Alexa Chung’s Jewelry at the Whitney Museum Gala

Alexa Chung looked gorgeous in the prettiest periwinkle minidress at the 2009 Whitney Museum Gala in New York. Fashion bloggers loved her look, but I was more concerned with her jewelry. Her choices were so subtle, and so perfect. I love the skull cameo necklace, with two antique rings worn on the pinkie and ring finger on her right hand. Below are two similar rings along with the exact cameo skull necklace.

The exact skull cameo necklace worn by Alexa Chung at the Whitney Museum Gala can be yours as well! This necklace is done in 18k yellow gold, designed by Iosselliani. It can be purchased at Aloha Rag by clicking here. Price: $992

On Alexa’s ring finger is a dark stone ring–not exactly sure what it is but I think this would be a good choice. It has a similar dark feel, but rather than a skull it is a lady. This ring is vintage Art Deco from Sylvia’s Antiques. It is done in 18k white gold with a black hardstone intaglio. Price: $595

As a contrast to the two “non-sparkly” pieces, a white gold antique diamond ring is perfect. The 1950s style of this ring is so collectible. These little rings from this time period are fun–this one’s done in 14k white gold with 1.2 carats of diamonds. From Beladora2 and priced at $1350. Beladora also has several others!

Charlize Theron has great Earrings

Polaroid credit

Do you have a favorite movie which stars Charlize Theron? Not really sure what mine is, but I do have a few favorite jewelry looks of hers.  I’ve noticed she wears the best earrings.  Check them out below, along with similar earrings so you can get her red carpet looks.

This look is elegant and formal–the earrings are dripping in diamonds that are very Art Deco in a drop style. These are very similar, done in platinum from the 1920s with 76 diamonds total. From John Salibello Jewelry, featured at 1stdibs and priced at $6800.

Here Charlize Theron is dressed down with some fun gold stud earrings. These are 14k yellow gold by Lena Wald, found at Aloha Rag. They come in three different sizes, the medium is priced at $175 for one.

Black onyx drop earrings are always so chic. The similar pair is from Beladora and are done in 18k white gold with diamonds and onyx. These are characterized with so much detail and are priced at $995.

Charlize Theron looks great with this style of earrings–it consists of a large cushion cut gemstone with surrounded by diamonds. I like the chunkiness of the look, with our choice being more radiant with a dark plum garnet. These earrings are 18k yellow gold designed by Dov Padeh and can be found at Delamina, price: $2200

Mary-Kate’s Emerald Ring

Everyone has a favorite ring, whether it is because of the stone being a birthstone, because of the high value, or because it has significant sentimental value.  I think it is safe to say that Mary-Kate’s favorite ring is this huge emerald and yellow gold ring. She wears it quite often, no matter if the occasion is formal or not. Mary-Kate found the ring at a vintage shop on the Rue Saint Honore in Paris, France. One of the best parts about traveling is treasure hunting in antique shops, however if you are not lucky enough to do so, the Internet has so much to offer. Best resource for pieces that look like they are family heirlooms: Beladora. Want your own emerald stunner? Check out the ones I found below!

I love this choice because it is so similar. The green stone is actually jadeite rather than an emerald, it is circa 1970. The textured 18k yellow gold characterizes the seventies style of this ring. From Beladora2 and priced at $995.

Circa 1975, Beladora shows off this beautiful step cut emerald ring. This one is similar to Mary-Kate’s because of its grandness–that emerald looks so regal. Not only is the stone 4 carats, but the diamonds surrounding it are .60 carats. It is set in 18k yellow gold and priced at $5550, from Beladora.

This vintage ring from the ’60s features an emerald cut emerald. The emerald itself is 1.35 carats! It is set in 14k yellow gold with a few diamonds. This one-of-a-kind piece is from Ross-Simons Estate Collection and priced at $1195.

Mila Kunis Wearing Jewelry Designer Vicente Agor

Actress Mila Kunis wears Vicente Agor’s killer aquamarine bauble, from their Antarctica Collection on The Conan O’Brien Show, September 1st. The ring is done in 18k yellow gold and is dubbed the “7/8ths ring”–it sure is stunning!  The story behind this design is even more remarkable.  7/8ths of an iceberg lies beneath the water–the aquamarine represents the iceberg above water, while the smaller diamonds represent the ice below.  Its entirety symbolizes the idea that our souls run deep and there is so much more to us than what is visible on the surface.  Price: $7750

Trendspotting: Multiple HOORSENBUHS Phantom Rings

Never too much of a good thing–this applies even more so to HOORSENBUHS’ sleek Phantom ring, as I have been seeing it around fingers in multiples.  This is somewhere along the lines of stacking rings, however the idea of wearing the same ring on several fingers is impeccably brilliant.  Speaking of, Mary-Kate Olsen is seen here doing exactly so with her HOORSENBUHS Phantom rings. I like how she uses one that features black diamonds and another which is all 18k yellow gold (no diamonds).

