gioielli - Page 4

The symbols of jewels

Have you ever thought that jewels are not only ornaments, but also symbols? That’s right: jewels are also messages. Very often they contain symbols that communicate a feeling, an intention, and even a request for help. But these symbols are not always known. Maybe you are wearing a piece of jewelry that has a meaning and you don’t know it. Here, then, are the symbols most used in jewelry and what their meaning is.

Il bracciale My Life In Seven Charms
The My Life In Seven Charms bracelet by Annoushka Dukas

With a premise: every moment of history, every society, every culture has its own symbols. So, a list that includes exactly all the symbols that are used in jewelry would be very long. Furthermore, the symbols used in Asia, for example, are quite different from the Western ones (for example the dragon or the circles). Then there are symbols that need no explanation, such as those linked to the zodiac signs, or the cross, a symbol of the Christian religion.

Anello in oro e diamante
Heart-shaped ring in gold and diamond

Symbols of love
Symbols linked to love are the most used in jewellery. The meaning of the eternity ring, for example, composed of a continuous line of diamonds or other gems along the entire edge of the shank, is easily understandable: the desire for endless love. From mathematics, however, comes the symbol ∞, the sign of infinity which, on a jewel, means forever, eternal love. Furthermore, it is impossible not to mention the heart, an organ which, according to an ancient tradition, contains passions and feelings of love.

Anello con il segno dell'infinito
Ring with the infinity sign

The heart is the most common symbol for love, passion, but also for charity. A crown placed above this symbol wearing it indicates that the one who gave it as a gift is the king of the heart. Another symbol linked to love is the arrow, which according to the ancient Greeks was shot by Cupid to make people fall in love. A lock or padlock protects the heart and, therefore, who you love. A padlock is also used as a union sign that cannot be divided.

Collana a catena con lucchetto, pavé di diamanti
Chain necklace with padlock, pavé diamonds by Zoë Chicco

A key, on the contrary, symbolizes the power to open the heart, therefore access to love and feeling. Or to close off access to other competitors in love. Always among the symbols of love, there are occasionally two shaking hands: they are not the sign of a deal just concluded, but a symbol of loyalty, friendship, alliance in life. But this symbol is used more rarely.

Pendente a forma di chiave in platino e diamanti
Key-shaped pendant in platinum and diamonds from Tiffany

The snake
The snake symbol has different meanings. In the ancient Greek and Roman world it meant a guardian, but also a symbol of wisdom, fertility and creative life force. More recently, however, a snake bracelet has had the meaning of eternal love in the Victorian period. Symbol of sin for the Christian religion, the snake has also become a symbol of carnal passion, of desire.

Bracciale Serpente di Bulgari con turchesi e diamanti
Bulgari Serpente bracelet with turquoises and diamonds

Lucky symbols
Since ancient times, jewels have also been used as amulets. Therefore, jewels with symbols to ward off the evil eye or as a good luck charm abound. It does not appear that a jewel of this type can win the lottery, but the fact is that a large number of people who hope to find luck wearing a necklace or a bracelet. The four-leaf clover is traditionally one of the most used symbols. In fact, luck is as rare as a four-lobed clover leaf.

Anello in oro bianco e diamanti
Four-leaf clover-shaped ring in white gold and diamonds by Recarlo

Another symbol of protection from bad luck is the eye. It is a symbol that dates back to classical Greek antiquity. The idea is that the eye protects from the malevolent gaze of enemies. The horseshoe is also a symbol often used for pendants, although their use is controversial: some think it brings good luck when turned up, but bad luck when turned down. But others think otherwise. In Italy, especially in the South, a small horn is considered a good luck charm.

Collana anti malocchio della Maison Aya
Anti-evil eye necklace from Maison Aya

Beetle
Today it is less common, but every now and then some jeweler proposes a pendant or a ring with the shape of a scarab. The meaning comes from ancient Egypt, when these insects were considered a symbol of renewal and regeneration. Later the scarabs were also considered a sign of resistance of the soul.

Anello triplo grande Luna in oro giallo 14K con uno scarabeo di Labrodorite verde e diamanti bianchi taglio brillante
Luna ring in 14k yellow gold and scarab with labradorites and white diamonds by Lito

Moon and tree of life

It has no meaning related to the stars. The crescent moon, however, symbolizes the beginning of a new relationship, with the hope that the couple will consolidate over time. Another symbol that refers to nature, but also to the origin of life is the tree. And in addition to representing the cycle of biological life on Earth, in the tradition of the Christian religion the tree of life is a tree that God placed in the Garden of Eden, together with the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

Anello con luna crescente, oro, diamanti
Ring with crescent moon, gold, diamonds by Anthony Lent

The hand of Fatima
Called Hamsa or Khamsa in Arabic, the hand it is an amulet characteristic of the Muslim and Jewish religions. For the Jews it is the Hand of Miriam, sister of Moses and Aaron. For popular Islam, the hand represents an infallible remedy against the evil eye and negative influences in general. But the hand of Fatima was also a sign of freedom for women: according to legend, a woman named Fatima sacrificed her hand to be free. Today the hand of Fatima is also used to indicate spaces dedicated to women.

Anello con ciondolo mano di Fatima
Swarovski, ring with hand of Fatima pendant

Symbol of peace

The peace symbol, also called “make love, not war”, dates back to 1958: it is an idea by the American designer and pacifist Gerald Holtom. It became popular in the 1960s and 1970s during the anti-Vietnam War demonstrations. Although for some the symbol is a graphic representation of the physical love between man and woman, Holtom explained that in reality the graphic sign refers to the semaphore alphabet used in nautical signaling: it would represent the letters N and D, which stands for Nuclear Disarmament. In any case, it has become the universal symbol of peace and love more generally.

Il simbolo della pace
Symbol of peace

5 rules for selling your gold jewelry

Is it a good idea to sell your jewelry? How do you sell a ring, a necklace or earrings? Here are the things to know before selling your precious jewels: the first thing to check is … ♦

The price of gold rises, falls, goes up again. Will it be the right time to sell your jewelry? If you have a gold jewel, before selling it is better to get an idea of ​​the quotation of the yellow metal. But what is the real price? If the jewel is of a great Maison, with diamonds or other precious stones, it is better to have it evaluated by at least three different jewelers: the evaluations can be very different.

Gioielli in oro
Gold jewelry

If, however, your jewelry is made in large part of gold, the first thing to do is look carefully at the charts of the quotes (but also silver and platinum). The experts can also follow the lists of the New York Spot Gold or London Fix. Which one is better? Depends: the first is a price index mainly for transactions in the United States, while the latter refers to European and international markets. It is not a small detail if you intend to sell an important jewel, because the buyer could make his assessment on the most convenient square for him. Knowing, however, the price of gold serves to get an idea of ​​the price: better not to trust what some operators who buy jewelry by weight explain. Here, then, five tips to sell their golds at best.

Isabelle Fa, collana in oro indossata. Copyright: gioiellis.com
Isabelle Fa, gold necklace worn. Copyright: gioiellis.com

1 Identify price changes: if there is an upward surge in gold prices, London Fix is ​​the first to record its growth, so this is the best market for the seller and obviously not for the buyer. We repeat: this applies to jewels that have a certain weight. For a few grams the difference is not much.

2 Learn gold weights and measures: it is essential, because even if buyers use grams as a unit of measure, in reality the value on the international market is set in ounces. And 1 oz is equivalent to 31.1 grams. So, to understand the current price you just have to multiply the value by 1 ounce by 31.1.

