Lise Ferreira Vanrycke is a young designer born in Paris, “in the heart of the 9 arrondissement”, she explains. But she has Portuguese blood in her veins: she is the daughter of a father from the Algarve, while her mother is from Aveiro, a city on the west coast of Portugal. Vanrycke is instead the name of her husband. Lise It has a very pleasant, linear, clean, modern style. But at the same time hot. Graduated in applied arts in the French capital, she had the ambition to become a painter or photographer. She instead she created the Vanrycke brand in 2000 after having participated in some shows, while she was taking her first steps in the world of jewelry.
After exhibiting the jewelry in a salon, she almost simultaneously received an order from Japan and she realized that her professional life would be in jewelry design. The designer feels very Parisian and so is her style: refined, cultured, rich. But also accessible. If you like them, her jewels, which are sold all over the world (in Paris, in particular, also at Bon Marché and Galeries Lafayette, but also at Harrods, in London), can also be found online.
Elke Berr’s new color
At 17 she went to Sri Lanka to buy the first stones, which she needed to illustrate the gemology thesis attached to her school diploma in Germany: it is not surprising that Elke Berr has become a jewelery expert who focuses everything on the magnificence of emeralds, amethysts , rubies etc. But also a lot about design, sometimes in a minimal style. The designer, in any case, who defines herself as a stone hunter, even though she opened her jewelry company in Geneva, Berr & Partners, together with her husband, Thomas. Which is now simply called Elke Berr Créations Genève.
The designer and gemologist focuses above all on special gems, different from others, such as sapphires and rubies (strictly unheated) and spinels in Sri Lanka and Burma, while for tourmalines and emeralds the shopping takes place in Brazil and Colombia, opals and agate from ‘Africa. But after 20 years of activity (Elke Berr was founded in Geneva in 2003), she now focuses above all on design, originality, surprising proposals. For example, with a capsule collection dedicated to men, Rock’N Rose.
Can an engagement ring be colored?
A ring with a colored gem instead of the classic white diamond? You can.
Perhaps it will be surprising for many, but the engagement ring must not necessarily be linked to the classic white diamond. Mind you: a rim in white gold with a brilliant and fourteenth -century diamond or six rebbi (the Tiffany frame) that block the gem, are fine. Indeed, such a ring has the advantage of being able to be worn on any occasion, with any dress, at any phase of life. It is necessary to know, however, that this type of ring is a fairly recent convention.
1 When do you give an engagement ring as a gift?
2 The 10 etiquette rules for the engagement ring
3 How to choose the engagement ring
4 Engagement ring: 5 things to know
5 Women dissatisfied with the engagement ring
6 Women willing to pay for their engagement ring
7 Colored Engagement Rings
The rings that for centuries have accompanied a request for engagement, a commitment for marriage, or simply were a testimony to the love of a man towards a woman, they were not the solitaire. Indeed, more often a colorful gem was chosen, from ruby to sapphire. It was, and it is still, a choice appreciated by women, the more the ring is made with generous size stones.
Therefore, it is completely legitimate to give an engagement ring with a precious or semi-predious gem. Just remember Diana Spencer’s famous engagement ring, with a large blue sapphire surrounded by a diamond crown. But it is not the only example of engagement ring with colored gems. Although there are also those who, like Jennifer Lopez, have received a ring with diamond, but of green shades, a very rare color for this type of gem.
However, the choice of an engagement ring with colored gems must be performed carefully, because there is the danger of exaggerating. A ring full of colorful gems, very lively and flashy is not indicated as an engagement ring. Rather, it is what is called a cocktail ring, which suits, precisely, for parties or worldly occasions. An engagement ring, however, will often be worn on several occasions: it will therefore have to be sober, without excess, to be able to combine with any dress, both during moments of leisure, and in the office or during a ceremony.
The precious dreams of Morphée
The refined collections of Morphée Joaillerie.
Morpheus is a myth associated with sleep, peace and tranquility. But in the jewelery shop he evokes a Parisian Maison («a few steps from the famous Place Vendôme») that wants to «crystallize the dreams of mankind through the use of gold and precious stones». Morphée Joaillerie, on the other hand, arose from the dreams of Belgian designer Pamela Hastry. Her jewels are limited edition, just like the wishes that can be realized, but with the possibility of producing them to measure. Pamela learned her trade in London, refined it in Rome, and sells it in Paris. Ah, Pamela Hastry is also a gemologist. In short, a first class trip.
