Colette Jewelry Draco Earrings from the Galaxia Collection, 18kt black gold with diamonds and moonstones, Retail $9980.

The Jewelry of Colette

Born into a French-Mexican family, Colette’s life has straddled both cultures and geographic locations. She manages to marry the more colorful, flamboyant imagery of Mexican and ancient native cultures with a more restrained French aesthetic. In Colette’s skillful hands, snakes are serpents from Eden, tempting rather than repelling us. Swords are bejeweled daggers whose charm doesn’t completely bely their danger. This is conversation-piece jewelry.

Colette Jewelry Excalibur Ring from the Azucar Collection, in 18kt black gold with white diamonds. Retail $4600.

Each design starts with a premise, an idea of inspiration. Then she works through the process of detailed drawings and wax models, until finally the finished piece of jewelry is set and polished to Colette’s exact specifications. Then she physically wears the piece, living with it for a while until she deems it is perfect, covet-able, and ready to weave into her collections.

Her collections are somewhat prolific, and cover a range of themes: flies, flowers, skulls, even the celestial is inspiration. I could spend at least a day browsing through everything. Made of gorgeous materials, every single piece receives the same amount of exacting scrutiny. Colette is especially skillful at incorporating the mechanics of the item into the design: the sword wraps effortlessly and becomes the band. Of course, the real stars here are the stones. With Colette, it always comes back to the stones…

Colette Jewelry Fly Pendant from the Bestioles Collection, 18kt black gold with black and white diamond pave and carved Labradorite, Retail $20,600.

The Interview with Colette

idazzle: It sounds as though your initial inspiration came from coaxing color and light from stones that hadn’t been seen before. Have you moved away from that or is that still an inspiration?
Colette: I have always been in love with color, especially the colors you find in nature like the blues, greens and turquoises of the ocean, land, animals and their intricacies, rainbow sunsets and flowers. You can find the most special color combinations. I love to play with different color palettes, tones and hues. I like to work with stones that have amazing color saturation and then combining them with neutral colors such as diamonds. I am so inspired by colors and what surrounds me – especially when I travel. My latest collection that is currently in the works is largely inspired by the color of the sea in Italy and the magnificent dragonflies that buzz around – their wings are just sensational.

Colette Jewelry Taipan Ring from the Eden Collection, 18kt black gold with diamonds and emeralds, Retail $8520.

Can’t wait to see those! What does your creative process look like? Do you begin with the stones, or with sketches?
Once I have in mind what I want to create I start with a simple sketch, then I move to the real sketch which means a full drawing in color with all the specifications for stone sizes and type of stone. Usually when I get the inspiration of a collection, I already know which stones I am going to work with. It is a simultaneous process. After the proper drawing is finished, then I move to the CAD design, and once everything is perfect, I print a wax and it goes to casting. After that you finally get to see exactly how the design is going to look which gets me really excited! Then, I proceed to setting and finally polishing. The piece is ready. After I make sure everything is made to perfection including the setting, the gold, finish and polish, I wear the piece for a little while. With photography being one of my hobbies, I like to take the pictures of my pieces myself, which I do in different positions and with varying backgrounds. If I want to put the piece in my jewelry box, then I know it is perfect and ready to show!

Colette Jewelry Green Camelot Ring from the Azucar Collection, 18kt black gold with white and black diamonds and emeralds, Retail $12,100.

You have a number of different collections, each with a central theme underlying. Do you have a favorite collection, something especially close to your heart?
The closest one to my heart is “feuille” because it involves so much of my personal life; it is the foundation of my business and thus my logo. The motif is a leaf that I found many years ago on Boulevard Saint Germain in Paris. I have always collected leaves and have a beautiful collection of leaves that I have found over the years. I love leaves because of their beauty and because they mark the seasons and that they fall from trees that represent life. Their structure also seems so elegant. And I want to immortalize leaves by making them into jewelry, setting them with different colored diamonds to represent each season of the year.

Colette Due Bracelet from the Feuille Collection, 18kt black gold with white and black diamond pave, Retail $12,150.

