Don’t see what you’re looking for? I have a previous post on personalized jewelry that you can read here, with more ideas.

Note: Keep in mind that most personalized jewelry requires customization that takes some time. I have tried to note lead times when I could find them.

Vintage Elegance

Charm and Chain carries a line of amazing designs from Soixante Neuf. There is a look and feel to these pieces of a cherished heirloom that has been handed down.

This unique glass locket would make a beautiful gift. Clear glass can be engraved with initial(s), then the hinged case can be opened to store some treasure: photo, lock of hair (Victorian-style), maybe sand from a special vacation? I also love the long chain. Allow up to 3 weeks for delivery.

Glass locket from Soixante Neuf with 14kt vermeil setting and 32 inch chain, Retail $320.

This oval ring by Soixante Neuf is vintage in style, but modern in scale. Up to 3 initials can be carved into the top. Order by Dec 3rd, 2011 to guarantee delivery by December 23rd. Or you can always wrap a photo–it’s worth the wait.

Oval Monogram ring by Soixante Neuf in 14kt vermeil, Retail $295.

Modern Sensibility

There are some great emerging designers putting their own fresh spin on personalized jewelry. I especially like the direction of Dalla Nonna, a newly minted jewelry design team that approaches modern design with a dose of tradition. Since all their items are made by hand, allow 1-2 weeks for delivery. Gift notification can be sent immediately.

Little Letter pendant by Dalla Nonna, available in silver, yellow and rose gold on a 16 inch chain, Retail starting at $110.

I also really love their bracelets, featuring one or more of the little letters above. They would make a stylish gift for a girlfriend, and look great layered up with other bracelets. Allow 1-2 weeks for delivery.

A stack of Dalla Nonna little letters bracelets, available in a wide array of colors and silver, gold and rose gold letters, Retails starting at $98.

Truly customizable, the Dalla Nonna calendar necklace ™ is a unique way to mark (literally) a significant date. You can choose your month and day, metal, sapphire color to mark the date, and shiny or matte finish to make it your own. Allow 3-6 weeks to create this individual work of art (a gift notification can be sent immediately).

The Dalla Nonna calendar necklace in gold with a red sapphire on 18 inch chain, Retail $675.

Minimalist

If modern design is what you have in mind, consider this cigar band ring from Max & Chloe. At 3/4 of an inch wide, it could work for a man or woman. You can choose up to 3 initials to carve out of silver or 14kt gold. Allow 2-3 weeks to craft this to your specifications.

West Avenue Cigar Band ring in silver, Retail $210.

Also from Max&Chloe, here is a fresh take on the single initial idea. Allow up to 3 weeks for delivery.

West Avenue cut out initial necklace in sterling silver, Retail $98.

This bangle incorporates very clean, modern design with sentimental birthstones. The jewelry from Luna&Stella allows for quite a bit of customization, and is a favorite of new celebrity moms. You can start small and stack more gems over time with many of their designs.

Sterling Silver Crescent Moon Birthstone Charm Bangle Bracelet, Retail starting at $98.

I’m in love with these number rings by Lulu Frost. The number styles are inspired by the iconic room numbers at the Plaza Hotel in NYC. What a clever little way of referencing your special number! Allow up to 4 weeks for delivery, as all are made to order.

14kt yellow gold Number Ring by Lulu Frost CODE, Retail $440.

Feminine Mystique

For something unapologetically feminine, consider one of the designs below. I love the amazing negative-space cut outs, that are intricate without being fussy.

For the ultimate luxe expression, this pendant from Max&Chloe traces the delicate curves with pave diamonds in 14kt yellow, white or rose (sigh!) gold. Allow 2-4 weeks for each handmade creation.

14kt yellow gold Initial Monogram Necklace with Diamonds from MaxandChloe, Retail $2500.

If you love the idea of the above necklace, but prefer something a little less precious, this option from BaubleBar is a pretty amazing price point. The pendants are available in sterling silver or 14kt gold plating over sterling silver, and a Medium or Large size, pictured below. Each necklace is custom made to your specifications and takes about 4 weeks.

14kt plate over sterling silver Monogram Pendant, Large, by BaubleBar.com, Retail $115

There is something old-school sweet and charming about the full name spelled out in script. In addition to choosing silver or gold plated, you can really customize by choosing your length of chain. Allow 4 weeks to get your necklace.

14kt gold plate Nameplate Necklace by Bauble Bar, Retail $88.

Last, but not least: Guy Ideas

Finally, a decent accessory for men, that is subtly sentimental. He can literally wear his heart on his sleeve with these ingenious cufflinks by Luna&Stella. Made in clean, simple lines in sterling silver, you can unscrew the tops and put something significant inside. You can get birthstones in any combination from Luna&Stella, or provide your own photos or mementos. It’s like a locket for guys.

Sterling Silver Cufflinks from Luna and Stella, Retail starting at $150 for cufflinks, plus birthstones.

I also love these slightly geeky cufflinks from CuffArt.com. You can commemorate any significant location in latitude or longitude: where you met, your first place together, childhood memories, etc. Allow 2-3 weeks to custom make.

Latitude and Longitude Custom Engraved Cufflinks, $120 Retail

For more cufflink ideas for guys, you can check out a previous post here.

View this post on idazzle.com: Holiday Gift Ideas: Personalized Jewelry

Charm & Chain

Jewelry specialty retailer Charm & Chain offers a carefully curated selection of fashion and fine jewelry. With a stable of designers such as Gerard Yosca and Dori Csengeri, they represent a trusted place to buy jewelry online.

