Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[M. Sturman Jewelry on the Set of the New Sex and the City Movie ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/29/m-sturman-jewelry-on-the-set-of-the-new-sex-and-the-city-movie/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/29/m-sturman-jewelry-on-the-set-of-the-new-sex-and-the-city-movie/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/29/m-sturman-jewelry-on-the-set-of-the-new-sex-and-the-city-movie/#commentsFiled under:


M. Sturman Jewelry may not yet be a household name, however should the pieces that were sent to the set of the newest Sex in the City movie make final cut that should change. Nothing seems to stamp an item as a "must have" faster then when it is seen adorning Carrie or one of her closest friends on their glamorous romp through life . The fictitious foursome have become a hallmark of what constitutes high end fashion.

It was exciting to learn that not all the pieces selected for the movie, and possibly destined for stardom themselves, are already part of the fashion elite's wardrobe. This New York City based jewelry designer uses a collection of unique pearls, stones, beads and vintage pieces, including Swarovski cabochons and blown glass to create the unusual items in her collection. A stand out piece features Swarovski stones ordered by Christian Dior prior to World War II. Inspired by the colors, shapes and textures of the raw materials the designer painstaking crochets or weaves each piece in her New York City Studio.

The designer Peggy Sturman has a background in art history and floral design which is easily seen in her work. Will she be the next "it" girl of the fashion industry? Only time will tell, but Carrie and the girls could certainly give her a leg up. All the pieces featured above and in the gallery are currently on the set of the new movie.

Gallery: M Sturman Jewelry

LuxistM. Sturman Jewelry on the Set of the New Sex and the City Movie originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Christian DiorChristianDiorjewelrysex and the citySexAndTheCityswarovskiswarovski crystalsSwarovskiCrystalsSun, 29 Nov 2009 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[1959 Aston Martin DBR1 Cufflinks Are a Piece of Motor Racing History]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/1959-aston-martin-dbr1-cufflinks-are-a-piece-of-motor-racing-his/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/1959-aston-martin-dbr1-cufflinks-are-a-piece-of-motor-racing-his/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/1959-aston-martin-dbr1-cufflinks-are-a-piece-of-motor-racing-his/#commentsFiled under: , ,


UK-based TMB Art Metal is launching a limited edition set of cufflinks handmade from metal taken from the Aston Martin DBR1 race car that won Le Mans and the World Sportscar Championships in 1959. TMB's exclusive Aston Martin DBR1/2 Essence of Form links are crafted using original pieces of aluminum body panel removed from the the famous car that was driven by Carroll Shelby, and was victorious with Sir Stirling Moss behind the wheel in the 1959 World Sportscar Championship. Two versions of the cufflinks, with arms and drivers made of solid 18ct gold, are being issued accompanied by certificates of authenticity signed personally by either Shelby or Moss. Each version is limited to just 50 pairs worldwide, priced at £1,795 or about $3,000 each. The winning Aston Martin, one of the most famous cars in the world, is today believed to be worth around $25 million.

Luxist1959 Aston Martin DBR1 Cufflinks Are a Piece of Motor Racing History originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aston MartinAstonMartincufflinksgoldLe MansLeMansracingSir Stirling MossSirStirlingMossTMB Art MetalTmbArtMetalUKFri, 27 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Henry Dunay Designs Closing]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/henry-dunay-designs-closing/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/henry-dunay-designs-closing/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/26/henry-dunay-designs-closing/#commentsFiled under:

Sad news for fans of jeweler Henry Dunay. Over the summer Henry Dunay Designs filed Chapter 11. Now it has been announced that the brand is officially over. An auction of the company's inventory is scheduled for December 16. Dunay told National Jeweler that he is not giving up the jewelry business completely and that he will still be doing special orders and custom pieces. As he puts it, "they're not getting rid of me yet." Good news for anyone who is a fan of Dunay's unique wearable works of art. He can be reached for special orders by calling the numbers used for Henry Dunay Designs: (800) 888-2525 or (212) 768-9700. For more information on the Dec. 16 auction, contact Jay Silverberg, Dunay's attorney from the New York office of Sils, Cummis and Gross, PC, at (212) 500-1587.


