketches and she asked me to design some to sell at her store.”

By 2008, she had developed a full-fledged fine jewelry collection that showcase the delicate open work of 18-karat yellow gold and diamond Gothic Cross Pendants and gold and diamond Venetian Cuff Bracelets.

Since then, Decker has continued to make strides including being chosen by Jewelers Circular Keystone (JCK) to appear at its Rising Stars Las Vegas trade show in 2010. Her stunning designer jewelry epitomizes timeless femininity in the lyrical grandeur of magnificent gemstone rings, Tahitian pearl pendants, lithe hoop earrings, and the gentle drape of 18-karatt gold chains peppered with diamonds.

“My jewelry is inspired by my travels, studies and imagination. I love to draw intricate, lace-like designs. I love designs that have a lot of visual interest from every angle.

18-Karat Yellow Gold Elizabeth Cuff Bracelet
with Diamonds

Hands-down I am your classic, all-American girl. I try to strike a balance between classic and contemporary.

I try to keep it feminine, light, and airy. I think my designs evoke a timeless sophistication for passing down through the generations.”

YUMI CHEN DESIGNS

2011-04-19T10:40:00.000-05:00

24-Karat Gold Foil and Chocolate Brown Venetian Glass
Heart Pendant Necklace

The Great Wall of China is a centuries-old tourist attraction that is among the Seven Wonders of the World. Built by three Chinese dynasties over the course of more than 1,000 years it stretches across grasslands, rivers and desserts. China is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Yumi Chen.

With the cost of gold at over $1,000 an ounce, many jewelry designers are exploring (or were already implementing) other material options to keep production costs down.

American designers Dana Lorenz of Fenton-Fallon incorporates brass into her powerful aesthetic while Melissa Joy Manning uses recycled 18-karat gold, and Canadian jeweler Karyn Chopik pairs hand-forged brass, bronze and sterling silver to cultivate her boho-chic designer jewelry.

Handmade jewelry designs composed of gorgeous multi-colored beads and crystals is another option that proves 18-karat gold or lone gemstones have not cornered the market on great style or beauty.

Presently, based in New York, Chen is an accomplished woman: she is a classically trained violinist; worked in Boston and New York restaurants as an acclaimed pastry chef; and she is also a mathematician.

In 2003, however, while working as a pastry chef, she suffered an injury that “required a long recovery.” During this time, Chen recalled her years in Europe studying culinary arts.

Aquamarine Fiorato Venetian Glass Bead Bracelet

“My time in Europe included a visit to Venice, Italy and I was exposed to beautiful Venetian glass,” she says. “My background in the food industry and mathematics requires precision and creativity and these qualities are needed to build jewelry.”

Although Chen creates charm jewelry that include wishbone and heart pendant necklaces, initial necklaces, and sleek bangle bracelets--each produced from either sterling silver, 14-karat gold-fill or copper--the showstoppers are her magnificent and buoyant glass bead and crystal jewelry creations.

Her arrangement of Swarovski Crystals, seed beads, Milllefiori beads, and Aventurina beads highlight stunning combinations of vibrant, muted and fluid-like color in pared down, streamlined designs.

Her Jasmine Collection doubles as a bridal jewelry collection so ethereal, muted pastel colors are the highlight here. As I have a tendency to equate the shape or color of jewelry with candy, Chen’s collection Candytuft features delectable pieces composed of Mint Green Venetian Glass, Rose and Chrysolite Swarovski Crystals and sterling silver beads among others. They look good enough to eat!

Chen’s ring selection is a lyrical dance of remarkable detail and beauty. Among the designs are a beautifully carved jade rose set on a band of sterling silver beads; a perforated sterling silver Abstract Coral Sponge Ring reminiscent of a tiny shield of armor; and a lovely rotation of twelve, intertwining sterling silver bands that create a lone, sinuous ring.

Rose Pink Swarovski Crystal Filigree Earrings

“It was by virtue of an accident that I began a jewelry business,” she says.

“My experience as a pastry chef gave me a unique sense of color and balance while being a violinist imbued me with an appreciation for precision and care. I have redefined myself in each piece of beautiful jewelry I make.”

MAI SATO FLORES

2011-04-18T10:27:00.000-05:00

14-Karat Gold Filled Rising Sun Necklace w/Garnet and Moonstone

The Kasuga Grand Shrine, located in Nara, Japan, is an 8^th century temple built by one of the country’s most powerful families, the Fujimaras. The Shinto temple is characterized by stunning bronze and stone lanterns. Japan is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Mai Sato Flores.

With the spring season in full swing here in the States there is just no denying the varied and complex beauty of naturally occurring surroundings.

It is a virtual playground to the senses: the tranquil sight of clear, blue skies; the smell of freshly cut grass; and the chatter of birds.

Here again nature serves as a consistent muse to the observant eye of a jewelry designer. The unusual forms of sea life inspired the work of New Zealand designer Louise Douglas; the variegated flora found within his mother’s Alabama garden captured the imagination of David Lee Holland (USA); while the stunning designer jewelry of Danai Leosawathiphong (Thailand) preserves actual flowers in resin or lacquer through electro-forming.

Flores’ delicate and ethereal handmade jewelry designs are a gentle mix of metal, wire wrap and gemstone jewelry that not only highlights subtle interpretations of butterflies, twigs, and leaves but also Flores’ dexterity at using a variety of jewelry making techniques.

“My mother had a huge influence on me,” says the New York-based designer. “She was very active and artistic. She taught me how to garden and make my own clothes. I remember starting to make beaded jewelry for my friends when I was seven years old. At age 20, after I moved to New York, I majored in graphic design but I also took metalsmithing courses, and in my spare time I began learning about wire-wrapping techniques.”

14-Karat Gold Filled Sea Anemone Lapis Lazuli Earrings

Bangle bracelets, gemstone earrings, bridal jewelry, and gold pendants are cultivated from 18-karat gold vermeil, solid 14-karat yellow or rose gold, 14-karat gold-fill, sterling silver and a plethora of gemstones that include freshwater pearls, tourmaline, and whiskey topaz.