Charm & Chain Cyber Monday Offer: 25% off all purchases with code Cyberweek25, 30% off all purchases over $400 with code Cyberweek30…both expire Friday, December 2nd.

Beyond next week, you can still receive a very nice 20% off through December 31st with this link:

Endless.com

Endless.com is Amazon.com’s accessory site, with many high-end fashion and fine jewelry designers. You can find extensive collections from Alex Woo, Nicky Hilton, GURHAN, Gemma Redux, Heather Moore, and many more. It’s an easy shopping experience: you can log in with your Amazon ID, most shipping is 2 Day for free, and a VERY customer-friendly return policy.

Endless.com Cyber Monday Offer: $30 off $100 orders, $60 off $200 orders, and $100 off $300 orders*. Click for the direct link to the offer page ans start shopping: endless.com – 20 off $100 or 30 off $200 Accessories and Suns

*There are some designers that are not included in this special offer, click here for a list of exclusions for the discount.

Gurhan Ring

Amulet Ring by GURHAN in dark silver with 24kt gold, hand hammered finish, Retail $695.

Luna & Stella

Luna & Stella offers modern, super stylish birthstone jewelry. All of the jewelry is customizable, which gives it an extra special, personal touch. This site normally does not discount, so this promotion represents a very good value.

Luna & Stella Cyber Monday Offer: 10% off orders of $100 or more site wide, one day only. Promotion starts Monday, November 28th at 12:01am (EST) and runs through 11:59pm (EST).

Visit their site at www.lunaandstella.com.

Luna & Stella Stacking Birthstone Crescent Moon Rings, choose your metal, color, size starting at $48 Retail.

JEWELISTA

Jewelista.com is a new, innovative online shopping destination featuring collections from over 15 jewelry designers from around the globe, some of which have never been available to the U.S. consumer until now. This site does fashion+fine jewelry extremely well, and offers free shipping and an effortless return policy. This is another site that normally does zero discounting, so while the time window is small for the discount, it’s an amazing offer. The site is worth checking out for their selection of Lika Behar, Ken Lo, Sarah Graham, and Thistle & Bee, among others.

Jewelista.com Cyber Monday Offer: 20% off anything on the site from 11:00 AM (EST) until 3:00 PM (EST) on Cyber Monday, plus free shipping.

Visit their site at www.jewelista.com.

Vianna Pendant in 18kt Gold with Blue Topaz, Citrine, Green-Gold Quartz, and Prasiolite. Retail $1590.

LA NY Couture

LA NY Couture is offering up to 50% off of jewelry purchases on their site on Cyber Monday. This site offers the best of street style from both coasts at very reasonable prices.

Check out their site for details: www.lanycouture.com.

Feather Bib necklace with scrolled goldtone collar and teal feathers, Retail $35.

Aroc Urtu Jewelry

This design duo uses beach stones collected from all over the world, plus natural gems to create lovely, organic rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Collectible and versatile, this is a great gift idea for someone who appreciates good design.

Aroc Urtu Jewelry is offering 25% off the entire site (with the exclusion of rings) with the code CYBERMON. Visit www.arocurtu.com to see their collection and use the code at check out.

Aroc Urtu Rose Cut Black Diamond Stud Earrings in Sterling Silver, Retail $468.

Bauble Bar

Bauble Bar, perhaps my fav-o-rite online destination for fashion jewelry, is offering an escalating deal: for every $50 of regular price merchandise you order between now and Sunday (the 27th) evening, you will receive $10 Gift Card on Monday the 28th to use for yourself or a gift.

Updated Monday am: For every $30 you spend on the Bauble Bar site, they will send you an item from their gifting suite (most items around a $30 value!): www.BaubleBar.com offer.

Check out their site at www.baublebar.com to see their totally on-trend selection of fashion forward jewelry.

Bauble Bar Collaboration with Erickson Beamon, Dirty Glam Crystal and Rhodium-plated Necklace, Retail $165.

Any other deals out there? Leave a comment and let us know! I will be updating as I find out about other Cyber Monday discounts available.

View this post on idazzle.com: Cyber Monday Jewelry Deals

The jewelry of Fragments is plenty interesting, but the real story here is Janet. A serendipitous path led to success for this entrepreneur in fashion, from a background in art and design.

Rose Ring by Borgioni in 18kt Black Rhodium Gold with Rubies and Black Diamonds, Retail $7525

Starting Out

Janet’s first career was as a teacher. At heart, though, Janet was really an artist and eventually went back to school to become a pattern maker. This gave her a sense of true independence–a quality still very important to her–as she felt she could go anywhere in the world with that skill. After some success with her pattern design (Henri Bendel was the first store she sold to) she ran into some growing pains when trying to expand her business.

Miguel Ases Earrings of Swarovski Crystals, Miyuki, 18k Plated Beads, Retail $150

Starting Over

In 1984, Janet started over again, this time with Jimmy Moore, her then-business partner. To finance her new venture, she sold her home and moved into a small apartment. With a walk-up showroom space on Greene Street in SoHo, Janet and Jimmy launched Fragments with three designers: Gaetano Fazio, Steve Rosen, and Brett Lewis. (The provenance of these original designers live on: Gaetano’s lead designer was Miguel Ases, now a successful fashion jewelry designer in his own right). These artists were creating handcrafted jewelry that was glamorous, rock and roll, and “over the top,” Janet says. This was like nothing anyone had seen in the jewelry world up to this point. The legendary Joan Weinstein, owner of Ultimo in Chicago, walked up as they were unpacking the jewelry in the showroom. She became one of their first customers, and it illustrated to Janet that “It’s all about the product–it sells itself. It was really the beginning of Fashion Jewelry. It was whimsy and original, and each piece had it’s own soul. We were on to a new art form.”