Skilled French artisans transform her ideas into collections based on cherry blossoms, butterflies, buttercups and forget-me-nots. But also Make a Wish or Millésime. If the ingredients on Morphée’s menu are not surprising (gold, precious stones), the lightness and composition of the individual pieces are completely original. A symbolic collection, in the high jewelery line, is Florealis, which uses diamonds and rubellite for jewels inspired by the delicate and complicated patterns of flowers. The Maison also recently renewed its website.
Carlo Barberis, style & tradition
The Carlo Barberis company holds the oldest brand of manufacturing active in the area of Valenza, one of the historical places of Italian jewelry. With that pedigree behind him, the young company’s CEO, Francesco Barberis, has a great responsibility. After the sudden death of his father, Gianni Barberis, the entrepreneur has taken the reins of the Maison with his brothers, Maria, Alessandro and Lorenzo. For the brand, born in 1929 in an open laboratory by Carlo Barberis, it is cominiciata so a second phase.
Without, however, that it would upset the stylistic imprint and, above all, the quality of collections, which continue to be full of virtuoso mix of colored stones, diamonds simple, sumptuous frames, precious metals. In short, a concentrate of what is the goldsmith tradition that was born and thrives around Alexandria. No coincidence that Francesco Barberis also became president of the goldsmiths of Valenza. Judging by the creativity that continues to fuel the Maison of Piedmont, its role is right.
The treasure of Omi Privé
From Burma to the USA: the surprising stones and jewels of the Maison Omi Privé ♦
The rubies of Burma are the most precious. No wonder, then, that in the country of Southeast Asia are born expert gemologists. As Omi Nagpal, descendant of a family of stones traders for five generations. But the political climate, to say the least, from many years is not conducive to Burma. So Omi and his wife Preeti have emigrated to the United States with a handful of gems in your pocket. The experience in precious stones has become over the years a luxury jewelry brand, Omi Privé, based in Los Angeles. Now the company is led by the son of Omi, Niveet. Without deviating from the style that has at its center, (guess what?) very large, rare and bright gemstones. Also very uncommon: in addition to rubies, sapphires there are, the iridescent alexandrite stones.
Note that the emphasis is not only about the stones: the majority of the stems for Omi Privé rings, explain to the House, they are specifically formed from drawn wire, a method that dates back to Roman times. This system forms a thick, without porosity. Stated this, just take a look jewels to be impressed by the quality and quantity of precious stones used. They would envy even to the cave with Aladdin’s treasure.
A stage at the opera for Schreiber
Milan, the capital of design. But also of jewelry stores: there are some, like Schreiber, with a long and pleasant tradition, which continues to renew ♦
Simplicity is the antechamber of elegance, and the good taste is in the next room. Schreiber, from longtime Milanese jeweler (the third generation, with Giacomo and Federico) has not problems to support the silver with enamel with classic collections in gold and precious stones.
The jewels made with the least expensive silver, though, do not forget the daisy, the symbol of the jewelry that was founded in 1948 and now operates again in the center, in via Borgospesso. In perfect Milanese style, the jeweler offers a luxury not scream, although don’t has limits in value elements, such as the gems selected by the founder’s son, Giacomo, who after graduating from the Gia, personally chooses the stones to be used for the collections. The style is one that combines modernity with classic dedication to luxury: gold, often white, with alternating stones, often mounted in the classical form daisy. In short, jewelry that are perfect for a premiere at the Teatro alla Scala.
Clean the jewels with ketchup, beer and vodka
Tomato ketchup, vodka or beer to clean your jewelry. Yes, you can. If you do not have anything better at hand … ♦
At the table with jewels. To clean them. According to somebody, there are many ways to make brighter necklaces, rings and earrings: just use some products that are usually used in the kitchen. For example, ketchup, beer and vodka. Attention: we are not advising to follow these indications, especially for your most precious jewels. But, who knows, maybe it works …
For example, a bowl of ketchup can clean a ring dipped in red sauce after 5 or 10 minutes. Don’t leaving the jewel in contact with the sauce for too long: could cause damage. Clean everything with a toothbrush and rinse. Another useful food is beer: just pour a little on a clean cloth and rub gently to revive the gold. Better not to try, however, on light plating, and do not use dark beer.
Alcohol also likes diamonds: a small glass of vodka can restore brightness to the stones, but also to zirconia and crystal. Just pour the vodka on a soft cloth and carefully clean the jewels, or immerse the jewel in a glass full of the Russian liquor par excellence. Those who are teetotalers are consoled: sparkling water is excellent for resurrecting the splendor of the gems. Immerse a jewel with stones embedded in a glass with sparkling mineral water. Let it rest overnight: in the morning everything will be more shiny.