Gallery: Henry Dunay Designs

Ruby NecklaceDiamond MaskBird of Peace

LuxistHenry Dunay Designs Closing originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcyhenry dunayHenryDunayjewelerjewelryThu, 26 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Big Diamonds Bring Big Prices at Christie's]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/big-diamonds-bring-big-prices-at-christies/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/big-diamonds-bring-big-prices-at-christies/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/25/big-diamonds-bring-big-prices-at-christies/#commentsFiled under: ,

More big diamonds and big prices were seen at the Christie's Geneva auction on November 18. A 62.30-carat, D flawless diamond sold for $8.051 million amid a sale which sold 82 percent by lot and 93 percent by value. Aleks Paul of Essex Global Trading in New York paid $130,000 per carat for the 62.3-carat, Type IIa flawless diamond. Paul was on a buying spree, he also submitted the top bids for two natural color diamonds, bidding $2.68 million for a diamond ring by Wolfers that paired a 3.30-carat, rectangular-cut, fancy intense blue diamond with a 3.90-carat E, VS2 diamond estimated at $580,000 to $740,000. He also spent nearly another $2.68 million on a fancy vivid, fancy intense and fancy blue diamond clasp, circa 1950, which had been estimated at $500,000 to $650,000. He has a history of buying or trying to buy important stones. Last year he was the underbidder against Laurence Graff for the Wittelsbach diamond.

In the same sale a 65.20-carat fancy intense yellow, cushion-shaped diamond pendant sold for nearly $1.04 million and a 4.42-carat fancy intense, square-cut green diamond ring sold for $783,000. The largest recorded fancy grayish-yellowish-green "chameleon" diamond in the world, cut into a 19.13 carat briolette and mounted as a pendant, sold for $987,000, setting a new world record price for a chameleon diamond.

LuxistBig Diamonds Bring Big Prices at Christie's originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 02:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionchristiesdiamonddiamondsgenevajewelsWed, 25 Nov 2009 02:01:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Care for Pearls]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/23/how-to-care-for-pearls/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/23/how-to-care-for-pearls/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/23/how-to-care-for-pearls/#commentsFiled under:


Fine cultured pearls should last for many years, even generations---but only if they are properly cared for.

Cultured pearls should be kept free of perfumes, cosmetics, perspiration and dirt, advises Tiffany & Co. Acid and akali substances can be harmful to pearls, including chemicals found in perfumes, skincare products, hair products and even perspiration due to the salt content. On the other hand, the body's natural oils (apart from heavy perspiration) are actually beneficial for pearls and keeps them from drying out. The issues are the same for colored pearls. A cultured South Sea, Tahitian and golden pearl necklace with a diamond clasp by Tiffany & Co. is seen above.

Tiffany & Co. advises pearl owners to follow the old adage "pearls should be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off". Avoid getting your pearls wet and don't wear them when bathing.

If your pearls are soiled, clean them by gently wiping the pearls with a slightly damp cloth. Do not use a chemical-based cleaner on them, as they can become damaged.

Do not store your pearls with other pieces of jewelry, as they can be easily scratched. Separate the pearls from other items by keeping them in a soft bag or wrap them in a cloth before storing them.

Tiffany & Co. cultured pearls are strung on pure silk with knots between each cultured pearl. Over time, the silk will stretch, weaken and become soiled. If you wear your cultured pearls regularly, Tiffany's advises having the pearls professionally cleaned and restrung annually. This will prevent the strand from breaking.

LuxistHow to Care for Pearls originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessories-pedialuxist-awardsmain-pediapearlsTiffany Co.TiffanyCo.Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[The Luxist Awards for Best Accessories]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/23/the-luxist-awards-for-best-accessories/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/23/the-luxist-awards-for-best-accessories/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/23/the-luxist-awards-for-best-accessories/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Do you know of a magnificent jewelry line with pieces that are to die for? Which is the finest watch line in the world? Which designer creates the the most exquisite leather goods line? Which department store or boutique is the premier destination for those in search of the highest of quality? Which clothing designer is fashion's finest? If you have opinions about who are the premier creators and carriers of the finest luxury goods there are to be had, we want to hear from you!