Wendy Yue Cuff Bracelet in 18k White Gold with Carved Jade, Sapphires, and Colored Diamonds. Retail $35,380

The Fragments Showroom

The Fragments showroom grew from three designers into its present day operation, which now usually represents 25-30 designer jewelry lines at any given time. The showroom sells jewelry at the wholesale level to jewelers, but more importantly, it is a way for emerging designers to get the word out, and to get feedback on their brand and marketing. For jewelry retailers, stylists and fashion editors, Fragments is an efficient way to discover talent. The sheer number of artists represented allows for a one stop shop for Buyers to place orders, and take notes on merchandising. In a way, it is very representative of Janet herself: “You can see what I’ve got. I wanted to show an entire collection right up front, instead of only seeing a few pieces, and then pulling from the back.”

The Fragments Store

In 1994 or 1995, with the Fragments Showroom becoming a successful entity, Janet felt the need to learn more and challenge herself. She enrolled in the Owner President Management program at Harvard Business School, and learned a lot about business, finance, and negotiating. These skills helped her as she started her new adventure: a retail space that would sell jewelry to consumers. She opened a retail store in the front 750 square feet of her showroom space on Greene Street; wholesale buyers had to walk through the retail space on their way to the showroom in the back. The idea was to have a place that was an incubator and test market for new designers. For merchandising and visual display, they had complete freedom to play and figure out what worked. This in turn greatly influenced the designers represented in the wholesale showroom. The retail store is now on Prince Street, “the best street in SoHo,” Janet says. Fragments retail store has become a destination market for customers and retailers alike. All are welcome, and her staff is loyal and long term; her store manager has been with her for 16 years.

Nam Cho Pendant in 18k with Diamonds and Blue Moonstone, Retail $9575

Inspiration

I asked Janet where her inspiration and influence comes from. She said that the art world influences the kind of jewelry artists she represents. She and her husband have been contemporary art collectors for many years. A project they are involved in, Wynwood Walls, a highly-regarded outdoor street art museum open to the public in Miami, Florida, is very inspiring: “by the artists, and colors, and such freedom! My life is involved in this,” says Janet. She embraces change and innovation wholeheartedly.

Ashley Pittman Bracelet Set, Approximate Retail $495

Style and Substance

When looking at a new designer’s work, there are a couple of consistent things Janet and her staff are looking for. “I look for spirit,” says Janet. “Not strictly commercial–it has to communicate and speak to me. I respect the art of the person who designs and creates jewelry as an art form. Good jewelry connects to the customer.” She has an employee who says that she doesn’t need a tatoo, as her jewelry provides a new opportunity each day for personal expression. At heart, Fragments is hoping to connect people with their own intrinsic style.

Suzanne Kalan's 18kt White Gold Earrings with White Sapphire and White Topaz, Retail $7175

I asked Janet which designers or trends are really speaking to her. She stated that it’s really all about innovation: what’s new, what stands out. She mentioned new jewelry designer Susan Kalan is using white topaz in a truly unique way, in price points that are collectible. Deanna Hamro is designing with a mix of materials that feels very fresh. And Jordan Alexander, profiled recently here, is creating pearl jewelry that is modern and wearable.

Jordan Alexander Peacok Pearl Twist Bracelet with Diamonds and Sapphires, Retail $2890

Here’s to the next 27 years of Fragments curating and incubating talented jewelry designers! Janet has worked hard her whole life and feels lucky that her work has given her–plus countless others–such pleasure. Fragments has a magic about it, and customers have the chance to take that magic home with them. Her parting advice: “Love what you do, find your own signature.”

You can reach Janet and her staff at their website here, or call 866-966-4688 for more information about any of the jewelry featured here. Customers can visit the store at 116 Prince Street, New York, NY or call 212-334-9588. Retailers can reach the showroom at 212-226-8878.

Deanna Hamro Pendant in Oxidized Silver with Swarovski Crystals, Retail $950

View this post on idazzle.com: Jewelry Icons Spotlight: An Interview with Janet Goldman of Fragments Jewelry

Erickson Beamon and Bauble Bar Fusion Collaboration

I’ve been a fan of Bauble Bar since learning about them in 2010. I love their concept, which is to go direct to the fashion jewelry designers that supply high-end stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Berdorf Goodman, and offer very on-trend jewelry to women purchasing for themselves. By operating only online, and eliminating inefficiencies through their distribution model, the prices are fantastic. I would call Bauble Bar my secret weapon for amazing fashion pieces, except that they aren’t so secret anymore.

Erickson Beamon Versaille Dye Glam Necklace from Bauble Bar, Retail $250

The collection consists of 3 different palettes: vivid bright gems in unexpected combinations; refined pearls with gold; and–my favorite–clear crystals in darkened metal for smoky, edgy glamour.

Erickson Beamon Diamond Collection Earrings from Bauble Bar, Retail $65

Erickson Beamon designers Karen Erickson and Vicki Beamon have been designing together since 1983, and are considered the go to source for very high-end collectible fashion jewelry. Their designs are collected and coveted by fans from Lady Gaga to the First Lady. It’s not unusual for their beautifully crafted necklaces, earrings and bracelets to go for hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars.

Erickson Beamon Dirty Glam Necklace from Bauble Bar, Retail $165

It’s nice to see well-designed fashion jewelry at the caliber of Erickson Beamon available to consumers at totally accessible prices (the Dirty Glam crystal earrings are just $65!). The pieces are only available through December 31st, 2011, and are made to order once you purchase, with a ship date starting in early November. It’s first come, first shipped, so I recommend placing your order early. You can see the whole collection on the Bauble Bar site here.

