Vintage Finds at Erie Basin

Gorgeous sparkler from the 1920s, featured at Erie Basin. This is such a unique style which is done in 18k & platinum, with 1.5 carats total of diamonds. Price$3350, look for it later this week online.

I am really loving the garnet and onyx rings. The garnet has some beautiful filigree work going on, it is from the 1900s (unfortunately it is already sold). The onyx is from the 1900s and has a very pretty diamond, in white gold. Funny how I picked up two rings on my trip to California that are incredibly similar–look for a photo of them in tomorrow’s post!

Manya & Roumen’s whimsical jewelry designs

My pick of the week comes from Manya & Roumen, a husband and wife duo with some amazing jewelry designs.  Love this cute owl and cat team handing out on this ring from their “Stories Collection.”  This ring is done in 18k yellow gold with tsavorite garnets and white sapphires for eyes, and a pink tourmaline.  Funny to realize that their jewelry designing talent sprang from a promise that Manya made to Roumen stating that she would make their wedding rings.  Their collaboration has created jewels with a whimsical feel, filled with nature-inspired subjects.  They put it best by saying, “Each piece tells a story, but each wearer interprets the story differently.”

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.

Obsession: Bario-Neal Senna Round Ring

I’ve already come to terms with my unknowing attractiveness to yellow gold and black, after a glance into my jewelry box.  However, the obsession continues!  Bario-Neal has some creative and delicate designs, yet the Senna Round Ring quickly became my favorite.  After inquiring further, I’ve got some good news that will shake up my repetitive gold/black palette–the ring comes in any enamel color (except purple)!  That is just what the doctor ordered!  A little splash of color is necessary, and with the fall foliage in abundance, I am feeling possibly a red, orange and yellow stacked trio?!  These three colors are $180 because they include flecks of gold in them.  Any other color will cost $168.  The Senna Round ring is done in 14k rose gold of which is reclaimed precious metal.  Read more interesting tidbits on Philadelphia-based jewelry designer Bario-Neal here.

Obsession: Delicate Seed Pod Flower Rings

Seed Pod Flower rings; comes in small, medium or large sized flower

These seed pod flower rings designed by Blanca Monrós Gómez are the epitome of daintiness. The way they are designed lets you stack them in such a neat way–rings don’t need to face straight-on when worn.  I also like the idea of taking one and stacking it with a large solitaire ring. It is done below with tinier stack rings.  The juxtaposition of the two is so unexpected.  Would make a great addition to anyone’s wedding set–just stick a little seed pod ring in between your band and wedding ring.  How great would that be?!

Blanca Monrós Gómez also custom designs wedding sets that are just as beautiful and dainty.  The tiny diamond stack ring gives this set just the right look.  The seed pod flower rings are all done in 14k rose gold, with the center of the flower being oxidized.

Prices:
Small seed pod ring- $98-100
Medium seed pod ring- $110-115
Large seed pod ring- $155-165
Single Black diamond stack ring- $120

Blanca Monrós Gómez ♦  blanca@blancamonrosgomez.com  ♦  718-594-2869

And I ended up choosing…

…the square! So, a few weeks prior to my birthday I asked everyone if I should go with the round or square shaped ring from Zoë Chicco’s Spike Collection.  I initially was going to go with the round–but then I thought it would be fun to ask everyone’s opinion.

Thanks to many great comments and opinions, I ended up choosing the square!  I am very happy with this choice, I love my ring!  I also am glad that I chose a Matte finish rather than a Polished finish.  Not too many jewelry pieces have a matte finish, which makes it even more unique.  The onyx was a no-brainer for me–it is such a striking color against the yellow gold.

Now that I look in both my closet and jewelry box, I am realizing an overwhelming abundance of black. Didn’t even mean for this to happen either…I think the next piece of jewelry I am going to purchase is going to be bright and vibrant!

{inquiries about the specifics on any jewelry items I’m wearing, feel free to leave a comment, I will answer your questions}

Obsession: Jamie A. Kelsch’s Dainty Solitaires

These little solitaire rings by Jamie A. Kelsch are my latest obsession. These have a vintage feel and are so versatile. I can see them worn alone or stacked, and be equally as beautiful. Each can be customized in 14k yellow or white gold–even platinum by special request. Below, in order from top to bottom are a blue topaz, amethyst and blue sapphire. Diamond and pink tourmaline are also available (and possibly others by request). Prices range from $350-400. Jamie A. Kelsch is an Austin-based designer; you can find her designs at Austin-based jewelry store Eliza Page.

Paris Hotel Boutique’s Vintage Stacking Rings

Whenever I’m on the hunt, checking out antique shops, flea markets or eBay, I usually look for pieces that seem unique to me.  Designs that I’ve never seen before or are classic to its time period stand out to me.  These stacking rings from Paris Hotel Boutique may be something I would glance over and not realize their potential.  I am now going to be on the lookout for bands like this to create a look like the one shown.  I’ve declared my love for bands before and did I mention how amazing the prices are for these?  Paris Hotel has prices that range from $110-350 on these rings (sold individually), that’s like insider VIP discount pricing!

