Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[What Inspires You, Temple St. Clair?]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/10/what-inspires-you-templest-clair/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/10/what-inspires-you-templest-clair/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/10/what-inspires-you-templest-clair/#commentsFiled under: ,

temple st clair
Where do you get your inspiration? Jewelry designer Temple St. Clair tells us about the artists that have influenced her work.

I find inspiration in many different art forms and from many eras - from ancient to modern. I recently accompanied my ten year-old son to the Metropolitan Museum of Art here in New York City. He was studying Mesopotamia and the Assyrians and Babylonians. His homework was to find and sketch particular artifacts. My favorite kind of project! We sketched together, and though familiar with this period, I never cease to be amazed at the graphic detail of the sculpture and stone carvings. If one of these pieces was placed in a Picasso museum, it could easily be mistaken for one of the modern master's works. In ancient art, the patterns and repeated motifs become the aesthetic vocabulary not only for design but also for symbolic purposes; I find this absolutely fascinating.

Among my favorite contemporary artists are Richard Diebenkorn and Mark Rothko. Both were masters of color. Rothko's colors emanate beyond the surface of his canvases. I believe this is why many museums fill entire spaces with Rothkos. The Tate Modern in London has one of my favorite "Rothko rooms." The color of a beautifully cut gemstone has a life of its own in a similar way. I select gems for individual color, but also for how their colors work together. There are tourmalines and aquamarines that I never tire looking at. For me, that's the fascination of color whether in a natural gemstone or in a painting. In Richard Diebenkorn's "Ocean Park" series, he relies heavily on color for his composition with very little use of actual line. I think about this when I am putting stone layouts together. The colors of the stones as they relate create the design of the piece; the metal work merely supplies the structure.

It is not that one artist or one art form has influenced my work directly. It is more about creating a lifestyle that celebrates an awareness of beauty in art and nature. With my work, I am lucky in that I have been able to cultivate a reason to read and study and explore. I collect ideas, thoughts and images through literature, music, performance, through visits to museums and travel. I keep a sketch or a postcard or a book on things that I particularly love and that move me. It all goes in to my work and my daily life.

Gallery: Temple St. Clair's Blue Inspirations

Blue Tourmaline RingRothko and Temple St. ClairDiebenkorn and Temple St. Clair

LuxistWhat Inspires You, Temple St. Clair? originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jewelrymark rothkoMarkRothkorichard diebenkornRichardDiebenkorntemple st clairTempleStClairWed, 10 Feb 2010 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeremy Scott goes Deco on the SS Normandie]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/10/jeremy-scott-goes-deco-on-the-ss-normandie/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/10/jeremy-scott-goes-deco-on-the-ss-normandie/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/10/jeremy-scott-goes-deco-on-the-ss-normandie/#commentsFiled under:



Avant-garde designer Jeremy Scott is no stranger to collaboration, having teamed up with designers including Christian Louboutin, Longchamp, and Adidas. In spite of all these amazing partnerships, we're most excited for his upcoming work with a ship, or the original 1930s floating palace rather. Scott has designed a limited edition T-shirt to celebrate the upcoming revival of the SS Normandie, the original 1930s floating palace, through a new show entitled DECODENCE at Manhattan's South Street Seaport Museum. As both the Art Deco movement and Jeremy Scott's revoutionary fashion line are defined by ornate motifs and structural geometry, it's easy to see why the transatlantic designer was first approached to participate in the show. Both the movement and the designer embody the spirit of living glamor.

On his soon-to-be iconic design, Scott told Luxist: "I just tried to imagine getting a peek at one of the glamorous passengers as she was off to dinner. She stopped to look out one of the portholes to catch a final glimpse of Manhattan as the Normandie set sail." The shirt is set to become the perfect accessory this season, whether you're on a ship or not, it's just in time as a slew of naval-inspired collections make their way down the runway. "As for Art Deco," says Scott, "I've always loved the lines, the modernity, and the sensuality. Art Deco has a playful yet over the top quality, which I have a definite kinship with!"

In the same spirit of exaggerated playfulness, the king of Art Deco jewelry, Lalique has designed a special edition Cabochon ring just for the occasion. The handcrafted glass ring is one of the most stunning examples of modern jewelry we've come across, remarkable for its smooth contours and opulent hues. Originally designed in 1931, the updated ring is as classy and fun as ever. Available in three colors for the show, Cap Ferrat, Sapphire, and Rouge l'or, the limited edition series is marked with a special commemorative engraving.