Erickson Beamon Versaille Bonbon Bracelet from Bauble Bar, Retail $142

View this post on idazzle.com: Bauble Bar Teams Up with Erickson Beamon for Holiday-Perfect Jewelry

Jordan Alexander Necklace Containing 300 Year Old Yemen Prayer Beads, Moonstones, Pave Diamond Beads and Clasp

Jordan Alexander Jewelry Background

So who can make pearls go from tepid to trend? The designer responsible for Jordan Alexander’s aesthetic is Theresa Bruno. A native of Alabama, Theresa grew up surrounded by the tradition of jewelry in the south. The pearls and jewelry collections of her mother and grandmother definitely made an impression, with their fine workmanship and classic styles. But when Theresa began designing her own jewelry in 2010, she wanted something serious but with a twist: a way to wear materials that are recognizably fine, but in a fresh way that can go from office to grocery store to night out effortlessly.

Jordan Alexander Pave Diamond Double Loop Diamond Slice Earrings

The Jewelry of Jordan Alexander

In addition to a selection of core designs, Jordan Alexander releases new collections of jewelry each season. Looking over the collection for Fall 2011, I was struck by the variety of materials: Jasper, Tiger Eye, Chysolite, Pyrite, tea-dyed bone, wood, Moonstone, and antique Yemen prayer beads, to name just a few. The jewelry is a reset of combination expectations, with rough-textured black lava happily coexisting with luminous pearls or twinkling pave beads.

Jordan Alexander Peacock Baroque Pearl Necklace with Diamond Pave Links and Clasp

My favorites? I would layer the 42 inch Navy or Beige Pearl strands with the 28 inch versions with a tassle. Or the long Sandalwood or Bone beads with shorter leather macrames woven with creamy pearls and diamonds. I could have the mother of all arm parties with an ivory or beige pearl bracelet, layered with crocheted multi-strands with sparkling black spinels, and finished with macrame woven with a pave diamond disc. I genuinely covet almost any of her earring designs, but especially love the pave buttons paired with the antique Yemen prayer bead drops: drama, beauty and history all in one sophisticated package.

Jordan Alexander Peacock Bracelet Twist Bracelet with Diamond and Sapphire Beads

The Interview with Jordan Alexander Jewelry

idazzle.com: When did Jordan Alexander Jewelry officially launch, and what was the ultimate impetus to make the jump into fine jewelry design?
Teresa Bruno of Jordan Alexander: Jordan Alexander officially launched in August 2010. I had been designing my own pieces for about three years when I decided to start the company. I wanted a look that combined my grandmother’s classic sense of style with my own edgier sense. When I couldn’t find it, I decided to create my own. High-fashion individuals would repeatedly lift the pieces from around my neck and ask to purchase them, and eventually, my business partner and I laid the groundwork to take us to where we are today.

Where are your designs made, New York or Los Angeles? How has your history in Alabama influenced your designs?
I design when I am in both New York and L.A. I feed off of the amazing, creative individuals I work with, and am always pleasantly surprised by where I end up. Because a number of my pieces use such an unusual type of tying method, they are reproduced in LA. Being in Birmingham keeps me true to my southern roots and southern influence.

Do you feel that your background in classical music has impacted your designs?
I have always had a love and appreciation for beauty and artistry. In fact, I spent my childhood and early adult years training to be a classical musician. This training helped define me as a person and influenced my life’s creative journey as a musician, designer, arts educator and film producer.

Jordan Alexander White Agate and Baroque Pearl Necklace with Diamond Pave Links and Clasp

Can you tell us about your design process? For instance, how do you come up with such imaginative combinations of gems?
The actual design process may consist of working from sketches that are exact – working from drawings of designs that I envision – or, sometimes, it’s more fluid and evolves from seeing a specific material or certain finding I want to build on. I’m constantly trying to find creative uses for the materials I find. I look for elements to bring unexpected twists to my designs. I love combining traditional, classic elements like diamonds and other precious stones with rich, organic pieces like lava and moonstone. Perhaps my most recent example is how I’ve been working with diamond and pearl slices to create unique and more economical pieces.

What is the most interesting gem or material you have acquired so far? Have you been able to incorporate that into a design yet?
I certainly think the most interesting piece you’ll find in my designs is the 300-year-old Yemen prayer bead. These beads are pieces of antiquity that mothers prayed over for their children. Aside from being beautiful pieces, the history behind them makes them even more meaningful and valuable to use in my designs.

How does it feel to have the attention of people like WWD editors and the First Lady?! Did you have any sense when launching that your designs would resonate so quickly?
It’s an overwhelming honor, and I pinch myself from time to time to remind myself that this really happening. I put all of my creative energy into my work, and I see the amazing people I work with doing the same thing. To know that what we’re doing is impacting people on a level so much greater than ourselves is truly rewarding.

What is on the horizon for Jordan Alexander?
Right now, we’re expanding our presence across the country. As far as the actual line goes, we introduced our first set of enhancers and rings in Fall 2011. I’m looking forward to taking new concepts and expanding the collection to include more of those pieces.

Jordan Alexander Silver Ring with Quartz Slice and Diamonds

How and Where to Buy Jordan Alexander Jewelry

Many of the pieces are made in LA, but Theresa stays close to her roots by maintaining an office of the company in Birmingham, AL. You can contact them through the Jordan Alexander Facebook page. To see any of the items pictured here, or inquire about Jordan Alexander jewelry, you can find an extensive collection at Fragments New York City store in SoHo, or Fragments website. Contact them here or call 212.334.9588 to find out more. Jordan Alexander’s designs can also be found at other boutiques across the country, including Shari’s Place in Greenvale, NY and Marissa Collections in Naples, FL.

