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

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

I just received a few images of her new collections, and they were so gorgeous, I had to share. There is a cohesive quality in the metal colors and textures, yet each piece is totally distinctive. I find the silhouettes incredibly on-trend and modern, yet there is a feeling of authentic ethnicity in the details.

Blackened Silver and 18K Gold Meus Designs Pave Colored Diamond Ring (Center Dia 6.49 cts, Other Dia Wt. 1.89 cts), $11,200 Retail

Blackened Silver & 18K Gold Meus Designs Diamond & Milky Moonstone Oval Bezel Ring (Dia Wt. 2.25 cts), $5,390 Retail

Blackened Silver & 18K Gold Meus Designs Champagne Diamond Tear Drop Earrings with Black Diamonds (Black Dia Wt: 5.66 cts, Champ Dia Wt. 0.80 cts), $7,600 Retail

Blackened Silver and 18K Gold Meus Designs Boulder Opal Ring with Diamonds (Dia Wt. .50 cts), $6,200 Retail

Blackened Silver & 18K Gold Meus Designs Champagne Diamond & Emerald Frame Chandelier Earrings (Dia Wt: 1.10 cts, Emerald Wt: 2.3 cts), $4,200 Retail

I covet any of these for my personal collection, but I would (figuratively) kill for the Boulder Opal ring and the Emerald and Diamond Silhouette Earrings. I look forward to seeing more from this talented designer!

View this post on idazzle.com: New Meus Designs

The creator of Meus Designs, Suneera Swarup, has debuted a collection that seems infused with the traditions and cultures of her native India, but utterly modern at the same time. She began designing as a young girl, starting first with textile design. This led to her exploring other surface mediums, until discovering jewelry. She finds inspiration in everything from the vibrant colors of India to an interesting Art Deco motif to music. Her textured, varied collections are all designed and handcrafted in her Los Angeles studio.

Meus Designs 18kt Gold and Blackened Silver Blue Sapphire Pave Teardrop Earrings, $3600 Retail

The Collections of Meus Designs

In the Influence Collection, black or brown diamonds and blackened silver metal stand in striking contrast to vibrant polished 18kt gold. Ancient symbols mingle, somehow cohesively, with Art Deco patterns and lines. There are pendants, suspended on layered leather cords, or strands made of gold, sterling and Ruby beads. Everything has an elegance to it, but looks like you could throw it on with jeans and be instantly glamorous in a strong, feminine way.

Meus Designs Small Framed Cross Ring in 18kt Rose Gold and .97 ct Diamonds

In her brand new collection, intriguing named Lure, Suneera has delved even deeper into playing with metal textures and colors. Deep, rich browns and blacks are highlighted with inlaid highly polished rose and yellow gold, or gleaming cabochon gems. There is definitely something suggesting mystery in this collection.

Meus Designs Lure Hoop Earrings in Blackened Silver with 18kt Gold and Cabochon Emeralds

Meus Designs also has a predominantly Sterling Silver line, named M Sterling. The jewelry in this collection incorporates similar motifs and textures as the other collections, but is crafted in silver, which makes it very collectible.

Meus Designs M Sterling Cross Ruby Ring

The Interview with Meus Designs Creator, Suneera Swarup

idazzle.com: Your shapes and motifs are totally original, as if you have been dreaming of these for years, and now the shapes are expressed in this precious jewelry. Does Meus have a specific Muse, something or someone you often use for inspiration?
Meus Designs: Originality is returning to the origin which is Nature. And nature never goes out of fashion. Aesthetic beauty rules our world in various fields, where form and functionality are inseparable. Meus is the synthesis of Art Deco, ancient traditions and eastern elements.

It sounds like you have a background in design, textile and other surfaces. What prompted your interest in jewelry design specifically?
I have always worked in fields involving color and creativity. In a larger industry, it is difficult to translate design work into actual products. With jewelry design, I feel I have a personal canvas where my design visions can be instantly realized. Plus, I have always had a love for jewelry, like most women do!

Meus Designs Stretch Bracelets with Peruvian Chalcedony and Pave Diamond Accents, $820, $6400, and $700 Retail from Top to Bottom

What does your studio process look like? Do you have specific gems that you design around, or do you design two dimensionally first and then source the stones?
I work both ways – Looking for new, unique material with a design direction in mind and vice versa.

