Just Ask Leslie: Jewelry Tips

Dear Leslie,
I’ve noticed that on Oscar night, the two most popular pieces of jewelry seem to be bracelets and earrings. Why is that?

Tara in Long Island

Tara, before I answer your question, I must first state that I am not sure I agree with your assumption. There were a number of thin, neck-hugging necklaces on display at last year’s Oscars, as well as eye-popping brooches playing best supporting actress to eye-popping dresses. The reason you may not have noticed the necklaces is that Oscar attendees often opt for shorter necklaces in subtle designs like diamond and white gold so as not to distract people’s focus from their faces and their gowns. While these materials reflect the light and look sublime in person, they are often hard to see in paparazzi fashion shots.

Brooches are also easy to miss if you don’t know where to look for them. Often worn on the backs or shoulder straps of Oscar gowns, you may have thought the brooch was part of the dress, when in fact it was a designer-made accessory. Brooches are intricately designed and often contain a high concentration of gems, making them the perfect compliment to a custom-made dress. Although most of the brooches seen at the Oscars are diamond, I love this colorful butterfly shaped brooch, for its eye-catching colors and delicate shape.

Now to address your question. The reason you thought bracelets and earrings are the most popular types of Oscar jewelry, is because these two items are usually the most noticeable. Starlets with short hair or upswept hair-dos are likely to choose a large pair of earrings to frame their face or a short, gem heavy pair to reflect their sparkling eyes. Last year, Gwyneth Paltrow wore a lovely pair of tear-drop earrings, a feminine an elegant choice. Cluster earrings are another common choice for those walking the red carpet. Cluster earrings, such as the stunning diamond and white gold pair shown at left, catch the light and the media’s attention, which of course is what every starlet wants.

Bracelets are also a major eye-catcher at the Oscar’s, as many of the gowns are sleeveless, so the eye roams to any accessory on the arm. Many stars choose large silver or gold bracelets or shimmery, gem filled numbers, such as the elegant ruby and diamond bracelet at right.

This year, pay close attention to necks and dresses and you will see even more breathtaking jewelry than you are used to when you just notice the bracelets and earrings.

The soft blue hues of Aquamarine make it easy to understand why this gem was chosen as the birthstone for March. The water-like color symbolizes the rains that are soon to end, bringing forth beautiful blue skies and fragrant flowers. Aquamarine ranges in color from light to deep blue, often with tinges of green, and makes a perfect accessory for pastel colored spring wardrobes.

The name aquamarine was coined by the Romans, and is a combination of two words, “aqua” for water and “mare” for sea, because the gem’s delicate blues reflected the water of the sea. The ancient Greeks wore aquamarine amulets engraved with the sea-god Poseidon on a chariot. The aquamarine gemstone was believed to posses special healing powers, able to cure stomach, liver, jaw and throat ailments and pains. During the Middle Ages, Aquamarine was used as an antidote against poison. Aquamarines were thought to be a source of power for healers and fortune tellers, who called it the “magic mirror,” and used it for predicting people’s futures.

The beautiful blue colors of Aquamarine make it a perfect match for diamonds and white gold, as seen in the earrings to the left. It also looks lovely in earrings with floral patterns, a particularly nice example of which can be seen to the right.

See ice.com’s birthstone collection for more ideas on how to wear Aquamarine jewelry.

Dear Leslie,
I’ve noticed that many women are wearing personalized jewelry especially necklaces. I remember that name jewelry was popular in the 80s. Is it making a comeback?
Rachel in Nebraska

Name jewelry has been around forever. It was a major fad in the 80s but recently experienced a revival. Sarah Jessica Parker wore name jewelry when she played the character of Carrie in HBO’s hit series Sex and the City. This sparked a huge interest in name jewelry. Name jewelry, because of its association with the 80s, gives an outfit a retro feeling. It also hints at a cool punk edge. Many trends from the 80s besides name jewelry are also making a return to fashion. Stores are again selling bright colors, shimmery metallic fabrics, and even leg warmers!