Her interpretations of such natural phenomenon as clouds and rivers are straightforward yet naturalistic. The subtle, mild outlines make for simply pretty, everyday jewelry.

Her metal jewelry items highlight carved out images of birds, cherry blossoms, and butterflies. There are perforated pendant necklaces inspired by bug-bitten leaves and delicate wire wrap pieces.

I like her gemstone jewelry pieces the most which feature an assortment of gemstone pendants called Sea Anemone; these particular designs showcase nice contrasts of alternately rich, clear, and opaque hues of such gemstones as amethyst, garnet, lapis lazuli, smoky quartz, chrysoprase and turquoise.

“I love constructing jewelry and working with many tools,” she acknowledges. “I use tiny saw blades to cut out shapes in metal and carve shapes for wax molds. Since ancient times, humans have had a powerful fascination with gemstones. They are the object of fantasy, fashion and superstition. They are studied by scientists, depicted by artists and worn as symbols of beauty, power and wealth.”

Flores shares her passion for gemstones in her book Wrapped in Gems, which “shares the secrets of her work and the natural elements that inspire it.” Of special interest to Flores is her beautiful garnet and moonstone Rising Sun Necklace; a design she created in conjunction with the Japanese Relief Fund in the wake of Japan’s devastating earthquake and tsunami.

“Ever since the earthquake struck on March 11^th I had been watching the news helplessly and thinking of what I can do to help. The Rising Sun Necklace forms a circle to show our unity with the people of Japan. I make each one by hand.

18-Karat Gold Vermeil River Ring

Fifty percent of the proceeds from the sale of the necklace will be donated to the American Red Cross for the Japanese Relief Fund.

In addition, 30% of proceeds from the sale of any other item on my website will be donated to the American Red Cross.”

JULES KIM | BIJULES

2011-04-13T14:09:00.003-05:00

14-Karat Gold Bone Crusher Head Band

At nearly 130-years-old New York’s Brooklyn Bridge continues to be an iconic element of the state’s skyline. After its construction in 1883, it held the title of the world’s longest suspension bridge for twenty years. New York is also home to featured jewelry designer Jules Kim.

I love it when a designer has a brazen philosophy regarding his or her aesthetic providing an indelible edge to their designer jewelry that contrasts the often studied refinement of mainstream jewelry.

Kim’s alternately brash and soulful manner of communicating is disarming.

At one moment the former fashion publicist will drop f-bombs while discussing her early days as a flautist, and then speak in lyrical tones about the special beauty of pearls. These contrasting aspects of personality are compelling and both qualities find their way into her provocative designer fashion and fine jewelry.

I find Kim’s raw candor fresh and real. She is tough-minded; unafraid to push the boundaries of taste such as her jewelry items inspired by and made for the. . . nether regions (these items are not featured on her official website btw).

However, from what I have observed on her official website, Kim’s interpretations of bird skulls, snakes, and bones reflect the soul of an artist. With design studies completed in both France and New York under her belt, for the most part pendant necklaces, gold and silver rings, and clip on earrings each reflect a sense of debauchery and sophistication. With sleek, minimalist proportions they are unconventional statement pieces.

“My jewelry collections mirror the beautiful and chaotic world we inhabit with all of its humor, tragedy, ambivalence, love and hate,” she says. Kim’s duality, in my opinion, is embodied most in her Scream and Spirit Collection that features the semblance of bones in 14-karat gold vermeil. Bones as symbols always conjures up images of death and the macabre but in actuality bones also symbolize life and even God.

These pared down, sculptural pieces include 14-karat gold bone cross necklaces and a stunning head band called the Bonecrusher; the design of which is a semi-circle worn across the forehead displaying a delicate bone fringe.

14-Karat Yellow, White and Black Gold Rock Rings

Her golden brass Gelfing Ear Tip is “a Bijules original creation” steeped in rebellion for those who “defy the current fashion standards.” It is a diminutive ear piece to be worn on the upper, outer ear causing an uncanny resemblance to an elf’s ear.

There is the sinewy coil of her three-finger snake ring; earrings made with real, hand-dyed hair; a striking Diamond Pavé Nail Ring worn by Beyoncé in her Sweet Dreams music video (wearing the metallic bodysuit); and the profound and poetic nuance of her three-panel Shattered Dreams Necklace.

“The Shattered Dreams Necklace tells a story of the aging process,” she explains. “As we grow older things get complicated, shatter and fall apart. Only as responsible adults can we put the pieces back together.”

Cultivated in both anarchy and classicism, Kim’s seven-year old jewelry brand is visually deceptive where you have what looks like a classic design but upon closer inspection you find that the piece is actually the semblance of a lock knife.

Shattered Dreams Necklace

“A lot of my jewelry pieces look like it is piercing something but it is really not. There is always this ironic twist to almost every single piece I have made. My work translates into a comfortable niche in the hip-hop community but it also moves within hipster/fashionista culture.

The pieces are effective forms of self-expression and regardless of who you are or what you do for a living a piece will suit you.”

For more on the outspoken designer be sure to check out MissOmni Media.com’s video feature with Kim discussing her Spring 2010 Collection.

ANUSH MOVESIAN AVEJIC

2011-04-12T10:51:00.000-05:00

Blue Eye Bead Bracelet with Swarovski Crystals and Amber Beads

In Dilizhan, Armenia tucked away within the cluster of mountain woods is the Agarstin Monastery; a complex consisting of one 11^th and two 13^th century churches. Armenia is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Anush Movsesian Avejic.

Though I am not a gung-ho fan of charm jewelry--due to what I feel as high saturation in the market--as I have mentioned in other posts having read some history about talismans has given me more appreciation for this jewelry trend.

With challenging and uncertain times upon us it is nice to have a little reminder or symbol of protection and faith dangling from the neck or wrist. American-born Avejic, a commercial property insurance broker, calls upon memories of childhood excursions with her father who purchased beads to make jewelry for her mother.

In the wee hours of the morning, before venturing off to work, she takes a colorful assortment of ceramic and glass beads, seed beads, Swarovski Crystals, and lampwork beads using these components to accentuate the central element of her bead bracelet designs: eye beads.