The designer of Jordan Alexander, Theresa Bruno at work

View this post on idazzle.com: Jewelry Designer Spotlight: Jordan Alexander Jewelry Interview

Dori Csengeri Zephyre Earrings

The Jewelry of Dori Csengeri

Each of Dori’s pieces seems to tell a story: the jewelry feels very personal, even intimate. The undulating swirls of silky cords are embroidered by hand in Dori’s studios, using age-old textile methods that are largely forgotten today. Small faceted beads and polished stones are nestled among the fabric, adding unexpected sparkle. The fabric and gemstones combine in interesting, painterly palettes.

Dori Csengeri Ephrah One-of-a-Kind Haute Couture Necklace, Assemblage of Embroidery and Vintage Jewelry

I am very glad that I was able to review her jewelry in person, as there are incredible details that are hard to capture in images online, like an intricately carved bead that one only notices when up close. Also, seeing the scale was helpful, as the jewelry is quite substantial, but is deceivingly lightweight and comfortable. Another detail: the reverse of each piece is lined in butter soft leather, which results in the jewelry being incredibly tactile, all softness and light.

Dori Csengeri Earrings, showing back of earrings lined in soft leather.

The Collections of Dori Csengeri

Dori Csengeri makes jewelry in a variety of styles, organized by collection. With names like Ganymede, Adesso, and MezzaNotte, each collection evokes a particular theme or aesthetic. Her Bridal collections are studies in texture, with a palette that complements an adventurous, aesthetic bride. Dori also does Haute Couture collections, in limited quantity, made exclusively for collectors who follow her work closely. In every collection, you can sense her textile background and her uncanny knack of combining it creatively with metals, beads and stones to create jewelry.

Dori Csengeri Portofino Necklace, $508 Retail

The Dori Csengeri Interview

idazzle.com: Your background is textile design, so how did you end up designing jewelry?
Dori Csengeri: During my studies of textile design, my dream was to be recognized as a designer who brings her own unique style, color palette and motifs to her creations. Over the years, I was bothered by the fact that I had no control over the way the end-user saw my textile designs or used them. While in Paris studying at the Academie de Port-Royal, I was experimenting with collages from textile materials. This is how the soutache cords landed on my desk. From there on, the road to jewelry was fairly short. I started with small color compositions in textiles, which evolved into beautiful lapel broaches. With time and experience, I developed a needlework technique, which is suitable to the creation of textile-based jewelry and realized that the jewelry path is the right path for me.

What inspires you the most: place, people, art, music, or something else?
Inspiration is something that is most evanescent and hard to explain. There are no rules and no winning formula, only that magical moment when the picture becomes clear. Throughout my life I’ve been collecting different materials from all over the world, ranging from local flea markets to shops in Paris, New York and Amsterdam. In every different place I find something special: an interesting bead, a striking new color, feathers, and countless small elements that spark my creativity. As I sit at my worktable my mind’s wheels begin to turn and things like memories, art, nature, scenery, travel, color, and the little details of life hypnotize my imagination. Each embroidered piece starts as a collection of single objects and by the time it’s finished it turns into a new and unique jewelry that carries my dreams and is a window so to speak to my personal world.

Dori Csengeri Paradiso Earrings, $337 Retail

Your designs are so complex, what does your design process look like?
The design process starts with collecting materials that appeal to me and are in sync with the fashion forecasts of colors, themes and moods. I use the textile cords and needle as my drawing board and so my “sketches” are experimental embroidered segments of different ideas and color combinations. After I make a wide assortment of sketches, the sorting process begins. I pick the most intriguing embroidery segments and I continue developing them, until I have finished color groups that each offers a variety of necklaces, earrings and bracelets.

The physical construction of the pieces is very tight and precise. How hard was it to make your ideas a reality in the finished jewelry piece?
I work long and hard on every style in order to ensure that my idea is thoroughly expressed. The colors, shapes, materials, and composition need to speak for me and only after I feel that’s been accomplished can my jewelry pieces go into production. After I finish embroidering the first jewelry piece and approve it, the piece is scanned in real-size. My amazing team of artisans have the “know how” of looking at the scanned images and hand-embroider perfect replicas.

Dori Csengeri La Divina Necklace and Earrings

Do your collections change dramatically from season to season?
Every season brings with it new themes, new materials and new possibilities that present a wide range of exploration and capabilities. What remains constant in my work is my personal language, my embroidery technique and my commitment to make the best jewelry pieces I can for my clients.

How long does it take to make a piece of jewelry, from the hand embroidering, to weaving in the stones, to finishing with findings?
It all depends on the size of the piece and the complexity of its design. I guess that it can take from a few hours to a few days.

Dori Csengeri Purple Haze Earrings

What is your dream for your company and designs?
I enjoy the process of “translating” my inner world into colorful creations. I love what I do, especially when I receive encouraging comments from my customers about the happiness and joy that my jewelry brings them. What more can I ask for…?.

What more, indeed? It was amazing to get inside an artist’s head a little, to see how Dori imagines and then creates truly unique pieces of wearable sculpture. Her website is a journey into a curated collection of color–I highly recommend exploring DoriCsengeri.com. You can purchase her jewelry directly from the website, or visit one of the authorized retailers, galleries or museums who represent her work.