And after lunch? Brushing your teeth is a good hygiene rule. While you are there, however, you can use toothbrush and toothpaste on metal jewels or stones like diamonds or rubies. Then, rinse (before returning to the table).
Brusi and the asymmetric nature
The jewels of the small Milanese Maison Brusi, founded in 1930 ♦
Brusi is part of the many stories of Italian jewelry. A story that began in Milan in 1920, when the young Pietro Codari, a young goldsmith, started his business and opened a laboratory. The story continued: in 1970 his son Paolo inherited his laboratory and profession. Over time the company has expanded and has refined its vocation. Today, Paolo, Andrea and Simone, Paolo Codari’s three children, work in the family business and are responsible for the creative, financial and commercial management of Brusi.
The company, located in a historic area of the city, between the Monumental Cemetery of Milan and the Chinese quarter, offers good quality pieces, based on gold, diamonds and precious stones. Rings with champagne diamond pavé and precious stones such as tanzanite are the workhorses. Always with the style of «almost symmetry». That is, that difference from the perfect geometric specularity that is often found in nature. The goal is to present jewelry in harmony with nature, thanks to this natural asymmetry. Subtle but interesting concept.
How to measure a ring to give as a gift
Do you want to know how to measure a ring? Here is a quick way to know the size of your ring or what you want to give as a gift. It can also be used if you want to buy a ring abroad, perhaps on the internet.
In short, how to measure a ring? How to calculate the size of an engagement ring? Knowing the exact size can be useful, for example, even if you want to give a ring for an anniversary. So, if you learn about the size of a ring you can choose one even without going to a jewelry store, for example if you want to buy one online. In all these cases the question is the same: will the size of the ring be right? Is there a risk of buying a ring of the wrong size?
Sure, don’t worry. Even if the size is not quite right, the rings can be tightened or widened later. But the result is not always satisfactory and, in any case, it is an additional cost.
Also read How to tighten or widen a ring
There is another case where knowing the right ring size is useful: when you are abroad you may find that not all countries use the same measure to indicate the circumference of your finger. That is why we can serve the table that we publish on this page and showing the different measures used around the world.
First, though, you need to accomplish a simple task. Take a ring of the right size and use a wire to measure very accurately the circumference of the ring. The best thing, for safety reasons, is to repeat the same operation circling your finger on which you want to wear the ring with the same thin rope: the two measures should match. You can also measure the diameter of a ring, but is less straightforward to obtain a precise dimension.
Read also: How to find the ring size
At this point you have got the measure of the ring inner circumference. Now you can compare the size of the inner circumference of your ring with measures that appear in the table. For example, if you live in Italy, Switzerland or the Netherlands (or other Western European countries) and have a circumference of 42.9 mm, the size of your ring is the number 3. But if you were in New York the measure would be 2 and a half and in London the measure would be E. For people using inches is also reported this type of measure. Now you know how to do to know the extent of the right ring for you.
Here is the table that summarizes the sizes of the rings