Gallery: Jeremy Scott and Lalique for SS Normandie

Continue reading Jeremy Scott goes Deco on the SS Normandie

LuxistJeremy Scott goes Deco on the SS Normandie originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 05:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art decoArtDecodecodencejeremy scottJeremyScottlaliquesouth seaport museumSouthSeaportMuseumss normandieSsNormandieWed, 10 Feb 2010 05:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Estelle Designs Capsule Collection For Rachel Roy]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/esteele-designs-capsule-collection-for-rachel-roy/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/esteele-designs-capsule-collection-for-rachel-roy/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/esteele-designs-capsule-collection-for-rachel-roy/#commentsFiled under: ,

Singer Estelle is the latest star to turn celebrity jewelry designer. She is working with Rachel Roy on a capsule collection for the Rachel Rachel Roy brand. The collection includes necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings available for sale beginning March 2010. Before the full release of the collection, fans of Rachel Roy's Facebook page will have an opportunity to be the first to shop an edited version of the collection, including a petal ring that is exclusive to Facebook and will not be available as part of the full collection. The Facebook pop-up store runs from now until 6pm EST on February 11th.

Both Rachel and Estelle are fans of costume jewelry and the pieces are priced from $34 to $195 and will be available at select Macy's and online at www.macys.com and www.rachelroy.com. Estelle is scheduled to be at Macy's Herald Square in New York City on April 1st for a special performance to support the collaboration. Check out a video of the two chronicling the design of the collection after the jump.

Gallery: Estelle For Rachel Roy

I Feel Famous NecklaceGuardian Angel NecklacePetal Ring

Continue reading Estelle Designs Capsule Collection For Rachel Roy

LuxistEstelle Designs Capsule Collection For Rachel Roy originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebrity jewelryCelebrityJewelryestellerachel royrachel roy for macysRachelRoyRachelRoyForMacysTue, 09 Feb 2010 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Joan Collins Takes A Turn As Jewelry Model]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/joan-collins-takes-a-turn-as-jewelry-model/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/joan-collins-takes-a-turn-as-jewelry-model/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/joan-collins-takes-a-turn-as-jewelry-model/#commentsFiled under:

Actress Joan Collins is getting back into modeling at the age of 76. The glamorous golden girl will be the face of Alexis Bittar jewelry in ads that will launch on billboards in New York City during Fashion Week. The fact that Collins is most famous for her role as the devilish diva Alexis Carrington on the 1980s drama "Dynasty" is a fact not lost on either the designer or the star. As People.com has it Collins decided that 'Alexis for Alexis' was brilliant. Collins has been a costume jewelry collector for years and states that Alexis Bittar is her favorite designer. The glitzy oversized Bittar pieces seem to suit her well.

LuxistJoan Collins Takes A Turn As Jewelry Model originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 03:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexis bittarAlexisBittarcelebrity endorsementsCelebrityEndorsementsjoan collinsJoanCollinsTue, 09 Feb 2010 03:02:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Launches Diamond Ring Designer With $25,000 Ring Contest]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/ebay-launches-diamond-ring-designer-with-25-000-ring-contest/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/ebay-launches-diamond-ring-designer-with-25-000-ring-contest/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/08/ebay-launches-diamond-ring-designer-with-25-000-ring-contest/#commentsFiled under: ,


Auction giant eBay is getting into the ring design business and they are launching with a "Build Your Bling" contest that has participants designing their own diamond rings. One winner will receive a ring from Gemstoneking, Inc. based on the winning design the winner submitted, up to $25,000 in value. The new eBay Diamond Ring Designer system is an online ring design system similar to Blue Nile and others that has slider selections for choosing diamonds by shape, size, color, clarity and cut. Once you've selected your stone (or stones) you are then presented with a variety of potential settings in gold or platinum. These systems are always fun to play with because the user can easily see how a change in cut or clarity affects diamond price and offer a stress-free way to browse diamond rings.

Entrants can enter from now until February 19 to submit a design and entry for consideration. Other eBay users will vote on the best designs and the participant with the greatest number of votes will be the winner. Two runner-ups will win eBay gift certificates and all three may have their entries on a winners page. The winner will be chosen on February 26.