“Saturday mornings as a child, I would go with my mom to the Middle Eastern grocery store,” she recalls. “It was filled with all kinds of things but what really stood out in my mind were the eye beads and charms.

Sterling Silver Pomegranate Pendant Necklace with Swarovski Crystal Cross

They are worn as protection from what is known as “the evil eye”, which is really no more than the jealousy one feels toward another’s good fortune in life. I remember finding these beads oddly “creepy” when I was young but loving them when I was older.”

Her Etsy store features primarily evil eye jewelry in bracelet form; they are pretty and whimsical at the same time. The varying hues of glass and gemstone beads are glossy like rock candy and the color ranges are not too sedated or rah-rah making it great for every day wear.

The shape of the luscious pomegranate fruit, a longstanding Armenian symbol, is a focal point of her fine silver pendant designs.

“The pomegranate is present in Armenian art and sometimes even shown as the symbol for Armenia. It is a symbol of abundance, prosperity and fertility,” she says. “The pomegranate pieces are made one at a time; dried, sanded, fired, burnished and polished.

Avejic’s part-time jewelry making business continues to evolve as her evil eye bracelets have gained popularity. “Realistically most people wear these popular bracelets for their colorful beads, their fun quality or because it’s part of their tradition. And me, I just think they’re beautiful and a great conversation starter.”

Mother-of-Pearl and Blue Eye Bead Bracelet

Having grandparents who survived the Armenian Genocide, Avejic is a staunch advocate of stopping the Darfur genocide working with the organization In His Shoes.

She is also involved in an outreach program that helps to feed and clothe the homeless of downtown LA.’s Skid Row.

KLEMENTYNA PIELASZKIEWICZ

2011-04-11T10:10:00.001-05:00

With an interior requiring four hours to explore, Poland’s Malbork Castle is renowned as Europe’s largest “medieval fortress.” Built during the late 13^th century, the structure was named after the Virgin Mary and consists of three smaller castles. Poland is also home to featured jewelry designer Klementyna Pielaszkiewicz.

The personal interests and passions of a jewelry designer often spill over into his or her jewelry creations which in turn add an intangible level of dimension to their pieces.

The well-traveled Pielaszkiewicz completed her high school studies in Pakistan, and studied design while living in England. At the age of 26 she graduated from Gdansk, Poland’s Academy of Fine Arts where she received a degree in industrial design.

Travels to Holland, Jordan, Spain, Italy, and Thailand round out Pielaszkiewicz’ palette of inspiration; however, she chooses to interpret these influences within minimalism.

The designer’s aesthetic is alternately unglamorous and complex with pared down, mechanistic arrangements contrasted by intricate “commercial” designs. Based on her online gallery, Pielaszkiewicz’ signature work is sterling silver jewelry accented with chunks of raw, cognac amber. She displays great restraint particularly with her sterling silver pieces fashioned without gemstone accents.

Brush, matte finishes provide a crisp, industrialized appearance to silver rings, cuff bracelets, and silver pendants. The inclusion of slight to heavy oxidation draws attention to the battered, worn over look to pieces like her Embra Sterling Silver Bracelets. Even so, this lack of va-va-va voom sets her designer jewelry apart.

It does not end there as Pielaszkiewicz also dabbles with any array of materials including felt, leather, shells, and plastic creating practical versions of contemporary jewelry. Online jewelry store jewelab.com features a nice collection of her modern jewelry designs that highlight sterling silver overlaid with various hues of felt with cut-out, floral patterns.

Pielaszkiewicz also creates stunning, engraved gold-plated earrings and cuff bracelets the surface pattern of which is overlaid with colorful polymers. Last but not least the designer also excels at creating gorgeous mosaic patterns combining variations of silk, leather, cotton, viscose, linen and Lycra.

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Photo 1 (top right): Steel and Felt Floral Motif Cuff Bracelet

Photo 2 (center): Sterling Silver Attoo Ring
Photo 3 (bottom left): Turquoise Polymers and Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace

NURDAN SEN

2011-04-04T12:00:00.008-05:00

Within Mysia, Turkey lie the remnants of past kingdoms. The Pergamon Ruins is a complex of Grecian structures that include the Hellenistic Theater, the Sanctuary of Athena, and the Trajaneum. Turkey is also home to featured jewelry designer Nurdan Sen.

Korean jewelry designer Andrea Li said that in the fashion world a completely original design idea does not exist. A jewelry artist therefore has the onus of re-imagining longstanding concepts making them his or her own.

To me, there is nothing as individual as when a jewelry designer imparts his or her own personal history and culture to their designer jewelry. In my opinion, this factor truly sets one designer apart from another.

An alumna of Istanbul’s Mimar Sinan University, thirty-five year old Sen boasts an official site and Etsy store; both of which showcase the incredible character she brings to her six-year-old silver jewelry collections.

While the designs for her Etsy store—though organic—possess a more mainstream sensibility the handmade jewelry designs featured on her official website reflects a deep sense of cultural influences.
Sen’s aesthetic is clear-cut and minimalist. Using the occasional gemstone or brass dots for accents, Sen primarily incorporates deep set surface designs on oxidized silver rings, silver pendants, and silver earrings. Instead of the standard metallic cuff or bangle bracelet, she creates leather bracelets with a sterling silver or brass face reminiscent of a wrist watch.

Her silver ring collection is a particular marvel of her silversmithing skills. Here again, the rings are created without the accent of gemstones. These quietly majestic and commanding jewelry pieces come in three different styles: Square, Groove and Round. For the Square Ring the band is wide and round while the stone setting is square-shaped with carved out geometric patterns on its surface.

With a delicate teardrop shape, the Groove Ring highlights deep furrows engraved along the ring’s circumference looking as though it was carved from thick tree bark dipped in sterling silver.

Sen also works with gold and platinum and creates custom jewelry. Uplifting charm jewelry--that includes iconography of the owl, swallow and Tree of Life—are central to the designs from her Etsy store.