Meus Designs 18kt Gold and Blackened Silver Pink Sapphire Oval Ring, $2140 Retail

Your use of recycled materials is very responsible and also a bit rare. Can you tell us how you decided to pursue this path, even though it’s not so easy?
Recycling and optimizing resources started as a necessity, and gradually became a efficient system, which we are proud to follow. Having a daughter who is passionate about the environment always keeps us in line too. I guess for that reason, she could be called a Muse for Meus!

You recently introduced the Lure Collection, when can we see more designs? Any other collections you can give a hint about?
We have some new pieces that will be completed later this spring that we are really excited about for the Lure collection! They fit in well with the current collections but add a different dimension to the line, particularly in the red-carpet category. There will certainly be collections added to Meus in time, but right now we are focused on expanding Lure.

Meus Designs Carved Turquoise Weave Earrings in 18kt Gold and Blackened Silver

It’s a bit rare that a very new designer would get noticed. Why do you think your designs have resonated with celebrities so quickly after your launch?
I am truly flattered and thankful to everyone who has appreciated my work. I like my designs to be timeless and ageless. I want my jewelry to be passed on as heirlooms; pieces that will hold value and sentiment. I am hoping this is feeling is reflected in the designs and celebrities, being artists in their own right, identify with this feeling.

Meus Designs Emerald Hook Necklace in 18kt Gold, Blackened Silver and Faceted Emerald Beads and Pave

Thank you so much, Suneera, for your thoughts and insights! Meus Designs has shown amazing promise in its first collections launched just in the last year. The word meus translates to “mine” or “belonging to me”, and Meus Designs shows a very strong sense of self and identity in its collection. You can find Meus Designs at Nina at Fred Segal in Santa Monica, Lissa Fine Jewelry in NY, and a few other select boutiques in the country: click here for a list. To contact Meus Designs about any of the jewelry you see here, visit MeusDesigns.com.

Meus Designs Serpent Earrings in 18kt Yellow Gold on Diamond Huggie Hoop

Meus Designs Stack of Bangles in 18kt Gold and Blackened Silver in Sophisticated Gem Colors, Most Styles Around $1000 Retail Each

View this post on idazzle.com: Jewelry Designer Spotlight: An Interview with Meus Designs

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

IcedOrchid.com sent me a lovely pair of earrings, as an example of their jewelry quality. Alas, I can’t keep them: it’s not a gift to me in exchange for a favorable review. I didn’t want anything to potentially color my review, so I sent them back. But I’m not sure I wanted to!

IcedOrchid.com Engagement Ring Setting with Round Center Diamond

The IcedOrchid.com Company

I’ve been aware of IcedOrchid.com for a while, but it was their recent mention in a Glamour.com article about engagement rings under $1850 that really got my attention. I went to their site and checked out the ring–I was absolutely convinced that the $1762 price quoted was just for the mounting, not the center stone diamond as well. To my surprise, the white gold setting was completed by a .50 carat round diamond with a nice cut (AGS 1 rating), color (F), and clarity (SI1), with a lab report from the pinnacle of reputable labs, American Gem Society Laboratory.

The company, started recently, but with many years of experience in the jewelry industry, tries very hard for that excellent value proposition. They say that they target an entry-level price point in the market, but I find their offerings to be classic and enduring styles (unlike some of the awful things I’ve seen in malls). On their clean, simple site you can find a large assortment of engagement ring and wedding band designs, as well as a small collection of diamond jewelry such as earrings, pendants and bracelets. But would the jewelry itself live up to the quality and construction that they promise to consumers on their site?

IcedOrchid.com Engagement Ring Setting with Baguette Side Stones

The Review

The earrings I reviewed are the 1.50 Ct Tw Inside-Out Diamond Hoops in white gold, $1761 Retail. They are named “Inside Out” because the front of the hoop is set with diamonds, and the inside of the back of the hoop is also set, which is what you see from the front. I thought these would be a good to review because they are a great gift idea or jewelry essential for a jewelry collection. Plus, they would show IcedOrchid.com’s typical diamond quality, how well they match their stones, their diamond-setting skill, polish and finishing.