Lingotti d'oro
Gold bars

3 Check the carats of the jewels: the official price of gold is that of pure metal, at 24 carats. But no modern jewel has 24 carats. The jewels are made of gold combined with other metals, to increase resistance, or simply to lower the price. 14-carat gold means, for example, that only 58.3% of your jewelry is made of gold. The rest can be nickel, silver, copper … So when you go to sell the jewel, it will be calculated not for its total weight, but in that relative to the gold part. Attention, 9-carat jewels are often advertised as gold, but when sold they are not considered as such.

Lavorazione di gioielleria
Jewelry making

4 Calculate and compare the best price: It is better to measure and accurately weigh jewels before going to any store, to get an idea (on the internet special scales are on sale). Also, keep in mind that those who buy gold do not pay the theoretical price of the list, because they must merge the jewel and, obviously, add its percentage of income, on which the taxes are paid. Basically, if you have calculated well the value of your gold jewel taking into account the percentage present in the alloy (the carats) and its weight, you must remove at least a good 30%.

Lavorazione orafa. Foto: LaPresse
Goldsmith workmanship. Photo: LaPresse

5 Get the best price: Internet is a good channel for buying jewelry, but not for selling. Some buyers apply discounted rates up to 50% compared to some stores “buy gold”: the same necklace of 14 carats could be estimated at half The jewelers could, however, pay more if they detect a fine craftsmanship, because the jewel it could be transformed and reused.

Controllate il peso del gioielli
Check the weight of the jewelry

My Charm’s light jewels

A family of goldsmiths, two brothers who intend to continue the goldsmith tradition, and a lot of initiative: this is how My Charm was born, a jewelry brand created by Fabio and Simona Palumbo, with experience with another brand behind them Medaglia Foto, which offers gold pendants with a photographic portrait embedded in them. My Charm, however, has chosen to create and sell more traditional jewellery: earrings, rings, chains, bracelets. They are jewels that are not intended to surprise with originality, but to please by being worn without problems. Although there is no shortage of models with a studied design.

Anelli indossati My Charm
Rings by My Charm

Gold, precious stones such as diamonds, sapphires and rubies, but also many semi-precious gems, are used to enrich the jewels, which prefer very small dimensions: a choice that positively influences the retail price. The registered office of My Charm is in the heart of Naples, in the ancient Borgo Orefici, while the production headquarters is located in the Centro Orafo Il Tarì in Marcianise (Caserta, Italy). My Charm jewels can be found in over 150 points of sale throughout the country.

Anello in oro con topazio
Gold ring with topaz
Bracciali in oro con gemme
Gold bracelets with champagne gems and diamonds
Collana con pendenti a cuore
Necklace with heart pendants
Orecchini in oro e diamanti
Gold and diamond earrings
Orecchini a cuore in oro e diamanti
Heart earrings in gold and diamonds

The loving asymmetry of Kavant & Sharart

Love at first sight, jewels forever. The romantic story of Kavant & Sharart is signed by two designers based in Bangkok: Nuttapon Yongkiettakul, aka Kenny, and Shar-Linn Liew. The two met in 2004 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Raised in a family of jewelers Nuttapon Yongkiettakul has design in his blood. After graduating from university, the couple moved to California: Kenny attended courses at the Gia, while Shar-Linn completed his studies in the financial sector. Until she was infected with a passion for jewelry. Once married, Kenny and Shar returned to Bangkog and their work attracted the attention of jewelry aficionados.

Anello Origami in oro, diamanti e tsavorite
Origami ring in gold, diamonds and tsavorite

Kavant & Sharart’s style has nothing oriental about it. Rather, it is inspired by original, modern geometries, with a splash of art deco. The couple also won the debut award at the 2016 Couture Show. Gold, precious stones, but above all a predilection for curves that suddenly stop at acute angles, with volumes that are sometimes deliberately asymmetrical: the Maison’s jewels are also sold from big luxury stores like Harrods, because together with love, business triumphed.

Orecchini con perle South Sea, zaffiri rosa e smalto
Earrings with South Sea pearls, pink sapphires and enamel
Pendente con zaffiri viola e blu
Pendant with purple and blue sapphires
Pendente con zaffiri viola e blu
Rose gold ring with diamonds and enamel
Orecchini Le Phoneix con diamanti bianchi e neri
Le Phoneix earrings with white and black diamonds
Anello Origami in oro bianco diamanti e zaffiri
Origami ring in white gold, diamonds and sapphires
Orecchini Origami in oro e diamanti
Origami earrings in gold and diamonds
Bracciale Talay Wave Twist in oro bianco e diamanti
Talay Wave Twist bracelet in white gold and diamonds

Jennifer DeMoro, California dreamin’

California. Sun, beaches, waves. And a fashion that loves comfort and the informal. In this context Jennifer DeMoro found inspiration for her jewels, which have the seventies as their ideal, when California was the dream of young people all over the world. But Jennifer DeMoro’s jewels are not necessarily to be attributed to a hippy atmosphere or the current Coachella Festival. The designer’s brand is based in southern California, in San Clemente, a seaside town just below Los Angeles. The beach lifestyle in her jewels is transformed into many colored semi-precious stones, which adapt to shiny gold and which remind the designer of the sunsets and intense shades of her territory.

Anello in oro 14 carati con topazio azzurro, smeraldo, ametista, zaffiro arancio e rosa, granato, citrino
14k gold ring with blue topaz, emerald, amethyst, orange and pink sapphire, garnet, citrine

The stones often have special cuts and the colors are chosen to express strong contrasts, with clear geometric shapes: sapphires, rubies, garnets, spinels, emeralds and amethysts are worked with cuts that include baguette, princess, round and marquise. Jennifer DeMoro also finished a Jewelry Design course at Gia.

Jennifer Demoro
Jennifer Demoro
Pendente in oro 14 carati con topazio azzurro, smeraldo, ametista, zaffiro arancio e rosa, granato, citrino
14k gold pendant with blue topaz, emerald, amethyst, orange and pink sapphire, garnet, citrine
Anello in oro 14 carati con ametista, zaffiro rosa e arancio, smeraldo, topazio azzurro
14K gold ring with amethyst, pink and orange sapphire, emerald, blue topaz
Orecchini in oro 14 carati e zaffiri rosa
Earrings in 14 carat gold and pink sapphires
Orecchini in oro 14 carati e smeraldi
14k gold and emerald earrings
Orecchini in oro 14 carati con ametista, zaffiro rosa e arancio, smeraldo, topazio blu
Earrings in 14k gold with amethyst, pink and orange sapphire, emerald, blue topaz
Anello con 4 pietre taglio baguette: topazio, ametista, citrino, zaffiro rosa
Ring with 4 baguette-cut stones: topaz, amethyst, citrine, pink sapphire

How Lucedeimieiocchi shines

Light of my eyes, a common italian expression addressed to those you love. Which Daniela Garofalo transformed into Lucedeimieiocchi (light of my eyes), a jewelery brand from Capri, the jewel-island located opposite Naples. The name was born from a look the designer gave to her daughter Annachiara. The light of her eyes is also a source of inspiration for a line of jewelery designed to adapt to contemporary women. To which are added the reflections of the sea, another type of light, which transforms into the jewels of the Maison. Marine elements, not surprisingly, are part of the brand’s style.

Orecchini Italia in oro 18 carati, diamanti, rubini, smeraldi
Italy earrings in 18k gold, diamonds, rubies, emeralds

The jewels are proudly made in Italy, from design to manufacturing. They are made of 18 or 9 carat gold in the three classic colors: yellow, white or pink. Scaramazza pearls, or precious stones, such as diamonds, rubies and emeralds, or semi-precious ones, such as aquamarine, citrine, rutilated quartz or prasiolite are added to the precious metal, in addition to the inevitable, for a Capri jewelery shop, the use of white or red coral.