How does your heritage affect your designs?
I have lived between France and Mexico my whole life and I think that this cultural background absolutely has had an impact on my work. In Mexico, there is a great tradition of mysticism that comes from the ancient Azteca culture and a very vivid use of color that one can see in everyday life. My French sensibility I think has made me very in tune with elegance in design and simplicity of lines.

How do you decide when a piece is finished, complete?
I think that a piece is finished when I see that its design truly expresses the idea that I started with and after I have worn it and am confident that it is something that I would like to have for myself.

Colette Jewelry Dominica Ring from the Mar Collection, 18kt yellow gold seastar legs hold a faceted rose quartz, Retail $7500.

Do you have a current muse or obsession?
My current obsessions are insects and wings. These structures are so intricate and many times we look at them and do not really see them and to me they represent different sorts of mysteries.

Out of curiosity, what were the stones you worked with originally, that started it all?
The stones that I worked with originally are Peridot, Tanzanite, and Apatite.

Colette Jewelry single stud earring with attached cuff that wraps around the ear, 18kt black gold with white diamonds and moonstone, Retail $3900.

Thank you so much, Colette, for a glimpse into your magical world!

To see more of her collection, or to contact Colette and her staff about a design, you can visit them at www.colettejewelry.com. You can also see her designs at several stores in the USA and Mexico, including Fragments at 116 Prince Street, New York, New York, or call 212.334.9588.

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

The BaubleBar Anniversary Sale begins Monday, January 23rd, and extends through Sunday, January 29th. Here’s how it works. Go to www.BaubleBar.com, and become a member (it’s free and definitely worth it for their special offerings and Buried Bauble treasure hunts) or log in if you already are a member. Then click on the “One Year Shop” and you’ll enter the sale page where you can find a best-selling piece for a price that will make your week!

BaubleBar Blue Drop Earrings, Original Retail $32, Sale $22.

BaubleBar Crescent Moon Necklace, Original Retail $38, Sale $24.

BaubleBar Erickson Beamon Necklace, Original Retail $250, Sale $175.

View this post on idazzle.com: BaubleBar Turns One with Style: BaubleBar Anniversary Sale!

3 Wishes from Greenwich Jewelers

One of my favorite retailers, Greenwich Jewelers in NYC, is featuring a campaign this Holiday season that warms my heart (and makes my pulse race!). The store, which normally features a finely-curated selection of designer jewelry from $100 to $1,000,000, is promoting 3 very special one-of-a-kind jewelry items, and will donate a substantial portion of the selling price to the purchaser’s charity of choice! This is a win-win-win for everyone, so please, consider the following exceptional items for your special someone.

This extraordinarily rare necklace by award-winning designer Todd Reed represents a literally once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for him to assemble 36 carats of Canadian-sourced (non-conflict) diamonds, set into the 18kt and sterling silver necklace in their natural state. Priced at $190,000, a full $10,000 will be donated.

18kt gold and sterling silver necklace with 36 carats of diamonds by Todd Reed, Retail $190,000.

Also stunning, this necklace by GURHAN features rose-cut midnight blue sapphires set into hand-hammered 24kt gold bezels. It should grace someone’s neck this Holiday season, and send $7500 of the $75,000 purchase price to the charity of your choice.

24kt gold and Sapphire Necklace by GURHAN, Retail $75,000.

It would be hard to choose, but I could see myself wearing this particular bracelet, custom made by Greenwich Jewelers. It features 27 carats of beautifully matched black, near-colorless, and natural cognac-colored diamonds, in a sophisticated palette. $5000 of the $50,000 purchase price will be donated for this bracelet.

18kt white gold bracelet by Greenwich Jewelers with 27 carats of multi-color diamonds, Retail $50,000.

Dreaming in Color

Want to own a piece of jewelry with a red-carpet provenance (and a ridiculously reasonable price)? These lovely drop earrings from Shamila Jiwa feature a mesmerizing shade of green onyx (seems to curiously glow from within) and an accent of diamonds in 14kt and 18kt signature tulip design.

14kt and 18kt Earrings with Diamonds and Green Onyx by Shamila Jiwa, Retail $675.

This ring reminds me of a luscious Klimt painting, all shimmer and subtle color. Different shades of sapphires are bezel-set into signature-textured 18kt gold by Alex Sepkus, available from Fragments.