The earrings arrived very securely packaged, and I finally uncovered the fancy wood and leather-ette presentation box containing the earrings inside. For some reason, I was pleasantly surprised by how much the diamonds sparkled against the black lining of the box. Maybe it’s the reasonable price, maybe I’m just jaded, but I’ve seen a lot of mediocre quality out there for diamond basics. These earrings are REALLY pretty.

Inside-Out Diamond Hoops 1.50 Ct Tw, $1761 Retail

There are 60 diamonds totaling 1.50 carats, and all are listed at G-H color and VS2 clarity. I 10X-louped them in the setting, which isn’t quite like seeing them unmounted, but that quality appears to be what is set into the earrings I received. No major flaws, and all bright white in the white gold setting. Though each diamond itself is small, in the clean straight-line shared prong setting they have a lot of presence, even from across the room. I liked how short and curved the posts are, because they won’t tip forward on your ear and expose the earring hole, and they have a hinged closure that has a satisfying *snap* to close (makes them feel very secure on the ears).

Scale is one of the most challenging parts of ordering ANYTHING on line, especially for jewelry which is not branded. The detail pages on IcedOrchid.com’s website helpfully lists all the details of each piece of jewelry, but really, does anyone know what 26 X 1.6 MM really looks like? The 1.50 carat pair has a hoop diameter almost exactly that of a US quarter, so you can hold that up to your ear and get a feel for the scale.

This is a VERY wearable size and style of diamond hoop earring. Personally for myself, I would want a larger diameter, but I like pretty bold jewelry. The carat weight, scale, sparkle and finish of these make these earrings the perfect jewelry essential of a diamond hoop for most people. If someone is quite demure in their style, then diamond stud earrings or the 1 carat total weight of these same hoops would be good. (Hint to IcedOrchid: maybe make a larger diameter pair, maybe 30MMs with 2 Carats or so of diamonds–those I would NOT send back! Edited after published, I found this pair of 2 Ct TW Inside Out Hoops with a 28mm diameter on their site.)

Trio of Classic Rings From IcedOrchid.com

A Little Q and A with IcedOrchid.com

idazzle.com: What is the history and story of the company and founders?

IcedOrchid.com: IcedOrchid.com is a young American company, founded by a family that has been involved in the jewelry business for years. What began as a spirited family discussion regarding the direction of the industry turned into words of action in the creation of IcedOrchid.com. IcedOrchid.com was established as an online retail store, to market beautiful yet affordable diamond jewelry to people who thought they could never afford luxury. Targeting the bottom of the pyramid for luxury, IcedOrchid.com’s mission is to show the average working man or woman that luxury diamond jewelry is available to them at a fair price without compromising quality.

What do you feel is unique or special about the IcedOrchid.com company and website (in other words, why should customers shop with you)?

What separates IcedOrchid.com from its competitors is the company’s effort to keep the engagement process as simple, stress-free and enjoyable as possible through its easy-to-use website. While the company has a large inventory and thousands of styles, it doesn’t display everything it carries. Rather, the products that are displayed are those that follow seasonal trends as well as those backed by research statistics on best selling items. Even the promotions the company runs are direct and target the audience its products are tailored for. Further, IcedOrchid.com is unique in that all its products come from a single source ensuring top quality while also allowing it’s diamond consultants to personally check or inspect an item upon request from a customer.

Do you have some exciting things launching/happening in 2011?

IcedOrhcid.com starts 2011 with an exciting contest running on Facebook called “Operation Proposal”target=_blank. This contest is run in collaboration with Operation Gratitude, a NGO that sends care packages to deployed soldiers around the worlds. “Operation Proposal” is open to every American who has a valid military card and to veterans as well. Contestants are encouraged to upload photos and stories of their proposals (past or future) on IcedOrchid.com’s Facebook page, and then get their friends and families to support their entries. The contest ends on Feb 6th with the winner being announced on Valentine’s day. The contestant with the highest number of votes will win him/herself a gorgeous diamond engagement ring worth $4500.

Also, on January 15th 2011, IcedOchid.com offers consumers a unique opportunity to see its jewelry display in person at booth 718 at the Hartford CT Bridal Expo!

Come March 2011, IcedOrchid.com will be launching its first spring collection! Keep visiting the website www.icedorchid.com and its Facebook page to view new styles, new diamonds and other exciting additions.