Orecchini che riproducono lo skyline di Capri in oro bianco, diamanti e acquamarina
Earrings that reproduce the Capri skyline in white gold, diamonds and aquamarine
Orecchini in oro 18 carati e perle scaramazza
Earrings in 18k gold and baroque pearls
Mono orecchini in oro e corallo
Mono earrings in gold and coral
Daniela Garofalo
Daniela Garofalo
Bracciale in oro 9 carati
9ct gold bracelet

The art applied to jewels by Matthew Campbell Laurenza

Sculptor, gemologist, artist. But above all jeweler with roots in the USA and based in Bangkok for 22 years: Matthew Campbell Laurenza alternates the creation of jewelry with that of sculptures with his brand Mcl Design. The jewels have an eclectic style, capable of mixing Thai craftsmanship with art nouveau flourishes and occasionally even a hint of Gothic. In short, jewels that stand out, made of gold, but also silver and precious and semi-precious stones. Made in Thailand, the jewels are then sold in luxury stores mainly in the US.

Anello in argento con cupola a mosaico con smalto rosa avorio e zaffiri misti
Mosaic dome silver ring with ivory pink enamel and mixed sapphires

Each piece of jewelry is a miniature sculpture. Matthew Campbell Laurenza, in fact, before becoming a jeweler he graduated in Fine Arts at Bellarmine University, in Kentucky. But he is also a master goldsmith, counter jeweler, as well as having worked extensively in ceramics, stone, bronze and wood. His pieces are found in private collections and have been shown in exhibitions around the world, from Asia, Russia and the Middle East, to Europe and the United States and are sold in luxury stores such as Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Harrods, Liberty of London, Lane Crawford, On Pedder, Gallerie Lafayette and Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as being worn by Rihanna, Katie Perry, Taylor Swift, Blake Lively, Queen Rania of Jordan, Prince Albert of Monaco, Jennifer Hudson, Jennifer Lopez, Meryl Streep and Iris Arpel.

Anello con ametista e zaffiri multicolori
Ring with amethyst and multicolored sapphires
Anello in argento con smalto, zaffiri ghiaccio e moldavite
Silver ring with enamel, ice sapphires and moldavite
Anello in argento con smalto arancione e zaffiri colorati
Silver ring with orange enamel and colored sapphire
Collana in argento, zaffiri verdi, ematite
Silver necklace, green sapphires, hematite
Pendente Robot in argento, smalto blu e zaffiri
Robot pendant in silver, blue enamel and sapphires
Orecchini a cerchi in argento placcato oro con zaffiri rosa misti
Hoop earrings in gold-plated silver with mixed pink sapphires
Orecchini in argento, zaffiri e smalto
Earrings in silver, sapphires and enamel

The historic Vever brand returns in Paris

In Paris there is a new old Maison: Vever. New because it was just opened a couple of years ago in the Place Vendôme area by Camille and Damien Vever. Old because the founders are the heirs of Henri Jean Baptiste Eugène Vever (1854-1954), French jeweler, writer and art collector, protagonist of the Art Nouveau and Belle Epoque period. Camille Vever has chosen to enter the world of jewelry thanks to a brooch, obviously signed Vever, donated by her grandmother for her 16th birthday. After much deliberation, at the age of 40 she decided to leave the post of general manager of a biopharmaceutical company and enlisted one of his brothers.

Anello Ginko in oro bianco e diamante blu sintetico
Ginko ring in white gold and synthetic blue diamond

The Maison founded by his grandfather had remained active until 1982. Now it receives a new impulse. But in a completely new situation from a century ago, Vever’s guidelines have also changed from the past. For example, the Maison has decided to use only recycled gold and synthetic diamonds to respect the environment. At its debut Vever presents two lines of high jewelery and fine jewelry: rings, necklaces and bracelets reflect two different aesthetics, one reminiscent of historical jewels with the use of enamel, Akoya pearls and baroque shapes, while another line is more modern with simple and soft shapes, alongside a more elaborate collection inspired by Ginko flowers.

Imperatrice
Nuit Magique high jewelery necklace in recycled gold, synthetic diamonds, enamel, Akoya pearls
Anello di alta gioielleria Nuit Magique in oro riciclato, diamanti sintetici, smalto
Nuit Magique high jewelery ring in recycled gold, synthetic diamonds, enamel
Anello Ginko in oro riciclato e diamanti sintetici
Ginko ring in recycled gold and synthetic diamonds
Collana Ginko in oro riciclato e diamanti sintetici
Ginko necklace in recycled gold and synthetic diamonds
Collana Ginko in oro riciclato e diamanti sintetici
Ginko necklace in recycled gold and synthetic diamonds
Orecchino singolo in oro riciclato e diamanti sintetici
Single earring in recycled gold and synthetic diamonds

The occasions of Amàli

Among the inhabitants of Astoria, a corner of Queens, New York, there are also Sara Freedenfeld and her husband Daniel Tishbi. Sara is the founder of Amàli, a jewelry brand named after the designer’s grandmother. Yet it was not her grandmother Amalia who pushed Sara Freedenfeld to pursue a career in jewelry, self-taught. It was the case. Or, better, a theft suffered in her youth, while she was walking through the streets of Chile with her backpack. Left without money, Sara began to see bijoux made with braided rope, a skill she acquired in Valparaiso. From that rudimentary activity she moved on to metalworking, learned with the help of a Venezuelan goldsmith. In short, a strange story, which could fit well in a sliding door series.

Anello con pietra luna intagliata
Carved moonstone ring

The fact is that at 26, after returning to the United States, the designer put into practice what she learned during her travels and in 2006 she founded Amàli. The Maison’s jewels are in 18-karat yellow gold, dressed with precious and semiprecious stones, in particular opal and tourmaline. Necklaces, rings and earrings are all handmade.

Anello in oro con opale etiope
Gold ring with Ethiopian opal
Bracciale in oro con diamanti neri
Gold bracelet with black diamonds
Collana con opale messicano
Mexican opal necklace
Orecchini con opali boulder
Boulder opal earrings
Orecchini con tormalina
Tourmaline earrings

Orecchini con opale lavanda e tanzanite
Earrings with lavender opal and tanzanite

Anello Galaxy con opale boulder
Galaxy ring with boulder opal

Tessa Packard, british style

Alongside traditional jewels, Tessa Packard surprises with precious but also fun creations

Tessa Packard is the creative director of the brand that she founded in 2013 and that in a short time has climbed the ranking of trendy jewelers. You often make slightly eccentric pieces, such as her Fried Egg earrings, made of white gold, diamonds, yellow agate and white topaz (price: 15,000 pounds). She describes her formula as “good design and narrative integrity”. She introduces a new collection every six months, but she has also specialized in the production of bespoke jewelry, both for individual clients and for other companies.

Rock Pool earring in oro bianco, ottone ossidato, rodio nero, smalto e citrino
18ct white gold verdigris brass, black rhodium, white enamel and citrine crab earrings

In short, creative imagination together with creativity in business. Tessa also rightly points out that she often participates as a speaker in numerous workshops dedicated to the role of women in the world of work. In any case, her production is liked: in 2015 the Maison was nominated for one of the 30 Hot Under 30 faces in the jewelry sector. And to say that Tessa is totally self-taught. She was born in Brazil but raised in Great Britain. She studied Fine Arts and Art History at university before launching herself into London’s commercial art world. But she moved from art galleries to jewelry.