Circonferenza interna | Taglie dell'anello | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
(inch) | (Mm) | Usa, Canada, Messico | Gb, Irlanda, Australia, Nuova Zelanda | Cina, Giappone, Sud America | India | Europa continentale | |
1.44 | 36.5 | 0 | |||||
1.46 | 37.2 | ¼ | |||||
1.49 | 37.8 | ½ | UN | ||||
1.51 | 38.5 | ¾ | ½ | ||||
1.54 | 39.1 | 1 | B | 1 | |||
1.56 | 39.7 | 1 ¼ | B½ | ||||
1.59 | 40.4 | 1½ | C | 0.5 | |||
1.61 | 41 | 1¾ | C½ | 1 | 1 | ||
1.64 | 41.7 | 2 | D | 2 | 2 | 1.75 | |
1.67 | 42.3 | 2¼ | D½ | 2.25 | |||
1.69 | 42.9 | 2½ | E | 3 | 3 | 3 | |
1.72 | 43.6 | 2¾ | E½ | 4 | 3.5 | ||
1.74 | 44.2 | 3 | F | 4 | 4.25 | ||
1.77 | 44.8 | 3¼ | F½ | 5 | 5 | 4.75 | |
1.79 | 45.5 | 3½ | sol | 5.5 | |||
1.82 | 46.1 | 3¾ | G½ | 6 | 6 | 6 | |
1.84 | 46.8 | 4 | H | 7 | 6.75 | ||
1.87 | 47.4 | 4¼ | H½ | 7 | 7.5 | ||
1.89 | 48 | 4½ | io | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
1.92 | 48.7 | 4¾ | J | 9 | 8.75 | ||
1.94 | 49.3 | 5 | J½ | 9 | 9.25 | ||
1.97 | 50 | 5 ¼ | K | 10 | 10 | ||
1.99 | 50.6 | 5½ | K½ | 10 | 10.5 | ||
2.02 | 51.2 | 5¾ | L | 11 | 11.25 | ||
2.04 | 51.9 | 6 | L½ | 11 | 12 | 11.75 | |
2.07 | 52.5 | 6¼ | M | 12 | 12.5 | ||
2.09 | 53.1 | 6½ | M½ | 13 | 13 | 13.25 | |
2.12 | 53.8 | 6¾ | N | 13.75 | |||
2.14 | 54.4 | 7 | N½ | 14 | 14 | 14.5 | |
2.17 | 55.1 | 7¼ | O | 15 | 15 | ||
2.19 | 55.7 | 7½ | ؽ | 15 | 15.75 | ||
2.22 | 56.3 | 7¾ | P | 16 | 16.25 | ||
2.24 | 57 | 8 | P½ | 16 | 17 | 17 | |
2.27 | 57.6 | 8¼ | Q | 17.5 | |||
2.29 | 58.3 | 8½ | Q½ | 17 | 18 | 18.25 | |
2.32 | 58.9 | 8¾ | R | 19 | 19 | ||
2.34 | 59.5 | 9 | R½ | 18 | 19.5 | ||
2.37 | 60.2 | 9 ¼ | S | 20 | 20.25 | ||
2.39 | 60.8 | 9½ | S½ | 19 | 21 | 20.75 | |
2.42 | 61.4 | 9¾ | T | 21.5 | |||
2.44 | 62.1 | 10 | T½ | 20 | 22 | 22 | |
2.47 | 62.7 | 10¼ | U | 21 | 23 | 22.75 | |
2.49 | 63.4 | 10½ | U½ | 22 | 23.25 | ||
2.52 | 64 | 10¾ | V | 24 | 24 | ||
2.54 | 64.6 | 11 | V½ | 23 | 25 | 24.75 | |
2.57 | 65.3 | 11¼ | W | 25.25 | |||
2.59 | 65.9 | 11½ | W½ | 24 | 26 | 26 | |
2.62 | 66.6 | 11 ¾ | X | 26.5 | |||
2.65 | 67.2 | 12 | X½ | 25 | 27 | 27.25 | |
2.67 | 67.8 | 12¼ | Y | 28 | 27.75 | ||
2.7 | 68.5 | 12½ | Z | 26 | 28.5 | ||
2.72 | 69.1 | 12¾ | Z½ | 29 | 29 | ||
2.75 | 69.7 | 13 | 27 | 30 | 29.75 | ||
2.77 | 70.4 | 13¼ | Z1 | 30.5 | |||
2.8 | 71 | 13½ | 31 | 31 | |||
2.82 | 71.7 | 13¾ | Z2 | 32 | 31.75 | ||
2.85 | 72.3 | 14 | Z3 | 32.25 | |||
2.87 | 72.9 | 14¼ | 33 | 33 | |||
2.9 | 73.6 | 14½ | Z4 | 33.5 | |||
2.92 | 74.2 | 14¾ | 34 | 34.25 | |||
2.95 | 74.8 | 15 | 35 | 34.75 | |||
2.97 | 75.5 | 15¼ | 35.5 | ||||
3 | 76.1 | 15½ | 36 | 36.25 | |||
3.02 | 76.8 | 15¾ | 36.75 | ||||
3.05 | 77.4 | 16 | 37 | 37.5 |
Salvatore Arzani, hearts, flowers and fantasy
Pavé diamonds, gold, sapphires … These are the classic materials used to make Salvatore Arzani jewels ♦
One of the many luxury craft workshops that are found in Valenza is Salvatore Arzani. It is a small company, but with great quality, so it can sells abroad most of its production. As often happens in the Piedmont town, the company is the daughter of a long tradition. Together with the wife of founder, daughters and a dozen virtuosos of embedding, engraving and welding machine, the small brand is a kind of summary of what the Italian craftsmanship and design in jewelery.
For example, with a collection of unique pieces in 18 carat gold and diamonds, with extensive use of colored stones that dot the large rings that make up the chains. Even collections such as Fantasia, in any case, follow the classical canons of diamonds, whites, blacks or colored stones like sapphires pavé that make sometimes resemble mosaics and a winding arabesques. Bracelets, big rings, pendants in the shape of hearts or flowers, are the cornerstones of signed Salvatore Arzani jewelry.