Thank you, IcedOrchid.com for sending the earrings for review, and sharing your thoughts about your company! I like what you’re doing so far with your website! One suggestion that would make the shopping experience even better is to have really *snappy* images of the jewelry–when you are online, you have one chance to impress the customer! Also, illustrating scale of the jewelry, like a photo of it on a model, or against something that shows its dimensions. I recommend paying attention to the way that the best fashion sites represent things, and of course, disclosing all the details about the quality, as you are doing. Can’t wait to see IcedOrchid.com’s Spring 2011 collection!

View this post on idazzle.com: Retailer Spotlight: Review of IcedOrchid.com

The Designer

Primary designer for Kara Ackerman Creations, Ltd, Kara has possessed a strong design sense from an early age, and combined that with a single-minded passion for jewelry to start her own design company. Since 1998, she has created a number of collections that incorporate precious materials like gold and gems with other interesting materials like wood and leather. She’s garnered some great press and a devoted following of celebrities such as Demi Moore, Zoe Saldana, and Christina Applegate.

A lovely stack of Judie bangles by Kara Ackerman, with gem selections in 24k over Sterling Silver, $200 Retail each

The Kara Ackerman Collections

The Kara Ackerman Collection consists of high-end jewelry incorporating faceted gemstones like French amethyst, citrines, colored diamonds and pearls in gold, silver and heavy-plated vermeil. These are the designs that put her on the map in fashion terms, and are collected by connoisseurs.

The GemGirls collection by Kara are personalized charms that can be collected, stacked and worn. Accented with gemstones, they are precious little gifts–or treats for yourself–and are very wearable as pendants or bracelets.

Kara doesn’t forget about men, and has a KSA Designs for Men collection of interesting cufflinks and moneyclips. It can be hard to find great jewelry and accessories for men, and she fills a niche with interesting designs and great craftsmanship.

Kara Ackerman 18kt Hammered Gold Earrings with Rose Cut Diamonds, $900 Retail

The Interview

idazzle: When did you start the Kara Ackerman Designs company?
Kara Ackerman: The official start date of Kara Ackerman Designs was on September 10th, 1998.

What did you do in your previous life?
Before I followed my passion, I worked for Sony Entertainment. I was a productions assistant working on music videos . It was a very special time in my life.

Kara Ackerman Brooke White Topaz Pave Cocktail Ring, $300 Retail

What was the catalyst for making the foray into jewelry design?
I have been designing jewelry as long as I can remember, it is in my blood. My earliest childhood recollections are of beading simple necklaces and playing with my mothers jewelry collection.

How would you describe your fashion/design philosophy in a word or phrase?
Wearable Art.

Kara Ackerman Gold Plated Aluminum Stacking Bangles, $65 for Set of 20

What kind of woman or person do you have in mind when you are creating new designs? Any specific muse?
My mother is my inspiration, her beauty and sense of style are best
described as classic. She has the poise and class of a Jacky O and the
intuitive fashion sense of a Audrey Hepburn. My mother is at the base of
everything I create.

What is the most interesting dilemma you have faced as an entrepreneur in the jewelry industry?
There is a constant pressure to keep up with the ever changing styles in the fashion industry. It is in the moments when things are in the greatest of flux, where I see the best opportunity to set the trend.

Pile 'o Judie Rings to Collect and Stack, Many Gemstones Available in 24k Vermeil, Around $100 Retail Each

What is the most inspiring/rewarding thing about coming to work as a jewelry designer each day?
My designs evolve from the world around me. Like an artist, I interpret what I see in a medium of silver, gold, precious stones, etc. There is an indescribable thrill in bringing those visions to life.

Thank you, Kara, for explaining your inspiration and designs! It will be fun to see what she’s working on for 2011, I’ve heard rumors about some interesting new developments! You can find Kara Ackerman’s designs in her own online boutique, and in a few select physical stores like OC Concept Store in NYC, Dovecote in CT, and Rocks by Rachel in Boca Raton, FL. Her designs can also be found at online retailer Max & Chloe. For information about any of the items featured in this article, or for more information about a custom-designed piece, contact Kara through her website here.