This is the classic name necklace. This particular style comes in 10K, 14K yellow gold, or sterling silver. It’s easy to personalize your own necklace. Besides your name, you can get creative and use your nickname or a word that has special meaning for you.

This personalized heart name bracelet is another way to go with this trend. The bracelet and heart are sterling silver with 10K yellow gold writing.

These name earrings really reflect 80s style. They’d be the perfect earrings for a concert or a night out with the girls. They’re fun and youthful. You can personalize them in your choice of 10K or 14K yellow gold. My personal favorite is the style pictured here in sterling silver with 14K yellow gold writing.

Dear Leslie,
My niece will be turning two soon and she is already such a little lady that I would like to get her a piece of jewelry for her birthday, but I don’t know what is appropriate for that age group.
Carol in Palm Springs

Buying jewelry for a toddler can often be a tricky business because there are many youngsters who pull off anything you put on them. On the other hand, there are also two year olds who love to wear jewelry and look grown-up and sophisticated. I assume that your niece falls into the second category. If that is the case, I would suggest this adorable gold charm bracelet or this pretty gold and pearl necklace.

The charm bracelet is my top choice because it is both jewelry and a toy, to which your niece can continue collecting charms as long as it fits her. The necklace is a more sophisticated piece of jewelry and I would only given it to a very mature two-year old as it is not the sort of thing one would like to see ripped off and discarded. On the other hand, if your niece truly is mature and into jewelry this necklace will really make her feel grown-up.

A truly safe bet when buying jewelry for a toddler is this beautiful gold alphabet bracelet which has a clasp that can only be undone by a well-coordinated, older person. This makes it safe for even the wildest youngster, without sacrificing its style.

Happy birthday to your niece Carol, and best wishes for many years of happiness and good jewelry.

Dear Leslie,
As winter slowly turns into spring, I would like to update my jewelry collection. When it’s finally time to take off all those sweaters and actually wear clothes for looks and not just for warmth, I would like to have some new pieces to brighten my mood and look. I was hoping you would have some suggestions – I want light colors and light jewelry.
Stella in Ithaca

I think it is always advisable to update jewelry once or twice a year. By this I don’t mean, throwing out your old collection and buying a whole new jewelry wardrobe. Jewelry is not clothing, and thus not as subject to the whims of fashion. You can even hand down a treasured piece of jewelry from generation to generation. If anything the jewelry will be considered vintage, not old. That said, it is nice to have one or two new pieces a year to match that new dress or enliven an old ensemble.

If light colors are what you are looking for, my suggestions for this spring are mostly in the pink family. Pink is a color that looks good on most women and matches many of the spring fashions. These lovely pink and plum dangling pearl earrings are perfect for showing off a new spring haircut or open-necked shirt.

This darling cultured pearl necklace on a silver snake chain will do the same, the soft pink color adding a floral aura to springtime dresses and blouses.

Though they are my current favorite, pink pearls are not the only way to update a jewelry wardrobe for spring. A key item for any springtime jewelry collection is the bracelet, as wrists are once again visible, no longer buried under layers of shirts and sweaters. This eye-catching tanzanite sterling silver flower bracelet is perfect for the warmer weather, its beauty undisputable and its delicate flowers a perfect match for the season where “April showers bring May flowers.”

If you prefer more color in your jewelry, the stunning multi-gemstone floral bracelet pictured above may be the piece for you.

Alternately, this green and yellow jade and pearl bracelet pictured to the right continues the floral theme and makes a lovely and original addition to any jewelry collection.

Dear Leslie,
I’ve seen some necklaces online that I like. I am worried though that they won’t be the right length when I receive them. Do you have any tips on how to pick the right size necklace?
Martha in Knoxville

One of the challenges of online shopping for many items is picking the right size. However, with a little knowledge, online shopping can be a wonderful experience. If you’re shopping for a particular length of necklace, I would suggest measuring necklaces that you already have. That way you’ll get an idea of how a particular length fits on you. Simply lay the necklace out on a flat surface and use a measuring tape to determine the length.