View this post on idazzle.com: Jewelry Designer Spotlight: Dori Csengeri Interview

Gerard Yosca Wood Beaded Drop Necklace in Turquoise from the Green Label Diffusion Line, $50 Retail

Gerard Yosca Triple Drop Crystal Earrings, $175 Retail

The Jewelry of Gerard Yosca

Gerard Yosca’s designs successfully meld an astonishing array of materials into a cohesive design theme each season: enamels, candy-colored faceted beads, wood, exotic stones, vintage charms and much more all come together to create wearable sculptures. All of his designs are made with care in New York City, a relative rarity in fashion jewelry these days. His design room is a playground of amazing raw materials all laid out in experimental combinations to get the look of each piece just right. (For a wonderful glimpse into Gerard’s studio and persona, check out this Unracked video interview of Gerard, sponsored by Gilt Groupe). This individual focus and intense concern for the design process shows throughout the whole collection.

Gerard Yosca Cherry Red Bangle Bracelet Set, $112 Retail

Did I mention that his designs are also exceptionally well-priced? It is not easy to find beautifully designed jewelry that is made well, domestically no less, from $75 to $600 retail. Gerard’s pieces are going to represent investments of the BEST workmanship available at their respective price points.

Gerard Yosca 75-Inch Pearl and Rhinestone Necklace from the Green Label Diffusion Line, $98 Retail

The Gerard Yosca Interview

idazzle: Your background in fashion design really shows in your designs. How did you originally discover jewelry design and what inspired you to make the switch?
Gerard Yosca: I actually have a graphic design and advertising background but loved fashion so much that I decided to switch industries. When reality struck, it was much easier to figure out how to make jewelry than how to drape and sew a garment.

Gerard Yosca Gold Wire Crystal Ring, $78 Retail

You design an array of jewelry categories: brooches, fabulous statement necklaces, dramatic cuffs. Is there a particular kind of jewelry that lets you be really free with your design process?
Brooches- they’re like little sculptures.

Gerard Yosca Rhinestone and Brass Disc Earring, $145 Retail

How do you arrive at your “theme” or direction each season?
It usually stems from what I’m looking for in my personal life. The change from complicated to homier food. The sudden desire for a bright colored sweater. These changes indicate a shift to what’s next. I’ve learned how valuable it is to take cues from what’s going on in my world.

Gerard Yosca Wood Beaded Necklace in Pink, $50 Retail

How would you describe the signature, underlying essence that is Gerard Yosca jewelry year after year, even as trends cycle through?
Every piece has a handcrafted look. You can really see this it is not mass-produced. There is also a strong point of view and personality to each collection. Color is another signature. I love some pretty nutty color combinations.

Classic Gerard Yosca Jewelry from Previous Collections, from Archive Photos

You have designed runway jewelry for some amazing fashion designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren, and Nanette Lepore. Are you currently working on any interesting collaborations with fashion designers? If you can’t tell us about your current projects, what’s a recent collaboration that was really memorable?
When I collaborate with another designer I really love to put my heart and soul into the design process. Right now I’m putting all my focus into my signature collection, which doesn’t leave much time for anything else.

Gerard Yosca Turquoise Sunburst Chandelier Earrings, $145 Retail

You sell primarily through small specialty retailers. What are the benefits for collectors to buy through these retailers?
The retailers know what their customers own and what they might like. Often our buyers will mention customers by name, and tell me which of my pieces they’ve purchased. I love that relationship.

Gerard Yosca Wood and Crystal Drop Earring, $135 Retail

Can you tell us about your book?
My book is a project I have not yet found the time to start. But it will show 27 years of jewelry made by someone who knew nothing when he started and who thinks he may be finally getting the hang of it. I hope it might inspire someone to take a chance on a foolhardy career. If you’re passionate and love what you’re doing, you can make a life out of it.

Beautifully said! I look forward to hearing more about the book, and hope that your words inspire some fledgling designer to take the plunge! Thank you so much for sharing your experience!

You can find Gerard’s jewelry in a variety of local boutiques around the country, email his studio here to get more information. You can also find his designs online at retailer Charm&Chain. Also, it’s only appropriate that his amazing, downtown styles frequently appear–and steal the scene–on Gossip Girl! I hope that you have a chance to see his designs in person, and maybe I’ll see a few gorgeous necklaces and bracelets on friends this season!

The Designer Himself, Gerard Yosca

View this post on idazzle.com: Jewelry Designer Spotlight: Gerard Yosca Interview

UPDATE: We have a winner! S.D. was the lucky entry! It was so much fun to read all the great reasons people wanted these earrings! Thanks for all the stories! Sorry that there is only one pair, but don’t worry, we’ll do this again soon!

We are giving away this gorgeous pair of Melinda Maria Baby Oxidized Chain Earrings, Sterling Silver and 18kt Plate with CZs, $168 Retail

About the Melinda Maria Baby Oxidized Chain Earrings

I received the earrings for the purpose of reviewing. For more information about Melinda Maria, her design philosophy and an idazzle interview with her, click here. The earrings are 18kt plated, with a soft hammered texture to the gold teardrop bezels that frame each ear pendant. Suspended in the frames are tiny sterling silver chains that have been oxidized to black, a super-hot color and texture for jewelry right now. There are three marquise-shaped white CZ’s (a diamond simulant) that sparkle beautifully in bezel settings down the center of each frame. A round CZ is bezel set in the top of the earring, and the teardrop frames are attached with a ring that allows the bottom to move gently with the wearer. The earrings are pierced, with a simple wire that is nicely crafted and sits securely on the ear. The earrings measure about 1 and a half inches in length, and about 1 inch wide at the widest point, a substantial size, but very wearable everyday as well. The earrings are well-designed, nicely finished, and a substantial weight–they feel like fine jewelry!