18kt ring by Alex Sepkus with Sapphires and Diamonds, Retail $7825.

I love literally everything from Ippolita, but I’m especially intrigued by this ring. With 4 organic, yet geometric gems in a loose cluster, I like the way skin shows through and the bands are substantially delicate. In the “Starry Night” palette, the dusky-hued blues are somehow versatile.

18kt yellow gold Starry Night ring by Ippolita, Retail $2500.

Just Sparkle

Sometimes, a girl just has to have some sparkle. Of the rare, carbon type. Jemma Wynne creates some luxurious, yet infinitely wearable jewelry in NYC. I think a couple of these bangles (okay, you could start with just one) would get you some serious points.

18kt gold Black and White bangles by Jemma Wynne, click image for more details.

If you love pearls, but don’t love the traditional designs that usually accompany classic pearl jewelry, this necklace from Vibes could be the one. Gorgeous South Sea pearls in shimmery hues of peach, pistachio and apricot are selected in shapes with a lot of character. Refined polished gold and some subtle sparkle from diamonds make this a truly stand-out piece, available from Fragments.

18kt gold, South Sea pearl and diamond necklace by Vibes, Retail $33,340.

And finally, for a gasp-worthy gift of diamond jewelry, I don’t think much can top these exquisite earrings by Irene Neuwirth. Substantial rose-cut diamonds in subtle shades of cognac are artfully framed in pave diamonds in a complementary shade of rose gold.

Diamond Collection Cognac Earrings by Irene Neuwirth, Retail $49,260.

So, which of these gifts would you choose?

View this post on idazzle.com: Luxury Jewelry Gift Ideas

Give someone special these cushion-cut crystal earrings in a warm and unexpected shade of peach. From my favorite secret weapon for fashion-forward jewelry, BaubleBar.

Cushion-cut Crystal Stud Earrings in Champagne Peach from BaubleBar, Retail $40.

Also from BaubleBar, this bracelet makes a statement all on its own, or could layer with other arm candy. At just $20, it’s easy to justify.

Crystal Pop Bracelet from BaubleBar, in leather, crystal and acrylic, Retail $20.

This is a great example of affordable fine jewelry from GURHAN, a designer whose distinctive hammered finish is instantly recognizable. This ring coordinates with other pieces from his collection, and could stack with other rings.

Blackened sterling silver and high karat gold ring with blue topaz by GURHAN, Retail $175.

These studs by Nicky Hilton have a fierce silhouette, and just the right amount of sparkle, for under $50.

Stud earrings by Nicky Hilton in 18kt gold plate over sterling silver with CZs, Retail $46.70.

One of my favorite independent jewelry designers, Shamila Jiwa, has some fabulous options for gifts. These talisman necklaces feature dozens of full-cut champagne colored diamonds set into black sterling silver, for beautiful sparkle and contrast. They would be perfect for everyday, and look great layered up (I love the evil eye marquise design), prices range from $350 to $480 for beautifully executed fine jewelry.

Pave diamond layering necklaces by Shamila Jiwa in rhodium-plated sterling silver, and rutilated quartz earrings, Retails $275 to $480.

This earth-friendly pair of earrings by design duo Aroc Urtu would be perfect for someone who appreciates natural beauty. Smooth white beach stones, collected from all over the world, are matched organically and set with small pink sapphires and hung on simple silver wires.

White Beach Stone and Pink Sapphire Earrings in Sterling Silver by Aroc Urtu, Retail $232.

If you want to make it memorable, Dalla Nonna has a fresh spin on personalized jewelry (check out a comprehensive gift guide for personalized jewelry here). Their little letters bracelets ™ are hip, sweet, and reasonable enough to get one for all your girlfriends.

A stack of the little letter bracelets by Dalla Nonna, starting at $98 for single letters in silver.

And finally, for some serious holiday sparkle, we turn to (legendary) fashion jewelry designer Gerard Yosca. The design of these drop earrings manages to be modern and vintage at the same time.

Sapphire Rhinestone Drop Earrings by Gerard Yosca, Retail $200.

View this post on idazzle.com: Great Jewelry Gifts under $500

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