LuxisteBay Launches Diamond Ring Designer With $25,000 Ring Contest originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>build your blingBuildYourBlingdiamond ring giveawayDiamondRingGiveawaydiamondsebayebay diamond contestEbayDiamondContestMon, 08 Feb 2010 22:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Agent Provocateur Launches New Jewelry Line]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/07/agent-provocateur-launches-new-jewelry-line/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/07/agent-provocateur-launches-new-jewelry-line/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/07/agent-provocateur-launches-new-jewelry-line/#commentsFiled under:

Just in time for Valentine's Day, lingerie maker Agent Provocateur has come out with a jewelry line. Like the British brand's sexy lingerie, the new jewelry pieces are both flirty and a little naughty. Prices range from $40 for necklaces and bracelets make out of safety pins linked by small patent leather bows to $700 for bracelets from the Dark Fairytale line. The piece shown at right is the Slave for You ring and bracelet which are made from rose gold plated on sterling silver. The bracelet and ring are linked with fine chains and the ring is embossed with 'Slave for you.' Sadly not available in men's sizes.

[via NBC New York]

LuxistAgent Provocateur Launches New Jewelry Line originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agent provacateurAgentProvacateurjewelrySun, 07 Feb 2010 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Christopher Ross Luxe Buckles]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/christopher-ross-luxe-buckles/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/christopher-ross-luxe-buckles/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/christopher-ross-luxe-buckles/#commentsFiled under: ,

belt buckle
Throw any accessory on Sarah Jessica Parker, especially during the wildly popular 'Sex in the City' television show and then movie, and it is sure to get noticed. Although Christopher Ross has been designing belt buckles since the 1970s, out of New York City the fashion world may have rediscovered his unique talents when Sarah wore his buckle in the movie. Mimicking historical and natural elements, his designs typically highlight wild animals ranging from mammals to fish to reptiles plated in 24K museum quality gold. Each buckle is accompanied by a black calf-leather belt and are always 'one size fits all'. Prices range from $485 to $1,185.

Gallery: Belt Buckles by Christopher Ross

LuxistChristopher Ross Luxe Buckles originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>belt bucklebelt bucklesBeltBuckleBeltBuckleschristopher rossChristopherRossgold buckleGoldBuckleross beltross bucklesRossBeltRossBucklesTue, 02 Feb 2010 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[John Hardy Kali Collection]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/john-hardy-kali-collection/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/john-hardy-kali-collection/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/john-hardy-kali-collection/#commentsFiled under:

silver jewelryIt seems many designers choose natural elements to inspire their creations and John Hardy is in the same boat. His Kali Collection, meaning 'river' in Balinese, is inspired by water-smoothed stones that line the streams of Bali. Using silver, woven leather and occasionally semi-precious stones while incorporating variations of stone-shaped pieces throughout, this collection makes the jewelry look comfortable to wear and versatile in its enjoyment. Seeming both casual and fine, each piece can be combined with other plain or colorful jewelry adding a new texture and enhancement to your ensemble.

Gallery: Kali Collection by John Hardy

LuxistJohn Hardy Kali Collection originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>john hardyjohn hardy kaliJohnHardyJohnHardyKalikali collectionKaliCollectionTue, 02 Feb 2010 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Jessica Kagan Cushman Scrimshaw Cuffs]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/jessica-kagan-cushman-scrimshaw-cuffs/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/jessica-kagan-cushman-scrimshaw-cuffs/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/jessica-kagan-cushman-scrimshaw-cuffs/#commentsFiled under:

Spider Scrimshaw Cuff Jessica Kagan Cushman
Jessica Kagan Cushman is famous for her bracelet and accessory designs and this Scrimshaw Spider Cuff really caught my eye. Made of fossilized mammoth ivory and featuring a very large (and sort of realistic looking) spider front and center this is certainly not a piece to be purchased or worn on a whim. Hand-inked and hand-finished, no two of these cuffs come out the same. A unique and rare blend of earthy and contemporary.

I like this spider the best but there's also a lion version and a fly. $2,650

LuxistJessica Kagan Cushman Scrimshaw Cuffs originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>braceletcuffjessica kagan cushmanJessicaKaganCushmanjewelryscrimshawspiderspidersFri, 29 Jan 2010 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Links of London Charm Bracelet Builder]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/links-of-london-charm-bracelet-builder/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/links-of-london-charm-bracelet-builder/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/links-of-london-charm-bracelet-builder/#commentsFiled under:

links of london charm braceletlinks of london charm braceletlinks of london charm bracelet


I've loved charm bracelets ever since I was a little girl. There's something so fun and silly (in a good way) about all the individual little charms, miniature and colorful and all representing something different and meaningful. Putting together a bracelet is about building a collection of memories (some people keep adding charms over their entire lives) and Links of London's Charm Bracelet Designer is a fun and entertaining way to do it online. I'm not even in the market for another bracelet (although some of the individual charms are tempting!) but had fun wasting twenty minutes or so scrolling through the options and dragging and dropping all my favorite picks into various arrangements on the bracelet of my choice. You can sort by materials or category groups (shopping, animals, etc) and it tallies up your total as you go.

