Jewel Snob

Bottega Veneta Fall 2010 Jewelry Collection

2010-03-11T17:00:00Z

The entire Fall 2010 collection from ready to wear to accessories was inspired by the beetle. The colors, an opalescent green blue that degrades to a bright yet gentle yellow. The jewelry is elegant and refined, yet edgy and surprising. I did not know a beetle could be anything but icky, but after Tomas Maier tames them, they become a beautiful and interesting creature. The beetles are made of enamel. He also has a new technique that is used on gold. Just like the woven leather bags, here gold is woven and made into belted chokers. Super chic and decadent! And the craftsmanship is astounding! They are handmade in Germany. For fine jewelry, there are silver links with pave diamond for their loyal customers who will and always remain classic and timeless.

Delfina Delettrez Fendi Skeleton Hand Bracelet: Snob or Slob?

2010-03-10T11:00:00Z

There's nothing quite like a Delfina Delettrez piece when it comes to giving me the creeps! Her line of jewelry is incredibly popular judging by how many high-end retailers carry her pieces (plus she's heir to the Fendi empire), but I just don't understand who is buying these looks!? I have great respect for the designer, because her nature and anatomy-inspired jewels are truly original in their design, but they're way too gothic for my taste. This particular bracelet costs nearly $30,000 and while it may be interesting to look at from an artistic perspective, it's disturbing and I not only wouldn't want to wear it, I think I would be troubled standing next to someone who was wearing it!

What do you think about Delettrez's jewelry? Snob or Slob?

New Hayden-Harnett Cuffs

2010-03-09T11:00:00Z

I'm totally gaga over Hayden-Harnett's newest cuffs. I first discovered the brand when I ran into a friend in Paris wearing one of Hayden-Harnett's signature Ramone Studded Slim Cuffs ($90, pictured on the left) and immediately looked-up the brand and feel in love with all of their jewelry, handbag, apparel, and shoe offerings. The Ramone is so easy-to-wear and versatile that it has become one of my staples and I wear it at some point almost every week. For Spring the Vesuvius Tie Cuff ($188) is an eye-catching, bold leather cuff which can double as an ankle accessory! It's got this great fashionable-rocker thing going on, while the Lava Wide Cuff ($98) shows off HH's custom hardware (there was actually a matching clutch to this cuff which I'm totally kicking myself for not snatching:-(. Love the contrasting red and black leather), in a more classic silhouette.

What do you think about Hayden-Harnett's new cuffs?

Candace Ang

2010-03-08T11:00:00Z

Candace Ang is the young designer behind these bold statement necklaces. Ang's pieces are always fun and flirty and often have fringe details making them the perfect final touch to spice-up an LBD. Ang was designing bib necklaces way before they became the trend du jour and fittingly her Volume III Necklace ($610, pictured on the left), is one of the coolest ones I've seen. Like all of the designer's pieces, it's handmade in LA and is made from nude silk chiffon accented with silver lurex and then hand ruched and covered with rows of Swarovski crystals. Besides draped on top of an LBD, this necklace would look great over a white tee paired with skinny black pants. Ditto for the Revolution Collar in Toast ($245), pictured on the right and the Sargent Pepper Fringe Necklace ($345), pictured in the center.

Bottega Veneta Rosebud Earrings

2010-03-03T11:00:00Z

For a goes-with-everything, every day pair of earrings these Bottega Veneta Oxidized Silver Rosebud Earrings ($390) fit the bill to a T. Light-weight, under-stated, and not so expensive that you have to be overly fretful that you might loose one, the rosebud earrings have a fluid look to them (even though they're silver!), that is totally in line with the supple Bottega leather we all love. My brother saw me oogling them and just promised me them for my upcoming birthday:)

Christian Dior Teddy Bear Necklace: Snob or Slob?

2010-03-02T11:00:00Z

Dior costume jewelry has so much potential, if only it weren't so cheaply made. I mean seriously, doesn't this Dior Teddy Bear Necklace ($250) look like a poor imitation of one of Miuccia Prada's robots? I do love that it has movable arms, legs and a movable head, it's also encrusted with white crystallized Swarovski Elements, but the flimsy chain and diminutive size of the pendant don't live up to the Dior name or the price tag.