Necklaces come in common lengths. Here’s a general outline of what you can expect:
Choker: 14-16 inches and rests just above the collarbone.
Princess: 17-19 inches and rests just below the collarbone.
Matinee: 20-24 inches and rests just above the bust.
Opera: 28-34 inches and rests at the midriff. These can also be wrapped as a double strand.

Here are some beautiful pieces that feature a variety of lengths and styles found in necklaces.

This sterling silver necklace is just exquisite. The sterling silver gives it a modern feel, but the design echos ancient techniques. It definitely creates a unique and dramatic look.

Gold necklaces are a wardrobe basic. This 14K gold necklace is elegant and versatile. It is 16 inches long and will rest at the collarbone on most women.

This fashionable carnelian bead necklace is 20 inches of style. Carnelian has been used for centuries in jewelry and continues to add its orange-red glow to this necklace. This is a great necklace to layer with other pieces.

At an extravagant 30 inches, this strand of 8-8.5mm Akoya pearls is the paragon of pearl jewelry. This necklace will extend to your midriff creating a long, slimming line over your outfit. It is also long enough to be wrapped as a double strand. A pearl strand of this length is a symbol of status and luxury.

Dear Leslie,
In a recent post you suggested some items that contain created rubies. What are created rubies exactly?
Sarah in Houston

The ruby is a precious gemstone that has a long history as a symbol of love. Natural rubies are exceptionally rare and therefore very expensive. Created rubies are stones that are man-made but have the same mineral composition as naturally occuring rubies. When you buy a created ruby, you are buying a real ruby. It just wasn’t dug from the ground. Created rubies have many advantages. For one, created rubies are not mined from the earth and so they don’t have a negative environmental impact. Also since created rubies are more affordable, you are able to purchase a larger and better quailty stone.

The ruby is the birthstone for July and the 40th wedding anniversary is known as the ruby anniversary.

The 14K white gold and diamond setting in this elegant ring really shows off the heart shaped created ruby. The clarity and cut of this ruby showcase the deep red hue that makes the ruby a favorite gemstone.

The rugged and simple design of this mens 14K gold created ruby and diamond ring is a perfect way to display the versatility of the created ruby. A row of five square cut created rubies are surronded by diamonds in a beautiful gold ring.

Dear Leslie,
My fiancé and I are getting married on March 25th. While I have gifts for my bridesmaids all picked out, my fiancé has gotten nothing for the groomsmen. I think that they deserve a gift as well. What is the etiquette with groomsmen, and what sort of gift should we get for them? I would like to get jewelry, as that is what the bridesmaids are getting, and then they could both wear their gifts to the wedding.
Theresa in Hoboken

Although still not as popular as the bridesmaids’ gifts, gifts for groomsmen are becoming more popular, and more expected. As with bridesmaids, a nice piece of jewelry makes the best gift for a groomsman, it shows your appreciation, is practical and can be worn to the wedding. Even when the last piece of wedding cake has been eaten and the bride and groom have left on their honeymoon, the gift will remain a souvenir of the wedding and the groomsman’s role in it.

If your fiancé does agree to buy jewelry for the groomsmen, you should be aware that the most popular gift choices for groomsmen are cuff-links and watches, though some give necklaces and bracelets, depending on the groom and the groomsmen. This pair of gold round onyx cufflinks will match almost any tuxedos or fancy suit, and are perfect for a traditional wedding, while this sterling silver and red enamel pair adds a flash of color and a touch of pizzazz. If the groomsmen are true fashionistas, this fantastic pair of sterling silver bar cufflinks striped with black rubber makes a stylish addition to the required wedding attire.

If watches are more your style, there are, once again, many options to choose from. My personal favorites are this handsome Croton two tone stainless steel watch and this stylish Michel Renee slimline steel case with silver dial and black strap. The good thing about watches is that they can be worn even with shirts that don’t require cufflinks to close, making them more practical for everyday use, though less directly connected to the wedding.