She is keen to point out that all of her jewelery is handcrafted and finished in the UK. Another unconventional aspect concerns the use of plastic materials, such as lucite, alongside traditional gold and precious stones. Lucite, for example, was extremely popular for jewelry in the 1950s and 1960s, with several companies specializing in creating high quality pieces with this material. Lucite beads and ornaments are still sold by jewelry suppliers, which Tessa transforms into original jewelry.

Bracciale in oro giallo e acquamarina del Mozambico
Bracelet in yellow gold and Mozambique aquamarine

Another unconventional aspect concerns the use of plastic materials, such as lucite, alongside the traditional gold and precious stones. Lucite, for example, was extremely popular for jewelry in the 1950s and 1960s, with several companies specializing in creating high-quality pieces with this material. Lucite beads and ornaments are still sold by jewelry suppliers, which Tessa processes into original jewelry.

Anello Manhattan in oro 18 carati, lapislazzuli
Manhattan ring in 18K gold, lapis lazuli
Collana in oro giallo 18 carati, argento brunito, perle e diamanti con nappa staccabile
Necklace in 18K yellow gold, burnished silver, pearls and diamonds with detachable tassel
Orecchini in oro bianco 18 carati, quarzo rosa, onice, ossidiana e maialino in porcellana dipinta
Earrings in 18K white gold, rose quartz, onyx, obsidian and painted porcelain piglet
Orecchini in oro giallo 18 carati, ottone, corallo, plastica, carta da parati vintage e pesci in resina
Earrings in 18K yellow gold, brass, coral, plastic, vintage wallpaper and resin fish
Orecchini in lucite
Lucite earrings
Orecchini pendenti in oro giallo 18 carati, diamanti e tormalina anguria
Pendant earrings in 18K yellow gold, diamonds and watermelon tourmaline
Tessa Packard, orecchini Fried Eggs
Tessa Packard, Fried Eggs earrings

Marei’s mix art

Angie Marei, designer born in New York from an Egyptian-Dominican family. The designer has a degree in communication design and an eclectic background of studies ranging from sculpture, illustration, painting, art history and architecture. You made your jewelry debut with a brand that didn’t go unnoticed: Diaboli Kill. But she later changed her name to a more classic choice: Marei. Based in Brooklyn, New York, the jewelry brand presents itself as something different, very personal, alternative.

Anello Ayala Arabesque in oro giallo,diamanti e uno zaffiro di Ceylon taglio marquise
Ayala Arabesque ring in yellow gold, diamonds and a marquise cut Ceylon sapphire

But, in addition to having many interests, it is also active on many fronts. For example, alongside her work as a designer she has been a creative direction consultant at a number of agencies working across a variety of verticals, with a particular focus on luxury, fashion and lifestyle brands. The range of clients and projects includes everything from creative direction, photography direction, campaign and presentation design, visual design, social media campaigns and content, e-commerce design, storyboarding, video editing, print design, packaging design . For example, you design watches for brands such as Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Oscar De La Renta and Fossil.

Angie Marei
Angie Marei

Her style is quite eclectic: Marei has rediscovered her love of jewelry by tracing back her Egyptian family tradition and family tradition of collecting gold jewelry. She studied jewelry school with her in New York, discovered a true passion for wax modeling and metalworking, and began building a gemstone archive. The result is a mix of Art Deco and archeology to create what she calls brooding opulence.

Anello in oro, smalto, diamanti,
Ring in gold, enamel, diamonds
Anello in oro, tormalina, tsavorite
Gold ring, tourmaline, tsavorite
Anello talismano in argento e onice a forma di corno
Talisman ring in silver and onyx in the shape of a horn
Collana con perle di Tahiti, oro e diamanti
Necklace with Tahitian pearls, gold and diamonds

The simple success of Maman et Sophie

It’s called Maman et Sophie but, despite the French name, it is an Italian jewelery brand, Florentine to be precise. And it is also a phenomenon: in a few years it has become one of the most popular brands in Italy, thanks to the formula adopted. The jewels have very affordable prices (from 50 to 300 euros on average), the style is very simple and immediate, the wearability is guaranteed. The jewels are also sold online and having immediately focused on e-commerce was one of the keys to the success of the brand.

Anello Mon Coeur in oro rosa 18 carati e rubini
Mon Coeur ring in 18K rose gold and rubies

The idea of ​​Maman et Sophie is by the Florentine designer Elisabetta Carletti, who founded the jewelry company with the help of her husband and partner of the Maison, Federico Lastrucci, who passed away in 2019. The adventure of Maman and Sophie began in 2008, when Elisabetta Carletti decided to leave the profession of lawyer started in a large Florence firm. The birth of her first daughter, Sofia, left her time to reflect: she started designing jewelry, her passion, and making the first prototypes in silver rose gold plated. The name of the company, Maman et Sophie, is the photograph of that period. And the formula chosen, simple jewels, at a reduced price, with light and minimal style, was successful.

Bracciale Etoile in oro rosa, zaffiri, smeraldi, rubini
Etoile bracelet in pink gold, sapphires, emeralds, rubies
Bracciale in oro giallo, granato rosso
Yellow gold bracelet, red garnet
Girocollo in oro rosa 18 carati
Necklace in 18-karat rose gold
Orecchino in oro giallo 18 carati con topazio azzurro
18K yellow gold earring with blue topaz
Orecchino Angel in oro giallo 18 carati e topazio azzurro
Angel earring in 18K yellow gold and blue topaz

How to avoid allergies to nickel

Have you ever found marks on the skin where you have worn rings, necklaces or earrings? They could have been caused by nickel allergy. Here’s what you need to do to avoid nickel allergy ♦

Receiving a beautiful ring as a gift and not being able to wear it: the fault lies with the allergy. It often happens that a jewel, perhaps a favorite, turns out to be an enemy of the skin. The most common cause is nickel dermatitis, also called contact dermatitis, nickel allergy. The problem can arise at any time and at any age. Even jewelry that up to that moment has never caused irritation, can suddenly turn out to be harmful. Each individual human body reacts differently to nickel depending on tolerance and sensitivity level. Among other things, there are rare cases in which the allergy is also manifested by wearing gold or silver jewelry: but the most frequent cause is, also in this case, the nickel content present in bijoux. Pure gold and silver are metals too soft to be transformed into frames. Nickel has often been added, like zinc and copper, to make gold and silver more resistant and allow it to give the desired shape. In addition, the nickel gives a shiny effect. Zinc and copper do not damage the skin, which is instead more and more nickel.

Saranno gioielli a prova di dermatite?
Will it be dermatitis-proof jewels?

The dangerous metals. Keep in mind that 14-karat or 18-karat gold contains a greater amount of different metals than 24-karat gold, the only one that is completely pure. In short, the purer the gold, the less allergies it causes. Nickel is also used in jewelry in alloys with platinum and white gold. But platinum jewelry is quite expensive and, statistically, there are fewer cases of allergies, as it is rarer. In addition, platinum and white gold are also often reinforced with palladium, a metal that does not cause allergies. However, it is more expensive.

Bancarella di bijoux
Jewelery stall

Often the allergy is caused by the contact of the metal with the most sensitive layer of the skin, such as the hole in the nose or ear. Nickel penetrates through the skin into the bloodstream of the body. At this point the cells react to the nickel. Another cause that can give rise to allergies is sweat. When it is hot and the jewelry is worn for a long time, the skin sweats. Perspiration comes into contact with the metal of the jewelry, dissolves the nickel, and forms nickel salts. The salt reacts on contact with the skin and causes the allergy. It is commonly believed that women suffer more than men, but the number of men wearing jewelry is far less.