The Luxist Readers' Choice Awards for Best Accessories will be awarded based on your nominations and voting. We're currently seeking nominations for the best-of-breed in the following categories:

Best Jewelry Line
Best Watch Line
Best Leather Goods Line
Best Department Store or Boutique
Best Clothing Line

Submit your comments below about your favorite luxury goods and we will compile a list of those that are the most popular, along with related articles. One nomination per category, please. Submissions can be filed until December 15th, 2009.

LuxistThe Luxist Awards for Best Accessories originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessories-awardaccessories-mainawards-mainluxist-awardsMon, 23 Nov 2009 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Jimmy Choo Launches Project PEP; Benefits Charity]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/jimmy-choo-launches-project-pep-benefits-charity/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/jimmy-choo-launches-project-pep-benefits-charity/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/jimmy-choo-launches-project-pep-benefits-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jimmy Choo Launches Project PEP; Benefits Charity
Partnering with The Elton John AIDS Foundation, Jimmy Choo has launched Project PEP, a line of bold, punk rock accessories whose sales benefit the Simelela Rape Center in Cape Town, South Africa. The collection comprises 11 items -- bags, shoes, a cuff, and mobile accessories -- that range in price from $85 - $995. The shoe pictured, the PEP LOOP, is $975. Take a look at the gallery for a few more items from the collection.

Gallery: Jimmy Choo Launches Project PEP

PEP TOTE/MPEP WITTYPEP BANGLEPEP ZULUPEP ID

LuxistJimmy Choo Launches Project PEP; Benefits Charity originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycuffhandbagJimmy ChooJimmyChooProject PEPProjectPeppunk rockPunkRockshoesSat, 21 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[The Glacier Ring by Swarovski]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/the-glacier-ring-by-swarovski/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/the-glacier-ring-by-swarovski/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/the-glacier-ring-by-swarovski/#commentsFiled under:

Swarovski Glacier Ring
I'm not one for enormous jewels and gems on my jewelry (I know, call me crazy) but this Glacier Ring by Swarovski really appeals to me. Maybe it's because there is no large bling set onto a band so much as the bling is the band. Appropriately named after a mass of ice, this Swarovski crystal cocktail ring is faceted to catch both the light and the attention of your fellow party goers and is gold-plated inside for comfort. A perfect winter accessory as it evokes feelings of snow and sparkles and will coordinate with everything. £142

LuxistThe Glacier Ring by Swarovski originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystalglacierjewelryringringsswarovskiSat, 21 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Crown Ready For New Miss California USA]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/crown-ready-for-new-miss-california-usa/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/crown-ready-for-new-miss-california-usa/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/crown-ready-for-new-miss-california-usa/#commentsFiled under:

miss california crownThe Miss California USA pageant is eager to put the Carrie Prejean story behind it and has unveiled the crown that will sit atop the new Miss California USA's head. INTA Gems & Diamonds, the official jeweler of Miss California USA, has designed the new crown which they say promotes unity, love and the beauty of California. The crown will be unveiled to the public at the Beauty of California dinner at the Rivera Resort in Palm Springs on November 21 at 8 pm. The stars that line the border of the crown represent the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The curves of the crown are mean to recall the waves that flow back and forth along the California coastline. The crown is made of silver, gold and a total of 768 stones including diamonds, diamond simulants, natural sapphire, and pearl.

Peter Young, creative director of INTA Gems & Diamonds designed the crown with the idea that after the controversy over Carrie Prejean's opinion on gay marriage at the Miss USA pageant he wanted his design to present a positive view for the next 2010 Miss California USA titleholder. The wave design also represents the different perspectives in California. He says: "I felt a strong need for people to know that although we may have different opinions from opposite sides, the one universal idea that speaks true for all of us is that love unites. Therefore, at the center of the beautifully formed sparkling wave design is a heart. I hope that speaks true to the next Miss California USA."

The 2010 Miss California USA pageant that will be televised on Sunday, Nov 22 on the CW and on My Television television networks.