What do you think of this Teddy Necklace? Snob or Slob?

New De Beers Limited Edition Pink Diamond Jewelry Collection

2010-03-01T13:00:00Z

In time Spring, De Beers is proud to add to their offering of exquisite jewelry with two special edition series featuring beautifully selected pink diamonds set within some of their most iconic designs.

Enchanted Lotus Pendant
De Beers pink and white diamonds set in rose and white gold. 0.39 total carat weight.
$3,200.00

Enchanted Lotus Ring
De Beers pink and white diamonds set in rose and white gold. 0.47 total carat weight.
*Only available in stores
$3,200.00

Enchanted Lotus Band Ring
De Beers pink and white diamonds set in rose and white gold. 1.14 total carat weight.
*Only available in stores
$10,000.00

Frugal Snob: New Kenneth Jay Lane for QVC

2010-03-01T11:00:00Z

March 5th, QVC will broadcast live from the Four Seasons in Los Angeles, hosting a VIP reception and live show surrounding the "Buzz on the Red Carpet" (in light of awards season...can't wait to see all the red carpet Oscar looks March 7!). A number of designers that work with Hollywood celebs also work with QVC and those will be the ones highlighted in their jewelry, fashion, accessories, and beauty-focused segments. Of course the only one I really care about is my man Kenneth Jay Lane! I can't wait to get my arm into one of the cuffs pictured above. Among the new items going up for sale are the KJL Caribbean Coral Cuff ($75) and the KJL Fashion Flair Domed Ring ($50) - both of which looks near-identical to pieces available in the designer's pricier couture line.

Natalia Vodianova & De Beers design Necklace for Charity

2010-02-25T13:00:00Z

De Beers is proud to be the lead sponsor of The Love Ball London in aid of the Naked Heart Foundation, a children's charity. The centre piece of the auction was The Magic Moment Necklace designed by Natalia Vodianova and created by De Beers. This one-of-a-kind piece was inspired by that precious instant when two people meet and immediately connect. Two stunning De Beers diamond hearts fit perfectly together becoming one - symbolic of a great love.

The necklace features a 1.10 carat Fancy Intense Pink heart-shaped diamond set in pink diamond micropave and a 3.06 carat FVS1 heart-shaped diamond set in white diamond micropace. The delicate white gold chain is studded with 1.81 carats of white, round, brilliant diamonds, 1.65 carats of fancy pink, round, brilliant diamonds and 1.94 cars of fancy yellow diamonds.
For more information on the Naked Heart Foundation, please visit us here.

Swarovski Works with Yigal Azrouel for Fall 2010

2010-02-24T11:00:00Z

Yigal Azrouel was recently quoted as saying the following when discussing his incorporation of Swarovski crystals into his Fall 2010 collection -- "It was important for me to think about designing something totally different with Swarovski. The idea of applying a delicate and pristine Swarovski crystal to a rough, distressed leather jacket or a gauzy, draped t-shirt is counter-intuitive, and made the collaborative process that much more interesting."

A number of designers opted to incorporate crystals into their collection this season (Halston, Alexander Wang, Peter Som...), making the glitzy adornment one of the biggest F/W 2010 runway trends. Azrouel used them in the three key looks pictured above. First on an anthracite cracked suede jacket (worn over jet raw drape long sleeve tee and ink viscose silk pinstripe Toughened trouser), then on a Chestnut/Melange suede trim top (paired with anthracite cracked suede Toughened trouser), and lastly on an Ink quilt shoulder silk crepe dress). You can achieve a similar effect in a DIY fashion by heading to one of Swarovski's Crystallized Elements boutiques. They recently opened a fab one in Soho in NYC (if you go, you must schedule time to grab a bite/coffee in their cafe located in the back and lower level of the boutique. Not only is the food good, but how can you resist dining on a chair completely covered in crystals?!). The boutiques themselves sell an endless assortment of crystals which you can buy individually to customize anything you want -- perfect for a frugal take on the runway looks!