LuxistLinks of London Charm Bracelet Builder originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The world's ugliest Rolex, a custom leopard print diamond and sapphire Cosmograph Daytona, has turned up for sale via global online luxury marketplace JamesList for $46,000. Unsurprisingly, the hideous timepiece has never been worn, and is being offered for sale in glitzy Miami Beach. The special edition watch has an 18k yellow gold case with 36 baguette cognac sapphires, 48 diamonds on the end pieces, and a leopard print dial festooned with another eight diamonds. It comes on a leopard print leather strap with an 18k yellow gold deployable clasp. The aesthetic travesty is all the more unfortunate because the Daytona in classic stainless steel is considered by many to be Rolex's most attractive model. Designed as the ultimate timing tool for endurance races, the Daytona is made to allow the driver to map his course times accurately and determine how he must drive in order to achieve victory. Try even figuring out what time it is on this spotted nightmare.

UPDATE: An astute reader has spotted this monstrosity on the wrist of Vanessa Bryant, wife of L.A. Lakers star Kobe Bryant, at a White House ceremony. Good lord, there's more than one of them.

LuxistThe World's Ugliest Rolex - Yours for $46,000 originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamondsgoldleopardleopard printLeopardPrintRolexRolex DaytonaRolexDaytonasapphiresMon, 25 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[The $10,000 Proposal Martini]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-10-000-proposal-martini/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-10-000-proposal-martini/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/24/the-10-000-proposal-martini/#commentsFiled under: , ,


One of the signs that Spring must be just around the corner is not just that the days start to get longer, but that wedding and proposal specials start to proliferate. Many men must feel a lot of pressure to not only pick the right diamond engagement ring but to propose in such a manner that their fiance will have a great story to tell all of her friends, not to mention her mother. Some people are just naturally creative and others need a little bit of help and inspiration.

The Algonquin Hotel in New York City is prepared to help the creatively impaired, offering what is possibly the most expensive martini ever. The Grey Goose $10,000 proposal cocktail comes with a one-of-a-kind diamond ring placed in the glass. This specialty cocktail is served by a white gloved waiter in a crystal glass on a silver platter in the hotel's famous Blue Bar. The hotel arranges for clients to work one on one with a private jeweler to customize the engagement ring picking carat size, number of stones and the setting. The hotel needs at least 72 hours notice to set up this arrangement.

The hotel opened in 1902 and has long been famous for being the center of the city's literary and theatrical circles. If your intended is a big reader she might get a kick out of being proposed to in the same room where literary geniuses such as William Faulkner, Sinclair Lewis, and Derek Walcott spent their time.

As an aside, should the love of your life be more into spending time at the mall than the local library, Ivanka Trump is serving up a different offer at her Bridal Bar. Any diamond engagement ring bought comes with the "New York Proposal" package featuring a free night at one of the Trump Hotel Collection properties in New York City. The package also comes with complimentary long stemmed roses, champagne, dinner at the famed Jean Georges restaurant as well as breakfast in bed the next morning.

LuxistThe $10,000 Proposal Martini originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AlgonquinAlgonquinHoteldiamond-ringdiamondsengagementengagement-ringengagement-ringsGrey Goosegrey goose vodkaGreyGooseGreyGooseVodkaivanka trumpIvankaTrumpmartiniSun, 24 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rachel Bilson Designs For The Diamond Empowerment Fund]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/22/rachel-bilson-designs-for-the-diamond-empowerment-fund/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/22/rachel-bilson-designs-for-the-diamond-empowerment-fund/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/22/rachel-bilson-designs-for-the-diamond-empowerment-fund/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Last December Rachel Bilson traveled to Botswana and South Africa to see the work being done by Russell Simmons' Diamond Empowerment Fund. Now the actress has created a new bracelet to benefit the cause. The leather bracelet features a 1/6 carat diamond in an Everlon Diamond Knot setting (the latest design from De Beers). The round-cut diamond is set in 14k gold over sterling silver. The bracelet sells for $100 at Macy's and $20 from each sale goes to the Diamond Empowerment Fund to support the education and empowerment of African people.