LuxistCrown Ready For New Miss California USA originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miss california usamiss california usa crownmiss california usa pageantMissCaliforniaUsaMissCaliforniaUsaCrownMissCaliforniaUsaPageantSat, 21 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Peter Nitz Zurich the Ultimate in Understated Bejeweled Handbags ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/peter-nitz-zurich-the-ultimate-in-understated-bejeweled-handbags/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/peter-nitz-zurich-the-ultimate-in-understated-bejeweled-handbags/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/21/peter-nitz-zurich-the-ultimate-in-understated-bejeweled-handbags/#commentsFiled under: ,


Peter Nitz creates unique leather goods that represent his own personal vision of what a sophisticated luxury aesthetic embodies. A former Assistant Director of Acquisitions at an auction house, Peter has a unique eye for quiet luxury and handcrafts each piece himself. He refined his abilities for two and a half years at the knee of a former Hermes craftsman, who he encountered on a weekend trip to Paris. During this time he mastered centuries-old techniques that, while demanding precision and patience, result in products that are truly refined.

Originally from South Carolina, Peter moved to Europe and traveled the globe in a quest to find the best producers of exotic skins, linen thread, hardware and other materials necessary to open his own atelier. Each bag is designed from an initial plan, but influenced by the specific exotic skin used, to produce a perfect union between design and material. Some of the bags feature vintage fine jewelry Peter acquires by scouring auction houses and private collectors, and each piece is one of a kind.

There are two main collections:
The Atelier collection, which include classic Peter Nitz designs, but can be special ordered in whichever skin and color a customer desires. This results in a truly bespoke bag that suits a clients specific needs.
The Masterpiece collection, which combines exquisite vintage fine jewelry with exotic skins resulting in a piece that is closer to art than a handbag.

Each piece comes in its own handmade leather-covered drawered box with a customized handle made from the same leather as the individual bag. Prices for the bags without jewels begin at $2,500 and can reach as high as $9,000 to $20,000 dollars depending on both the type of skin used and the value of the jewels that adorn the bag.

Gallery: Peter Nitz Bejeweled Handbags





LuxistPeter Nitz Zurich the Ultimate in Understated Bejeweled Handbags originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>handbagHermesjewelryPeter NitzPeterNitzvintage jewelryVintageJewelryZurichSat, 21 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Michelle Trachtenberg Designs For Coach]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/19/michelle-trachtenberg-designs-for-coach/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/19/michelle-trachtenberg-designs-for-coach/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/19/michelle-trachtenberg-designs-for-coach/#commentsFiled under: ,

michelle trachtenbergThis has been a big week for celebrity jewelry lines. We've seen Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt announce a line with Asprey, Alica Keys has a new line and now actress Michelle Trachtenberg has designed a line of jewelry for Coach's youth skewed Poppy Line. Trachtenberg's line in bright and colorful with big crystals, faux pearls and metal charms. Our sister blog Styelist spoke with Trachtenberg who said that her spring line was inspired by a mixture of romance and edginess that she described as having a very "Marie Antoinette meets Blondie" vibe.

LuxistMichelle Trachtenberg Designs For Coach originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coachjewelry designJewelryDesignmichelle trachtenbergMichelleTrachtenbergpoppyThu, 19 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Digit Watch # 27 Ring For Men Or Women]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/19/digit-watch-27-ring-for-men-or-women/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/19/digit-watch-27-ring-for-men-or-women/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/19/digit-watch-27-ring-for-men-or-women/#commentsFiled under: ,


Watches in rings have been done before, but not quite like this. This is a new approach and quite interesting. The Digit Watch is design to appeal to both men and women, and given its high level of customization - the company can make one for you. Produced in London, the Digit Watch takes existing mechanical watch movements from major luxury watch brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Breitling, Blancpain, and others (buyer can choose), and places them inside of an 18k white gold ring with an Aquamarine jewel face, decorated with 142 diamonds. The ring has a watch face on it, and a crown for winding and setting the movement.

The concept is nifty for women who want something different, and as a second timepiece on ones hand for men who want the bling of a pinky ring. That rhymed... "Yo, look at my ring... I'm talking here!" I like who the movement is actually special and often a bit unique. It would have been easier to just put in a quartz movement, but that is not what the designer wanted to do. You can see in the image gallery who the small 17 jewel manually wound movements are inserted into the watch. An interesting idea and available starting at about 8,000 British pounds.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Digit watch

LuxistDigit Watch # 27 Ring For Men Or Women originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7digit watchDigitWatchmechanicalringThu, 19 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Billionaire Johann Rupert New CEO Of Richemont Group]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/billionaire-johann-rupert-new-ceo-of-richemont-group/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/billionaire-johann-rupert-new-ceo-of-richemont-group/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/billionaire-johann-rupert-new-ceo-of-richemont-group/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Frequent among the Forbes Magazine list of world's richest people, South African native Johann Rupert has been appointed the new CEO of the Richemont Group, who is owns a bevy of world-class watch and jewelry labels. Among these are Cartier, Panerai, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and A. Lange & Sohne. It is unclear to me why Richemont Group's previous CEO left (sources say he retired), but with Rupert's history in the luxury realm, as well as charismatic personality, he seems like a good fit. Plus, he is wealthy enough to afford his company's own products.