To read more about HOORSENBUHS and Gem Gossip’s visit to their jewelry studio click on the photo below.

The Clover is Over for Heidi Klum

Heidi Klum’s jewelry line is being halted due to lawsuits against the clover motif.  World renown jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels is claiming all rights to the clover.  Not trying to take sides here because I am a huge fan of both parties, but putting claim on a shape?! Really?  Heidi Klum has stated that her inspiration, from day one, has been through travels and observing church architecture in Milan, Italy.

I can see her point and totally realize that she was not trying to copy what Van Cleef & Arpels has been doing for years (longer than Klum’s jewelry line which has been out for only 5 years).  I, too, was inspired by European churches’ architecture–the picture below is from my trip to England in 2006.  It was taken at a church in England, you can see the clover motif here as well.  This picture is a favorite of mine.

Spotted: Sienna Miller’s Wing Earrings

With the premier of movie G I Joe, some promoting has been in the works for a few weeks.  On August 4th, 2009 some of the cast rang in the opening bell at New York’s Stock Exchange, in NYC. Sienna Miller flashed some eye-catching winged earrings in yellow gold. They take up her entire earlobe! I kind of like them, however I am unaware of the designer. Anyone know who designed these wing earrings?

**Update** the designer is Jessica Robinson

The September Issue: Ashley Olsen Jewelry Trendsetting

Ashley Olsen graces the cover of the September issue of Marie Claire for 2009. If you’ve picked up your copy, as I have, you will get to read a great interview and see some amazing pictures. It is insightful to read how extremely effortless she makes her everyday clothing out to be–yet how crazily aware fashion gurus and fashion bloggers are about her. Ashley seems like a treasure hunter, like myself–describing a few pieces of jewelry and art as found in pawnshops in NYC and bazaars in Istanbul.

Caption of above picture: “TRENDSETTER: Always one step ahead of the fashion curve, Ashley wore her rings high on her fingers.” Below are two pieces that quite resemble what Ashley Olsen is wearing above. And yes, I too believe rings worn high on fingers will be popular.

If you already have a gold beaded, long chain you can give it a new twist by knotting it like so. If not, Karen Karch has designed this fluid, sparkly choice. This necklace is 50 inches long, and because it was hand-made, knotted between each bead, it can be styled, draped and twisted any way you want. Done in 18k yellow gold and priced at $9500.

Ashley Olsen wore a ring on the top portion of her finger–very unconventional and “so-her.” Sarah Davida is designing rings with this exact style in mind. Each is custom made to fit you, as well as personalized with words, initials or small sayings. I think the Olsen twins would fall in love with the Davida Cuff Ring, and you will too. You get a 10k yellow gold cuff ring for only $140-147 or a silver version for $42-49. Check out the website for ordering information.

Best Jewelry: 2009 Teen Choice Awards

 

Although I’m not a teenager anymore, I guess watching the Teen Choice Awards keeps you feeling younger.  Unfortunately almost everyone’s jewelry choices were extremely minimal.  I felt Leighton Meester stood out, not only with her dress but her jewelry choices.  The earrings are by designer Cathy Waterman.  I’ve featured her Love of my Life Collection before, however these earrings worn by Leighton Meester are done in rubies.  Here they are below!   

 

If I were a stylist, I think Elisa Solomon’s microphone ring is the best choice for an event like this.  Whether you are a singer first and foremost, or just dream of being on stage singing—this is such a fun find.  I like how diamonds make up the portion you talk into.  It is done in 18k yellow gold and priced at $603.

Double Take: Maria Sharapova & Gem Gossip

Top: Maria Sharapova, InStyle magazine, August 2009 issue

Bottom: Myself at the Hoorsenbuhs jewelry studio, May 2009

Spotted: Backward Necklace on Ashley Olsen

Ashley Olsen was photographed at the CFDA Fashion Awards on June 15, 2009 sporting an interesting way of wearing a pearl drop necklace--backwards! From the front, I thought she was wearing a simple yellow gold chain that was choker length. Then I saw pictures of the stunning back of the dress and realized she was wearing the necklace backwards. She may have started something here! Looks beautiful…love the dress and jewelry!

HOORSENBUHS: Gem Gossip Inside Look

Brand Liaison, Kether Parker showing off some designs

Gem Gossip hit up the west coast and was graciously invited to check out the jewelry design studio of HOORSENBUHS, located just outside of Los Angeles. Greeted by Designer & Owner, Robert Keith and Brand Liaison, Kether Parker, we walked into the 1940s Quonset Hut, where HOORSENBUHS calls home. One would never expect this hut to be a jewelry designer’s stomping grounds, yet it serves as a great decoy for the looming paparazzi when some of their celeb clientele stop by; people such as Paris Hilton, Rosario Dawson, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Dave Navarro, amongst others.

HOORSENBUHS jewelry studio

Jeweler's Work Bench, Where all the magic happens

Gem Gossip had an inside look into how this high-end jewelry company is doing things differently and easily succeeding, while catching everyone’s attention. We also got a feel for how each customer gets their very own personalized jewelry buying experience when walking through these doors.

left, Kether Parker, Brand Liaison, right, Robert Keith, Designer & Owner

A “customer” is the wrong word to describe someone who purchases a piece from HOORSENBUHS. The experience of buying is so hands-on, you get “play around” with the jewelry, and choose what metal you prefer, what diamonds you want. Designer Robert Keith and Brand Liaison Kether Parker are passionate about what they do and want you to feel the same way. You basically walk into a whole new dimension of jewelry design with a whole new level of personalization.

me falling in love with their rings

At HOORSENBUHS, this is where you take control, and Robert & Kether are there to guide you and make the experience fun! Make an appointment, stop in, hit up the punching bag, play a diddy on the guitar or bang on their drum set, all while customizing any of their classic Tri-Link motif jewelry pieces. Now, that’s much better than talking to a stuffy sales associate at any jewelry store, right?

the leather wrap-around bracelet makes a great headband

And there’s so many goodies to choose from. Want to shine like Rihanna? Then pick the Phantom ring...Rihanna has two! Or go for a classic and get the Quad Link…Snoop Dogg never takes his off, I don’t think you will either! My favorite? The Phantom ring, customized in 18k yellow gold with black diamonds! A ring this fierce can change the way you look, entirely. The fast-selling, leather wrap-around bracelet is killer and made to fit.

HOORSENBUHS on every finger!

Gem Gossip cannot wait to get a glimpse of the jewelry set for Fall 2009. From what Robert & Kether described, the style and uniqueness will be unprecedented. I can already imagine the designs on runways.
Be sure to check out some upcoming important dates for HOORSENBUHS, such as the trunk shows for Barneys New York.  To learn more, click here.

The latest happenings at HOORSENBUHS:

• an Elle magazine editorial coming out in their September issue
• C magazine is doing a piece on the new Atelier for their September issue

Giveaway: Brazilets Wish Bracelet

We are giving away a Brazilet Wish Bracelet this week in honor of giving back, and helping to protect the Amazon in Brazil! Sales of Brazilets help preserve the Amazon and have been on the rise in popularity. Although these bracelets have been around for 200 years in Brazil, they have only recently been a hit here in the United States. Celebrities like Lauren Conrad and magazines like US Weekly & Star have promoted these bracelets.

Brazilets are worn fashionably throughout Latin America yet retain spiritual significance as they help grant wishes to all who wear them. Brazilets are worn by wrapping the wrist and tying three knots for three wishes; when the material wears down and the Brazilets fall off naturally, it is believed that the three wishes will come true.

In order to qualify to win, leave a comment which includes your email address and answer this question: What is your most coveted piece of jewelry you own? You can double your chances by doing the same on Twitter! Good luck, winner will be announced in a week!

Heidi Montag’s Wedding Jewels

Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt tied the knot, for real this time, this past weekend. Heidi’s jewelry for the big day was bold and glamorous. She is seen here with her bridal jewels, which are Neil Lane and worth over $1 million! Her bracelets are amazing. Below are some great choices from Lang Antiques, all may be well over your wedding budget, but it is always fun to dream!

