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.

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

Backwards Necklace like Criss Cross

Inspired by this post, I tried the backwards necklace look. If you want to try this out for yourself, I suggest first purchasing a shirt that will let you get this trend right. Something with a low sweeping back–the lower you choose, the longer the necklace can be. I chose a long link necklace in 14k yellow gold with a large 18k yellow gold flower pendant.

Will you try this look?

***Check out my etsy shop I just opened…I will be adding three new charity bracelets using the new cord colors I just got. If you want a particular color not shown, let me know!

Trend Spotting: Lucky Horse Shoe Jewels

I’m not sure if it is the abundance of horses and farms here in Nashville, or spotting a few celebrities wearing horse shoe jewelry--but I am loving this motif.  Horse shoes actually have been around for many years, as they are seen in many pieces of antique jewelry (a few great examples are below).  Theories of where the “good luck” folklore originated date back to the year 959 AD!  Whether you believe it to be good luck or not, one thing is for sure–if you are a jewelry lover you need a piece in your collection which features this timeless motif.

A great pair of horse shoe earrings that feature diamonds from Ross-Simons. They are done in 14k white gold and would look good alone or with other earrings if you have multiple piercings. I like how the description says “good luck will be galloping your way.” Price: $206

Such a bold ring that could be anyone’s statement piece. The horse shoe features rubies and diamonds done in 18k yellow gold. This ring dates back to the Edwardian Era and is priced at $1550, from Israel Rose.

Excalibur Jewelry has some amazing finds featured on 1stdibs. This horse shoe brooch is no different, all done in platinum and 18k gold with sapphires and diamonds. I think it is funny that the brooch features 13 sapphires, which make up the “lucky” horse shoe. Price: $1950

If you want a small token of this trend, this pearl charm is just for you. It is from C.H.A.R.M. and is done in 14k yellow gold. This can easily be interchangeable on a necklace or bracelet, and is small enough to add to and layer with. Price: $200

Spotted: Scare-Chic

Sometimes it’s hard to resist something that is so ugly, it’s cute. Do you know what I mean? Like that “World’s Ugliest Dog” contest?! A lot of people have a soft spot in their heart for ugly/creepy things. Some examples include your creepy pet spider, your first boyfriend in Middle School, and your best friend’s newborn. Some sparkly examples…these jewels:

Lori Leavitt always has some inspiring jewelry, this vintage ring is no exception. Although said to be a Lion, I feel it’s more of a Lion/Dragon combination: a Ligon? Either way, it is sort of scary, yet I kind of want one. Let it be known that it is a one of a kind piece, 10k yellow gold with a diamond in the mouth. Price: $1250

These pearl skull charms are very much unlike the trendy skull jewelry often seen on gothic teenagers. These are creepily cute, designed around the natural shape of each pearl. Check out Belmacz for more info. (Can be found under >Current Collection >Charms.)

Solange Azagury-Partridge has a heck of a talent, she is always creating jewelry that surprises even jaded jewelry collectors. Here we have a crocodile skull ring, that opens and shuts, revealing a ruby. As you can see, you can have this piece customized with or without diamonds.

If I ever want to buy a pearl ring, this is going to be it! Solange Azagury-Partridge does it again with these clawed pearl rings. I like the addition of the enameling, to really accentuate the effect of a claw. Which do you prefer, the gray or white pearl?

Card Motif Jewelry: Spades, Clubs, Hearts & Diamonds

Vintage Casino chips transformed into Jewelry, designer: Page Sargisson

Heading to Las Vegas? Or the high roller table? Or maybe just having some friends over to play some cards? I have always loved the four symbols on cards: the spade, club, heart, and diamond. Over the years these motifs have worked themselves into clothing, fashion, jewelry and accessories. Here are some great picks below, maybe any of these will bring you good luck at the Casino.

The club motif done here is so great with the two diamonds and ruby. This ring is done in 18k yellow gold from Fay Cullen. Price: $1495

Can’t forget about the Queen of Hearts, this antique ring is a great example. Done in 14k yellow gold with diamonds, total carat weight is a half carat. Circa 1915, from The Three Graces and priced at $1950.