L'attrice e modella Kendall Jenner su Instagram con un enorme anello al naso
Actress and model Kendall Jenner on Instagram with a huge nose ring

Symptoms. Nickel allergy can cause blood loss, or swelling and the production of pus. In most cases, however, there is a constant itching or burning around the area where the skin has been in direct contact with the jewel. More rarely, allergic people find a blue tint on their finger after removing a ring, or a rash or red spots on the skin. Nickel allergy sufferers end up wearing only stainless steel jewelry. In fact, this metal also contains nickel, but it also does not leave it as it is hermetically held, it rarely comes in direct contact with the skin.

Orecchini di metallo con lega di nickel indossati
Worn nickel alloy metal earrings

Another enemy are the traces of soap and water under the jewels. The cleansers break the protective shield of the skin and allow the nickel to come into direct contact with the deeper layers. Earrings and rings are more likely to retain water droplets after a bath. Taking off your jewelry before washing is a useful precaution, especially when doing housework and hands being washed countless times. Detergents or other cleaning products that get under a ring can cause allergy. Unfortunately, there are no cures: dermatologists offer some medical treatments, but they are usually only effective for the short term. After some time, regardless of the treatment, the allergy reappears.

Dermatite da anello
Ring dermatitis

How to avoid allergy. If you really don’t want to do it, or if you forget to remove the rings, pass a layer of transparent nail polish inside the jewel: it can help avoid direct contact with the metal. Another precaution to avoid allergies can be to apply talcum powder before wearing the jewelry: in this way, humidity is avoided. Furthermore, those who fear an allergic reaction must be careful not to wear tight earrings, rings or chains: if the air passes through the jewel it is less likely that contact with the skin causes a reaction. Alternating jewelry more often reduces the risk. Finally, remember to keep the jewelry clean and dry. Those who are very sensitive to nickel can choose lacquered or palladium-plated jewelry.

Do you want to know what nickel is?
It seems the original name of this metal, nickel, derives from the Swedish word Nickel, diminutive of a proper name, Nicolaus. And in the tradition of the Nordic country Nicolaus was a name given to people of little value, but also to goblins. But metal has nothing to do with Henry Potter’s wizarding world. Nickel, or nickel, is a metal that was already used in the Bronze Age, over 3500 years ago, in the Middle East and China. In the West, nickel came into common use in the mid-eighteenth century, when Baron Axel Frederik Cronstedt, attempting to extract copper from a mineral, niccolite, obtained a white metal which he called nickel, a name that derives from the German Kupfernickel, that is, false copper, or from nickel (elf, little devil in German).

La moneta di nickel da 5 centesimi di dollaro con Thomas Jefferson
The 5 cent nickel (25%) coin featuring Thomas Jefferson

Why is it used?
Nickel is a white, silvery metal. It belongs to the iron group and is therefore hard, but also malleable, easy to work with. It is also appreciated in jewelery for the properties it gives when alloyed with gold, platinum or silver, especially because it gives strength and is resistant to corrosion.

Una moneta da 5 centesimi: contiene nickel
A 5 cent euro coin: contains nickel

Nickel, in addition to being present in many jewelry alloys together with gold, is used in a wide range of products. So if you have signs of allergy on your hands, maybe it’s not your earrings, but cutlery, watches, scissors, lighters, cell phones, doorknobs and even coins. And if you have marks on your neck, it is not certain that the cause is the necklace, but perhaps glasses, food and pots…

The first thing to do, in short, is to check with which metals you come in contact often.

But, be careful: maybe you do not know that nickel can also be hidden in cosmetics, personal hygiene products (such as hair dyes, toothpastes, shampoos, nail polishes). In this case hunting nickel is easier. Read the label well: the presence of nickel must be declared by the manufacturer, even if you may find it written in small letters. Finished? No: who is really very allergic also risks at the table. In fact, some foods naturally contain nickel, even if in very small quantities. In any case, if your allergy does not disappear, eliminate these foods.

Insalata
Salad

Here are the forbidden foods:

blueberries, oats, buckwheat, walnuts and hazelnuts, broccoli, potatoes, baking powder, apricots, cabbage, spinach, peanuts, carrots, tomatoes, oysters, figs, onions, asparagus, lentils, whole wheat flour, beans, liquorice, cooked and raw pears, mushrooms, corn, lettuce, peas, almonds, tea, lobster, margarine, cocoa and chocolate, avocado.

Mirtilli
Blueberries: good, but…

Fortunately, according to experts, only less than 20% of nickel allergies are caused or worsened by food. But if this is the case you have to eliminate these foods altogether for at least a month or a month and a half before you see a difference. In any case, do not worry, you do not risk starving.

Here are some foods without nickel:

radicchio, endive, fennel, aubergines, courgettes, peppers, cucumbers, beets, watermelon, melon, citrus fruits, peaches, bananas, strawberries, grapes, milk and dairy products, 00 flour, rice, meat, fish (but not mussels, clams, sea urchins and crustaceans), brewer’s yeast.

Ottimi peperoni
Great peppers

Last advices if you suffer from nickel allergy:

    • When you open the tap, run the water for a few minutes to remove any traces of nickel released from the pipes.
      If you are cooking a cake, use baking soda instead of baking powder to rise.
      Choose pyrex pots, glass, aluminum, unglazed pottery, silargan, teflon. This type of crockery prevents the release of nickel from cutlery or other utensils you use.

Barbie’s jewels

Do you like pink? Do you want to wear pink jewelry? Are you looking for a pink necklace? Or a bracelet? Or … Here are many ideas ♦

There are many reasons to wear pink jewelry, Barbie’s favorite color. The first is that it is the light version of marsala, announced color of the year, according to Pantone. In addition, it is definitely more suited to this season; the second reason is that its tone, even the one tinged with gray tinge, embellishes any type of skin. And This alone would be enough to convince anyone. But there is another side to act as an incentive and comes from English: think pink!It means thinking positive. And indeed a beautiful bright pink is a burst of energy, a stimulus to good mood. So, although many of the color names have lost their multiplicity of meanings, even in some languages in common phrases characterize specific moods. So, ring, earrings or bracelet have also colored stones, faceted or cabochon, translucent or opaque. Provided that they are pink.

Anello in oro bianco con diamanti e zaffiri rosa
Nigaam, anello in oro bianco con diamanti e zaffiri rosa

And more, pink is a positive color. It takes its name from the fragrant flower of the same name. But perhaps you don’t know that it was born quite recently: the name rose was used for the first time to indicate a shade of color only at the end of the 17th century. In the West (especially Europe and the United States), pink is the color associated with concepts of charm, kindness, sensitivity, tenderness, sweetness, childhood, femininity and romance. If the hue is very light, it is associated with chastity and innocence. On the contrary, a bright pink suggests eroticism and seduction.

Petit Joli, anello in oro rosa, calcedonio e diamanti
Petit Joli, anello in oro rosa, calcedonio rosa e diamanti by Pasquale Bruni

The history of pink
One could write a history of the color pink. But, undoubtedly, the maximum popularity reached it in the mid-eighteenth century, when pastel colors became very fashionable in all the courts of Europe. The pink color in particular was highly appreciated by Madame de Pompadour (1721-1764), lover of King Louis XV of France, who often wore clothes that combined blue and pink. Not only that: she had a particular shade of pink created especially for her by the Sevres porcelain factory, apparently with small additions of blue, black and yellow.