If your groomsmen prefer bracelets or necklaces, there are a number of styles out there which manage to look elegant and classy without sacrificing their masculine appeal. This men’s sterling silver necklace would look wonderful during dancing, when the groomsmen are finally allowed to remove their coats and ties and let loose on the dance floor. This polished silver bracelet with a lobster clasp also has a strong appeal, and its versatile look makes it perfect for both black tie and casual weddings.

Congratulations, and best of luck choosing gifts for the groomsmen!

This week, many states across the southern United States are celebrating Mardi Gras, most notably New Orleans, where, though still reeling from Hurricane Katrina, the city’s Mardi Gras celebrations are still going strong.

The Mardi Gras tradition was first brought to the United States in 1699 by the French explorers who settled New Orleans. Mardi Gras, which means “Fat Tuesday,” is celebrated 47 days before Easter Sunday. Although this year the actual date of Mardi Gras falls on Tuesday, February 28th, Mardi Gras celebrations will last for days and include parades, drinking and the distribution of Mardi Gras beads, in the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green and gold.

These colors were chosen in 1872 by King Rex, the King of the Carnival (an invented title given to a member of the Mystick Krewe of Comus, a secret society which for years organized New Orleans’ Mardi Gras ceremonies). Purple is said to represent justice, green, faith and gold, power.

Though I am not traveling to New Orleans myself, nor do I collect Mardi Gras beads, I would like to highlight these lovely pearl necklaces and bracelets, which though lovely for year round, brought to mind the Mardi Gras celebrations, as they looked to me like elegant versions of the traditional Mardi Gras beads. (But don’t give these out to strangers. They are too precious to give away, except to someone you love).

This beautiful freshwater cultured pearl necklace makes for an elegant addition to both a business suit and dinner atire, while this delicate necklace and bracelet set is perfect for Easter dinners (47 days after Mardi Gras, so we may as well start planning now) and June weddings.

My final choice for the day is this black, gray and peach cultured pearl necklace which almost looks like it contains the Mardi Gras colors. But remember, this is pearl not plastic and should be worn accordingly!

Dear Leslie,
I noticed your post on Olympic-themed jewelry, and it got me thinking. What exactly is the significance of these metals? What do gold, silver and bronze really signify?
Charlie in Tennessee

Gold has been considered a precious metal since ancient times. The ancient Egyptians considered gold to have metaphysical and healing powers, and it was valued not just as jewelry but as a health tonic as well. Gold was known to have healing powers in other ancient cultures, many believed that ingesting gold stimulated the life force and raised a person’s vibration and energy levels. Although few people use gold medicinally today, it is still one of the world’s most precious metals, partially due to its scarcity, which increases its value.

While it is the high value of gold that makes it the number-one medal in the Olympic games, it has other interesting properties that make it appropriate as well. Although gold is heavy it is also both malleable and ductile, so that it can be stretched into wires (as seen in necklaces, bracelets etc.), the same way that the top athletes are both strong and able to be flexible and move with the flow.

Gold comes in a variety of colors, as is evidenced by this tri-color gold wedding band which features yellow, pink and white gold interlocking bands. Although when choosing jewelry there are many colors of gold to choose from, in the Olympics, the medal remains yellow gold, to the best of my knowledge.

Silver, the second-place medal, also has a long history. Since ancient times, silver has been closely associated with the moon and lunar influences. Whereas gold is considered hot and passionate, silver is a considered cool and collected. In ancient times, silver was one of seven sacred metals and was associated with the third-eye, said to symbolize reflection and contemplation. Silver is also associated with flexibility, a good trait for an athlete. Although in today’s times, silver is not considered as precious as gold, there are many who prefer its understated beauty, which is on display in this breathtaking open-work silver bangle.