Kara Ross for Behanaz Sarafour Fall 2010

2010-02-23T11:00:00Z

Behnaz Sarafpour accessorized her Fall 2010 presentation with Kara Ross ebony wood cuffs and rings with gold accents. All pieces are made with 18K gold and the rings have diamond accents (available now; price upon request). I love how the bold wood plays against the fur...total rustic-chic! Wood is definitely a love-it-or-hate it material when it comes to jewelry and I know more than a handful of people who would never wear anything made from it. Personally I'm a big fan and have been begging my friend Flavia to make a QVC version of her Visconti wooden jewelry, but alas Middle America, according to QVC execs, doesn't respond positively to wood (they associate it with "cheap"). I couldn't disagree more and think wood, when done with as much sophistication and restrained as these Ross pieces, can make a very memorable statement. Ross has a variety of wood pieces in addition to those featured in the show -- I'm dying for one of her cuffs!

Lina Peterson for Ports 1961 Fall 2010 Jewelry

2010-02-22T11:00:00Z

Images from style.com

For the brand's Fall Winter 2010 season, Ports 1961 designer Tia Cibani once again turned to Lina Peterson to create jewelry to complement the collection. Peterson is based out of London and has a knack for creating bold, guaranteed to get you noticed, contemporary jewelry pieces. Her work has been showcased in museums around the world and she's sold at many international shop and galleries. I love the pastel colors and geometric shapes of the pieces that were used in the Ports show. They're a great alternative to a bib necklace which I'm so over now that everyone and their mother seems to be sporting them! The jewelry also highlights how versatile the F/W 2010 collection was - you can easily go conservative and wear it without jewelry or spice it up and add some pop if you're on the younger, edgier side. Check-out Lina Peterson's website by clicking here!

Roberto Cavalli Spider Swarovski Crystal Ring

2010-02-19T11:00:45Z

I think you know by now that I love big crazy cocktail rings; I pick them up everywhere from vintage boutiques, department stores and fine jewelers with prices ranging from $20 to very very expensive. I do not bring my diamonds when I travel (they stay in a bank vault) and prefer fashion pieces like this ring from Cavalli. For one thing I don't have to worry about losing it and for another, you do not want to mess with a girl who has this on her finger, she will CUT you! This silver-tone brass ring with black Swarovski crystal embellishment is totally sick though it does eerily resemble a spider but don't think about that! Just think about all the fun you'll have wearing it. Roberto Cavalli Spider Swarovski Crystal Ring
$430.00

Paige Gamble Amethyst and Gunmetal Chains

2010-02-18T11:00:00Z

While in NY for Fashion Week, I went to visit Paige Gamble's showroom. She is amazing, to put it plainly. Paige has an eye like no other, she is sharp witted, gorgeous, genius and most importantly (for our purposes) phonemically creative. I am in love with her bags, they are immaculate and chic, it's sick!! So when she started doing jewelry, you know I was all over it. Her pieces are like works of art, they are unique without being unwearable. The thing I love most is that you can wear a simple outfit with her pieces to spice things up and it is totally effortless but entirely put together. I am crazy over the Amethyst and Gunmetal Chains ($550) , it is a perfect mix of feminine and bold. In the summer, white tee, jeans and this and you are rocking like no other.

Jennifer Meyer Diamond Wishbone Necklace

2010-02-17T11:00:00Z

This Diamond Wishbone Necklace ($2,325) was designed by Tobey Maguire's wife, Jennifer Meyer (she's the one behind Jennifer Aniston's ever-popular gold leaf necklace). I was never a big fan of the leaf design which has become the brand's signature, but I love the wishbone - even though there are countless frugal versions... I actually recently picked-up a cute one at Charlotte Ronson! For some under-stated, versatile bling - especially if you're as superstitious as I am - this is a fun find though; if I had the means to splurge on everything and anything I wanted I certainly would opt for this diamond version over the Charlotte Ronson one. Plus Jennifer Meyer recently started designing jewelry with rubies to honor her daughter, Ruby Sweetheart Maguire (so cute! Even though Ruby Sweetheart... what's up with celebs giving their kids these crazy names!?), so who knows maybe they'll be a ruby wishbone making its way to Barneys soon!

Thea Grant Quadrangles Multi Chain Necklace: Snob or Slob?