Her whimsical Corset Ring, fashioned from matte finished, oxidized sterling silver, is easily one of many standouts with a strip of leather looped through the metal in a manner reflective of the garment for which it is named.
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Photo 1 (top right): Oxidized Sterling Silver Seahorse Pendant Necklace
Photo 2 (center): Oxidized Sterling Silver and Leather Bracelet
Photo 3 (bottom left): Oxidized Sterling Silver Square Ring

QUOTABLE GEMS | GOLDIE HAWN

2011-04-04T11:53:00.008-05:00

Youthfulness is connected to the ability to see things new for the first time. So if your eyes still look at life with wonder, then you will seem young, even though you may not be chronologically young.

DEBRA FALLOWFIELD

2011-03-30T10:51:00.007-05:00

Standing at just over 1,000 feet New Zealand’s Sutherland Falls is among the world’s tallest waterfalls. With water originating from Lake Quill, the currents flow out in three cascades creating a roar as powerful as an airplane’s engine. New Zealand is also home to featured jewelry designer Debra Fallowfield.

Headstrong and independent a former instructor once compared the largely self-taught Fallowfield to “a bull at a gate.”

Her creative process is tinged with a dose of agitation and impatience as—in terms of jewelry making—she does not like being told what she can or cannot do.

“I am not a huge fan of tertiary institutions, especially art school training,” she says. “I learned far more once I left schooling experimenting on my own.” She would also learn impatience had its drawbacks that would require proper channeling.

“I had always been creative and was working in print and design. I tried my hand at fashion design completing a course at East Sydney Tech in Australia (where I was living) but I became disillusioned with the lack of originality in the industry. I decided to take an eight-week course in computing; however, the course was canceled due to low enrollment so I took contemporary jewelry making.

Here is where I met the fabulous Barbara Ryman. Designing was never an issue for me—it just comes naturally-but Barbara helped me to slow down and taught me the importance of finish.”

With fourteen years of hands-on experience under her belt the designer boldly mixed gold with silver at a time when the practice was not encouraged. Unlike many of her New Zealand colleagues, the jewelry of which is a loving homage to the country’s stunning natural landscapes, Fallowfield’s designer jewelry is reflective of an urban landscape with 18-karat gold a central component.

“Nine karat gold is often favored here. Unfortunately, the New Zealand consumer more often than not does not have the budget for high karat gold pieces. Gold is so much more sexy than silver! I love fusing the silver with the gold—the juxtaposition of cold and warm,” she enthuses.

The jewelry artisan is not one given to philosophical exposition of her handmade jewelry designs but rather says “Sorry I just do it and don’t really think too much about it! My work just “is”—beautiful jewelry. It does not symbolize my journey from the womb. It does not pretend to be anything but gorgeous jewelry.”

There is a moody beauty to her aesthetic that is characterized by alternately sleek, clear-cut and organic forms. There are high polished 18-karat gold rings with encrusted gemstones; weighty, heavily oxidized sterling silver link bracelets for men; and the conservative yet edgy slender form of sterling silver tusk earrings.

The Erosion Collection highlights Fallowfield’s signature design: perforated metal. The punctured surfaces are a striking accent on the metal that are often times filled with tiny gemstones including rubies, blue topaz, amethyst, and conflict free diamonds.

Specializing in custom jewelry design, Fallowfield takes great pride in making such items as wedding bands and engagement rings completely by herself; an undertaking that has allowed her to perfect metal finishes as smooth as silk.

“I love working with sold heavy gold and silver gaining textures and forms yet still always giving the metal a smooth, lustrous, sensual finish.

I like complete control over my work. At the end of the day I cannot blame anyone else if it isn’t right so it is imperative communication for custom jewelry is direct, honest and upfront.”
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Photo 1 (top right): 9-Karat Yellow Gold Erosion Ring
Photo 2 (center): Sterling Silver and Rose Gold Custom Inscribed Link Bracelet
Photo 3 (bottom left): 18-Karat Gold Star Bubbles Drop Earrings with Black Star Sapphires

ANDREA LI DESIGNS

2011-03-29T10:40:00.005-05:00

Named for 19th century explorer Zebulon Pike, Colorado Springs, Colorado’s Pikes Peak is a “visible landmark” of the Rocky Mountains distinguished by the summit’s pink granite. Colorado is also home to featured jewelry designer Andrea Li.

Though the complementary relationship between clear diamonds and 18-karat white gold is indelibly breathtaking there is no question that jewelry fashioned with the singular use of either precious metals or precious gemstones highlight the extraordinary aesthetic appeal of these respective components.

Li’s stunning gemstone jewelry of Mystic topaz, grey pearls, and aquamarine showcases the sheer nuanced beauty of semi-precious and precious gemstones.

When Li began her excursion into jewelry making eleven years ago, she was well aware that putting a unique take on what already exists in the market was central.

While living in Amsterdam, Li used sculpture as a channel to blend functionality with art. “In the art or fashion world an original idea simply does not exist. No one can reinvent the wheel but we can offer a fresh way to perceive it.”

Using 14-karat gold chains and jewelry wire Li’s design approach is based in naturalism and free-form as she allows the individual gemstones to dictate the design while also drawing inspiration from nature. “Earth’s vast array of beauty is in every aspect of my designs from the alchemy of color palettes to the emulation of existing organic artistry.”

While many of her gemstone necklaces are clearly bold and statement making the lithe delicate drape of others is reminiscent of Hawaiian lei; buoyant rather than bulky feminine rather than brazen. They are a fabulous amalgamation of muted, deep and fluid colored semi-precious and precious gemstones in various sizes, shapes and textures.

She creates distinctive brooch pins for men composed of subtle, earth-toned gemstones of black and chocolate brown. The gemstone earring designs are so ethereal constructed with dainty 14- and 24-karat gold or sterling silver chains suspending dollops of shimmering color that resemble delicate metallic webs littered with gemstones.

Of course designer jewelry of such complexity requires many hours to produce (20-100 hours to be exact) and Li’s passion to create one-of-a-kind jewelry items propels her. “Couture jewelry should be fun,” she says, “Jewelry should be for the amusement of the wearer as well as to achieve a fashionable look.