Bronze, the third place medal, is actually a combination of metals, most often 60% copper and 40% tin. First used in the Bronze Age, this metal alloy was used for making tools, weapons and armor, as it proved to be harder than copper and more durable than stone. Bronze is strong and does not rust, a good symbol for an athlete who did well but is willing to try again. In addition, bronze can be worked easily, making it the metal of choice for many artists and sculptors. The sculpture below is the work of Antoine Louis Barye, on display at the Bronze Gallery

I admit, I’ve become a bit of an Olympics buff over the last few days. But I’m not as bad as some of my friends who started a bet of sorts, to make the game more interactive. At the begining of the Olympics they each put a generous amount of money into the pot (well, there’s ten of them, so they didn’t completely empty their bankbooks for this contest). Then they each have to choose the winners in certain Olympic events and the one who picked the winner most often gets a gold of her own, the runner-up gets silver, and the third best gets bronze. Well, that’s not exactly true. They decided to replace bronze with (affordable) pearl, because they think it looks better.

They even have the prizes all picked out. The gold medalist has a choice between this exquisite yellow gold double cable bracelet and this stunning yellow gold patterned cable chain necklace.

The second place winner has a choice between a royal-looking sterling silver cuff necklace and, in keeping with the theme, this elegant sterling silver geometric bracelet. Hey, you might not have won the gold, but you still look like a winner!

The third-place finalist gets a lovely pair of pink and white freshwater pearl earrings. Not bad for third place! Not bad at all.

They debated getting a consolation prize for those who didn’t win anything at all, but I think that in the end they decided that instead of jewelry those who didn’t win a medal will just get ice cream.

The twelfth and final sign of the Zodiac cycle, Pisces bring together many of the characteristics of the eleven signs proceeding it. Ruled by the planets Jupiter and Neptune, Pisceans have inherited a number of unique energies from their two ruling planets. Spiritual dreamers, Pisceans are able to feel the pain of their friends and neighbors, and are more than willing to lend a hand to help them out of their troubles.

Symbolized by a pair of fish, Pisces are known to go with the flow, and are often laid back and easy going. Yet the pair of fish also represent Pisceans dual nature, they often vacillate between reality and their own dreams, subject to depressions when their ideals don’t match up with the reality.

Compassionate and charitable, Pisceans can often be found helping others. Pisceans love purple and soft whites, fairy like colors to match their dreams.

The body part most associated with the Pisces sign is the foot, so why not surprise the Piscean in your life with an anklet? This two-tone gold beaded anklet with its hippie-like charm will be sure to appeal to both Pisces the idealist and Pisces the fashion maven.

Or show your love with this gold-linked heart polished anklet or this classic gold Italian Rolo anklet with heart charms. As much as Pisceans love to help others, they also like to know that they’re appreciated, and these gifts definitely express your appreciation.

Another option is a Pisces Zodiac necklace, delicate and ethereal, like Pisceans themselves.

Dear Leslie,
I am looking for a birthday gift for a good friend. She’s into the southwestern style but I’m not sure what to get her. Any suggestions?
Rebecca in Montgomery

Many women enjoy the casual elegance of the southwestern style. It has a breezy independence that is appealing to the modern woman. The southwestern style is influenced by materials originating in the that area of United States and Native American designs. The main elements of this look are natural stones like turquoise and silver metalwork. Southwestern inspired jewelry also tends to be larger and has a bold presence.

This sterling silver and turquoise necklace is typical of southwestern design. The use of organic shapes give this necklace a relaxed feeling. It will look great with a denim skirt and white cotton shirt.

A sterling silver bracelet with a hammered finish would go perfectly with the southwestern style. The gentle curves of this bracelet remind me of the Colorado River as it winds its way through the Grand Canyon. For just $55, it’s a budget conscious choice too!

If your friend has a little cowgirl in her, then this turquoise and black onyx bracelet might be just the thing. It features natually veined blue-green turquoise set in a silver bracelet with a horseshoe theme design.