View this post on idazzle.com: Jewelry Designer Spotlight: An Interview with Kara Ackerman

Caleo Mini Cloud Earrings in 18k Yellow with Chrysoprase and Turquoise, $1090 Retail

The Designer

Designer and creative director Lyndsay Caleo is responsible for the renderings and ideas that become the finished reality of CALEO Fine Jewelry. She credits inspiration coming from primitive art, Scandinavian aesthetic, and nature’s simple, perfect forms. She distills these elements through her sculptor’s eye, then refines them to jewelry scale.

I’m not the only one noticing this designer: before the collection officially launched in 2009, it was awarded the Innovative Talent Award from the World Gold Council that year. Celebrity stylists have also noticed, and the designs have gotten numerous press mentions in past year since it’s launch. (And while it’s not the most important thing about the collection, it is worth noting that most items in the collection range in price from $150 to about $2000.)

Caleo Pinch Stack Ring with Center Rainbow Moonstone, $850 Retail, and Pinch Stack Rings with Diamonds, from $425 Retail

The Caleo Collections

The Cloud Collection is a signature look, featuring a finely-drawn line that loops bezels around rose-cut gems like Labradorite and Rainbow Moonstone. There are bracelets with hefty jewels balanced by sculptural clasps, and necklaces where the loop is actually a clip that can go from chain to chain. All have a certain appeal with the focus on the clean lines and gorgeous jewels.

Caleo Large Cloud Earrings with Rose Cut Labradorite in 18k Gold

The Pinch Collection really shows the three dimensional talent of the designer as sculptor. The simple forms take on a totally different quality with the undulating pinch texture defining the edges. Everything shines here: the hoop and straight-line earrings, the bangles, necklaces, and the stacking rings. In addition to the 18kt Yellow, Rose and White gold, this collection looks stunning in a satin white finish and blackened rhodium-plated finish on Sterling Silver.

Caleo Pinch Stacking Rings in Satin White and Black Rhodium Sterling Silver, $165 and $175 Retail

The Oceana Slink collection features some truly amazing pieces like the hinged cuff that resembles a textured Manta Ray encasing your wrist. There is also an Aurora and Halo collection, where diamonds and gems are surrounded by sculptural metal. The Aurora rings stack together in very interesting ways, with an almost Byzantine feel.

Caleo Oceana Slink Cuff Bracelet in Sterling Silver with Diamonds, $2790 Retail

The Interview

idazzle.com: So you started as a sculptor originally? What made you take the step from sculptor to jewelry designer?
Lyndsay Caleo: I made the transition from “sculpture” to “jewelry” during my artist residency at the Cleveland Institute following my graduation from RIT. I was reading about nomadic tribes at the time. I am fascinated by their culture and how they carry and wear their amulets and talismans’. During my time at the Cleveland Institute my work kept getting smaller and smaller until I began to attach chains to my designs so I could wear them. I realized that every culture has different versions of a talisman, in some way shape or form. What we choose to wear can make us feel confident, safe, empowered or somehow connected to someone or something. I am drawn to the personal connection and meaning that jewelry communicates. On another level I approach my jewelry the same way I approach my larger scale work. From interiors to sculpture, my work is all about creating systems. So in a way I feel like I’m still working as a sculptor, only on a different scale. I’m constantly thinking about how a piece of sculpture can make sense worn on one’s body.

When did you start the Caleo Fine Jewelry company? Did this grow out organically from private designing, or did you set out to start a full-fledged design company?
Caleo, as a company, grew very organically, I was in the studio for a few years creating one of a kind pieces until the demand grew beyond what I could make with my own hands.

Caleo Halo Ring in 18k with Chrysoprase with Diamond Accent

What was your first collection(s)?
My very first jewelry collection was a series of one of a kind pieces that explored what I mentioned above, as well as material, shape and form that I hadn’t seen in jewelry before. During this time I was exploring and handcarving everything from stone and crystal, to wood and hand cast metal.

Where is your jewelry made? Is there anything special about the sourcing or finishing that readers should know about?
All of the gold I use is recycled and I only use conflict free diamonds and stones. I still create pieces in my studio but I also have an incredible team of goldsmiths that work me with on production and one of a kind specialty pieces.

How does your bench training at Rhode Island School of Design influence your designs?
RISD was an important time for me on many levels. My years at RISD were intense but inspirational. You gain so much knowledge by working with your hands. It taught me to see things from a different perspective and reconsider my thought process behind my work. I try to approach everything I create with an open mind. The attention to detail is key in all of my work. The knowledge and discipline I gained during those years has helped me mold Caleo into what it is today.