Madame de Pompadour
Madame de Pompadour

Pink stones
But let’s talk about jewelry: in addition to pink gold, you have a wide choice of stones that have shades of rose. The most precious, and most expensive, is undoubtedly the diamond. Diamonds with pink shades are buyed for millions of dollars during the auctions. But luckily there are many other stones that also have this color tone in their repertoire: quartz, sapphire, mystic topaz, rhodolite garnet, morganite, kunzite, Malaya garnet, tourmaline, spinel, opal, zircon, pink pearl, moonstone , coral, smithsonite, pezzottaite, rhodochrosite and rhodonite. You only have the problem of choosing one.

Matilde de Bounvilles

Tiffany, anello Sugar Stacks di Paloma Picasso in oro rosa 18 carati con pavé di zaffiri rosa.
Tiffany, anello Sugar Stacks di Paloma Picasso in oro rosa 18 carati con pavé di zaffiri rosa.
Tamara Comolli, braccialetto Mikado Romance in oro rosa con quarzi, e morganite rosa.
Tamara Comolli, braccialetto Mikado Romance in oro rosa con quarzi, e morganite rosa.
Vhernier, orecchini Eclisse in oro bianco con rhodonite, cristallo di rocca, madreperla e diamanti
Vhernier, orecchini Eclisse in oro bianco con rhodonite, cristallo di rocca, madreperla e diamanti
Collezione Millebolle, anello in oro rosa, diamanti grigi, rodolite. Anello oro rosa, diamanti grigi, quarzo rosa
Minù, collezione Millebolle, anello in oro rosa, diamanti grigi, rodolite.
Anello oro rosa, diamanti grigi, quarzo rosa
Anello con diamante rosa di 8,42 carati, fancy rosa intenso, taglio brillante, ma «modificato rettangolare», chiarezza VVS1. AI lati due diamanti baguette
Anello con diamante rosa di 8,42 carati, fancy rosa intenso, taglio brillante, ma «modificato rettangolare», chiarezza VVS1. AI lati due diamanti baguette
Alessio Boschi, collezione Naturalia anello Peony con morganite centrale
Alessio Boschi, collezione Naturalia anello Peony con morganite centrale
Van Cleef & Arpels, orecchini Papillons in oro rosa con zaffiri rosa e diamanti
Van Cleef & Arpels, orecchini Papillons in oro rosa con zaffiri rosa e diamanti
Etho Maria, bracciale La Serpentine in oro rosa con zaffiri rosa e diamanti brown
Etho Maria, bracciale La Serpentine in oro rosa con zaffiri rosa e diamanti brown
Mary Ching, Wing, in oro rosa e zaffiri
Mary Ching, Wing, in oro rosa e zaffiri
Anello Thalessa, in oro rosa 18 carati, tormalina, zaffiri, tormalina bicolore
Daniela Villegas, anello Thalessa, in oro rosa 18 carati, tormalina, zaffiri, tormalina bicolore
Brumani, Baobab collection Rosé, anello con diamanti, quarzo e tormaline brasiliane rosa
Brumani, Baobab collection Rosé, anello con diamanti, quarzo e tormaline brasiliane rosa
Irene Neuwirth, orecchini a forma di rosa in opale inciso, rhodocrosite tagliata a goccia e diamanti.
Irene Neuwirth, orecchini a forma di rosa in opale inciso, rhodocrosite tagliata a goccia e diamanti.
Olive
Larkspur & Hawk, collana con topazi rosa sfaccettati
Yoko London, anello con perla barocca rosa e pavé di diamanti
Yoko London, anello con perla barocca rosa e pavé di diamanti
Chantecler, orecchini Capri in oro rosa con ametista, fosfosiderite, zaffiri rosa e diamanti
Chantecler, orecchini Capri in oro rosa con ametista, fosfosiderite, zaffiri rosa e diamanti
Marie-Hélène de Taillac, orecchini in oro giallo con due tipi di quarzi rosa da 45 carati complessivi e due spinelli rosa più scuro
Marie-Hélène de Taillac, orecchini in oro giallo con due tipi di quarzi rosa da 45 carati complessivi e due spinelli rosa più scuro
Sutra, anello in oro rosa con diamanti e spinelli rosa e viola
Sutra, anello in oro rosa con diamanti e spinelli rosa e viola
Brumani, Baobab collection Rosé, orecchini con diamanti, quarzo e tormaline brasiliane rosa
Brumani, Baobab collection Rosé, orecchini con diamanti, quarzo e tormaline brasiliane rosa

Flower shaped jewelry

Jewels and flowers: an eternal bond, but that each jeweler interprets in his own way. Here are the jewels of flower power ♦
The link between flowers and jewelry is longstanding: flower power in jewelry is not a new discovery, as happens now in fashion. Maybe because petals and pistils are a source of inspiration, they do not set limits to the imagination, to the use of colors and shapes. A real godsend for any creative, insomuch as every year the floral theme is one of the coolest trends. In short, it never goes out of fashion and with a good reason, because often the results are amazing. Some examples: the collection of fine jewelry Secret Garden by Faberge, a triumph of precious stones surrounded by leaves of carved jade, that look like a bouquet of flowers.

Anello a forma di fiore in titanio, opale di fuoco, diamanti gialli, tsavorite. Copyright: gioiellis.com
Titanium Flower Ring, Fire Opal, Yellow Diamonds, Tsavorite by Aso Leon. Copyright: gioiellis.com

Or the corolla collier by Pasquale Bruni, a soft lawn buds, in white diamonds and morganite. The ring Lily of the Masterpieces collection by Damiani There is also a branch of a cherry tree, a pink explosion that wraps around the finger with the opened ring by Moorphée Joaillerie or the intricate and climbing bracelet-ring by Wendy Yue.

Wendy Yue, bracciale-anello con diamanti neri e fancy, zaffiri blu e rosa, tsavoriti e opali
Wendy Yue, bracelet-ring with black and fancy diamonds, blue and pink sapphires, tsavorites and opals

And, yet, the Tree of Life in the earrings by Annushka, the fleshy orchid by Carrera y Carrera and the delicate one by Autore. All pieces of the highest craftsmanship. But if you want something more simple as a shepe but the same high-impact, Asprey now proposes its classic brand icon, Heritage Daisy stud earrings  with petals that fade in the diamonds pistil. Monica Battistoni