The Diamond Empowerment Fund was founded in 2007 and first raised money with the selling of a malachite bracelet crowned with a rough diamond. The non-profit international organization raises money to support education initiatives that include the fund's first project, the CIDA City Campus, located in Johannesburg, South Africa. The four-year school educates students and sends them back to the townships as teachers. It offers liberal arts education and business classes and the students do all the work at the school except teaching. Profits from Bilson's bracelet will help purchase additional student housing for the campus.

[via In Style]

LuxistRachel Bilson Designs For The Diamond Empowerment Fund originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>de beersDeBeersDef Jam Recordsdiamond empowerment fundDiamond Empowerment InitiativeDiamondEmpowermentFundeverlonrachel bilsonRachelBilsonrussell simmonsRussellSimmonsFri, 22 Jan 2010 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ward Kelvin Jewelry Designer]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/ward-kelvin-jewelry-designer/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/ward-kelvin-jewelry-designer/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/ward-kelvin-jewelry-designer/#commentsFiled under:


We all read about the famous well known designers regularly and it is interesting to get to know some of the new faces in the luxury industry. Like many seemingly overnight sensations Ward Kelvin has been designing for other names you will recognize immediately, such as Tiffany & Co. and Ralph Lauren. He was also the designer behind the much coveted "Golden Compact" collection for Estee Lauder. An interesting tidbit of information, particularly for all of you aspiring designers, is that his first job after graduating form Pratt institute was as a toy designer. Believe it or not, this jewelry designer whose first collection was launched this past November at Bergdorf Goodman in Manhattan once spent his time designing Happy Meals for McDonald's.

Ward comments that the move from toy designer to jewelry designer is not as big a stretch as one might think as they both require "ingenuity and a playful imagination". He hopes to bring a wit and spirit to all of his design efforts and honed his skills working for others. He has titled his first personal collection American Chinoise. The 40 piece collection is a modern interpretation of the style of the 1930's when all the Hollywood Regency houses featured chinoiserie bamboo and lattice interiors. As seen in the jewelry pictured, there is a lot of light and airy space in every piece and he wants the woman wearing a piece to feel "it was created effortlessly, by the chicest chinoiserie bird, as if it were creating its nest."

The jewelry in the collection is fabricated from precious metals such as gold and platinum, precious and semi-precious stones including diamonds, peridots, Mali garnets and is crafted in New York City. Ward Kelvin's beautiful jewelry comes with a serious price tag and the Bamboo Cuff shown above retails for $20,450. The pieces can be found at Bergdorf Goodman in New York and this coming April at Nieman Marcus in San Francisco. As with many of the more unique jewelry collections you will not find the items online but need to call the stores directly for details.

Gallery: Ward Kelvin Jewelry

LuxistWard Kelvin Jewelry Designer originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bergdorf GoodmanBergdorfGoodmanchinoiseriediamondgoldnieman marcusNiemanMarcusWard KelvinWardKelvinThu, 21 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Diamonds in the Rain]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/19/diamonds-in-the-rain/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/19/diamonds-in-the-rain/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/19/diamonds-in-the-rain/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sandra Bullock at the 2010 Golden GlobesThe Golden Globe Awards are a pleasure to watch, but not nearly as much fun as the preceding red carpet. It's there that we get to see the gowns, the tuxes, and, of course, the jewelry.

Whatever, dresses. Let's talk about diamonds.

The winning ladies of the Golden Globes were:
  • Sandra Bullock (pictured) for The Blind Side
  • Meryl Streep for Julie & Julia
  • Mo'Nique for Precious
  • Julianna Margulies for The Good Wife
  • Toni Collette for The United States of Tara
  • Drew Barrymore for Grey Gardens
  • Chloë Sevigny for Big Love
Now, let's have a look at their jewelry, shall we? Designers of winners' jewelry included Everlon, Fred Leighton, Buccellati, Lorraine Schwartz and Neil Lane. While we weren't too sure about all of everyone's accessories (we could have done without the costumey details on Drew's dress and drabness of Meryl's belt), the jewelry this year was stunning and demure -- a far cry from last year's statement pieces.