From Doyle & Doyle, this ring is delicate and perfect for everyday wear. It features a club motif with single cut diamonds. Price: $195

Another great card motif ring from Doyle & Doyle, this one is done in 14k yellow gold and has a ruby, sapphire and diamond forming the club. Price: $950

This ring is called the “Pair of Threes” from The Three Graces. I love the twisted band, which is done in 14k yellow gold. There is a row of three rubies and a row of three diamonds. This ring is circa 1880 and is priced at $725.

This ring screams deck of cards, it reminds me of the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland. It is actually an Art Deco piece from Fay Cullen, featuring a 0.91 carat diamond. The ring is set in platinum with the red and black enamel embellishments. Price: $4500

On a Necklace Fringe Binge

Fringe, fringe everywhere…this trend just keeps growing.  I can’t even guesstimate where it started, shoes maybe?  But it has drifted to the jewelry scene, and I’ve found these great examples of the fringe trend at Connoisseur Antiques–all vintage necklaces.  These are all so intense, that other jewelry worn, especially earrings, should be minimal.  Check them out below!

This fringe necklace is stunning! Circa 1970, this is all exceptional 18k Italian gold. I love that the clasp is just as glamourous, featuring a large carved jade with diamonds set on it. Price $23,750 can be found on 1st dibs, owned by Connoisseur Antiques.

A true definition of a fringe necklace, right here. The British word for bangs is fringe, and this necklace totally looks like golden bangs. All done in 18k yellow gold from Connoisseur Antiques. (This piece is not featured on 1st dibs)

This necklace looks like those Fiona Paxton necklaces that were seen on celebrities, like Drew Barrymore.  This one however is vintage, 18k yellow gold (not glass beads), and features rubies, emeralds, sapphires and pearls.  Way better!  Priced at $13,400 from Connoisseur Antiques and featured at 1st dibs.

Tutti Frutti, oh Jewelry

Summer is surely on the way, nothing like some tutti frutti jewelry to cool things down! Trying to decide if these colorful pieces of jewelry are for summer only, or if anyone would rock these during the winter? I’m not even sure! What do you think?

This bold, multi-stone ring screams Tutti Frutti just like Little Richard would. It is set in 14k yellow gold and all of the stones are actually sapphires. The ring can be found on Israel Rose and listed for $3250. Size 7.5

I love the chunkiness of this bracelet, and the gems used couldn’t be more perfect. You’ve got some rose quartz, some malachite, amethyst, and other topaz, all cabochon cut. From the Ross-Simons Estate Collection.

Like a treasure washed up on the beach, this necklace reminds me of some bright sea glass strung together. Apatite, amethyst, citrine, fire opal, garnet, tanzanite, emerald, peridot and pure, 24K gold beads make up this necklace. Designed by Yossi Harari and featured at TWIST, price: $1810.

Conflict-Free & Eco-Friendly Diamond Rings

If you haven’t already “greened” up every aspect of your life, now is your chance to reform your diamond ring.  These are not only conflict-free diamonds, but they are also made of recycled gold.  There are over a dozen of these rings featured on Fay Cullen, each unique in their own way. Designed to resemble a “Medieval” look, all are crafted with 18k hammered, yellow gold.  All are rough cut, with darker colors…some brown, some gray, some even a shade of green.  Taking into account carat weight and price, these are an amazing deal!  

Whether it is a fashion statement, an eco-conscious movement, or a token of love, these rings are sure to please.

4.35 carats, Price: $2600

3.14 carats, Price: $1950

2.11 carats, Price: $1560

Trend Spotting: Flower Power!

Earrings can really make a difference in an outfit or a look.  There are so many styles to choose from: hoop, dangle, stud, chandelier… you can go bold or dainty, gemstone or gold.  More overwhelming than you thought? 

Well, one trend that has a unique look is a bold flower, which nearly covers your entire earlobe.   This actually catches your eye and draws your attention to the face.  It looks great with your hair up or down, and really balances your entire look.   Less jewelry worn in other places is usually a good idea when wearing earrings this bold.  Don’t have your ears pierced or don’t like earrings?  I have a great option for you too!  Check out below.