Pendente per collana o spilla con diamante rosa vivido e coccinella con zaffiro cabochon
Gimel’s Vivid Pink Diamond Ladybug and Sapphire Cabochon Necklace Pendant or Brooch Pendant
Spilla Fiore di Suzanne Belperron, in calcedonio, diamanti, zaffiri su oro bianco
Flower brooch by Suzanne Belperron, in chalcedony, diamonds, sapphires on white gold
Anello con fiore arcobaleno con diamanti gialli e bianchi
Rainbow flower ring with yellow and white diamonds by DiaColor
Paolo Piovan, fiore con petali in opale e diamanti su oro bianco
Paolo Piovan, fiore con petali in opale e diamanti su oro bianco
Kelly Xie, Fiore di loto
Kelly Xie, Fiore di loto
Damiani, anello Giglio, in oro rosa con diamanti bianchi, smeraldi, zaffiri e rubini che sfumano dal fucsia al rosa chiaro
Damiani, anello Giglio, in oro rosa con diamanti bianchi, smeraldi, zaffiri e rubini che sfumano dal fucsia al rosa chiaro
Paula Crevoshay, spilla a forma di fiore con zaffiri orange e gialli
Paula Crevoshay, spilla a forma di fiore con zaffiri orange e gialli
Anello con doppio fiore in oro bianco, diamanti bianchi e fancy di diverso taglio
Crivelli, anello con doppio fiore in oro bianco, diamanti bianchi e fancy di diverso taglio
Anelli a forma di fiore in oro e pietre preziose
Artur Sholl, anelli a forma di fiore in oro e pietre preziose
Roberto Coin, Garden Collection anello in oro giallo e brunito con diamanti bianchi e brown, morganite, granati verdi, ametista e zaffiri gialli e neri
Roberto Coin, Garden Collection anello in oro giallo e brunito con diamanti bianchi e brown, morganite, granati verdi, ametista e zaffiri gialli e neri
Collezione Stelle in fiore, anelli con diamanti bianchi, neri e champagne
Pasquale Bruni, collezione Stelle in fiore, anelli con diamanti bianchi, neri e champagne
Autore, collana Orchid collection con perle South Sea Keshi bianche, zaffiri verdi e diamanti rosa pallido, bianchi e brown
Autore, collana Orchid collection con perle South Sea Keshi bianche, zaffiri verdi e diamanti rosa pallido, bianchi e brown
Palmiero, Flower Collection, anelli in oro bianco con diamanti bianchi, zaffiri e pietre semi preziose
Palmiero, Flower Collection, anelli in oro bianco con diamanti bianchi, zaffiri e pietre semi preziose
Morphée Joaillerie, anello in oro rosa con diamanti incolori, zaffiri e opali rosa
Morphée Joaillerie, anello in oro rosa con diamanti incolori, zaffiri e opali rosa
Annoushka, orecchini The Dream Catcher in oro rosa, diamanti e madre perla, raffiguranti l’Albero della vita con fiori e uccellini
Annoushka, orecchini The Dream Catcher in oro rosa, diamanti e madre perla, raffiguranti l’Albero della vita con fiori e uccellini
CarreraYCarrera1
Carrera y Carrera, bracciale Orquídeas in oro giallo, diamanti e rubini
Iligiz Fazulzyanov, anello da cocktail White Poppies in oro giallo, alexandrite e smalto
Iligiz Fazulzyanov, anello da cocktail White Poppies in oro giallo, alexandrite e smalto
Asprey, orecchini Daisy Heritage in oro giallo, zaffiri gialli taglio marquise e pavé di diamanti; oro bianco, acquamarine taglio marquise e pavé di diamanti
Asprey, orecchini Daisy Heritage in oro giallo, zaffiri gialli taglio marquise e pavé di diamanti; oro bianco, acquamarine taglio marquise e pavé di diamanti

Three methods for cleaning earrings

It is necessary to clean jewelry regularly, but it is even more necessary to clean earrings. And the main reasons why you have to clean your earrings often are two: to prevent the jewel from deteriorating and for your health.

The earrings, in fact, are worn in close contact with the skin. In particular, those hanging from the holes in the ear lobes can cause allergies, irritation, redness or worse. It is not uncommon for a pair of earrings that cause an infection: just a micro wound, like a puncture, is enough to make your body come into contact with the microbes housed in a pair of uncleaned earrings. Also, don’t forget that uncleaned earrings are also less bright and beautiful to look at.

Orecchini Lolli Bijoux indossati
Worn earrings

Now that you are convinced that the earrings must be cleaned often, let’s see how you can done. There are different methods to clean the earrings but, of course, in addition to your tastes, the right system is also determined by the material that makes up the jewel. Attention: for earrings with pearls, opals or other delicate material special care must be taken. For this type of earrings it is better to use only warm water and a toothbrush with soft bristles.

Foglio di alluminio. Foto di Marco Verch
Aluminium sheet. Photo by Marco Verch

Mode number 1
Lined a cup with aluminum foil usually used for food, with the shiny side on the outside (i.e. upwards). Pour hot (but not too much) water and add a teaspoon or two of baking soda and leave the earrings to soak for an hour. This system is particularly recommended for silver earrings. As always, rinse the earrings and dry. This system is to be avoided for earrings with pearls, opals or other delicate materials.

Bicarbonato e alluminio
Baking soda and aluminum

Mode number 2
The easiest way to clean your earrings is to dip them in hot water. Be careful, however: there are those who suggest boiling the water and then dipping the jewels. Don’t do it: the water must be warm, but not boiling. In fact, most microbes do not survive temperatures above 60 degrees centigrade (140 degrees Fahrenheit) and, in addition, too high temperatures can ruin the material with which the earrings are made. In the case of earrings that are not too clean, you can dissolve a drop of liquid detergent in the water. Let the earrings rest for about an hour. Then, gently rub the jewelry with a soft bristle toothbrush. Finally, dry the earrings with a soft cotton cloth.

Poche gocce di sapone liquido sono sufficienti
A few drops of liquid soap are enough

Mode number 3
The easiest way to clean the earrings is to rub them with a cotton swab dipped in hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is the liquid that serves to disinfect wounds and, therefore, to kill even the microbes hidden in your earrings. If the jewel is particularly elaborate, you can also help yourself with a stick that is used for cleaning the ears, always soaked in hydrogen peroxide. If the earrings are really very dirty, you can also pour the hydrogen peroxide into a cup and leave the jewels immersed for 5 minutes. After disinfecting the jewels, rinse in cold water, then gently dry them with a cotton cloth, soft but without filaments that can get caught.

Orecchino in acqua ossigenata
Earring in hydrogen peroxide
Orecchini indossati
Volund, earrings worn

Cannabis and jewelry, the odd couple

Marijuana leaves also inspire fine jewelry, from Bulgari to Daniela Villegas and … ♦︎

The New York Times has also written about this: the world of jewelery and high jewelery has discovered the new leaves and flowers for its inspiration. After the lotus flower, the roses, the daisies and the innocent calla, the new vegetable to arouse interest is cannabis. Yes, the plant that, when properly pruned and dried turns into marijuana.

Bulgari, collier ispirato alla marijuana in oro bianco, diamanti, smeraldi
Bulgari, collier ispirato alla marijuana in oro bianco, diamanti, smeraldi

Bijoux at low prices that reproduce cannabis leaves have been on sale for years. They are sold to an alternative youth audience and are quite simple. Now, however, even the world of high jewelry has decided that marijuana leaves are a subject to be transformed into jewelry. Even following the decision by some countries, such as Canada or California, to liberalize cannabis use. Bulgari, for example, has recently presented a collection, Wild Pop, which also features pieces that reproduce marijuana leaves, like a necklace with diamonds and emeralds. A provocation? Maybe. But it’s calculated. In California Daniela Villegas has proposed a series of necklaces with pendants in the shape of pipes for smoking grass, made in gold, tourmaline, prehnite and topaz.

Daniela Villegas, collana con pendente vaporizzatore di cannabis, oro, diamanti, tormalina, lapislazzuli
Daniela Villegas, collana con pendente vaporizzatore di cannabis, oro, diamanti, tormalina, lapislazzuli

Also in California lives another designer who added marijuana leaves to her Sweet Leaf collection, Jacquie Aiche. A little more related to the alternative, but luxury world, is the Sapphire Collective in Los Angeles, which created the Stoned collection with necklaces and pendants in 18k gold with sapphires that they have the shape of joint, worn by a model who smokes visibly.

Brent Neale Winston ha deciso di portare al Couture di Las Vegas le sue creazioni in oro, diamanti e malachite
Brent Neale Winston ha deciso di portare al Couture di Las Vegas le sue creazioni in oro, diamanti e malachite

Nikki Erwin of the Established brand has instead created a pair of diamond earrings and a bracelet coordinated with a series of cannabis leaves, which are often mistaken for innocent stars. And Brent Neale Winston decided to bring his gold, diamond and malachite creations to Las Vegas Couture. A stone that is perfect for her jewelry with the shape of marijuana leaves.