One thing that Rupert made clear, is important for the company's future. Unlike the recent increase of detailed oversight of the brands under the Richemont umbrella, Rupert has indicated that he desires autonomy for the group brands. This is one of the major reasons we saw a rash of CEO resignations from Richemont brands (such as A. Lange & Sohne and Baume & Mercier). Hopefully Rupert is aware of the fact that micromanaging didn't do anyone any good, ever.

Rupert is not exactly a self-made man, but has done well with the incredible wealth that he inherited. His business record is quite impressive. It is well known in the watch industry that times are tough for luxury items. Richemont Group and main competitor Swatch Group have been hit hard, so it will be interesting to see their plans for recovery over the next few years.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistBillionaire Johann Rupert New CEO Of Richemont Group originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CEOJohann RupertJohannRupertRichemont GroupRichemontGroupWed, 18 Nov 2009 22:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Green Diamond Sets World Record]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/green-diamond-sets-world-record/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/green-diamond-sets-world-record/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/green-diamond-sets-world-record/#commentsFiled under:

Natural colored diamonds and other colored stones did very well at the Sotheby's "Magnificent Jewels" sale in Geneva this week. The Roxburghe Rubies, a parure of a ruby and diamond necklace and earrings brought $5.77 million, five times the set's estimated price. A rare 2.52 carat vivid green diamond sold for $3.08 million. It was the largest vivid-green diamond ever to appear at auction and the sale set a new world-record price per carat for a green diamond at auction. Swiss jeweler Chatila paid $2.52 million for a 3.17-carat fancy intense blue diamond which set a new world-record price per carat for an intense blue diamond sold at auction. Chatila also paid $3.13 million for a 74.8-carat fancy vivid-yellow diamond ring. The sale brought in $36.68 million putting it safely above the pre-sale low estimate of $29.5 million. A total of 79 percent of the lots up for sale sold.


LuxistGreen Diamond Sets World Record originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctiondiamondsgreen diamondGreenDiamondsothebysWed, 18 Nov 2009 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Color for Christmas, Lola Jewelry]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/color-for-chrstimas-lola-jewelry/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/color-for-chrstimas-lola-jewelry/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/color-for-chrstimas-lola-jewelry/#commentsFiled under:


LOLA Jewelry gets its name from Lots of Little Accessories, a nod to the undeniable desire to pick up a handful of tempting gems. This is a jewelry line that really celebrates color in the form of tourmalines, sapphires, beryls and many other beautiful gemstones. The brand is the creation of creation of Stacey Vance and her partner Kim Wilson and is based is based in Dallas, Texas. Jewelry from the LOLA collection is crafted out of 18k yellow gold, 14k white gold or platinum, and piece start around $400 but go much higher. Custom designs are also available.

Luxist asked Stacey Vance about which colored gemstones are most popular. She says that sapphires remain the most popular but that what many people might not know is that sapphires come in many colors beyond deep blue. The necklace above, which is made of sapphire and ruby briolettes, shows just some of the colors this stone can come in.

For those who are unsure about purchasing colored stones, Vance says that while the internet is a great research tool its important to be able to trust your jeweler. She says that at LOLA she likes to have a personal relationship with customers so that she can advice pieces for their particular wants/needs and budget. As she puts it: "once you buy a piece of LOLA Jewelry, I consider you part of the family - even if it's a one-time purchase. Whether it's an engagement ring, a new mother's gift, or a pair of exquisite earrings to show someone how you feel about them, I love being part of life's special occasions; it makes every piece wonderful and exciting!"