Jewelry should become an iconic part of a woman’s personality and character. It should be a reflection of the qualities that set her apart and makes her unique thus unconventionality has always been central to my work.”

A selection of Li’s striking jewelry designs are available to buy online at Goldyn.com.
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Photo 1 (top right): Sterling Silver Necklace with Australian Opal, Tanzanite, Chalcedony, Pink Amethyst and Pearl
Photo 2 (center): Sterling Silver Cluster Ring with Balinese Silver Beads, Keshi Stick Pearls and White Topaz
Photo 3 (bottom left): Peruvian Calcite Drop Earrings with Thai Sterling Silver Beads

ORIANNE COLLINS JEWELLERY

2011-03-28T10:47:00.008-05:00

Today we visit one of Switzerland’s top tourist attractions, the Jungfrau summit. The Jungfrau is considered one of the most picturesque mountains in the Swiss Alps and its summit was reached approximately two hundred years ago by Aarau resident J.R. Meyer. Switzerland is also home to featured jewelry designer Orianne Collins.

Of Thai and Swiss ancestry, Collins’ childhood dream was to become a fashion designer but once she attended sewing school she realized that the profession was “not my cup of tea.”

At age 19, she found her stride studying International Management with emphasis on communications and marketing. She would subsequently establish O-COM, an events organizing agency, nearly two decades ago.

Never straying too far from her early passion for design, in 2006 Collins collaborated with longstanding designer jewelry brand Van Cleef & Arpels (France) where she designed a charm bracelet to benefit her Little Dreams Foundation, which she co-founded with ex-husband Phil Collins.

The success of the bracelet led Collins to launch a high-end custom jewelry brand and website in 2007 called The Right Label. In 2009 she was ready to unveil her self-titled fine jewelry collection Orianne Collins Jewellery (a/k/a OC Jewellery).

Enlisting German and Italian artisans, OC Jewellery is characterized by the sumptuous, dazzling creations of the Tales, Forever, Vintage, Wonders and Limited collections. While the Romance, Men’s, Kids, and Signature collections highlight pared down sophistication.

The Wonders Collection pays spectacular homage to Thai flora with their likenesses cultivated from combinations of pink kunzits, sapphires, brown diamonds, citrine, and brown quartz set in 18-karat yellow gold.

Eighteen karat pink or white gold offset by smooth, curvaceous heart shapes carved from white agate, black onyx, mother-of-pearl or moonstone are the focal point of Collins’ Romance Collection.

In my opinion, the subtle, muted colors of heart studded bangle bracelets, multi-heart pendant necklaces, and charm bracelets effortlessly take what could easily be considered girly to womanly.

“Jewelry is the most universal form for immortalizing inspiration,” says Collins. “I draw from my experiences to feed my passion for jewelry design. I keep a notebook to sketch new ideas whether I am traveling, on the phone, with my family or in a hotel. My collections reflect my personality.

The idea for the Heritage Collection for instance came about while I was in France. I was interested in having a picture of my children engraved on a gemstone.

So I wanted to create a ring with my son’s face engraved on a diamond or another gemstone. The OC brand is a kaleidoscope of urban and traditional trends with a classic, modern touch.”

The sleek outlines of items from Collins’ Romance and Men’s jewelry collections has been featured in singer Usher’s music video Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home) as worn by the singer and model/actress Noémie Lenoir.
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Photo 1 (top right): 18-Karat Pink Gold Quartz Heart Ring from Romance Collection
Photo 2 (center): 18-Karat Yellow Gold Little Angel Pendant Necklace from OC Kids Collection
Photo 3 (bottom left): 18-Karat White Gold Cuff Links with Blue Chalcedony from OC Men's Collection

SAMIA SHALABI | KARAZI DESIGN

2011-03-23T10:02:00.006-05:00

The focal point of Seattle, Washington’s Hing Hay Park is an authentic pagoda that was constructed and designed in Taipei, Taiwan. The thirty-seven year old structure serves as a symbol of the indomitable spirit of Asian immigrants. Washington State is also home to featured jewelry designer Samia Shalabi.

For Palestine-born Shalabi travel is integral to her design aesthetic. Not only do the vivid sights and sounds of her travels inform her understated handmade jewelry designs but she has also studied with seasoned East Indian goldsmiths, and collects unique gemstones as well as sea glass.

A ten year veteran, through her designer jewelry company, Karazi Design, Shalabi creates jewelry that is organic yet subtle.

Though semi-precious and precious gemstones that include yellow sapphire, Mexican fire agate, olive jade, seed beads, and apatite are the focal points of her designs many are opaque in color giving them a sense of pragmatism and weightiness.

The textured, naturalistic outlines of 18- and 22-karat gold or oxidized sterling silver evoke ancient civilizations as the metals are eco-friendly materials “melted down from old pieces.” Words of empowerment, engraved in Sanskrit on the gold backing of earrings and pendant necklaces, are Shalabi’s finishing touch.

“Jewelry is not simply an accessory it tells a story; it has a meaning,” she says. “I studied geology and I have a deep love of the earth. My jewelry pieces include Indonesian lava necklaces, East Indian gold pendants, and Turkish coin bracelets.

Careful thought and conscious placement of color and texture is a part of every piece.

I do what I love and I hope each wearer knows love has gone into every part of making my jewelry.”
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Photo 1 (top right): Lava Quartz Crystal Necklace
Photo 2 (bottom left): 20-Karat Hammered Gold Stacking Rings with Rough Cut Diamond

ISLER | BIJOUX BAR

2011-03-22T09:44:00.006-05:00

A premier destination for skydiving, hang gliding and skiing is Interlaken in Switzerland. With its expansive agricultural areas and mountains the commune is ideal for outdoor sports. Switzerland is also home to featured jewelry designer Isler.

There is an occasion for every style of jewelry; there are every day jewelry pieces that can easily go from day-to-night and there are even pieces suited for a casual outing at the park.