2010-02-16T11:00:00Z

When it comes to jewelry at Barneys, I actually find more pieces I like in their co-op section than on their main floor. In the NYC flagship they've got three large cases on the seventh floor with a ton of fun, affordable (relatively at least), original designs from the likes of Fallon and Subversive. When I first saw this Thea Grant Quadrangles Multi Chain Necklace ($385), I thought it's kind of fun and quirky, but for nearly $400 it's a bit ridiculous to have a hotchpotch of items on a metal chain. I tried it on for fun and it predictably looks ridiculous. Plus the random items aren't even interesting!! The necklace makes me think of those monochromatic canvases you sometimes see at modern art museum and think to yourself...uhhh, I could have done that myself!

Am I missing something here? What do you think of this necklace? Snob or Slob?

KJL Elaborate Enamel Flower Necklace

2010-02-11T11:00:00Z

If it weren't for the Kenneth Jay Lane counter at the mall in the Plaza Hotel, the space would be a total bust (well KJL and the Demel Cafe...best coffee and petit fours!). Nothing like an afternoon trying on dozens of bold baubles and indulging in some sweets:-) I only wish there were QVC KJL buys at the counter. Hard to believe, but many of the KJL QVC pieces are near-identical (maybe even totally identical -- both design and quality-wise), to the main line. Not that KJL is ridiculously expensive, but the pieces aren't great quality and it's not uncommon for them to break after a few wears making QVC all the more appealing. I'm liking the KJL Elaborate Enamel Flower Necklace ($220). The size of the piece could make it veer on the tacky side (though this is the case with many KJL pieces!), so I would pair it with something simple and casual like jeans and a white tee.

What do you think about this KJL necklace? How would you wear it?

Jil Sander Soul Rings

2010-02-10T17:00:21Z

Heart on your sleeve is one thing; soul on your finger is quite another--and something I highly recommend if it's from Jil Sander. Just in time for Valentine's Day, the fashion house has debuted a new Soul collection of rings available only at the label's online boutique. Crafted in Italy, the finger candy boasts a chunky silver-and-enamel design that's a surefire standout for the minimalist house. It might not have quite the commanding presence of a Graff cocktail ring, but it's also one-tenth the price! Wear it to work with your suit and to cocktails with an LBD. A truly versatile ring, it whispers, doesn't shout, subtle style. The best part? I love that it's available in bright, perky colors like orange, blue, pink and yellow (not to mention black, which is an option for gents).

$540 available exclusively at www.jilsander.com

Lovely Chanel for your Valentine

2010-02-09T17:00:17Z

It doesn't always take a 4 figure Chanel bag to make us happy (though it would be very nice!)-- a chic Chanel bangle or two or three will do the trick, too. And of course the Kaiser knew that one bangle would not be enough for his Chanel girl-- and he put three chic bangles in one lovely package for $565! That's thrice as nice when stacked together-- I'm a bangle girl and I love the sounds of bangles subtly clicking and clanging while I move around! Nina Garcia told me once that bangles should be worn in odd numbers, I don't know if it's for good luck or for style's sake but I'm going to go with it. If you're still looking to treat yourself or your Valentine-- grab a set of these lovely bangles asap!
At Chanel.com and Chanel boutiques worldwide.

Cathy Waterman Monogram Ring

2010-02-09T11:00:00Z

I always say that for the man or woman that has it all, get them something monogrammed or somehow customized/personalized. On that note for Valentine's Day check-out the Cathy Waterman Monogram Ring ($3,510). Cathy Waterman's pieces have been worn by dozens of stars including Charlize Theron and Julia Roberts and the designer is known for taking inspiration from nature which is clear in the way the letters are shaped on this ring. Plus everything in the collection is handmade using recycled metals and fair trade stones. The only drawback to the ring is the price. Nearly $4,000 (when you factor in tax), is a very, very steep price to pay for something that is 22K with no stones (and given that this is an under-stated ring, there's not even that much gold...). The craftsmanship however of the piece is tops, so if you can afford it stop by Barneys. It would make an especially great gift for a soon-to-be or new mom!