Enter the Giveaway

One lucky reader will be drawn to win these earrings on Monday, February 21st at 12:00 Midnight Eastern Time. Here’s how to enter the giveaway:
1. Subscribe to idazzle blog via email or RSS.
2. Comment below tell us why you NEED these earrings, for yourself or a special gift for someone important in your life. Enter your email as part of the comment log in (your address won’t be published, I won’t email you unless you win, or use your email in any other way).

But wait! Here’s how to earn an additional entry in your name!
1. Follow idazzle.com on Twitter: click here.
2. Follow Melinda Maria on Twitter: click here.
3. Like idazzle.com on Facebook: click here.
4. Like Melinda Maria on Facebook: click here.
Do any or all of the above, and earn another entry in your name for each activity above (up to 4 additional entries)! Be sure to let us know in your comment below to receive credit.

Here’s how to earn 5 additional entries in your name:
1. Tweet this post, or link to the giveaway in your tweet, and let us know below in comments.
*OR*
2. Link to this post on your Facebook page, and let us know below in comments.
*OR*
3. Post a mention and link to this giveaway, or another post on this site, to your own blog, and let us know below in comments.
EACH of the above actions, with a comment below, will earn 5 additional entries!

QUALIFYING ENTRANT’S NAMES WILL BE RECORDED AND ONE RANDOM WINNER WILL BE DRAWN ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21st, 12 MIDNIGHT EST. Winner will be announced on the idazzle.com site on the 21st, and announced on Twitter. Once winner has been confirmed, earrings will be packaged securely and shipped insured to recipient (tracking numbers will be provided).

Exclusive 30% Discount Code for idazzle.com Readers from February 7th through Feb 28th, 2011

If you’re jonesin’ for a Melinda Maria design and just can’t wait for the end of the Giveaway, we have arranged for an exclusive discount of 30% off your order at Melinda Maria’s website. So click here www.melindamaria.com and start shopping! At checkout, enter code IDAZZLE30 for a 30% discount on the merchandise total of your order.

Giveaway Rules

Entries must be received by 11:59 EST February 21st. Please leave just one comment per person, unless you are letting me know about additional entries made using the guidelines above. If you enter multiple duplicate comments, I’ll discard those. If I suspect an entry was made through a bot or script, I will also discard those. If the first winner drawn does not respond to emails to reach them within 3 days, I’ll draw another name from qualified entrants and award the prize to them. The prize as stated above will be awarded, no cash equivalant will be given. Winners are responsible for any local, State or Federal taxes on the value of the item.

A huge thank you to Melinda Maria for sponsoring the giveaway! Can’t wait to hear the stories below! Good Luck!

View this post on idazzle.com: idazzle.com Jewelry Giveaway: Melinda Maria Statement Earrings!

Jewelry is just so superior to all of these options: no calories, and doesn’t die/wilt/require care and feeding. It’s romantic, personal, lasting, and might just invoke some emotions that you will be the happy recipient of. It’s WIN/WIN/WIN.

Here is a rundown of some of the favorites I have seen this season, and honey, these are not your basic hearts.

This heart pendant from Cheryl Lynn would definitely raise a pulse:

Cheryl Lynn 18kt Rose Gold Heart Pendant with 1.52 Ct TW Pave Diamonds, $3400 Retail, from Max and Chloe.

For the witty, geeky, and otherwise super cool recipient, this Heart Emoticon Ring by Wendy Brandes is perfect. Plus, you have add-on gift suggestions in the form of her LOLZ, OMG, NYC, and Swear Ring sets. Buy a couple sets and have fun making up naughty words or phrases:

Wendy Brandes Heart Emoticon Ring in Sterling Silver, $150 Retail.

This cuff bracelet from Max&Chloe is stylish, bold, but still sentimental with the openwork heart pattern:

Kris Nations 14kt Overlay Gold Heart Cluster Cuff, $80 Retail, Available from Max and Chloe.

A boost into Spring, these earrings from Dana Rebecca Designs are totally fresh and bright:

Dana Rebecca Turquoise Hearts set in 14kt White Gold with Diamonds, $880 Retail.

For a delicate twist on a sweet heart pendant, this sideways heart by Kara Ackerman is a precious, and still affordable gift. The chain is designed with loops to make it shorter, so it would work for someone quite young:

Kara Ackerman Lilly Diamond Necklace with .15 Ct TW Diamonds in 14kt, $150 Retail.

This one-of-a-kind necklace from Pamela Froman puts a Gothic twist on a romantic theme, with hammered 18kt in exotic alloys, a hand-cut Rhodolite Garnet, and an unexpected Tahitian pearl suspended from a handmade chain:

Pamela Froman Gothic Romance II, in 18kt with Rhodolite Garnet and Black Tahitian Pearl. Avail from Pamela Froman dot com.

Katrina Kelly makes a number of gorgeous, intricate charms that get a sentimental point across. I love how she hand picks vintage chains to go with the charms, it really adds to the piece:

Katrina Kelly Love Charm in 18kt on Vintage Chain, Avail from Katrina Kelly Jewelry dot com.

This silver necklace from Gemvara has a Yin and Yang, infinity and heart vibe all at once. It’s affordable, and best of all, the gems and metal you use are customizable, so you can personalize it to the recipient:

Yin Yang Pendant in Sterling SIlver with Gemstones by Ji Hwang from Gemvara, $151 Retail as shown.

For something pink and delicate, without being fragile, these earrings from CALEO would make a gorgeous gift:

CALEO Earrings Featuring Tear Drops set into a Radiant Circle, $2350 Retail, Avail from CALEO Jewelry dot com.