Isler (as she is known on her profile at Bottica.com) explores both styles in handmade jewelry designs that are clean, simple and pretty.

Inspired by the 70s boho-chic style, her two lines Bijoux Bar and Be Charmed Designs, are characterized by lovely wrap and friendship bracelets fashioned from Irish linen cords and 100% sheer silk.

The rich colors of the fabrics along with accents of silver feathers, faceted gold beads, engraved silver discs, and hamsa hands provide a Mediterranean vibe.
The various hues of deep wine to strawberries and cream or mint and cream are great color options to subtly spruce up a t-shirt and pair of jeans. Her bracelets can be layered with others and some double as necklaces.

Isler also knows how to turn up the razzle-dazzle with beautiful gemstone necklaces, gemstone earrings and gemstone pendants that highlight gorgeous 14-karat gold wire wrap along with such semi-precious gemstones as green amethyst, freshwater pearls, smoky quartz, and raw druzy diamonds.

“I have two passions—the first being gemstones and the combination of colors. The other is linen and simpler jewelry. I flip back and forth. I adore both and somehow cannot choose. I think my designs are the perfect finishing touch to a bohemian, free-spirited style.”
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Photo 1 (top right): Fine Silver and Deep Wine Silk Wrap Bracelet
Photo 2 (center): 14-Karat Gold Filled Chocolate and Cream Drop Earrings with Smoky Quartz and Freshwater Pearls
Photo 3 (bottom left): Mint and Cream Friendship and Make a Wish Bracelet with Sterling Silver Feather Charm and 24-Karat Gold Dipped Nugget Beads on Irish Linen Cord

ISAAC MANEVITZ

2011-03-21T09:19:00.007-05:00

The Temple of Hatshepsut, located in the city of Luxor in Egypt, Africa, is a conservative complex of “mortuary temples” with a 100-foot causeway and terraced courtyards. Africa is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Isaac Manevitz.

You could say that New York-based Manevitz is a bit of an overachiever as his eclectic costume jewelry covers an array of styles from modern jewelry designs like his abstract Multi-Colored Sculpture Necklace to chunky statement pieces like his Brass Flower Bib Necklace.

His fashion jewelry of 14- and 24-karat gold plated brass, pewter or sterling silver reflect style influences from the vintage eras, punk rock edge, and military iconography that evoke both the red carpet and runway.

Manevitz had first-hand knowledge of jewelry making having apprenticed with his father—a jeweler to King Farouk’s court—while a young man. A little over fifty years ago, Manevitz left Cairo to study sculpture and design at New York’s Brooklyn College earning a degree in fine art.

In the following years, the jewelry artisan would establish his company Ben-Amun. “I bring my love of art to my collections by working with unusual materials such as Lucite, glass and crystal beads, and pewter (lead-free) to create unique, innovative and inspirational designs,” he says.

His arrangement of an array of semi-precious gemstones, and Swarovski Crystals make for great visuals. There is a simple chain link necklace in one instance to the ancient overtones of gold coin necklaces in another. I also like the unexpected aspect of his Breguet Watch Gear jewelry pieces, which provide a nice sense of fun.

In many ways Manevitz takes a decidedly contemporary approach to designer fashion jewelry that is elegant, brash, and sophisticated while also affordable. At present, prices start as low as $15 for a woven wood cuff bracelet and up to $745 for a multi-strand pearl necklace with crystal brooch pins.
During his more than three decade career, the prolific designer has collaborated with fashion designers Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Tory Burch and Michael Kors.
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Photo 1 (top right): Wood and Hammered 24-Karat Gold Plated Chip Necklace
Photo 2 (center): Silver Plated Brass and Resin Jet Filigree Earrings
Photo 3 (bottom left): Regal Large Gold Resin Cuff Bracelet

ROBINDIRA UNSWORTH

2011-03-16T10:29:00.007-05:00

Located within the central Coast of California is the rugged terrain of Big Sur. The micro-climate locale houses giant redwoods alongside cacti and wild orchids. California is also home to featured jewelry designer Robindira Unsworth.

In her studio tucked away in California’s beautiful Sonoma County, Unsworth prepares her gorgeous jewelry designs fusing the everyday with the exotic.

Established in 2001, the Robindira Unsworth brand is characterized by stunning fine jewelry and fashion jewelry lines (the latter known as the Signature Collection) cultivated from 18-karat gold, sterling silver, and 22-karat gold vermeil.

There are a variety of necklaces that include oxidized sterling silver chains accentuated by a single, glowing gemstone; hammered gold vermeil discs encrusted with moonstone cabochons; sleek, diamond studded bangle bracelets; lovely gemstone stackable rings; and striking contrasts like glowing 18-karat gold Etruscan blossoms paired with blackened sterling silver of her Flora Bib Necklace.

Unsworth loves incorporating textured metals and luminous faceted gemstones into her atmospheric yet classic designs. Combining different metals and layering different chain lengths and charms is central to her aesthetic. The majesty of the Taj Mahal and the “grand Kasbahs” of Morocco are among the sources that inspire Unsworth’s delicate high-end and affordable jewelry collections.

“Each component of the designs is hand crafted by our artisans. We have a deep appreciation for exotic cultures in Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East,” she says. “As the Creative Director, I am responsible for the conception and design of all product lines.

My days usually involve a whirlwind of activity with examining and re-interpreting trends to product development. We think of each piece as a precious gift with purpose—to adorn and inspire the wearer to feel their best and live well.”

For more on the Robindira Unsworth brand be sure to watch In Wine Country’s 2008 video feature on its prolific designer.
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Photo 1 (top right): 22-Karat Gold Vermeil Casablanca Necklace with Cognac and Smoky Quartz from Signature Collection
Photo 2 (center): 22-Karat Gold Vermeil Wisteria Bangle Bracelet with Pink Quartz and Carnelian from Signature Collection
Photo 3 (bottom left): 22-Karat Gold Vermeil Eternity Hoop Earrings from Signature Collection

CITLAL CASTILLO

2011-03-15T10:30:00.008-05:00

The beaches of Cancun and Cabo are just a few of the attractions in Mexico. For the history buff Mexico also offers the National Museum of Anthropology that holds artifacts from Mayan and Aztec civilizations. Mexico is also home to featured jewelry designer Citlal Castillo.