In truth, we miss the giant stones and enormous diamond-encrusted flowers, but we've always had a taste for decadence and excess. The good news is that for those of us not fortunate enough to buy (or be loaned) 40 carat earrings, this year's styles are far easier to emulate for a fraction of the price.

Gallery: Jewelry of the 2010 Golden Globe Winners

Chloe SevignyMo'NiqueDrew BarrymoreToni ColletteSandra Bullock

Special thanks to the Diamond Information Center.

LuxistDiamonds in the Rain originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chloe SevignyChloeSevignydiamondsdrew barrymoreDrewBarrymoregolden globe awardsgolden globesgolden globes 2010GoldenGlobeAwardsGoldenGlobesGoldenGlobes2010jewelryjulianna marguliesJuliannaMarguliesmeryl streepMerylStreepmoniquesandra bullockSandraBullocktoni colletteToniColletteTue, 19 Jan 2010 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Soccer Star's Earring Sold For Big Bucks]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/15/soccer-stars-earring-sells-for-big-bucks/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/15/soccer-stars-earring-sells-for-big-bucks/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/15/soccer-stars-earring-sells-for-big-bucks/#commentsFiled under: ,


At the start of the month I mentioned that Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona's earrings would be auctioned off to help pay his huge 36 million tax debt in Italy. BusinessWeek reports that the earring (turns out it was just the one) sold for an astounding 25,000 euros ($36,220) at the auction organized by the Italian financial police. The earring was purchased by an unidentified woman at the auction in the city of Bolzano and was only valued at around 4,000 euros. The winner also gets a copy of the police's charge sheet with Maradona's signature.

Italy's finance police had seized the earring from Maradona when he was in Italy in September at at a weight-loss clinic. The star, who now coaches Argentina's team, has struggled with his weight for years. Maradona racked up the debt during his time playing for Napoli in the late 1980s-early 1990s. The financial police have been persistent about getting the money back, in 2005 they took the fee he'd earned for testing his twinkle toes in the Italian version of the television show "Dancing With the Stars."

LuxistSoccer Star's Earring Sold For Big Bucks originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamondsDiego MaradonaDiegoMaradonasoccertax debtTaxDebtFri, 15 Jan 2010 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Anna Hu, Custom Jeweler to the Lucky]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/15/anna-hu-custom-jeweler-to-the-lucky/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/15/anna-hu-custom-jeweler-to-the-lucky/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/15/anna-hu-custom-jeweler-to-the-lucky/#commentsFiled under: ,

Anna Hu"In the Chinese folktale, we have this god, the god of the moon. He's quite old, he's like Zeus in mythology. He ties red strings around babies before they are born, and then they are destined to be together. So, it's very symbolic."

Anna Hu (right) sat across the table from me at her shop beneath the legendary Plaza Hotel, presiding over a collection of flawless stones worth millions, arranged neatly by color like baubles in a bead shop. On my wrist I wore the bracelet version of this knot ring (below) -- probably the only one in existence. The highest volume of any item Hu has ever produced, with the exception of the linked items at Kabiri at Selfridges, is three.

"The technique is to really feel like a red string. At first, I was going to make it as a bangle, and then I thought, 'But people could copy that.' So, I converted it. The shape of the heart is stable, but [the rest] is flexible."

"Would you give it to someone who was getting married?" I asked.

"It's more of a romance-related item. I created the item because a lot of couples are so deeply in love with each other, but if the timing's not right ... before marriage, why don't we have a pre-bridal collection? We could call it 'Romance.'"

Ruby Knot BraceletAnna Hu is a jewelry designer who came to America from Taiwan as a cello prodigy when she was 14 years old to attend Walnut Hill, a prestigious arts boarding school. She went on to The New England Conservatory of Music, but hurt her shoulder. It was then that she decided to join the family business; her father is a gems dealer. "I went to my father. It was all meant to be," she said humbly. The pain of losing her first love to an injury was palpable as she talked about the switch:

"Well, I hurt my shoulder, so what could I do?"

Apparently, a lot. Hu went on to obtain a masters degree in Art History from Parsons School of Design and a second in Arts Administration at Columbia University, as well as a Graduate Gemologist Degree from the Gemological Institute of America. She started her jewelry brand at age 29.

Hu's music background is more than evident in her work. She is inspired by music and musicians she meets, such as Madonna, for whom she has created several pieces. She listens to music while she designs, and can remember exactly what she was listening to when she looks at her completed works.

"I have to listen to music," says Hu. "Rachmaninoff, Bach, sometimes I can only listen to Pacanini ... I feel all the technical challenge, and like, convert it into jewelry." ... "I have this sense of illusion of movement. If a jewelry piece cannot move, I have to make it look as though it's moving."

Gallery: Anna Hu - One of a Kind Designer

Anna HuThe PaletteMedusa RingMedusa RingMelisande Ring

Continue reading Anna Hu, Custom Jeweler to the Lucky

LuxistAnna Hu, Custom Jeweler to the Lucky originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Anna HuAnnaHudesigner interviewDesignerInterviewhaute joaillerieHauteJoaillerieinterviewjewelryjewelry designersJewelryDesignersMadonnathe plazaThePlazaFri, 15 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BR Republic Jewelry Makes Gems for Your Martial Side]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/14/br-republic-jewelry-makes-gems-for-your-martial-side/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/14/br-republic-jewelry-makes-gems-for-your-martial-side/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/14/br-republic-jewelry-makes-gems-for-your-martial-side/#commentsFiled under:



London jewelers BR Republic have launched their latest line, and it's worth a look if you'd like to accentuate your inner historical warrior. On the most, well, spartan, side there are pieces like the sterling silver Spartan pendant finished with black rhodium. A couple of steps up are masks finished with rose gold and .15 or .20 ct of round, brilliant-cut diamonds.

The top of the heap is where you'll find items like the sterling silver Spartan mask ring encrusted with 1.5 ct of diamond-cut round black sapphires, black rhodium and an interior plated with red gold. That's the one Beyoncé bought for Jay Z, while she opted for the bespoke ram's head in silver, sapphire and gold. The Prodigy's Maxim, on the other hand, went for the bespoke grenade with red gold pull-out pin.

Away from the battlefield are the company's silver and sapphire star rings, which could be the best way to let someone know "Baby, I'm a...." BR Republic is stocked at Harvey Nichols in London and Justice in Bath.

LuxistBR Republic Jewelry Makes Gems for Your Martial Side originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beyoncebr republicBrRepublicdiamondsJay-Zjewelrymens jewelryMensJewelryThu, 14 Jan 2010 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Wright & Teague $6,000 Platinum Bee Cufflinks]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/08/wright-and-teague-6-000-platinum-bee-cufflinks/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/08/wright-and-teague-6-000-platinum-bee-cufflinks/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/08/wright-and-teague-6-000-platinum-bee-cufflinks/#commentsFiled under: ,

Couture jewelry firm Wright & Teague of Mayfair, London, are offering a stunning and precious pair of pure platinum bee cufflinks for $6,000. All Wright & Teague jewelry is handmade in England in the firm's own workshop and hallmarked by the London Assay Office to authenticate the purity of the precious metals. Founded by Gary Wright and Sheila Teague, who studied at London's Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design, the firm's motto is "Glamour with gravitas." "The seeming immutability of precious metals is transformed through a precise, intuitive understanding of craftsmanship driven by the energy of innovative ideas to become an object of serene beauty," they note. Wright & Teague have received many film commissions including creating the historically accurate jewelry worn by Cate Blanchett in Elizabeth and Elizabeth: The Golden Age.

LuxistWright & Teague $6,000 Platinum Bee Cufflinks originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beesCate BlanchettCateBlanchettcufflinksLondonMayfairplatinumprecious metalsPreciousMetalsWright TeagueWrightTeagueFri, 08 Jan 2010 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[The Over-the-Top World of Tony Duquette]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/03/the-over-the-top-world-of-tony-duquette/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/03/the-over-the-top-world-of-tony-duquette/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/03/the-over-the-top-world-of-tony-duquette/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The over-the-top world of the late L.A.-based artist and designer Tony Duquette, creative Svengali to some of the most renowned Hollywood celebrities and tastemakers of the 20th century, is beautifully presented in a new book aptly titled More Is More by his longtime associate Hutton Wilkinson. With a foreword by another master of stylish excess, Dior designer John Galliano, the book explores Duquette's personal philosophy and the artistic credo that inspired him to create his fantastic artwork, sculptures, jewelry, gardens, and luxurious, theatrical interiors. Wilkinson provides a privileged glimpse into Duquette's fascinating private life, showing him at work in the studio, at the lavish celebrity-packed parties he and his wife held at Dawnridge, their eye-popping Beverly Hills estate, and on his whirlwind international tours.

LuxistThe Over-the-Top World of Tony Duquette originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 03 Jan 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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