This bracelet is sleek, with a bold center diamond–almost 2 carats! Crafted during the Edwardian Era, it is rightfully done in platinum and totals 4 carats of diamonds. Price: $19,500

This one has the open links, similar to Heidi’s. It is a French Art Deco piece, all done in platinum. The total diamond weight here is 8 carats, with a price of $17,500

Although Heidi wore a white-on-white look with her jewelry, adding a small pop of color, especially sapphires, is always pretty. I like this bracelet circa 1915, all set in platinum with bezel set diamond and sapphires. A total of 12 carats worth of diamonds in this bracelet! The price surely reflects that, $36000.

All bracelets can be purchased at Lang Antiques, photo of Heidi courtesy of Pop Sugar.

Tri-Link Motif by Hoorsenbuhs

The iconic, eye-catching motif of a tri-link has admirers gawking, and people buying. First to come on the scene in 2005, jewelry line Hoorsenbuhs has created pieces like rings and bracelets using a simple motif that flatters anyone wearing them. A very young company, yet already has a unique list of celebrity clientele. Mary-Kate Olsen is seen here wearing the Hoorsenbuhs ring.

Their line is meant to be customized to the buyers’ needs: anything can be done in silver, 18k yellow, pink or white gold, even platinum. You want diamonds? You can add those too.

I had no idea Hoorsenbuhs did bridal jewelry as well. I LOVE the above wedding set, featuring both the man’s wedding band and woman’s matching band, and the engagement ring is amazing. Simply stunning.

For more information:

visit Hoorsenbuhs website

or read the JC Report

Jewelry Lookbook: Vintage Ring Overload

If I could have anyone’s jewelry collection it would definitely be Mary-Kate and/or Ashley Olsen’s. Everytime they are photographed, the jewelry that they wear is ecclectic and bold, and almost always vintage. Sure there are other celebrities out there that have to die for diamond rings–with monsterous center stones worth millions. But that doesn’t lure me. I like the uniqueness of the Olsen’s jewelry choices. Each seems as though it has an enchanting story behind it from years passed. These vintage rings, all from Israel Rose, seem as though they all belong on Mary-Kate or Ashley’s finger. Enjoy!

This sapphire and diamond ring is set in platinum, dating back to the Art Deco Era. The diamonds are great because they are Old Mine cut, which you don’t see anymore. The sapphires are French cut. Price: $925

From the Victorian Era comes this 18k yellow gold serpant ring. The Olsens have been seen wearing several snake rings. This one has 3/4 carats of sapphire. Price: $650

Now from the Edwardian time period, this sapphire and diamond ring is done in 18k yellow gold and platinum. The center sapphire is a Cushion cut. Very elegant and dainty. Price: $425

Inside Celebrity Jewelry Boxes Straight from InStyle Magazine

eBay was my new best friend these past weeks–just me searching for back issues of InStyle magazine.  Why?  Because of the special article in a few issues, titled  “My Jewel Box,” where you can get an inside look into celebrity jewelry boxes.  InStyle featured Christina Aguilera, Kimora Lee Simmons, Donatella Versace and Nicole Richie.  Each article shows pictures of their jewelry, often featuring their collection in their own jewelry boxes and each lovely lady describes several pieces.

I love Nicole Richie’s large Louis Vuitton jewelry case, full of jewels from all over the world. She says her travels have helped her collection grow–always stopping by shops and boutiques in hopes of that special piece. A few items have been passed down from her mother, which is an important aspect of the unique history behind jewelry. Someday she will pass along her collection to Harlow.

Christina Aguilera’s jewelry is both sentimental and reflective of her changing style. A favorite of hers is a ruby and white gold locket, with “Max” written on it, with a photo of her son in it. She has necklaces of all kinds draped on gorgeous picture frames. Many of her pieces are designed by Stephen Webster–whom she appears in many ad campaigns for.

Kimora Lee Simmons never fails to disappoint when it comes to anything sparkly, so why should her jewelry box be anything less? She pulls out some stunning pieces in her spread, even discreetly keeping mum about how much certain rings cost (like that huge yellow diamond ring). She declares her love for Hello Kitty and even promotes her malachite charity bracelet, that I featured in my favorite charity bracelets post.

Rachel Bilson’s Engagement Ring

The paparazzi got a quick glimpse of Rachel Bilson’s new engagement ring. It looks as though it is a solitaire, possibly round cut set in either white gold or platinum. No idea about the carat weight, but being that the photo was shot from afar and it still looks big, I’d say it is at least 3 carats. More details will soon emerge, I’m sure, but it is always exciting to see an engagement ring of anyone’s–whether they are famour or not! There is so much meaning behind these significant pieces of jewelry. Rachel’s ring definitely suits her style, best wishes for the happy couple!