Vintage Tiffany & Co. from 1960, with ten rubies totaling .33 carats and two diamonds, total. These can be purchased from the Ross-Simons Estate Collection for $1276.

If you want to do the flower trend without going so bold, these earrings are for you. From Israel Rose, these are made of rubies and 18k yellow gold. Price: $750

Poppies are what inspired these earrings–add some pearls and 18k yellow gold, and you got yourself some great earrings. Ross-Simons let’s you choose whether you want clip or post style earrings, at a price of $355. The color and style would be easy to dress up or down.

From 1950s, these lovely earrings feature rubies and 18k yellow gold. They measure 1.25 inches all around, so they are a perfect size for this trend. These are from Israel Rose, a jewelry company who calls the heart of NYC’s diamond district its home. Price: $1900

And for those who do not have pierced ears or like earrings? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Show some flower power with this amazing necklace designed by Elisa Solomon. The daisy is front and center, all in 18k yellow gold and diamonds for $909. Making the necklace even more special is the ancient beads that are used. How could you have a bad day wearing this?!

The Knots have Landed.

An exciting jewelry trend for 2009 is knotted jewelry. Of course I am predicting a lot of nylon knotted necklaces found in stores like Claire’s Accessories and Forever 21. But what about on the fine jewelry end of things? I’ve found some great rings that display this up-and-coming trend that will be treasured for years to come. Check them out below!

This ring, rightfully called the Luck Knot ring, is done in 18k yellow gold and looks great on. Designed by Barens & Belle and sells for $850 on CatBird.

Also done by Barens & Belle is the Large Ball Knot ring, seen here. It is 18k yellow gold with a classic knot front and center. This one is also available through Catbird and is $750.

This hammered knot ring is vintage, from Benchmark of Palm Beach. The estate jewelry hunters of this company have some great pieces, including these two knot rings. This one is actually a size 3 1/2 and is 18k yellow gold. Price: $1500

Here we have an interlocking knot style ring, done in 14k yellow gold. This one goes for $800 from Benchmark of Palm Beach.

Hilary Duff for Pantera Jewelry

Hilary Duff’s recent Maxim photo shoot included this unique ring designed by Pantera Jewelry.  It features two rings connected by a chain, each having different charms to choose from which dangles on one end.  Pantera Jewelery is inspired by the black panther, the designer’s favorite animal.  Many of her pieces are loved by celebrities,  like Paris Hilton, Kim Kardashian, and Jordin Sparks.  Check out Pantera’s website for more information!  Although you currently cannot order directly, Lisa Klein has a good selection to purchase from.

Price: $1688, Paw Print Dangle Ring in Diamonds

Price: $2995, Fleur di Lis Ear Cuff (no upper piercing necessary)

Price: $2188, Dual Ring Maltese Cross in Diamonds

Got my eyeON nyLON

I love jewelry designers who combine the luxury of real gold with materials that aren’t so luxurious. Here is a great example–bright nylon paired with white and yellow gold. Designer Luis Morais is the creator behind these amazing, trendy bracelets. Wear one, two or five…you can’t go wrong! Make this your signature bracelet–you’ve always got to have it on, it’s your good luck charm…while you mix and match other bracelets daily. Similar to the Gem Gossip Charity Bracelet, you have some great colors to choose from–so pick one you like. These bracelets range in prices from $190-340. You can pick one up by going to Aloha Rag or finding other retailers through the designer’s website.

Stud Muffin

Whether it’s your handbag, heels, belt or jacket, studs are in!  Now you can take this trend and wear it on your ears.  Jewelry designer Lena Wald has created these stud earrings, that come in different sizes (small, medium and large), different color gold (white or yellow), and with or without diamonds.  Each are priced individually, so you can purchase only one if you’d like.  One stud would be perfect if you have one ear having more holes than another.  I think it would look neat to have three studs in both ears–a small, medium and large.  That would get expensive though ($1330 to be exact!)  Prices are: $125 for one small, $175 for one medium, and $365 for one large.  The diamond encrusted studs are: $630 for one small.  They can be purchased at Aloha Rag.