Gallery: Lola Jewelry

Turks and Caicos Ring Big BandsTa-DahFire and IceCinderella's

LuxistColor for Christmas, Lola Jewelry originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colored gemstonesColoredGemstonesjewelrylola jewelryLolaJewelrysapphiresWed, 18 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Alicia Keys Creates Inspirational Necklace For Keep A Child Alive]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/17/alicia-keys-creates-inspirational-necklace-for-keep-a-child-aliv/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/17/alicia-keys-creates-inspirational-necklace-for-keep-a-child-aliv/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/17/alicia-keys-creates-inspirational-necklace-for-keep-a-child-aliv/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've written about Alicia Keys's charity work with Keep A Child Alive before so its no surprise that one of the core pieces in her new jewelry line is devoted to the cause. Keys is launching a new jewelry line, The Barber's Daughters, with jeweler Gisèle Theriault. The collection will be displayed at a pop-up shop at the Collette Blanchard Gallery in New York City on November 23 and 24. The inspirational jewelry line features precious metals inscribed with poetry, prayers and other words.

The special design for Keep A Child Alive is a sterling silver double tablet necklace on an oxidized rope chain features the Gandhi quote which says: "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." The design is inspired by ancient Inukshuk rock sculptures used to alert others they were on the right path. The necklace sells for $295 and Keep A Child Alive receives $100 from each one.

LuxistAlicia Keys Creates Inspirational Necklace For Keep A Child Alive originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alicia keysAliciaKeyskeep a child aliveKeepAChildAlivenecklacethe barbers daughtersTheBarbersDaughtersTue, 17 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[McTeigue & McClelland Designs Necklace to Help Afghan Children]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/mcteigue-and-mcclelland-designs-necklace-to-help-afghan-children/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/mcteigue-and-mcclelland-designs-necklace-to-help-afghan-children/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/mcteigue-and-mcclelland-designs-necklace-to-help-afghan-children/#commentsFiled under: ,

A necklace may be the key to a child's future in war-torn Afghanistan.

Indeed, McTeigue & McClelland, a New York-based jeweler with roots dating back to 1895, has designed a necklace, called "The Ariana Necklace," with all of the proceeds donated to the Rebuilding Afghanistan Foundation. The foundation is a U.S.-based 501 (c) 3 non-profit dedicated to bringing education to Afghan children by building schools and developing educational programs in Afghanistan. The proceeds from each necklace will provide enough funds to educate three Afghan children for one year at the foundation's Mayor Elementary School in the province of Wardak, Afghanistan.

The butterfly design was inspired by the Micropsyche Ariana species, which is the smallest butterfly in the world. The butterfly is unique to Afghanistan while its name translates to "tiny souls of Afghanistan." The pendant measures 1.5" in length and 1" in width and comes with an 18" sterling silver chain.

McTeigue & McClelland handcrafted the necklace in sterling silver. It will retail for $250 and is available by placing an order at http://www.rebuildafghanistan.org. The necklace is available for a limited time only.

LuxistMcTeigue & McClelland Designs Necklace to Help Afghan Children originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afghanistanafghanistan relief organizationafghanistan warAfghanistanReliefOrganizationAfghanistanWarcharityjewelryMcTeigue McClellandMcteigueMcclellandnon-profitMon, 16 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt To Design For Asprey]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/angelina-jolie-and-brad-pitt-to-design-for-asprey/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/angelina-jolie-and-brad-pitt-to-design-for-asprey/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/angelina-jolie-and-brad-pitt-to-design-for-asprey/#commentsFiled under: , ,

angelina jolie and brad pittCan two of the hottest stars in the world pep up an esteemed but faltering British jewelry line? WWD announced that Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have created a capsule collection of gold jewelry and silver snake-themed accessories called The Protector. The collection was conceived and designed by Pitt and Jolie and will go on sale at Asprey stores in London, New York, Beverly Hills, Tokyo and Dubai later this week. All net proceeds from the pieces, which include a serpent-handled baby spoon for $525, will benefit Education Partnership for Children of Conflict, a nonprofit Jolie cofounded in 2006. Jolie, who is a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Refugee Agency, has a deep interest in aiding young victims of war, conflict and natural disasters.

Brad Pitt has designed pieces for Damiani when he was married to Jennifer Aniston. Jolie has worn Asprey on the red carpet before and both Jolie and Pitt have also commissioned pieces privately from Asprey. WWD has a gallery of the pieces which include silver baby gifts, pendants and rings features micropavé diamonds and gemstones.