The daughter of clothing designer Tachi Castillo and the niece of uncles who studied under renowned American silversmith William Spratling, Castillo’s advent into jewelry design was essentially a no-brainer.

Her alternately whimsical and romantic sterling silver jewelry, as well as her luminous gemstone jewelry pieces, is a testament to her superlative metalsmithing and lapidary skills.

A keen observer of nature, Castillo implements sea creatures, frogs, dragonflies, sunflowers, and Monarch butterflies as focal points of her modern silver jewelry. She rounds out the array of iconography with classic cross and heart necklaces.

Her Pearl Heart Necklace is a great example of how a slightly skewered outline offset with tiny, perforated holes on the surface of the heart pendant adds fantastic idiosyncrasy to an otherwise clear-cut symbol.

Her gemstone necklaces, cuff bracelets, and silver rings highlight the subdued tones of smooth faceted gemstones like carnelian, Mexican Zebra Jasper, tiger’s eye, and pink rose quartz.

“I began to design jewelry about the time I was at university studying fashion marketing,” she says. “I have been close to this wonderful craft all my life and I have always tried to be at the vanguard of fashion with original top quality products.

I work in all silver crafting techniques starting with the melting of granules and continuing with laminates, lost wax, etc.

After adding fine details by hand we set the gems, if required, to create the final design. Each one is crafted with a lot of love.”

A good portion of Castillo’s gemstone jewelry is available at online store DeSilva Imports.
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Photo 1 (top right): Sterling Silver Heart Rain Earrings with Cultured Pearls
Photo 2 (center): Sterling Silver Textured Cuff Bracelet
Photo 3 (bottom left): Sterling Silver Collar Necklace with Turquoise and Amethyst Beads

WAYAN SARJANA

2011-03-14T10:46:00.006-05:00

Located within Indonesia’s Ujung Kulon National Park is Krakatoa Island. The island is not only home to an array of fauna and flora but also an active volcano that contains three, smaller volcanoes. Indonesia is also home to featured jewelry designer Wayan Sarjana.

Though the current demand for Balinese sterling silver jewelry and sterling silver beads is high according to my research most of the jewelry produced in this region was originally gold.

Balinese legend says the extraordinary craftsmanship of the country’s silversmiths is attributed to gods descending to earth thousands of years ago to teach the metalworkers the art of jewelry making.

For Sarjana learning his craft was a bit more down-to-earth. The amateur historian comes from “a family of artists but I was the first in my family to work with silver.”

The forty-one year old artisan began learning his craft at age 15 from a “good but strict teacher.” Taking inspiration from geometry and nature, Sarjana creates designer jewelry blending traditional Balinese and contemporary aesthetics.

He implements the granulation technique in which tiny spheres or small tubes of silver are handcrafted and applied to unpolished sterling silver. Sarjana takes the granules building them into surface designs resembling thick, twined rope or dotting the outline of the larger design.

It is a technique that brings a weighty, substantial appearance to silver rings, silver chain necklaces and cuff bracelets. At the same time, Sarjana manages to keep his designs minimal and sleek highlighting lithe, flowing outlines offset by such gemstones as garnets, Mabe pearls, amethysts, and moonstones.

“When I was twenty years old I started to produce original pieces on my own that I sold to local shops. I was able to slowly save enough money to make my own workshop at home, where I still work to this day.

Flowers and animals are my favorite subjects but sometimes abstract shapes come into my mind. I have employed five artisans who have been working with me for five years.

Silver is not an easy medium to work with here because the price changes but I cannot imagine doing anything else.”
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Photo 1 (top right): Sterling Silver Dolphins Play Ball Pendant Necklace with Garnet and Mabe Pearl
Photo 2 (center): Sterling Silver Goddess Coils Dangle Earrings
Photo 3 (bottom left): Sterling Silver Fiery Splendor Pendant Necklace with Carnelian, Garnet and Crystals

LIZ BRIGGS DESIGNS

2011-03-09T10:00:00.009-06:00

One of the best times to explore Australia’s Kings Canyon National Park is during the month of April as cooler temperatures offset the sun’s penetrating rays.

With a landscape filled with plenty of deep red colored cliffs, canyons and gorges the park is great for walking and hiking. Australia is also home to featured jewelry designer Liz Briggs.

Who says that jewelry can’t be pretty with a quirky sense of fun?

Briggs’ fanciful and colorful designer jewelry fashioned from an assortment of African Kazuri beads, and lampwork and glass beads bears a lip-smacking resemblance to gum balls, Christmas candy, Spree, and Jolly Ranchers.

She also creates these adorable teapot earrings made from either porcelain or lampwork beads. Though Briggs does not reference on her Etsy page whether these deigns are influenced by the tea party scene from Alice in Wonderland, these vivid designs certainly allude to this longstanding tale.

With spring and summer coming shortly her bangle bracelets of high quality memory wire and circle bead necklaces offer a great palette of color choices to help accentuate your wardrobe.

“Color is one of my passions and I love every piece I make. I also include gemstones like pink quartz, white onyx, and pink opal into my designs,” she says. “The teapot earrings are so much fun to make with pink flower buds and a tiny dash of gold.”

“The Kazuri beads are handmade and hand painted by women in Kenya who are employed by an ethically run Kazuri Bead business. Their goods are sold under the Fair Trade Agreement and allows for them to care for their families.”

Self-employed since 1981, Briggs has worked in a number of creative channels including “mosaicking surf boards as garden art, doing school workshops, making craft kits for kids and now making jewelry and quirky art pieces.”

While full of vibrant color, the actual jewelry designs are quite streamlined and are somewhat reminiscent of the hippie jewelry of the seventies. At the other end of the spectrum, Briggs plays with the subtle tones of black and white Kazuri beads allowing the hand painted designs to take center stage.

An added bonus is that bead bracelets and bead necklaces are timeless fashion staples; they can easily complement formal or casual attire as their proportions are not too chunky or bulky.