I like it Raw

Rough edges, blemishes, and flaws–raw gemstones create character in the jewelry they reside.  Whether it is a diamond that has been uncut, unpolished and “in the rough” or a prehistoric shark tooth, jewelry that features a raw material is beautiful and has become popular by up-and-coming designers.  You can find examples in jewelry boutiques, online or even create your own if you find a rough stone and feel it is worthy to be showcased.  I’ve found some great pieces that feature a Moroccan Azurite, a prehistoric shark tooth and a Kyanite crystal.  Check them out below!

This necklace is designed by Melissa Joy Manning and features a royal blue Moroccan Azurite. The style of the 14k yellow gold prongs makes it resemble bird’s claws, grasping the stone. The price is $940 and it was even featured in Lucky magazine.

Designer Pade Vavra creates a tough, don’t-mess-with-me look with this great white shark tooth necklace. Those are diamonds you are seeing at the top of the tooth, as well as three black diamonds at the end of the chain (not visible). All is set in 18k peach gold and can be purchased at Ylang|23, for $2090.

I love this Kyanite crystal necklace set in 14k yellow gold from Zoe Chicco. It is geniusly designed to extend from 24-26 inches in length, giving you a nice and elongated look. This will easily layer with shorter charm necklaces. This necklace is $693 and each will vary slightly.

Wooden Jewelry:Wood You?

There are more and more ways for people to become eco-friendly these days, even when it comes to your jewelry.  Instead of opting for gold or platinum, did you ever think of trying wood?  Once carved, it is smooth and durable, as well as easy to take care of.  With all the different varieties of wood, each piece can be unique and have a certain look.  Some woods have deep spiritual meanings that date back thousands of years ago, when some cultures thought trees to be sacred.  Take a look at some of the interesting wood jewelry, and you may want to try it out for yourself!

This wooden ring combines Bog Wood and Turquoise, specially made to fit your ring size. It is from a website that specializes in eco-conscious wood jewelry, where their slogan is “Let the tree hug you” for all those tree-huggers out there. The ring sells for $275 at Simply Wood Rings.

You can also give your engagement ring some Earth-friendliness. Simply Wood Rings also makes custom orders, this one featuring a salvaged engagement ring setting and diamond, secured in a Walnut ring. For more information on custom orders, go to their website.

These zebra wood earrings are earthy and elegant at the same time. Designer Kara Ross uses 18k gold and diamonds in these earrings. They look like something found in an upscale zoo gift shop. For store locations, check out the Kara Ross New York website.

18 Jewels is a trendy jewelry hub that features numerous beaded, stackable bracelets like these. The two here feature wooden beads, and white gold with diamond charms. There are more to choose from on the website, but I like the peace sign bracelet ($600) and the pave diamond ball ($1150).

Obsession: Leather Bracelets

After coming across these bracelets in hopes of finding something “unordinary” in the stackable bracelet trend, I’ve realized these leather goodies are on a whole new level. I especially love how the designers have paired the earthy material of leather with something bold, like a pearl or something sparkly, like diamonds. These would go great with any other bracelets, whether you own gold bangles or a tennis bracelet. The leather on these bracelets has proved that leather can be considered “fine jewelry” and look high-end. I love them!

These leather bracelets have a diamond encrusted button which encloses each one. You have your choice of black or brown leather, and you also can choose yellow, rose or white gold. Each are $500 and can be found at JL Rocks! Easily purchased online!

This stack of seven bracelets is actually one bracelet! From the Misani Collection which originates in Milan, Italy. The company specializes in combining leather, gold and diamonds. It can be purchased at Pageo Jewelers–North America’s exclusive representative of this company.

Bold and beautiful! Leather combined with black or white South Sea Pearls creates these great bracelets from Cathy B. Jewelry. I am excited for their website to be revamped soon, allowing customers to order directly and have access to prices and better descriptions. Keep an eye out for that, as well as sneak a peek at their flip flops. They are extremely cool.