Online shopping continues to grow as more and more people experience the convenience it provides. This Valentine’s Day, ice.com has made it easy for even last minute shoppers to find something special. Orders placed before February 13 at 11:00 at ice.com will be delivered on February 14 with FedEx Premium delivery. One of the real benefits to online shopping is the time it saves. I am sure you can think of more romantic ways to spend your free time this Valentine’s Day than fighting the crowds at a jewelry store in the mall! Here are a few last minute ideas that I think will make any valentine smile.

This white gold diamond pendant with a open heart design is a classic. Priced at $125, it also comes with an elegant white gold chain.

These lovely heart earrings will add romance to any outfit. A single diamond is set into polished white gold and gives a special touch to these earrings. At just $85, these earrings will leave plenty of room in your Valentine’s Day budget.

This two tone stainless steel watch by Croton is a good choice for the man in your life this holiday. Many men prefer a metal band like the one featured in this watch because it’s less worrisome than leather. A sweep second hand and date feature make this watch convenient for the man on the go.

Dear Leslie,
My wife and I got married on Valentine’s Day 25 years ago. So this Tuesday, not only will we be celebrating the holiday, we will also be celebrating our 25th anniversary. What can I get for her that reflects both Valentine’s Day and our anniversary?

Arnie in Philadelphia

Arnie, congratulations. Luckily, you picked an anniversary that’s easy to remember, so while it might be difficult to choose which gift to buy, at least you will always remember to get something.

Both the traditionalists and the modernists agree that silver is the way to go for the 25th anniversary. Considered second only to gold, it reflects your commitment and the esteem with which you and your wife hold one another. Valentine’s Day is all about hearts and love, so why not get your wife a silver heart? There are many styles to choose from, so you can be sure to pick one that matches her style. There is this beautiful silver bracelet with interlocking white and pink gold hearts. The pink gives it a romantic, feminine touch and the interlocking hearts are perfect for both Valentine’s and an anniversary. There is also a beautiful collection of silver bracelets to which you can attach your wife’s initial, replete with a gold heart.

If your wife prefers necklaces to bracelets, how about this sterling silver necklace made up of interlocking hearts?

Another option to consider is this silver heart shaped watch with green aventurine gems on the band. It’s classy, practical, has the hearts to symbolize Valentine’s Day and the silver to symbolize your 25th. Your wife could wear it to any occasion, it’s elegant enough for parties, yet as a watch, its completely appropriate for work or even the grocery store.

Best of luck in choosing the perfect gift and happy Valentine’s Anniversary!

This past Sunday, I am not ashamed to admit, I watched the Super Bowl with my husband. One of the commercials was for an electronics store, and the women in it claimed they would prefer a camera or an i-pod to jewelry or flowers. I told my husband not to get too excited by this idea, and that if he bought me electronics for Valentine’s Day I would buy him a teddy bear instead of that new grill he wants for his birthday.

What I really want is jewelry, and I assume I am not alone in this desire. There are so many romantic Valentine’s Day styles to choose from, so I’ll just point out a few of my favorites, such as this multi-colored pearl and silver bracelet. It’s delicate, feminine and extremely romantic, a perfect piece to wear not only on Valentine’s Day, but throughout February and March, as winter turns into spring.

Valentine’s Day is all about hearts and love and this elegant yet understated pink sapphire heart pendant is the perfect reminder that you hold a special place in someone’s heart. If your significant other prefers gold to gemstones, this yellow gold heart tag bracelet is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. It’s light, extremely wearable and highly fashionable.

Although I love necklaces and bracelets, this list would not be complete without a mention of earrings, an oft-overlooked Valentine’s Day option. My favorite Valentine’s Day earrings are this stunning pair of ruby and diamond white gold earrings. They are bold and exciting, as love should be, and the perfect accessory for a Valentine’s Day dinner or parties throughout the year.

But of all the Valentine’s Day jewelry I’ve seen, my ultimate favorite remains this breath-taking diamond multi-heart pendant. I am partial to necklaces myself, and this is delicate and fragile, yet full of pizzazz, like love itself. The interlocking hearts reflect a committed relationship and intertwined destinies and the mixture of diamonds and white gold surely make this pendant one for the ages.