China in Milan with Michela Bruni Reichlin
The jewels of Michela Bruni Reichlin, the Milanese designer with a Monte Napoleone style ♦
Daughter of a former ambassador to Beijing, with a prominent family behind, wife of a designer who works in New York (Riccardo Gambaccini): Michela Bruni Reichlin designs jewelry and sells them in his boutique in Milan. It is not just a simple street: it’s Via Monte Napoleone, one of the world’s luxury shopping streets. But the jewels of Michela Bruni Reichlin also have another aspect that distinguishes them: they are between East and West, the result of many trips to China in the period (late nineties) in which the father, Paolo Bruni, represented Italy. The experience in China is also the basis of some of the stylistic choices: for example, the use of jade, but also some of iconographic motifs, such as dragons or masks. It is not, however, a jewelry store that mimics an ethnic style, even though he loves the combination of semi-precious stones such as jade, agate, coral, onyx and turquoise with gold and diamonds.
In short, if she were a chef, the designer would proposes a fusion menu, with large variations: there are jewels that can be assimilated to luxury jewelery, up to those proposed to several thousand euro. Another aspect to be emphasized: all the earrings are made of two parts, an upper and a pendant. They are interchangeable jewelry, so as to multiply the combinations. Basically, if you buy two pieces if they get four. An optional that is appreciated, and not only by Milanese customers.
The Finnish brand Kalevala Jewelry presents, among others, the Kosmos collection designed by the Italian Antonio Mazzamauro ♦
The big chill jewelry. Or, if you prefer, the favorite jewelry by the Finns. Kalevala Jewelry is one of the most popular brands ever in the Scandinavian country. The company has a long history: it was founded by a writer, Elsa Heporauta, in 1930, in a fairly random fashion. In fact, her goal was to raise funds to erect a statue in honor of the Finnish woman.
Elsa and other women have decided to make and sell jewelry inspired by those from the Viking era. They started with the selection of 40 models from the historical collections of the National Museum of Finland. The first collection was in 1937 and debuted at a tea party with the First Lady of Finland, Kaisa Kallio. But the Second World War interrupted the project. The company, however, was reborn in 1947 and the brand has focused on new designers. The business took off. This is not a small craft brand: is a company that produces jewelry with Nordic design, but mass. With some differences, it is a kind of Ikea of jewels. Everything, however, is produced in Finland, bronze, silver or gold. With the success the dream of Elsa Heporauta finally came true and the statue of the Finnish woman resides in the premises of Kalevala jewelry factory in Pitäjänmäki, Helsinki. If you like, the jewelry are also sold online.
What to do if the ring bends
What to do if a ring is warped? There are easy remedies, but not always. Here are the solutions.
It can happen after lifting a suitcase or a bag of heavy spending. Or when you suddenly grabs a solid element, maybe a handle in a car or bus during a curve. The result is often the same: the worn ring is deformed, sometimes with an oval shape, in other cases with a well visible fold. What to do in these cases?
What to do with a warped ring
It depends. Before working on a folded ring, it’s better to observe how it is constructed. The easier to straighten are those simple rings, made with a band, like wedding rings. If they are composed only of metal, it is possible to get them back to their original shape in two ways. The first way is to lay the ring on a rigid surface, for example, stone or metal, cover the ring with a cloth, put over a book and over a weigh. It may take a bit of time before the metal comes back stright. This system works if the ring has lost its uniform thickness and has no stones.
What to do if the ring has become oval
More complicated to return perfectly round a ring that has become oval or has an irregularity due, for example, for a blow. And even more risky it is to intervene if the ring has a stone: ti’s possible loosen the jaws that hold it firm. But the worst case is that of a ring with pavé: move the metal can damage the surface with small stones embedded or glued. If, instead, the ring is a simple metal band, the best thing is to use a mandrel, that is a mechanical device which allows to tighten and hold any piece of circular shape, and act with a small hammer from jeweler.
If the metal is soft, for example a gold ring 18 or 24 carat (white gold and platinum are much more resistant), a simple metal cone or of very hard material can be used to bring back the perfectly circular ring : just slip it from above, perhaps after having warmed it in water, and try to push it down.
But the surest way to right a ring is this: bring it to a jeweler, he will know what is best to do.