Gem Gossip needs your input!!

As my birthday is quickly approaching, I am continually torn between a circle or a square!! More on that in a minute–but first, I need your input.  The above rings are designed by Zoë Chicco and after much debate on choosing what I want for my birthday, I have decided upon one of these rings.  Shown are three of the spike rings stacked–you can choose either the round version or the square version. I know I like the black onyx, but can’t decide upon which shape.

Which do you prefer the square or the circle?  [Your input is greatly appreciated!]

Battle of the Bands

Bands are such an important staple in a jewelry wardrobe. Everyday I am reminded, as I search for the right ring combinations to put on my fingers. Just adding an extra band or two makes a beautiful stacked look. I have a whole row dedicated to bands in my jewelry box–yes, they are that important! So, if you are wanting to buy a new piece of jewelry and are wondering what would make a good choice, go for a band! Here is a great selection below!

I think a lot of people are obsessed with the studded anything and everything trend–and this ring surely captures that. I love the added diamonds amongst the rich 22k yellow gold. The pyramid-like studs wrap all the way around the band, which is designed by Cathy Waterman. Price: $2110 at TWIST.

Love this branch-like band with an opal all done in 14k gold. The ring is designed by Ria Charisse and can be found at Lunessa. Price: $415

The inspiration photo includes a dangle ring, which is great for stacking. I personally have a 14k yellow gold, diamond cut dangle ring, which has a circular gold disc featuring the virgin Mary. The above dangle ring is designed by Yasuko Azuma and has two small diamond leaves. The ring is 14k yellow gold, with some light texture added to the metal. Price: $715 at Ylang|23.

This type of band ring is stacked already for you. It is called a rolling ring, which is a popular piece designed by Cartier. Although this is not a Cartier piece, it is just as beautiful and is vintage. The ring is 14k yellow gold, with a total of 2 carats of diamonds. From Lang Antiques and Estate Jewelry, priced at $3350.

I like the beaded look of the gold in these bands–each features a diamond which can be white or black. It looks great stacked. Designed by Zoë Chicco, a choice of yellow, white or rose gold is also given. Priced at $316 for white diamond or $272 for black diamond.

Antique Rings at Erie Basin

Erie Basin gets it right everytime.

This photo is honestly all of my best dreams combined into one.

And, is it a coincidence that the signet ring features the letter D?

Owner Russell Whitmore just got back from an antiquing trip, which only means some great, unique pieces will soon be at his shop, with some online.

Erie Basin  ♦  388 Van Brunt St. Brooklyn, NY 11231  ♦  718-554-6147

I’m just tryna change the color on your mood ring

[right hand]

14k rose gold
diamond & sapphire
antique stick pin
converted into a ring
from eBay user: jgoldilox

10k yellow gold
heart ring
given to me by
my sister ALisha

[left hand]
10k rose gold
flower ring
from Ruby Lane

Jewelry Trendsetter: A Necklace of Rings

Ever find a ring that was breath-taking, gorgeous, one-of-a-kind, had-to-have-it, and then when you politely ask to take a look at it, it either engulfs your tiny finger or won’t budge your pudge? Well here’s a solution! Rather than being disappointed and walking away–go for it! Take out that Visa and buy it! You could build up a nice collection of rings that don’t fit and then make a great statement necklace like the one above featuring rings. It will be beautiful–check out the ones I’ve picked for my “necklace of rings.”

First and foremost, you need a long 14k gold chain. I think the chain-style has everything to do with making or breaking this look. So, opt for a bead chain like this one in a long length. The 24 inch goes for $150 at Heavenly Treasures.

The Ocean Band designed by Manon von Gerkan is a good one to start off with. It has rose cut diamonds which give it a chunky, vintage feel with just enough sparkle. This ring is done in 14k yellow gold. Check out Manon Von Gerkan’s jewel box gallery.

Next, add a dark and oversized ring–a signet or intaglio perhaps. This large circular ring from Rowan & Rowan is good because of the black enameling. It features an urn done in diamonds (it is a Georgian mourning ring). Circa 1780, so this piece is extremely unique and a bit pricey: £2200.

To balance out all the chunkiness–add a few plain bands. Either wide or narrow, it is up to you I have chosen one wide and one narrow. This wide version has some detailing to it, as well as one star set diamonds. Priced at $850 from Doyle & Doyle.

Wanted to add a thin band that was black, so I found this black diamond band from Ice.com It is great because it is affordable and for some reason, they never have normal sizes in stock. At only $225 you get 14k white gold and teeny tiny black diamonds. Perfect for this necklace of rings.