Now I can only hope that my husband has seen this post.

Dear Leslie,

Stacey in Brooklyn, NY

Stacey, you are more perceptive than you give yourself credit for. Chandelier earrings, the belle of last year’s ball, are on the wane. While you can still get away with wearing them, even to high-end fashion events, it might be time to invest in newer styles. Hoop earrings seem to be on rise, as do dangles. This eye-catching pair in white gold and diamonds is sure to establish you as a fashion maven, even in the most demanding circles. And hoops have become more daring in recent years. They are no longer the tame earrings you wore as a teenager. Many combine the charm of both hoops and dangles and have intricate patterns, like these heart and hoop earrings in diamonds and pink and white gold.

If hoops are not your thing, another option is dangle earring, which maintain the allure of chandelier earrings, in an updated style. I happen to love these yellow gold briolette spiral earrings because they are both sexy and fun, a perfect combination!

These delicate cultured pearl and diamond earrings are also a good bet for updating your earring collection. Pearls are always in good taste, which give these earrings a lot of mileage for work and other button-down events, whereas the diamonds add a spark of pizzazz, perfect for after work partying.

Dear Leslie,
My wife likes jewelry with a natural look. Is there something you could suggest for Valentine’s Day that is romantic but earthy?
Rob in Athens, GA

Rose quartz is a pink colored stone that is often called the “love stone”. Some people believe in the metaphysical properties of stones and think that rose quartz is able to enhance all forms of love – including romantic love! Rose quartz is also said to bring compassion, kindness, and tolerance. It’s a wonderful stone for Valentine’s Day and I can think of no better way to wear rose quartz than these delicate, feminine heart shaped earrings.

Rose quartz is also featured in this 14K yellow gold chain decorated with a beautiful assortment of beads. This delicate necklace will give a swish of natural color and sparkle to your wife’s spring wardrobe.

Even if you’re skeptical of the ability of rose quartz to bring love into your life, a gift of jewelry has always been effective!

Red really is the color of love. A gift of red rubies this Valentine’s Day is the perfect way to show how much you care. I knew a man that to celebrate forty years of marriage to his wife – their ruby wedding anniversary – gave his wife a simple but elegant ruby pendant. Ten years after his death, she still wears that pendant every day. To me the red ruby stone, always close to her heart, is a symbol of their enduring love. I hope that you might be able to use one of these ruby pieces to express your affection just like this couple.

This subtle created ruby and diamond pendant in 14K white gold would make a wonderful gift. I especially like the way the feminine curve of the white gold balances this piece.
These 1 carat created ruby and diamond earrings would go well with the pendant. Priced at just $85, they are great for Valentine’s Day on a budget.

For those of you that prefer yellow gold, the pairing of the rich tones of rubies with 14K yellow gold in this ruby and diamond pendant is a classic. A sweep of diamonds accents this sweet and romantic design.

Dear Leslie,
I inherited an antique platinum and diamond pin from my grandmother. I am having trouble finding earrings to go with it. What would you recommend?
Grace in Charlotte

I’ve received many notes from people having similar problems pairing jewelry from our grandmothers’ era to our less formal lives today. Sadly, many of these beautiful pieces end up sitting in a jewelry box unused.

First, take your vintage jewelry to an experienced jeweler to make sure the clasp and settings are in good shape. Then take a look at the style of the piece. Many pins from the early 20th century have a compact floral, starburst, or swirl design. I think these diamond and white gold earrings for just $395 will provide enough sparkle to be paired with your pin but won’t take away from your heirloom piece. Don’t worry about mixing platinum jewelry with white gold. The silver color and compatible style are what you’re going for here.

Diamond pins do lend themselves to more formal attire, but don’t be afraid to show it off at a cocktail party, holiday gathering, or a night out on the town. However, keep in mind that you want the pin to be the star. Wear it with solid color fabrics and with dresses without any bodice ornamentation like sequins or beads.

I hope this helps you enjoy wearing your grandmother’s pin for years to come.