anello - Page 4

The name has nothing special: Maria e Luisa. The surname, however, is known to jewelry lovers: Pianegonda. The Pianegonda brand, however, due to troubled corporate events, can no longer be used by Maria Luisa Pianegonda and not even by her brother Franco, founder of the Maison specializing in silver jewelry. The Pianegonda brand is now owned by the Bros Manifatture group. But the creativity of the two brothers, who each went down a different path, was not sold. After 16 years as a marketing manager in the original Pianegonda, and after a break marked by travel, Maria Luisa got back on track with a new brand, with a name that curiously doubles her own: Maria and Luisa.

Anello Shri in argento e 8 pietre di rodolite — Shri ring in silver and 8 rhodolite stones

Also for Maria and Luisa the basic material is silver. But it is a super-worked silver, which highlights a craftsmanship of yesteryear. The jewels are worked with a burin, with scrolls, curls, folds, inlays and in some cases with the addition of large semi-precious stones, such as citrine, amethyst, smoky quartz, pink, cognac, and prasiolite, onyx, topaz. Some jewels also have small 9-karat gold inserts. Maria and Luisa’s boutique is located in Milan. Vicenza is long gone.

Orecchini in argento con elemento a rosone inciso a mano con la tecnica del bulino e catene groumette — Silver earrings with rosette element hand engraved with the burin technique and groumette chainse

Bracciale Groumette in argento e cristallo di rocca — Groumette bracelet in silver and rock crystal

Anello in argento brunito con quarzo fumé — Burnished silver ring with smoky quartz

Anello in argento brunito con ametista — Burnished silver ring with amethyst

Bracciale rolò in argento brunito — Bracelet in burnished silver

Orecchini in argento con citrino madeira — Silver earrings with madeira citrine

Collana groumette girocollo — Choker groumette necklace

Orecchini in argento intarsiato — Inlaid silver earrings

The A.Link’s diamonds

Published on August 21, 2023

The American Maison A. Link, specialized in the most loved stone by women: diamonds ♦

Diamonds, diamonds, diamonds: some people love jewels only if they revolve around the most popular gemstone. And this is the story of A.Link, a New York company that specializes in diamond jewelry. Does just that since 1904. It was founded by Adolph Link, jeweler from Vienna who emigrated to the US, which has brought the taste loved by the wealthy Europeans of the Belle Epoque in a nation that was growing rapidly. More than a century later, the company is still family owned, managed by Jeffrey Link and Douglas Sills in New York.

Collana di diamanti di A.Link — Diamond Necklace by A.Link

Passed the mark of 110 years, celebrated in 2014 with a Jck prize to a ring, You and Me, continues to propose his recipe that seems to have an eternal success: diamonds, diamonds and more diamonds, but with certificates of origin and sustainable production. Adolph Link, it seems, was the first to study and sample the diamonds to get uniform quality of the stones. In this way the jewels have created a homogeneity and, of course, a more certain value. The company also boasts a special ability in the choice of the cut. In short, if you like diamonds, by A.Link you find to the full.

Bracciale tennis in oro rosa e diamanti — Tennis bracelet in rose gold and diamonds

Orecchini a bottone in oro bianco e diamanti — White gold and diamond stud earrings

Set con diamanti baguette, montatura in platino. Questo anello ha vinto il premio del 2014 JCK Jewelers nella categoria Platinum per vendita al dettaglio meno di 10.000 dollari nei Jck Awards 2014 — Set with baguette diamonds, platinum setting. This ring won the 2014 JCK Jewelers award in the Platinum category for retailing under $10,000 in the 2014 Jck Awards

Bracciale di diamanti e platino, per un totale di 10 carati — Diamond and platinum bracelet, totaling 10 carats

Collana per Forevermark, diamanti e oro bianco — Necklace for Forevermark, diamonds and white gold

Bracciale Bubble con fermaglio, oro bianco e diamanti — Bubble bracelet with clasp, white gold and diamonds

Orecchini a forma di goccia, diamanti e oro bianco — Drop-shaped earrings, diamonds and white gold

How to avoid allergies to nickel

Published on August 15, 2023

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The 10 etiquette rules for the engagement ring

Published on August 13, 2023

Also read: How to measure the circumference of a ring

The 10 rules of etiquette on the engagement ring in the era of Instagram and Facebook. What are the good manners to respect ♦ ︎

There are 10 rules to know about the engagement ring. Indeed, new rules. Because compared to the past, the engagement ring can now take on a different, more social role. So, be careful: it is good to know these rules when you give or have received your engagement ring.

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

Beware of social media. Let’s start with social networks: Instagram, Facebook or similar have become part of the life of millions of people. And it often happens that even the most intimate aspects end up being shared over the internet. It is your choice. But be careful when it comes to the engagement ring. The jewel, in this case, is equivalent to a commitment for marriage. Therefore, it is not the simple gift of a precious thing, but something more. Posting a photo of your engagement ring means you are getting married. All right: but before publishing the photo on Instagram or Facebook, warn your parents, relatives or close friends: they will be happy not to learn the good news through a post.

Dichiarazione e anello di fidanzamento, pubblicato su Facebbok — Statement and engagement ring, posted on Facebook

When to show the ring? You will certainly be proud of the engagement ring he gave you. But don’t go overboard in showing it as a trophy. Do you want to publish the photo of the ring on Instagram or Facebook? Ok. In that case, perhaps, don’t forget to include your boyfriend in the image, who is after all the one who asked you to marry him. If it is a particularly expensive ring, avoid underlining it in an internet post: in addition to being a not very delicate boast, it is also dangerous: it can arouse the interest of thieves.

Anello di fidanzamento trilogy — Trilogy engagement ring

Pick the right time. Advice for him: Do you want to give a ring to ask your girlfriend if she wants to get married with you? Very good. But choose the right time. It is not certain that she is happy that the request and the gift of the ring take place in a public place, nor that the moment becomes a video to be published on the web. Of course, on Instagram or Tik Tok there are many videos in which he kneels and shows her the ring. But it is not certain that all women enjoy sharing such an intimate moment. So, before organizing such a thing (there must be someone making the video), get his opinion on the subject. By the way: it seems that about 40% of wedding requests coincide with a holiday period or on Valentine’s Day. It’s not a casuality.

Anello di fidanzamento indossato — Engagement ring worn

Can I ask him how much it cost? The answer is no. The ring is a symbol, not a dowry. Of course you are curious to know, but keep your tongue in check. If you really want to know how much your boyfriend has spent, you can ask to describe the jewel to you. If the ring is gold and has a diamond, it will be enough to know how many carats (or, more likely, how many tenths of a carat) the stone is to get a quick idea of the cost of the ring. Then, check the price on the internet. But is it so important to know?

Vetrina di una gioielleria — Showcase of a jewelry store

What if it’s not a diamond? If the fiancé does not have great financial means, it is likely that instead of a diamond ring, she purchases a piece of jewelry with a synthetic stone, such as cubic zirconia, which looks like a diamond, but she is not. Or a moissanite ring, just as synthetic. Are you disappointed? Of course, a natural stone is more rewarding, but as long as you don’t weigh too much on your bank account. You would be less happy, in fact, if your fiancé went into debt to buy your ring, since you are about to marry him.

L'anello con diamante di Jennifer Lopez — Jennifer Lopez’s diamond ring

Can the ring be chosen by the woman? In the United States and Great Britain, the custom of choosing the engagement ring as a couple is increasingly widespread. He and she (or he and he or she and she) go to the jeweler together for the purchase. Of course, the surprise no longer exists or, rather, the moment of the marriage request does not coincide with the gift of the ring. But it’s up to you to decide if you like this idea. Talk about it first, on the general side.

Anello in oro bianco e diamanti della linea Eden — Recarlo, ring in white gold and diamonds from the Eden line

The choice of times. The gift of the engagement ring, as mentioned, coincides with the marriage request. How much time must pass from the moment you receive the ring before you let the rest of the world know? Answer: about 1 second. You can immediately inform humanity that you are about to get married. But remember: tell parents and close friends first.

Should the engagement ring be worn immediately? Sure why not? If your boyfriend has done things right, she will also have chosen the right ring size. So, put it on right away.

Emily Ratajkowski con l'anello di fidanzamento: ha due diamanti taglio princess da 2 carati e un diamante a forma di pera a 3 carati su una fascia d'oro — Emily Ratajkowski with her engagement ring: it has two 2-carat princess-cut diamonds and a 3-carat pear-shaped diamond on a gold band

Does the ring necessarily have a diamond (or similar)? Absolutely not. Of course, the diamond is the most used stone for engagement rings. But it is not mandatory. Princess Diana’s engagement ring had a (large) blue sapphire in the center.

La principessa Diana con l'anello di fidanzamento — Princess Diana with the engagement ring

Do I have to wear the engagement ring on the wedding day? It is a choice that is up to you. But do not complicate things: do not wear the ring on the same finger that is about to receive the wedding band. Subsequently, after putting the wedding ring on your finger, you can move the engagement ring and wear both rings on the same finger.

Fede nuziale e solitario — Wedding ring and solitaire

Cannabis and jewelry, the odd couple

Published on July 30, 2023

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

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

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

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

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, zaffiri, tormalina

Ana Khouri, imagination to power

Published on July 29, 2023

Brazilian fantasy, American concreteness: that’s why they like Ana Khouri jewels ♦

Ana Khouri, born in San Paolo, based in New York, the city design. Brazil is for decades been a hotbed from which come jewelers global quality. And Ana Khouri, the daughter of an engineer and a pianist, has successfully combined the grace of music with mathematical rigor. The result is a mixture of fantasy and simplicity, yet luxurious. Her jewels have been worn by Emma Stone, Lupita Nyong’o, Liberty Ross, Rihanna, Isabeli Fontana, Emma Watson, Alicia Vikander, Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Michelle Obama, Glenn Close, Sara Paulson, Karlie Kloss, Claire Foy, Emily Blunt and Jennifer Lawrence.

Given also that the designer studied sculpture at the Fundação Armando Alvares Penteado in his hometown, it’s simplest to say that its jewels are extremely three-dimensional shapes. Never flat shapes, despite the search for essential forms. In New York, the enterprising young Brazilian has also studied at the Gemological Institute of America then moved to London to graduate from Central Saint Martins. In short, she pocketed the better curriculum for a jeweler. The result, her jewels, are appreciated by a large number of celebrity. You see why in these pictures: earcuff large diamond-studded rings that twist as bent by the wind, earrings from the elusive form of small cones. To mark as a favorite.

Gold Maia diamond & 18kt yellow and white gold ring

Row ring, con pavé di smeraldi — Row ring, with emerald pavé

Choker in oro 18 carati e smeraldo — Choker in 18K gold and emerald

Row earrings, con pavé di smeraldi — Row earrings, with emerald pavé

Orecchino con pavé di diamanti e smeraldo — Earring with pavé diamonds and emerald

The links of Salima Thakker

Published on July 15, 2023

Bracciale in oro e argento con tormaline multicolori

Salima Thakker, perfect example of cultures that meet: the designer was born and works in Antwerp, an Indian father and a Belgian mother. Antwerp is the European capital of diamonds and jewels were an irresistible temptation for Salima Thakker, moreover to join with the world of art: she studied at the Royal Academy in Antwerp and earned her Master’s degree at the Royal College of Art in London, where she consolidated his profession and passion for design. So much so that she later became a teacher at the Academy of Fine Arts, with which she still collaborates. But her jewelry house came after a collaboration with Damiani, in Milan, about twenty years ago.

Orecchini in oro bianco, diamanti navette e tormalina Paraiba — Earrings in white gold, navette diamonds and Paraiba tourmaline

An experience that helped her to open her workshop and shop in Antwerp, making the jewels herself. The designer describes her work as the result of an intertwining, a shared culture between different ethnic origins, which are a fusion of world culture. She uses only ethically traceable stones, gems and diamonds, and her jewelry is now sold worldwide, including New York, Hong Kong and Antwerp.

Collana in oro 18 carati e argento — Necklace in 18 carat gold and silver

Anello Labyrinth con peridoto — Labyrinth ring with peridot

Anello eternity in oro giallo e diamanti — Eternity ring in yellow gold and diamonds

Anello in oro rosa con tormaline — Rose gold ring with tourmalines

Bracciale in oro giallo 18 carati — 18K yellow gold bracelet

Bracciale in oro giallo 18 carati e citrini — Bracelet in 18K yellow gold and citrines

Bracciale in oro giallo 18 carati e argento sterling — Bracelet in 18K yellow gold and sterling silver

Orecchini in oro bianco e rosa, con morganite e acquamarina — Earrings in white and pink gold, with morganite and aquamarine

Millefiori silver with Giovanni Raspini

Published on July 3, 2023

Millefiori collection by Giovanni Raspini.

Flower necklaces were, arguably, the first jewel-like female accessory in the dawn of humanity. And today’s jewelry often does not deviate too much from that ancient typology, even if the collections of earrings, rings or necklaces are made with noble metals, instead of simple flowers collected in the meadows and intertwined. An example is the Millefiori collection by Giovanni Raspini. Of course, the flowers are the inspiration, while the jewels idealize the concept with the proposal of silver jewels in the usual style of the Tuscan company.

Pendente Millefiori in argento — Millefiori silver pendant

The Millefiori collection is made with tiny flowers that form a texture on circular bases of burnished silver. The surface of the jewels is made more brilliant thanks to a diamond-plating process, a metal working technique that gives a shimmering effect in contrast with the shadows of the burnished base. The Millefiori collection is declined in three necklaces, two bracelets, two rings and three earrings.

Orecchini a bottone Millefiori — Millefiori stud earrings

Bracciale piccolo in argento — Small bracelet in silver

Anello a doppia banda in argento brunito — Double band ring in burnished silver

Anello a banda in argento brunito — Band ring in burnished silver

Orecchini in argento brunito — Burnished silver earrings

Orecchini a cerchio Millefiori — Millefiori hoop earrings

Collana Lunga Millefiori — Silver burnished necklace Millefiori

Sea version sequins with Chantecler

Published on June 30, 2023

Bracciale rigido della collezione Paillettes

Wear sequins at the seaside? Not exactly the ideal kind of match. But wearing Chantecler jewels, but it’s better not on the beach, is another thing. The Maison of Capri has the Paillettes line among its collections, with a version that seems suitable to be worn in an elegant seaside resort. It is a series of jewels that are part of the collection, characterized by the use of a pavé of deep blue sapphires, which are combined with 18-karat yellow gold. The jewels present the precious stones on one side and the Chantecler logo, the stylized gold rooster, on the lower surface. In some cases the jewels have a touch of sea blue enamel.

Collana in oro e zaffiri blu della collezione Paillettes — Necklace in gold and blue sapphires from the Paillettes collection

The jewels, for example the bracelets, also hide a titanium core, to preserve the flexibility and non-deformability of the metal. The design of the collection is made up of many round elements, which in the case of the bracelets are proposed in sequence. A style that recalls, in fact, the shape of the sequins.

Anello in oro, smalto e zaffiri — Ring in gold, enamel and sapphires

Bracciale flessibile in oro giallo e zaffiri blu — Flexible bracelet in yellow gold and blue sapphires

Collana con pendente fronte e retro — Necklace with front and back pendant

Orecchini a bottone in oro giallo e zaffiri — Yellow gold and sapphire stud earrings

Vintage jewelry guide

Published on June 27, 2023

Vintage jewelry are liked more and more, but before choosing them you need to know their characteristics well. Here are the advice of the gemologist of the Catawiki online auction house ♦

What vintage ring choose? She will like it? Or: how to let him know what I like? The first rule is to go on the classic. The second, is to follow the trend. And, in this key, there’s the advice of the of Catawiki, an online auctions company. According over the company, there would be (better to use the conditional) an increase in the purchase of antique rings. Could be. But, in any case, the rings in a style of yesteryear have always had estimators and admirers.

Collana vittoriana con diamanti. Prezzo: 28.000 dollari

The auction house, therefore, has seen fit to ask Deborah Mazza, gemologist and herald of Catawiki, a comment: “Over the past decade there has been a significant change compared to what users are looking for when choosing a engagement ring. The trends show a move away from the classic-style rings, like the solitary bought in upscale jewelers, and now you try something that does not fall in the ordinary, why the vintage rings have become very popular and in demand. But this implies having to do a search to select an object and vintage, to avoid that the future remains disappointed bride, you have to consult a gemologist, who can guarantee the quality and the ring came from. Everything else depends on personal taste.”

Spilla vittoriana in alluminio annerito e jet-Whitby (giaietto), un mineraloide di origine vegetale

Adds Louise Baltruschat Hollis, head of the known site for weddings Whimsical Wonderland Weddings: “For some couples, marriage is undoubtedly the most important day of their lives. For this, it’s no wonder that everything is being done to make this day memorable. Today’s brides are opting for something custom, chic festival ceremonies in the woods, and this desire to have something unique also depends on the choice of ring. ”
So here’s a brief guide to the rings in the style of the past.
Victorian. It is a ring for those who love the colors. Very often, in fact, the Victorian ring mount colored gemstones rings including garnets, emeralds and sapphires, why the rings of this time period are the ideal choice when looking for an alternative to the classic solitaire diamond. “Typically, when you opt for colored gemstones, there is a tendency to choose rings with sapphire due to its wear resistance, and it was been Kate Middleton to launch this trend” continues the gemologist. “For those looking for something unusual but colorful and durable, however, I would suggest finding a ruby. Rubies have an incredible strength, second only to diamonds and half the price, so it is no surprise that there has been a sharp increase in demand.”

Art Nouveau. They are the antithesis to the simplicity of a traditional solitaire. The Art Nouveau-style rings are characterized by their shape. A native of the early twentieth century, the Art Nouveau style is known for intricate designs and rich in details and curves, making a bold choice for brides. Are rich in history and romance have details. Often they possess many grafted colored stones in a delicate style but complex.

Il classico Trinity di Cartier, in oro e diamanti. È nato nel 1924 ed è ancora prodotto

Art Deco. This style has gained popularity in the twenties and thirties, with designs are characterized by a sharp angles and geometric style that represent a break with the previous period style. They are back in fashion thanks to movies as The Great Gatsby.

Anello Art Deco in platino, diamanti e onice

Antique Tiffany & Co. For some women who only want excellence, the only choice is a vintage Tiffany & Co. The American house produces engagement rings since 1837, and although they tend to have a classical style by buying a vintage piece can ensure a unique touch to feel out of the ordinary and wear a piece of history.

Il classico anello in oro bianco e tre diamanti di Tiffany & co.

Spilla a forma di farfalla con diamanti e perle, di epoca vittoriana

Tiara e collana vittoriana venduta da Christie's — Tiara e collana vittoriana venduta da Christie’s

Spilla di René Lalique, con smalto e crisoprasio

Anello Art Nouveau con lucertola e uccello, in oro e opale

Bracciale Art Déco con diamanti e rubini di Van Cleef & Arpels, 1940

Particolare di un bracciale Art Deco di Cartier, con perle con zaffiri e diamanti

If the ring is rainbow

Published on June 18, 2023

Jewelers offering marriage rings for people of the same sex are on the rise. And men prefer rings made in … ♦

Do you remember Tiffany’s same sex ring campaign ? It’s been all over the newspapers, often with appreciative headlines and even with a hint of cynicism: a step forward for marriage rights or a step forward for sales? In fact, the advertisment has not only expanded this market segment, but actually has identified a new trend: the engagement ring from man to man or woman to woman. Of course, this is a niche, but is growing: for example, legalising gay marriage, in England, Scotland and Wales in 2014, has increased the demand for wedding bands.

And, in fact, if once sales are focused on informal rings as a symbol of a private commitment, now there is a shift to something more institutional, a choice more considered and custom made. Men are looking for something less flashy, but not necessarily less precious: diamonds, pink gold palladium and titanium are at the top of the charts. Customization is the key to win the English customers, who are also interested in the finish, which is polished, matt or brushed finish is not important, but they want to contribute to the design ring. Which brings greater creativity, although jewelers facing so much talent always give the same advice: because it’s supposed to last several years the band should follow personal taste rather than the latest trend.

La firma del registro — The signature on the marriage register

In a female marriage, for now, a trend closer to faith seems to prevail, to the classic wedding ring, a gold circle that symbolizes the union between two people. Even with small variations, for example, with a small diamond set inside the metal band. But, essentially, women seem to prefer more sobriety. It is also an aesthetic question: men have on average larger hands and, therefore, even the rings are larger and are more visible.

Cerimonia di matrimonio gay al femminile — Female wedding ceremony

Although same-sex marriages are now permitted in a large number of countries, it does not seem that a common formula has been codified regarding the jewels to wear, starting with rings. At the moment, in short, a simple transposition of the characteristics for wedding rings used by heterosexual couples prevails. It’s the tradition. But it is said that in the near future the rings may take on a different appearance: it is a universe that is still unexplored.

Les Bonbons for leBebé

Published on June 16, 2023

Bracciale con sagoma bimba in oro giallo 9kt con diamante, ametiste viola taglio navette e tormaline rosa

New collection by leBebé, the jewelery brand that has always been characterized by the unmistakable silhouettes of boys and girls applied to rings, earrings or pendants. On the occasion of the summer, leBebé jewels broaden the proposal with the introduction of color. The collection is called Les Bonbons, i.e. candies in French, which adds a playful reference that fits well with jewels intended above all for new mothers. The 9-karat white and yellow gold are combined with baguette-cut blue topaz, aquamarine, purple navette-cut amethyst and pink tourmalines.

Collana con sagoma bimbo in oro bianco 9kt con diamante, topazi azzurri taglio baguette e acquamarine — Necklace with baby silhouette in 9kt white gold with diamond, baguette-cut blue topaz and aquamarine

Not only that: the leBebè boy and girl silhouettes are embellished in the center with a small diamond. another novelty concerns the use of the two-finger ring for the first time. The jewels of the Les Bonbons collection are intended for young and dynamic mothers, as can be understood from the new shot of the Play! in which mother and daughter have fun on board the skate.

Anello con sagoma bimba in oro giallo 9kt con diamante, ametista viola taglio navette e tormalina rosa — Ring with girl silhouette in 9kt yellow gold with diamond, navette-cut purple amethyst and pink tourmaline

Anello due dita con sagoma bimba in oro giallo 9kt con diamante, ametista viola taglio navette e tormalina rosa — Two fingers ring with girl shape in 9kt yellow gold with diamond, navette cut violet amethyst and pink tourmaline

Anello due dita con sagoma bimbo in oro bianco 9kt con diamante, topazio azzurro taglio baguette e acquamarina — Two-finger ring with baby silhouette in 9kt white gold with diamond, baguette-cut blue topaz and aquamarine

Anello con sagoma bimbo in oro bianco 9kt con diamante, topazio azzurro taglio baguette e acquamarina — 9kt white gold baby silhouette ring with diamond, baguette cut blue topaz and aquamarine

The Gringoire jewels

Published on June 16, 2023

The jewels of the French Maison Gringoire, a Parisian with a century and a half of history ♦ ︎
“I wrote silences, nights, I noticed the inexpressible, I stared dizzy.” While Arthur Rimbaud, one of the great French poets of the late nineteenth century, wrote these words, in Paris at number 79 of rue de Turbigo, in Paris, a new brand of jewelry was born. It was founded in 1880 by Achille Hourdequin. After the founder’s sudden death in 1942, Gérard Gringoire, the son-in-law, took over the company, along with his wife, Edith Hourdequin. The company has been successful.

Anello in oro bianco e topazio blu — Ring in white gold and blue topaz

Today around 500 jewelers in France distribute the H. Gringoire brand. Not only that: the Maison’s jewels are also distributed in Southeast Asia, the Middle East and the United States. After almost a century and a half, in short, Gringoire Joaillier is still a Maison that focuses on high quality jewelry, often with large colored stones, such as amethysts, topazes and citrines, surrounded by diamonds.

Anello con ametista rosa e diamanti, oro 18 carati — Ring with pink amethyst and diamonds, 18K gold

Anello con zaffiri rosa e diamanti, oro 18 carati — Ring with pink sapphires and diamonds, 18K gold

Anello con rubino e diamanti, oro 18 carati — Ruby and diamond ring, 18K gold

Anello con topazio blu e diamanti, collezione Intemporelle — Ring with blue topaz and diamonds, Intemporelle collection

pendente con topazio blu e diamanti, collezione Intemporelle — Pendant with blue topaz and diamonds, Intemporelle collection

The refined design of Paola Brussino

Published on June 14, 2023

There are those who limit themselves to re-proposing small variations of the same subject. And who, like Paola Brussino, sets out on unexplored roads. Choice of materials and extraordinarily effective design constitute the map of the Turin architect and designer, who in her long career has collaborated with international jewelery brands and the most prestigious niche maisons. Her bio states that her work has been exhibited in various European countries, Qatar, Japan, Russia and the United States. After having lived for a long time in Geneva, she returned to Italy in 2012 and began a path of pure research.

Orecchino in zirconio con tsavorite e diamanti. Copyright: gioiellis.com — Zircon earring with tsavorite and diamonds. Copyright: Gioiellis.com

One of the aspects that characterize Paola Brussino’s jewels is the choice to work with elements such as carbon, titanium, zirconium and corian in high jewellery. Zirconium, for example, is a metal with an appearance reminiscent of titanium. It is mostly made from zircon and is very resistant to corrosion. It is used in nuclear plants and, now, also in the designer’s rings and earrings.

Orecchini con zaffiri rosa La Rose de Edith — La Rose de Edith pink sapphire earrings

Furthermore, the roots that sink into design and architecture have directed Paola Brussino’s jewelery towards jewels that express rigor and fantasy at the same time, lightness and luxury, but with defined and pleasant, natural and elegant geometries.

Anello con zpinello blu cobalto e diamanti. Copyright: gioiellis.com — Cobalt blue spinel and diamond ring. Copyright: Gioiellis.com

Anello con due diamanti. Copyright: gioiellis.com — Ring with two diamonds. Copyright: gioiellis.com

Paola Brussino. Copyright: gioiellis.com

Piero Milano without borders

Published on June 12, 2023

Collana in oro giallo e diamanti, collezione Eos

Who knows why there are jewelers who manage to build a legend around their collections and others, like the Piedmontese brand Piero Milano, who are just as good, but are less bold in communicating it. Sometimes marketing strategies are a little mysterious. Just as it is hard to understand that a brand like Piero Milano is appreciated in stores abroad, has many admirers, but has less recognition in the collective image.

Collezione Eden, anello in oro bianco e full pavé di diamanti — Eden collection, ring in white gold and full pavé diamonds

Yet the Valencian company founded half a century ago by Piero Milano and Luigi Benzi has nothing to envy to many other Maisons that enjoy (sometimes undeserved) celebrity. All right, Piero Milano boasts a good market success, thanks to the ability to interpret the classic jewel, as is the tradition of the goldsmiths of that Piedmontese province. Gold, platinum, diamonds, precious and semi-precious stones: nothing is missing in the vast catalog of proposals, ranging from high jewelery to easy to wear.

Anello flessibile in oro giallo e diamanti della collezione Goa — Flexible ring in yellow gold and diamonds from the Goa collection

Orecchini in oro rosa e diamanti, collezione Goa — Earrings in pink gold and diamonds, Goa collection

Orecchini in oro bianco diamanti e zaffiri realizzati con la tecnica invisible setting — Earrings in white gold, diamonds and sapphires made with the invisible setting technique

Anello in oro rosa con diamanti — Rose gold ring with diamonds

Collana con pendente in oro bianco, diamanti e rubini — Necklace with pendant in white gold, diamonds and rubies

Alviero Martini 1st Class in Cape Town

Published on June 12, 2023

The maps of Alviero Martini 1A Classe, the Milanese brand that became famous for the maps printed on bags and suitcases, presents a new collection of fashion jewelry: Long Street. The jewels are made entirely of 925 silver in the natural or gold-plated version. The metal also houses leather inserts with the Geo Map print that distinguishes the Maison. The choice of name reflects the connection with the geographical theme and continues the series of collections inspired by famous places. Specifically, Long Street is a tourist street in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa, where there are ethnic style shops and bookshops and clubs with an international flair.

Collana in argento, cubic zirconia, inserto Geo Map in pelle — Necklace in silver, cubic zirconia, Geo Map insert in leather

The collection includes necklaces, bracelets and rings. The necklaces use the round silver pendant covered in leather with the Geo Map print together with cubic zirconia. The pendants are available both in the 925 silver version (99 euros) and in yellow gold plated silver (109 euros). There is also a maxi version in silver with a bilière-type chain (made up of small spheres) of cubic zirconia with Geo Map printed leather (179 euros). The two bracelets are also composed of spheres with a central Geo Map pendant in 925 silver (109 euros) or yellow gold plated (119 euros). Finally, Long Street includes an adjustable ring (109 euros).

Anello in argento, cubic zirconia, pelle — Silver ring, cubic zirconia, leather

Bracciale in argento, cubic zirconia, pelle — Bracelet in silver, cubic zirconia, leather

Smarties for Mattioli

Published on June 11, 2023

The commonly known Smarties are small sugar-coated chocolate sweets of various colors. But now Smarties are also high-end jewels by Mattioli. They are not eaten, but worn. However, the new Smarties collection of the Turin brand recalls the shape of the homonymous colored chocolates covered with sugar icing, launched by Rowntree Mackintosh in 1937 and produced by Nestlé since 1988. But, to tell the truth, even if the name and the appearance of the jewels may recall a candy, the collection is inspired by refined architectures of the past. In any case, the jewels are handcrafted in 18K rose gold.

Collana in oro rosa e topazi champagne — Necklace in rose gold and champagne topaz

But, above all, they are composed of champagne topaz stones cut in a round shape like a brilliant. Each jewel is made up of numerous gems. For example, the ring takes at least a dozen. Necklace and bracelet many more. The stones are mobile, attached to the jewelry, but not set in a static crown. By moving the hand wearing the ring, for example, the topaz stones also swing.

Bracciale in oro rosa e topazi champagne — Rose gold and champagne topaz bracelet

Anello in oro rosa e topazi champagne — Rose gold and champagne topaz ring

Collana della collezione Smarties — Rose gold and champagne topaz necklace

Licia Mattioli. Copyright: gioiellis.com

History of the Cartier Panther

Published on June 10, 2023

History of the Cartier Panther, the most famous icon of the great French Maison. Here are all the things to know about the precious Panthère ♦

Why do jewels (and Cartier watches) often use the Panther icon, which has become the sign of some famous collections? The charm of the Panthère originates in 1914, with a painting. At that time, as the expert Sabrina Doerr said, the Parisian company was run by Louis, Jacques, and Pierre Cartier (the Maison was founded in 1847 by his grandfather, Louis-François Cartier).

A brooch from the Panthère series by Cartier with yellow diamonds, onyx and emeralds

That year Louis asked French painter George Barbier to create a watercolor painting to use as an invitation to a jewelry exhibition. La Dame à la Panthère depicts an elegantly dressed woman with a panther at her feet. The small painting was so successful that from that moment Cartier started using the feline design.

According to Geo Cramer, an expert at Cartier, “at the beginning of the twentieth century, big cats were in vogue to express femininity: these animals were seen as the highest expression of women”. Characters who animated Parisian nights, such as the Marquise Luisa Casati, who had adopted cheetahs in her house in Venice (now home to the Guggenheim), confirm the fascination that super cats exerted in high society. In any case, in 1914 it marks Cartier’s first panther: a watch that has a speckled surface. The panther was completely depicted for the first time on a beauty case owned by Jeanne Toussaint, director of Cartier jewelry since 1933, considered the Coco Chanel of jewelry.

Aquamarine, diamond e perle, Panthère de Cartier, bracelet

A working relationship between Jeanne Toussaint (1887-1976) and Louis Cartier began when she was 31. Cartier had been awed by his beauty, carefree spirit, and aura of grandeur. Toussaint played an important role in making the Panthère de Cartier collection the icon it has become, so much so that she herself has been nicknamed La Panthère. In 1927, a designer named Peter Lemarchand joined the Cartier team. Very skilled, he observed the panthers at the zoo until, in collaboration with Toussaint, he was able to translate them into designs for making jewelry. Lemarchand played an important role in making the panther the legend it is today. In this period the first brooches depicting animals appear.

Cartier, colored sapphire, multi gem and diamond Panthère ring

Over the years, many celebrities and high society figures have become admirers of the Panthère de Cartier collection. Actresses such as the Mexican Maria Felix, the American heiress Barbara Hutton, or the Duchess of Windsor, were among the fans of the panthers of the Parisian Maison. In 1948, for example, Wallis Simpson’s third husband, Prince Edward, Duke of Windsor, asked Cartier to create a three-dimensional panther brooch for his wife. The result is a jewel in yellow gold dotted with black enamel with an emerald-cut cabochon. This brooch also marked a milestone in the history of the Panthère de Cartier: it was the first time the feline was represented in three dimensions. A year later, in 1949, the Windsors bought another three-dimensional panther brooch, this time made with diamonds and onyx set in platinum, on a 152-carat sapphire cabochon. Not only that: the Duchess of Windsor bought other pieces from the Pantera collection in the following years.

Classic Panthère in gold, diamonds, platinum, onyx, emerald by Cartier

Daisy Fellowes, socialite, heiress, editor of the American fashion magazine Harper Bazaar, was also a fan of the Cartier panther: in her time she bought a diamond and sapphire brooch, with the feline in the position of the sheep that symbolizes order. chivalrous of the Golden Fleece. In 1958, the Panther conquered Princess Nina Aga Khan (Nina Dyer, an Anglo-Indian model married to Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan). The Aga Khan purchased several elements of the Panthère de Cartier collection, including a brooch, a bracelet with panther-shaped ends, and a fluted gold bracelet designed with elements that can be transformed into earrings. And the story still continues. In 2014 Cartier celebrated 100 years of Panthère de Cartier with a series of 56 pieces of jewelery and an exhibition in Paris, at the Grand Palais.

Cartier Panthere clip broche. White gold, diamonds, onyx, emerald — Cartier Panthere clip brooch. White gold, diamonds, onyx, emerald

Panthère brooch in yellow gold, diamonds, onyx, emeralds

Resonances Panthere bracelet, 18K white gold, rubellites, emeralds, onyx and diamonds

Anne Hathaway wears a Panthère bracelet by Cartier

In Milan in Montenapo with Alviero Martini 1st Class

Published on May 25, 2023