Lastly, add a ring that is totally unexpected. Something that has a bold color or bold choice of gemstones. Here I chose a ruby dome ring. This ring is designed by Manon von Gerkan in 14k yellow gold.

Hot on our Radar: Sarah Davida Cuff Rings

If you’re like me, and have always felt that the top portion of your finger could use some accessorizing, then you need to buy a Sarah Davida Cuff Ring. These rings are unlike others since they are custom made to fit the upper portion (in between your top and middle knuckle) of your finger. I like the cuff-style as well, along with the large width–both features are perfect for this sort of ring.

Anyone wearing a Davida Cuff Ring is sure to get compliments and I’m sure many questions! What is fun about these rings is that you can get them stamped (both outside and inside) with any word, phrase, name, initials you want. I would choose roman numerals of a special date–maybe add a heart on the inside. The point is to make it fun and meaningful!

Sarah Davida’s jewelry line has just been released this summer and has already picked up much talk in the jewelry biz. Be sure to check out the website as more is being added to this growing business.

**Ordering information:**

Link to Sarah Davida website

Prices: $42-49 for sterling silver , $140-147 for 10k gold

Choose from 3 different widths: small, medium or large

Important contact info: customerservice@sarahdavida.com

Becoming a Southern Belle

Free days from work are few and far between, and I have taken advantage of those that seem to suddenly come up by antiquing and treasure hunting.  Can’t forget about a favorite that has become easier, at least for me, to scoop up a deal: eBay!  I’ve been spending nights lately looking for steals in the Fine subcategory of Antique and Vintage Jewelry.  

I came across this ring sold by seller name: jgoldilox and was so surprised that I was the final bidder at the last moment (I always lose!)  What is interesting about  a few of her rings is that they actually used to be antique stick pins.  The seller has turned them into rings by carefully bending the stick portion into a ring.  So clever!  I am wearing the ring on my middle finger in the photo below. Be sure to check out her jewelry she sells, she is great!

As far as antiquing, I’ve narrowed down the top places to find the best antique jewelry in the Nashville area.  Yes, they are ranked in order, #1 being the best.   If you have any suggestions of other places around here, let me know!

1. Walton’s Antique & Estate Jewelry, 410 Main St., Franklin, TN 

2. Steve’s Pawn Shop  113 E. Side Square, Murfreesboro, TN 37130

3. Joseph & Company Estate Gold Jewelry featured at the Nashville flea market at the TN State Fairgrounds

4. Arbor Antique & Estate Jewelry, 202 S. Margin St., Franklin, TN

5. Lysbeth Antiques at the Factory in Franklin TN

6. Gas Lamp Antiques, 100 Powell Place, Nashville, TN

Double Take: Maria Sharapova & Gem Gossip

Top: Maria Sharapova, InStyle magazine, August 2009 issue

Bottom: Myself at the Hoorsenbuhs jewelry studio, May 2009

Cathy Waterman: Love of My Life Collection

The Cathy Waterman Love of My Life Collection. So. Beautiful.

For info and pricing check out Cathy’s website or Ylang|23

Summer Time Jewelry

Photo Courtesy of Penshire Media

The sun is shining, temperatures are soaring…it is a hot mess being outdoors these days, especially living in the south. It is a good idea to be aware of what jewelry you are wearing in the hot summer months. One must think of what your day will entail, and then plan what jewelry would be practical. Like today, for example, a BBQ was planned–had to leave the rings at home! BBQ sauce on diamond rings is not fun. Or places like amusement parks and swimming pools: proof that the less jewelry you wear, the better. You wouldn’t want to lose something valuable or sentimental at a park or pool.

I have picked out a few pieces below that are great summertime options, that stand out on their own without needing to accessorize any further. Wearing one of these pieces alone will be a perfect, you wouldn’t need anything more.

This bracelet can easily stand alone on any wrist and be bright and beautiful. The flowers give it a summery look and bracelets are less likely to get dirty, making it a perfect option. Great for those who need to wear diamonds but want to wear less during summertime activities. From Dumont Estate Jewelry, circa 1950s, it features a foxtail link all done in 18k white gold. Price: $4775

If you have a camping or boating or bike trip planned, but you feel “naked” without your rings, this is a great option. Not only is it very earthy itself, but the craftsmanship of this ring will allow you to put your mind at ease while wearing it. Although opal is tough to clean, the bezel setting is much better than a classic prong setting which allows dirt to get up underneath the stone. This ring could easily be wiped with a soapy rag. Designed by Californian, Melissa Joy Manning and priced at $350, can be found at The Clay Pot.

This bracelet is perfect for warm weather. It is easy to throw on and it molds to fit your wrist, so you won’t have to worry about it falling off. Complete with 18k yellow gold caps, it is priced at $286, found at Persimmon and designed by Francisca Botelho.