Orecchino di Jacquie Aiche in oro e diamanti
Orecchino di Jacquie Aiche in oro e diamanti
Un braccialetto d'oro con foglie di cannabis, spesso scambiato per stelle, di Established
Un braccialetto d’oro con foglie di cannabis, spesso scambiato per stelle, di Established
Le collane della collezioen Stoned di Sapphire Collective
Stoned collection by Sapphire Collective
Orecchini di Brent Neale Winston in oro, malachite, diamanti
Orecchini di Brent Neale Winston in oro, malachite, diamanti
Orecchini di Brent Neale Winston in oro, malachite, zaffiri, tormalina
Orecchini di Brent Neale Winston in oro, malachite, zaffiri, tormalina

Diamonds are called Bloch

Little is known about the Bloch family of Antwerp. Yet from half century Bloch was one of the most popular jewelers in Belgium, but with a wide range of export market too. It is no coincidence that Antwerp is the European capital of diamonds and the Bloch family with diamonds has been uncomfortable for many decades. The company is led by the chief executive officer, Leslie Bloch, while managing director is Mickey Bloch. In short, everything in the family in an atmosphere of total discretion. And the headquarters, in Vestingstraat 59, in the city’s diamond district, is also completely anonymous.

Orecchini a cerchio con diamanti
Hoop earrings with diamonds

The high-end jewelry collections, designed and made in Antwerp, which summarize the style of jewelry developed in the Flemish city, have a precise image. The processing exclusively with highly qualified craftsmen and with high quality stones, with colorless or fancy diamonds, is in the most classic and traditional style possible. Classic solitaire, even more classic rings with precious stones, endless strap, button earrings, etc. Quality is not lacking, there is no lack of extravagant ideas.

Orecchini con diamanti e zaffiri blu
Earrings with diamonds and blue sapphires
Orecchini a bottone in oro bianco e diamanti
White gold and diamond stud earrings
Anello infinity in oro giallo e diamanti
Infinity ring in yellow gold and diamonds
Anello in oro bianco con diamanti, zaffiro rosa e smeraldo
White gold ring with diamonds, pink sapphire and emerald

Gold for Gi by Giselle

Can a transgressive (from a stylistic point of view) jewelry designer transgress against herself? For Giselle Effting, a globetrotting Brazilian with a past as a model and a present as a designer based in Florence, it is possible. The creator founded the Gi by Giselle brand following two principles: the use of titanium as a special material for her jewels and an imaginative, unconventional design, with the idea of surprisingly shaped earrings or rings that can be worn by everyone, regardless of age, gender or physical conformation. In fact, almost all the proposed jewels are true to this description.

Ring Meta in oro rosa 18 carati e diamanti
Meta ring in 18k rose gold and diamonds

But if titanium remains Giselle Effting’s favorite metal, the jewelery offer has also been enriched with gold pieces. The first were those of the Gold Inlay collection, in titanium but with gold veins. Then came rings and earrings entirely made of gold, almost always pink and diamonds. In some cases rose gold jewels have been added with small gems such as Paraiba tourmaline and garnets. In short, a transgression against transgression. The gold included in all Gi by Giselle products is 18-karat, recycled and sustainable.

Anello Unity in oro rosa e titanio
Unity ring in rose gold and titanium

EarHook Endo in oro giallo e diamanti
Endo EarHook in yellow gold and diamonds

Giselle Effting. Copyright: gioiellis.com
Giselle Effting. Copyright: gioiellis.com

All about titanium jewelery

Do you want to buy a titanium jewel? First, you must read this guide to find out the benefits, price and features of titanium jewelry ♦ ︎

From some years it is increasingly used in high jewelry: titanium is a metal that has so many unique features. But what are the differences with gold and platinum? Is it worth buying a jewel made of titanium? How to Clean and Preserve a Titanium Jewel?

Orecchini in titanio e diamanti
Earrings in titanium and diamonds by Margherita Burgener

Features. Titanium is a lightweight metal with excellent resistance, three times more than steel, but is much lighter. It is silver-like shiny white when it is pure. Another interesting feature is that it does not cause irritation, allergies or discoloration of the skin: if you suffer from irritation when wearing jewelery, titanium can be the right solution. It is no coincidence that it is also well used for piercings. Titanium is used in jewelery because it does not break or bend (unless it is very thin). Another positive aspect: it do not spoils with sea water or chlorine of the pool, as well as water directed.

Orecchini Rosa, in titanio, diamanti, madreperla bianca grigia
Vhernier, Rosa earrings, in titanium, diamonds, gray white mother-of-pearl

In jewelery. Titanium is used in jewelery, but its resistance makes it difficult to process. That’s why titanium jewelry is fairly rare: not all jewelers can blend it (it takes 1723 degrees Celsius, ie 3,135 degrees Fahrenheit, to blend this metal). Only in the late 1990s technology enabled the use of titanium in jewelry, initially, for simple rings and then for more complex pieces.
Titanium is also used to make gold more resistant: in some cases it is enough to add 1% to yellow metal to eliminate the softness of pure gold.
Titanium and colors. Another feature of titanium used in jewelery is that it can be colored. It can, in fact, be anodized to vary the thickness of the surface oxide layer, with a variety of vibrant colors. This process occurs through heating or electric shock: the metal releases its oxides and modifies its color according to the temperature and duration of the process. You can find anodized yellow, pink, red, purple, blue or black titanium.

Braccialetto Vita Savers. Oro bianco, titanio, con 560 diamanti
Life Savers bracelet. White gold, titanium, with 560 diamonds

Curiosity. Titanium was discovered in Cornwall in Great Britain by William Gregor in 1791, but the name was decided by Martin Heinrich Klaproth and refers to the titans of Greek mythology.
For who is recommended. Titanium jewelery can be a good solution for those who want to wear them even when they are caught with some manual activity, from kitchen to childcare, or to DIY. In addition, it is very unlikely that it causes allergies: another point in its favor.

Sabba, orecchini in titanio e diamanti
Sabba, titanium and diamond earrings

The cost. Titanium is not an expensive metal: it is easily found in nature and even though it has a fairly complex workmanship, it does not have a high price. The cost of a jewel in titanium will then be determined by the type of shape, more or less complex, and hence the number of hours it takes to work. Obviously, another fundamental aspect is the value of stones that can be used in jewelery.

Anello titanio, diamanti, zaffiri blu
Giovanni Ferraris, titanium ring, diamonds, blue sapphires

How to Clean Titanium. It is simply cleaned with water and, if necessary, a diluted drop of neutral liquid soap. Use a soft toothbrush. Titanium is a tough metal, but cleaning can ruin other materials with which jewel is made, like stones.

Grande anello in titanio, acquamarina, zaffiri
Lydia Courteille, large ring in titanium, aquamarine, sapphires
Orecchini Dragonfly in titanio, zaffiri blu e diamanti
Garaude, Dragonfly earrings in titanium, blue sapphires and diamonds
Anello con tanzanite di 35,42 carati, calcedonio e diamanti montati su titanio di Wallace Chan
35.42 carat tanzanite, chalcedony and diamond ring set in titanium by Wallace Chan
Anello in titanio con smeraldo colombiano incastonato un cristallo di rocca
Busatti Milano, titanium ring with Colombian emerald set in rock crystal
Orecchini East meet West in titanio
Suzanne Syz, East meet West titanium earrings
Vhernier, orecchini Eclisse in titanio
Vhernier, Eclisse earrings in titanium

"Lugano

 

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