However, the key to perfectly accentuating your wardrobe with bead jewelry is to match the color of clothing to the color of a particular bead which in turn introduces a level of fun by keeping your clothing choices fresh.
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Photo 1 (top right): Blue Turquoise Teapot Earrings with Pink and White Flowers
Photo 2 (center): Black and White Kazuri Bead 18-inch Necklace
Photo 3 (bottom left): Blue and Turquoise Lampwork and Glass Beads Memory Wire Bangle Bracelet

YUKI MITSUYASU

2011-03-08T10:25:00.007-06:00

Believed to have been discovered during the 7th century, Japan’s ominous Mount Fuji is the country’s tallest mountain at over 12,000 feet. The frigid region was once the training location of samurai warriors, and in 1867 Lady Fanny Parkes was the first woman to ascend the peak. Japan is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Yuki Mitsuyasu.

The creation of jewelry in and of itself is an undertaking of patient forethought whether a designer performs the task single-handedly or has a team of artisans to help him or her.

When a jewelry designer takes on incorporating an additional element of surprise like movable or detachable parts it definitely brings jewelry making to a whole other level beyond pretty things.

Irish jewelry designer Alan Ardiff, Michael Berger (South Africa), Yael Sonia (France), and Tania Patterson (New Zealand) are just a few designers who create kinetic forms of jewelry.

While the aforementioned designers’ jewelry is playful in tone, Mitsuyasu brings a soulful twist to functional modern jewelry. A graduate of London’s Saint Martins College of Art and Design, Mitsuyasu had a propensity for creating three-dimensional objects even as a child.

“In 2001, when I was 18, I took a course at Saint Martins called Foundation in Art and Design. Since I was a child I loved creating things, particularly 3-D designs so I was very excited about taking the course,” she says.

Like the jewelry of her contemporaries, beneath the sleek, classic outlines of sterling silver or 18-karat yellow gold vermeil is finely engineered components of innovation. The simple, 18-karat gold vermeil star pendant necklace from her Shine Collection, for instance, holds a sweet secret.

“A lot of my designs are inspired by personal experiences. Shine is a very personal collection for me as it was inspired by the words of my father who told me that religion, nationality or wealth does not matter when choosing a life partner. He said that if a man can let me shine then he is a man worth being with.

The star pendant is actually two separate halves that have heart-shaped magnetic clasps at their center. The clasps symbolize two hearts; two people. The two parts are bold and unique from the other; when the magnetic clasps or two hearts connect the two halves become complete in the form of a star.”

Based on the items featured on her website, each jewelry piece holds an inventive mechanism in the guise of popular trendy jewelry styles such as a heart pendant necklace, gold ball chains, or hoop earrings.

Mitsuyasu takes a bold, contemporary approach to fashion jewelry that is filled with great spontaneity and romanticism.

“Many things really excite and affect me and I want to share and express them through my designs.”
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Photo 1 (top right): 18-Karat Gold Vermeil Star Pendant Necklace from Shine Collection
Photo 2 (center): 18-Karat Gold Vermeil Eclipse Necklace from Pendulum Collection
Photo 3 (bottom left): Silver Sterling Small Necklace from Bow Collection

SHAUN LEANE

2011-03-07T08:31:00.007-06:00

Touted as one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, England’s York Minster is also distinguished by its stained glass windows; one of which is 76-feet tall and is considered one of the largest stained glass windows in the world. England is also home to featured jewelry designer Shaun Leane.

When I read about Leane’s 15-year collaboration with the late fashion designer Alexander McQueen, whereby Leane created extraordinary, full-body ornaments for runway models, I expected his designer jewelry to be unapologetically subversive in tone.

While there is a definite edge to his pendant necklaces, gemstone rings and pearl lariat necklaces fashioned in the likenesses of sabers, eagle skulls, and tusks his pieces are surprisingly feminine with palpable overtones of angst and romance. The pieces are a seamless, beautiful fusion of decadence and refinement.

Though he harbors a longing to be an archaeologist, Leane created his first object, a knife, at the age of 15. An admirer of fashion, architecture and the vintage jewelry eras, Leane takes each as a source of inspiration building his prolific collections cultivated from sterling silver, gold vermeil, and 18-karat white and yellow gold with accents of diamonds, pearls, citrine or colorful enamel.

“I worked in antique restoration and reproduction when I realized my ability to design. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the distinctive designs of the Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Victorian and Georgian periods.

What I enjoy doing is taking elements of those period styles and making them modern. Collaborating with Alexander McQueen contributed a lot to my inclination for breaking some of the design boundaries in jewelry,” he explains. “It gave me a base to think outside the box and push those boundaries.”

Nature is also a huge influence on his melodious aesthetic. Twisting branches with delicate leaves are the central design of his Blackthorn Collection; his silver and enamel interpretation of the Copperhead, Boa, Viper, and King snakes are highlighted in Leane’s men’s jewelry line Serpent; and the buoyant, beautiful white and red cherry blossom flower is the singular inspiration behind his Cherry Blossom Collection.

Leane’s bridal and wedding jewelry include non-traditional white gold engagement and wedding rings, as well as an evocative pierced heart necklace from his Hook My Heart Collection.

In my opinion, the Hook My Heart pendant necklaces, as well as the 18-karat gold and enamel Thorned Heart Locket, is a more grown up version of this universal symbol as the design’s implication of love’s powerful hold is more commanding. Here again Leane’s collections of fine and fashion jewelry are a masterful hybrid of chic and edgy femininity.

“Organic forms are central to my design approach. They are beautiful and fragile yet there are hidden elements of strength and danger.

To me jewelry is something very personal; it should be a reminder of a special time in our lives so that when it is worn we re-live that emotion.”
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Photo 1 (top right): 18-Karat White Gold and Blue Sapphire Tear Drop Earrings
Photo 2 (center): 18-Karat White Gold and Red Enamel Thorned Heart Locket
Photo 3 (bottom left): Silver and Gold Vermeil Full Cherry Blossom Ring with Ivory Enamel and Complexion Topaz