All about topaz, one of the most mysterious stones. It is also the stone of the month of November ♦
It is the stone of the month of November (with citrine), but the topaz is also one of the gems coveted since antiquity. There is, however, a point against him: if it is blue shade is often confused with other stones less valuable, as aquamarine and apatite. Other times, the topaz is mistaken for smoky quartz or citrine. Care must be taken, therefore, because often a simple quartz is sold as topaz. And to say that the topaz can be just as precious as diamonds or sapphires.
The name. It’s called topaz for centuries. But what does the name? According to some, the term dates back to a small island in the Red Sea, Topazos. Here the Romans, according to this version, extracted the stones called, precisely, Topazos. Too bad, in real world they are not on topaz on island, but the stones are now classified as peridot. So much so that the island nowadays has changed its name: it is called Zabargad, which in Arabic means just peridot. The misunderstanding, however, is not solved. So? Another version traces the name topaz to Sanskrit, the classical language of ancient India. In Sanskrit, the word topas means fire. The mystery continues.
Composition. The topaz is from a geological point of view a silicate mineral of aluminum and fluorine. It is crystallized in prism shape, ending in pyramidal faces. Chemically, the aluminum silicate is highly similar in structure to the zircon. In theory, the topaz is a mineral allocromatico, that is pure is colorless. In fact, it is often found with traces of chromium, manganese or iron. These elements are those that stain the topaz, turning red, pink, blue-green, blue (natural), pink-orange, yellow-brown, yellow-orange (cherry), yellow, colorless.
Where is it. The topaz brown, yellow, orange, cherry, red and pink, are located in Brazil and Sri Lanka. The pink topaz found in Pakistan and Russia. It is a mineral rich enough (there is even one that weighs 300 kilograms), an aspect that keeps a relatively low price.
Characteristics. Sometimes the topaz has inclusions equivalents: according to experts, in some blue topaz you can have even the impression of a sort of floating. Attention: the color of the natural stone tends to fade in the sunlight. For this reason, a lot of topaz are treated. In some cases they are heated up to about 450 degrees celsius. In this case the topaz brown-orange get pink. Or become colorless. Another system is the radiation. Exposed to radiation from cobalt 60, topazes that are colorless or pale color, acquire a deeper shade. Experts assure that this treatment with radiation is not dangerous.
How to clean topaz. Topaz is ranked eighth on the Mohs scale, which measures the hardness of stones (in first place is the diamond ranked 10). Topaz, therefore, is a fairly hard and resistant stone. The greatest danger is that it will chip when hitting a harder material, or get scratched. But, as far as cleaning is concerned, it does not need special care. Just immerse the jewel for about ten minutes in a container with warm water and a couple of drops of liquid soap. Then, gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Finally, it dries with a cloth.
The body art by Anissa Kermiche
Anissa Kermiche, a designer with the temptation of small provocations that enhance the female body, but not just ♦ ︎
From engineer become a jeweler: it is not a usual the Anissa Kermiche path. Born in Paris to a French-Algerian marriage, had, she says, a strict upbringing. Perhaps for that, or perhaps as a reaction to the engineering profession, after graduating he flew to London to learn 3D Computer Aided Design at Holts Academy in Hatton Gardens. She wanted to create jewelry. And she managed quite well. Now its brand, Anissa Kermiche, includes jewelry in gold and diamonds and a pinch of provocation, as the earrings with the challenge finger raised, or pendant depicting a naked woman torso. In short, exactly what one would not expect from a girl with degree in engineering.
Moreover, it also boasts a very pretty appearance, perhaps even more than pretty, and so it is a perfect ambassador of herself. Of course, in her jewelry there isn’t shortage of geometric references. But she prefers to be inspired by artists such as Francois Morellet, Alexander Calder and Constantin Brancusi. So he decided the destiny: the streets to jewelry are endless.
How to choose a jewel with 9 step
Do not you know which jewel to choose?
If you are unsure about which ring, necklace, earring or bracelet choose, read these nine tips: they will help you choose the right jewel for your occasion.
Tell the truth: How many times in the morning do you put on the usual necklace that “is so good about everything”? Or always the same ring? Not to mention earrings: they should co-ordinate with the shape of the face as well as with the clothing. Jewelery is very different from each other and before you wear or buy one (or donate it) it is good to have the ideas clear. Here are 9 steps to decide how and what to choose. Take note!
1 Determine what you want to get from the jewel. Do you want it in the center of the scene? Do you point to receiving compliments? Or should it be an almost invisible accessory that accompanies the look, but without focusing attention? In the first case, for example, an oversized necklace must be seen. Or very large earrings: circle or pendants. But beware: both the necklace and the earrings can enhance, but they also risk exposing an aspect of your body.