As WWD mentions, the collection should bring some attention to Asprey, which has been struggling to find its niche lately. Last year the brand decided to narrow down its offerings and to focus on bridal and high-end jewelry. In September after Hermes bought out the Asprey store on Bond Street in London rumors swirled that Hermes might buy the entire Asprey business. Asprey had two consecutive loss-making years with sales dropping from £17 million to £13 million but the tremendous star power of Brangelina might mean happy days are here again for the brand.

LuxistAngelina Jolie and Brad Pitt To Design For Asprey originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Evening Star Crowns Important Collector's Jewelry Sale]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/14/evening-star-crowns-important-collectors-jewelry-sale/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/14/evening-star-crowns-important-collectors-jewelry-sale/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/14/evening-star-crowns-important-collectors-jewelry-sale/#commentsFiled under: ,

evening star
You have to be a very important collector to get your own sale at Christie's. Most collections are amassed into larger sales but a single owner collection of 10 jewels is set for December 10, is set for the same day as the New York Jewels sale at Christie's New York. This smaller sale features some big stones. The most important is the "Evening Star" diamond, a pear-shaped, 39-carat, D-color diamond mounted in a platinum pendant. This stone is a type IIa diamond the type which was found in India's famous ancient Golconda mines. It is certified to be VVS1 clarity and is accompanied by a working diagram indicating that the clarity may be potentially internally flawless.

The Evening Star alone is estimated at $3.6 million to $5.5 million. The name comes from the owner's habit of wearing the stone to evening galas. She wore the stone suspended from a diamond necklace that consisted of 68 graduated pear-shaped diamonds. That necklace is also for sale with an estimated value of $400,000 to $600,000. And to complete the parure you can pick up the matching pair of diamond ear pendants with two pear-shaped, D-color diamonds of 10.21 and 10.51 carats. The earrings which are also type IIa stones are estimated to bring in $1.7 million to $2.5 million.

Other diamond pieces in the sale include a diamond bracelet by Van Cleef and Arpels and a 36.78-carat, rectangular-cut, D-color, internally flawless diamond ring mounted in platinum with an estimated value of between $2.75 million and $3.5 million. If diamonds aren't your favorite you can bid on an a rare color-change alexandrite ring. The 3.6 carat stone show teal in daylight and purple in incandescent light.

[via National Jeweler]

LuxistEvening Star Crowns Important Collector's Jewelry Sale originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexandriteevening star diamondEveningStarDiamondgolconda diamondsGolcondaDiamondsjewelryrare diamondsRareDiamondstype iia diamondTypeIiaDiamondSat, 14 Nov 2009 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Stock up on Jewelry: Hyperinflation on the Way]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/13/stock-up-on-jewelry-hyperinflation-on-the-way/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/13/stock-up-on-jewelry-hyperinflation-on-the-way/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/13/stock-up-on-jewelry-hyperinflation-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: ,

If the fears of hyperinflation are realized, you'll look back with pride on your luxury purchases. All that money you've sunk into custom jewelry and top-of-the-line stones will make you look like an absolute genius. Well, that's the position of South African billionaire Johann Rupert, and I'd take the advice of a guy who can be described that way.

According to Bloomberg News, the told investors, "If we enter hyperinflation, you're going to be so glad that you bought that stuff two months or six months ago." He added, "If inflation picks up, you're going to see people running into your stores, buying high jewelry."

Will inflation cause a mob to form outside the Cartier store on Fifth Avenue? Well, I don't think I'd worry too much about the pushing and shoving, but being ready to throw an elbow probably isn't a bad idea.

Of course, Rupert has something to gain - his company, Richemont, is the world's second largest luxury goods maker (behind LVMH). In his talk with investors in the company controlled by his family, he forecasted "normal growth" with luxury sales showing signs of recovery this month and next.

Continue reading Stock up on Jewelry: Hyperinflation on the Way

LuxistStock up on Jewelry: Hyperinflation on the Way originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>billionairebillionairescartierFifth AvenueFifthAvenuehyperinflationinflationluxury goodsLuxuryGoodslvmhLvmhMoetHennessyLouisVuittonRichemontwealthyFri, 13 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST