Since the reason for the event was to showcase a group of French jewelers (and hopefully buy something), the champagne was flowing. In between the bubbly and chocolates I browsed through the baubles and frankly I was dazzled by the various pieces that ranged from delicate to classic and bold. Some of my favorites include Veronique Bailly’s hand made triple linked rings in 18K pink gold studded with pink sapphires and a pearl. I liked the fact that this collection is aimed at a young client who leads an active life and wants jewelry that works day or night, it’s simple yet elegant and easy to wear. Check her out at www.veroniquebailly.com
Veronique Bailly's Work
Three Rings, Three Materials, Three times Six is Eighteen... and I digress
Wit and whimsy combine in Antoine Camus’ contemporary designs. The pieces are as bold as anything David Webb designed but to me a lot more unique. Frankly, I’d kill for one of his African “Mask” pins or the adorable “Hippopotamus” ring, both in 18K yellow gold and blackened silver. Either one is a conversation piece! www.antoinecamus.fr
Personally I love enamel so when I saw the Bijoux Commelin collection I was enchanted. Founded in the 19th century under Napoleon 111 the firm continues to produce beautifully enameled miniature jewels for which they’ve become renowned. I recommend the darling 18K yellow gold charms from the “Monuments of Paris” collection, especially the translucent enamel kiosk or the Tour Eiffel. Either one would look lovely dangling from a cord bracelet which can be had in a choice of colors. www.bijouxcommelin.com
Cocktail rings are hot now and Garnazelle has a knockout version. Called “Boule D’Amour” (ring of love for you peasants who don/t speak French), the ring features an eye popping white cabachon cacholong stone set in 18K pink gold. More tongue-in-chic is the diamond studded yellow gold ring in the shape of a little frog. www.garnazelle.com I also took note of another dazzling cocktail ring at La Joaillerie Recreative. It featured a 27K faceted green quartz stone surrounded by 138 diamonds and set in a cage of 18K yellow gold. Not too shabby! Creative director Christine Escher collection features other pieces in precious wood, gold, diamonds and semi=precious stones such as her “Rock and Roll” ring in rubellite, garnet, carnelian and citrine in the shape of a flower set in yellow gold. www.christine-escher.com.
I challenge you to pick the ideal drink for each of these rings!
Totally different and simply adorable are Marchak’s teeny little “Hedgehog’ brooches in genuine mink. They have diamond studded snouts, sapphire eyes and onyx noses, set in 18K yellow or white gold. If I couldn’t have this I definitely want the precious gold ring with the polar bear’s face in white mink with jeweled eyes and nose! www.marchak.fr
The Perfect Hedgehogs for 2010
If there was only one piece of jewelry I could own in my entire life (ha!) it would have to be Tess&Tasha’s timeless diamond studded band ring and matching crown set available in white or yellow 18K gold. I tried them on (amazingly they were a perfect fit) and I’d be happy with either color. Since its inception in 2005, designer Maritess Damian’s collections have continued to dazzle her clients with gorgeous jewelry pieces. www.tessandtasha.com
Royalty That Won't End Up in the Tabloids
The companies I’ve just listed were part of The Jewels of France Exhibition and Trunk Show which is an annual week long gathering of some of
That’s all for now folks. Happy Holidays. Coming up for the new year will be my first look at spring 2010 accessories. Yes I know that the fall fashion shows will be on the horizon but for you fashionistas out there it’s the spring stuff that will be hitting the stores in February that you need to know about. Next fall’s a long way off.
Cheers, C&C.