2 Every jewel is a message to others. So every jewel has its right time to be worn. For example, an oversized choker can be fun for an evening in town with friends or partners, but it does not look good for the office or a business appointment unless your office is particularly tolerant or populated by creative people who love break the rules. In general, on work places are more appreciated by the little-looking, traditional jewelery, the better if it is the bridal ring or engagement.
3 If you need to buy a jewel, think about how long it should last. The robustness and quality of the workmanship and material is not always the same and can determine the number of times you wear it. A bijoux that costs a few tens of euros will hardly keep shine and will be deformed by use, unless you keep it closed in a drawer. But, at the same time, a very precious gem should not be worn continually, because stones and metal wear out or scratch.
4 How much do you want to spend? It’s not a trivial question: often those who go into a jewelry store have no idea how much money is needed or how much they are willing to pay off. Result: The buyer comes out of the store with something different from what he had imagined. Before get on a jewel, take a look around the internet and get an idea. Maybe browsing pages of Gioiellis.com.
5 Before buying it, it would be good to try jewels. It is difficult for a jeweler, unless it is crazy, to rent you necklaces and earrings. But at least in the shop do not be in a hurry and ask to wear what you like. Look closely at the mirror, calmly, and imagine wearing other suits than those you have at that time.
6 Handmade jewelery or series products, such as those of major brands? There are pros and cons. Craft jewelry to be of great quality requires more working hours and, therefore, are more expensive for the same materials used. On the other hand, they may be more original. On the other hand, if it is not a big jewelery maison, there is a risk of discovering some imperfection after you’ve bought them. Jewelery produced in series, on the contrary, have a lower price and a homogeneous standard: no surprises. They are also simpler to resell. But, of course, much less original.
7 Which metal is better for you? Before purchasing, try the effect on silver and gold skin in its various colors. Also ask what metal alloy is silver or gold combined: they can cause allergies to those who have sensitive skin. Unfortunately, pure gold jewelry, 24-carat, are very rare, as well as very fragile.
8 Choose a homogeneous style for your jewelry: think that after buying it, the new jewel will have to live with those you already have in the drawer. Better to find a design that can accompany you with other pieces of your collection.
9 Do not try to save money: a jewel is also an investment that will keep or re-evaluate over time. But only if it is of quality: weight, value of used stones and machining should be carefully evaluated. Although the most important aspect is another: it should please those who wear it …
True or false? Can gold be recognized with a bite? Is real jade cold? Is cubic zirconia, often confused with zircon, indistinguishable from diamond? Does silver cause allergies? Is 925 the number of perfect silver? Do the reflections of a stone have to be rainbow? These are among the many questions we often receive and their answers.
To check that your jewel of gold genuine need to bite him.
FALSE Pure gold is a very soft metal and, in fact, teeth can easily leave a mark if it is very pure, 24 carats. But biting it is neither a guarantee nor a recommendable test. Furthermore, it can damage your teeth. Not to mention that lead is even softer than gold: a jewel that uses gold-plated lead could easily be mistaken. Furthermore, 18 karat gold is usually used for jewelry, or even less: 14 and even 9 karat. It is gold alloyed with other metals: this makes the gold less malleable and also less expensive. In short, in reality, in addition to gold, we also end up biting other metals such as silver, copper, palladium, nickel.
True or false? To find out if a stone is genuine need to look at it in the light.
TRUE Note: the only truly reliable way to identify a gemstone is the opinion of a gemologist or a jeweler, or laboratory tests. That said, here’s a helpful hint to decide whether it is worthwhile to consider the stone of a ring or a necklace. Place the stone against the sunlight and look at the range of colors it produces. The authentic gemstones usually show a rainbow that will be reflected on a nearby surface. Most of the real gems will produce a full range of colors: the stone closer to the eye and tilt it, you should see a rainbow. The stones that produce nothing are often false. We repeat: it is not a final proof: for some stones, especially those very dense, deep coloring or that were not completely polished, the system may not work. But it is a little test should not be overlooked.
A cubic zirconia is virtually the same as a diamond, only it costs less.
FALSE What is commonly called a zircon is actually a cubic zirconia: an artificial stone that resembles a diamond. It’s brilliant, but much, much cheaper. In fact, it is just very difficult to distinguish it from a real diamond if you are not an expert. It is a cubic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide. It is a very hard synthetic material, optically perfect and usually colorless, although it can be made in a variety of different colors. It should not be confused with natural zircon, a stone composed of zirconium silicate, often blue in color. Cubic zirconia is sometimes mistakenly called “cubic zirconium”. Commercial production began in 1976. Its main competitor as a laboratory-created gem is synthetic moissanite.