For a little edgy with your classic, C. Greene does a whole collection of black diamond pave hearts, in lockets, rings and pendants, available at Louis Boston, ikram, and Broken English Jewelry:

C. Greene Heart Locket Pendant with Pave Black Diamonds in 18kt Antique Finish White Gold.

There are many, many more jewelry ideas out there, but only so much space and shopping time. So get going, there’s only a few days left!

View this post on idazzle.com: Valentine’s Day Jewelry Gift Ideas

Melinda Maria Baby Mosaic Earrings in Emerald CZ with White CZ in 18kt Plate, $105 Retail.

Melinda Maria’s Story

Melinda’s story begins with an obsession with her mother’s jewelry box at an early age. This led to designing ad hoc over the years, for herself and friends, until launching her own jewelry design company in her 20′s. She is totally self-taught, with an instinctive feel for colors, shapes and how they combine. Her designs now straddle the fine and fashion jewelry worlds, with items that are well-made enough to hand down, but still affordable enough to collect in a big way.

Melinda Maria Sabina Pod Hoop Earrings, 18kt Plated with Clear and Colored CZ Options, $200 Retail

The Jewelry of Melinda Maria

Melinda Maria’s line of jewelry includes earrings, rings, pendants and bracelets in a number of organized collections. Perhaps most well-known is the Pod collection, where organic concave ovals join together in a myriad of ways that is fresh and wearable. You’ve seen this collection on Julia Roberts, Christina Applegate, and Vanessa Hudgens. The Gwyneth collection features a marquise-shaped “pod” at it’s core, with lots of fun variations, with and without colorful CZ gems. Goddess jewelry features shimmering hammered paillettes, often in long lovely lines. And there are always new, textured, colorful designs being added throughout the year. With target price points ranging from $50 to $200 (a few select items might be a bit more), there is a ton of scale, workmanship and personality in each piece.

These are items you can buy without impunity, then reach for again and again. It’s real jewelry crafted in silver and plated with precious 18kt, with quality clasps and details you would find in the world’s finest jewelry.

Stack of Melinda Maria Gwyneth Rings in Blue Opal CZ in 18kt Plate, $52 Retail Each, many other colors available.

The Interview with Melinda Maria

idazzle: I love your philosophy of making people happy and confident by adornment, and that something as simple as a piece of jewelry can bring people together. How did it happen that you started your own jewelry design company?
Melinda Maria: I have always had shiny object syndrome since I was a little girl. I was obsessed with my mothers jewelry box, always trying to make my own with her loose pearls and beads. So it was a hobby/obsession of mine making jewelry from about 10 until I actually started Melinda Maria when I was about 27.

I love it: SOS (Shiny Object Syndrome)! What is your background?
I think I have spent more time studying stones and design on my own rather than formal training. I am totally self taught.

Stack of Melinda Maria Galaxy Cluster Melted Bangles, in Rose 18kt Plate with Black Diamond CZs, $135 Retail Each.

Where does the inspiration come from for your new collections?
EVERYTHING can be inspiring! I walk through my days with my eyes wide open because I can be inspired by so many things that I run into in my daily life. I don’t just have to be in an exotic place–I could get inspiration from the produce section in the grocery store! Shapes, colors, and textures in anything can translate to art, so I am always looking.

Your designs have appeared on so many celebrities and fashion personalities, your name is almost synonymous with the people who wear your designs! Why do you think your designs resonate with people so strongly?
Wow thank you! That is quite a compliment. I can only say I design pieces that I know I will feel special and beautiful in so I guess that translates to other women feeling the same way in my pieces!

Melinda Maria Pave Pod Ring in Platinum Plate with Clear CZs, $85 Retail.

Tell me about the charities that your company supports.
There are so many! My most recent is CURA Heart Africa necklace which 100% of the proceeds go to CURA orphanage organization in the village of Cura, Kenya, a residence for children who have lost their parent to AIDS. The orphaned children range from ages 4-13 and CURA is a complete care facility which covers all the children’s food, clothing, education and most of all a place to call home.

Melinda Maria CURA Heart Necklace in 18kt Plate, 100% of Proceeds from the $65 Retail Will Be Donated to CURA Orphanage.

Would you ever create a special fine jewelry collection using precious metals and gems for your loyal followers who want to take collecting to the next level?
I started out with doing a fine line. For me as a designer it wasn’t as fulfilling because I like big bold pieces and in fine they were costing $10,000- $50,000 and I love designing and seeing it on women who buy my pieces. So I realized in the marketplace there was a void of costume jewelry that looks and is constructed like a fine piece of jewelry but most women can buy. So all of my pieces are pieces that you pass down to your daughters because they are all crafted with the care of a diamond and gold piece of jewelry.

What jewelry are you wearing right now?
An arm full of my bangles and my tiny pod hoops in turquoise…I am ready for Spring!!

Any jewelry trends you want to predict for 2011?
Lots and lots of bangles!!! Big and bold looks.

Well, Melinda certainly has bold looks covered! I appreciate her aesthetic AND philosophy of making beautiful, fashionable jewelry affordable to any woman craving a little pick-me-up. Her various philanthropic efforts through jewelry are also inspiring. Melinda Maria has arranged for an EXCLUSIVE 30% OFF courtesy for idazzle.com readers! So go ahead and indulge: visit Melinda Maria at www.melindamaria.com, and use the code IDAZZLE30 at check out from February 7th through February 28th, 2011!

Melinda Maria with Friends, Hayden Panettiere and Eva Longoria

View this post on idazzle.com: Jewelry Designer Spotlight: Melinda Maria Jewelry