Caleo Pinch Teardrop Earrings in 18k Yellow Gold, $1500 Retail

Have you had any fortunate serendipity while designing? Like a “mistake” or experiment that somehow turned into something really wonderful?
About two years ago someone sent me a huge bouquet of lily’s. The flowers had passed but I had plucked off the stamen [those pesky little parts in the center of the lily that stain your cloths? ] and left them on my bench. I would push them around and play with them while I was working. Months later I was looking at a new collection I was working on and realized that those pesky little Stamen shapes were in every one of my designs. Today that collection is one of our best selling collections.

Is there any type of medium or material you would like to add to your collections? Anything exciting that you are working on? Yes!! Material is a constant source of inspiration and I am excited about what’s on the table for Spring! I am just finishing the samples now.

Where can readers find your designs?
All of our retail partners that carry the collection are listed on our website, www.caleojewelry.com. We have key partners around the country. If we do not have a retail partner in your region we can be contacted directly about questions or concerns at: info at caleojewelry dot com.

Thank you, Lyndsay! You can find her designs at stores like Broken English in Santa Monica, Tivol in Kansas City, and some other locations across the country. You can contact her studio through their website here. This designer shows such strength, and such promise, I can’t wait to see what else she creates!

View this post on idazzle.com: Designer Spotlight: An Interview with Caleo Fine Jewelry

I love this partnership between Greenwich Jewelers and jewelry designer Gorjana. It’s pretty incredible that both companies are generously donating 100% of the proceeds of this bracelet to Susan G. Komen for the cure. Greenwich Jewelers wants to sell out of this Limited Edition bracelet, and at $35, it’s affordable. And it’s pretty! And it’s PINK!

Gorjana Limited Edition Leather and Vermeil Bracelet available exclusively at Greenwich Jewelers, $35 Retail, Click to buy.

Ostbye, a 4th-generation jewelry manufacturer in Minneapolis, is offering a special necklace for the month of October. A rose gold ribbon anchors a circle of diamonds in a design that honors the cause, but is still a classic piece of jewelry. It’s available in two carat weight sizes, the 1/10 carat version sells for $349, and the 1/4 carat version sells for $549. A portion of the proceeds of the necklace will also benefit Susan G. Komen for the cure. Call 1-866-553-1515 to order, or contact them through their website.

Ostbye Gold and Diamond Ribbon Pendant, $349 or $549 Retail, Click to Buy.

I also found this Etsy seller, JayWithLove, who is offering this hand-stamped pendant with enameled pink ribbon and chain. Sweet and subtle, it’s a pretty piece of jewelry that can also be customized. The seller is donating $5 of each purchase to the breast cancer charity of your choice.

Sterling and Enamel Breast Cancer Awareness Pendant by JayWithLove, $35 Retail

Added October 17th: I just found out that Wendy Brandes made a very special ribbon pendant in rose gold with pink sapphires. The pendant comes on a rose gold cable chain, and at $250 is a spectacular deal! Since it is so new, this image is the only one I have of the pendant, but you can click through to inquire or purchase from Wendy.

Pink Sapphire Ribbon Pendant on chain by Wendy Brandes, $250 Retail

Added October 26th:
Few jewelry designers have done as much for raising the awareness of breast cancer than Alex Woo. She has designed several special pieces with the goal of raising awareness–and money–for women’s cancer research. It’s a cause very dear to her heart: Alex’s mother died of breast cancer. She has a mini silver and rose gold ribbon charm that can be worn with other charms for $48 and $148 retail, respectively, with a portion of those sales benefiting research. A staple in her collection, the necklace below commemorates her mother with a design that is as beautiful as it is valuable to raising awareness. Her Open Heart Necklace is in rose gold on an 18″ chain, with net proceeds benefiting Women’s Cancer Research Fund (also available in silver for $128 Retail).

Alex Woo Open Heart Necklace in 14kt Pink Gold on Chain, $498 Retail

I am sure there are more special offers we should know about: comment and add them, we want to know! Also, check out jewelry blogger JewelryWhore, who has a nice post about this here.

View this post on idazzle.com: Special Jewelry for Breast Cancer Awareness Month