The silver cause allergies and skin turns green.
FALSE The color is not caused by an allergy is a reaction to the metals used in jewelry and it is often fused with silver, especially when the skin sweats. In short, it indicates that silver is not pure. It is the copper and silver often result in a green halo on the skin. Sterling silver, for example, is 7.5 percent of an alloy with copper. The most common stains left by Sterling Silver Jewelry, in any case, are black and not green. Some sterling silver jewelry are coated with products that help them to maintain the patina, but the coatings may fade over time.
The number 925 indicates that the jewelry is real silver.
TRUE In the inner part of a jewel, engraving or stamping the number 925 indicates that the material is, in fact 925, the most common alloy. Of course, the warranty covers: nothing prevents that was affixed to a false jewel, but usually not the case for silver.
The Chinese store near your house has rings of jade at a very good price. Can I trust you? They told me that the real jade is cold.
TRUE The temperature is not sufficient proof, but it gives an indication: the jade is poorly conductive. Place it in a sensitive part, for example on the face, it is easy to feel a sensation of cold. Another easy tip is to try to carve the stone with the nail: the true jade is very tough and not show a scratch. The same test can be conducted with a very hot object: the real jade will not show signs of the contact. Finally, authentic jade usually has small imperfections, which are common in nature. A perfect stone should you be born a suspect. In any case, real jade is very expensive.
Ilenia Corti: jewelry, fashion, fantasy, made in Italy, eclecticism, tradition, accessories, dream… ♦︎
In some old photos circulating on the web, she resembles a very bad movie character: Bellatrix Lestrange from the Harry Potter series. In reality Ilenia Corti is not bad, but creative. You are among the designers in the fluid area of fashion which is also most appreciated internationally, as well as by prestigious brands with which you have worked. Names like Dolce & Gabbana, Casadei, Cacharel, Acne Studios, Marimekko, Emilio Pucci, Moschino. But, even if her work is difficult to classify, jewelry is her starting point: she grew up in a family of jewelers, Santagostino di Valenza, active since 1969. And it is Santagostino who creates the collections designed by Ileana.
With a family of jewelers behind her and the atmosphere of Valenza, the Italian capital of high jewellery, the designer adores the Scandinavian atmospheres, the chromatic notes of her uncontaminated landscapes. Her style? Between childhood memories, tropical suggestions, with orchids, poisonous frogs, Amazonian foliage, climbing monkeys, carnivorous plants. The mix of materials used is also eclectic: from diamonds to Swarovski crystals, from silver to simple golden brass. Each creation is modeled and finely carved by hand, right down to the cuts and settings of the stones.
Con alle spalle una famiglia di gioiellieri e l’atmosfera di Valenza, capitale italiana adell’alta gioielleria, la designer adora le atmosfere scandinave, le note cromatiche dei suoi paesaggi incontaminati. Il suo stile?Tra ricordi di infanzia, suggestioni tropicali, con orchidee, rane velenose, foliage amazzonico, scimmie rampicanti, piante carnivore. È eclettico anche il mix di materiali utilizzato: dai diamanti ai cristalli Swarovski, dall’argento al semplice ottone dorato. Ogni creazione è modellata e finemente intagliata a mano, fino ai tagli e alle incastonature delle pietre.
Rings, engagement made in Usa whit Nail Lane
Neil Lane’s jewels are exhibited at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the Richard H. Driehaus Museum and the Kalamazoo Institute of the Arts. But above all they are on the fingers of celebrities ♦
Neil Lane, jeweler who is loved from people that are loved. That is, of celebrity like Miley Cyrus, who was photographed with a ring on the finger of the American designer. There are, then, Reese Witherspoon, Renee Zellweger, Jessica Simpson, Jennifer Hudson, Barbra Streisand, Ellen DeGeneres, Madonna and Angelina Jolie. But, after all, it isn’t important if the finger of one of these stars of the show there is a Neil Lane ring? But if you are planning an engagement or a wedding, it might interest you to know that the American jeweler is a specialist in rings for special occasions. In fact, we propose a selection of its vast range in terms of rings.
A few words about its history: Neil Lane was born in New York, in Brooklyn to be precise. After college, he moved to Paris, where he learned the art of jewelry and started a famous collection of vintage pieces. He moved to Los Angeles and here he conquered Hollywood. Often the engagement rings and wedding of actors and actresses are purchased by him.