Francesca Visconti Cuff and Ring

2010-02-08T11:00:00Z

How fab are the two pieces pictured above? They're both Francesca Visconti pieces, an Italian line run by one of my best friends, Flavia Masson (who also happened to be Visconti's daughter). Every time I see Flavia wearing the above pieces I swoon and beg her to make less expensive versions for QVC (Visconti has a diffusion line for QVC which Flavia sells on-air multiple times a year). The above ring is ebony and 18kt yellow gold with zircons ($3,800), while the cuff is ebony with 18kt yellow gold studs ($5,000). Unfortunately the QVC audience does not respond well to wood so the only way to get these pieces is by purchasing them from the couture line by contacting (212) 593-6106. Check out more from Francesca Visconti here! The line has plenty of bold, colorful, and fun pieces perfect for a mild Valentine's Day splurge:-)

Tom Binns "All Heart" Red Queen Necklace

2010-02-05T11:00:00Z

Looking to make a statement this spring? Look no further than Tom Binns, whose limited-edition capsule collection for Disney inspired by Tim Burton's upcoming film, "Alice in Wonderland," launches this week. Anyone who's ever tried on or worn one of Binns's necklaces knows they're not only significant, weighty pieces, but they're true handmade works of art to boot. Of the six pieces in this special collection, priced from $575 to $1,000, I found myself gravitating toward his "All Heart" necklace named after the movie's Red Queen, natch (other characters he drew inspiration from include the Mad Hatter, the White Queen and the White Rabbit). Is it just me or does looking at this necklace of hematite chains, Swarovski crystals and countless red resin hearts make you crave a box of old-fashioned Red Hots cinnamon candies? What I appreciate about this necklace is that it's both simplistic in design yet statement-making in sheer attitude. Can't you just picture it at a spring season gala or Hamptons backyard barbeque? Wallflowers need not apply; a woman brave enough to wear this necklace needs no introduction: she's the center of attention, the life of the party--in short, a real firecracker. $1,000 at Tom Binns Design online.

Blancpain Diamond and White Gold Tourbillon

2010-02-04T17:00:00Z

The Tourbillon is Blancpain's most traditional and signature watch. All Jewel Snobs are obsessed with watches and having a Blancpain cements your status as a true and knowledgeable collector. This very unique and special Tourbillon is the mother of all watches, set with 242 baguettes diamonds on the bracelet in white gold with 115 diamonds on the dial, this is a masterpiece of the watchmaking art at its very best. Its power reserve eliminates the necessity of daily winding and guarantees optimum precision due to the slower more regular detent of its barrel spring. Not sure if you should actually go deep sea scuba diving with this on but as a tribute to its craft and invention, this Tourbillon is water-resistant to 30-100 meters. Diamond bracelet, as seen, is $1,812,700, also available with a leather strap instead of the diamond bracelet for $1,342,700. For assistance, please call Jaclyn at the Madison Avenue Store in New York City at 212.396.1735.

Lucifer Vir Honestus Millefedi Ring

2010-02-04T11:00:00Z

If Michael Aram ever ventured into jewlery I have a feeling one of his rings might look something like this Lucifer Vir Honestus Millefedi Ring ($6,600). On that note someone please send Aram a note that he must begin translating his home designs into jewels! I love the earthy quality to this piece and rose gold and diamonds are such an exquisite combination. Plus this piece is most definitely on-trend given all the stacked rings we've been seeing in editorials lately. It's also understated enough to wear during the day, but then you've got the sparkles that can be played-up with other matching jewels for the night. Magnifique!

Amanda Rudey North Star Ring

2010-02-03T17:00:00Z

Amanda Rudey jewelry is seen coast to coast, from the streets of New York on Gossip Girls to the shores of California on 90210. And the best part, you can be a Frugal Snob AND still look like a shining star without compromising. This handmade North Star ring is only $130 and with code PEOPLEAR, you will recieve 20% off at AMANDA RUDEY, making is only $104!! Her collection ranges from $60-$345 - this code is good site wide until Feb. 12th. Let me know if you need me to send a hint to your significant other for the perfect Valentine's gift =) Code and info via People Style Watch.

Tory Burch Siddhartha Cuff

2010-02-03T11:00:00Z

I don't own any of Tory Burch's shoes, clothes, or bags, but I absolutely LOVE her jewelry and now that she's hired Subversive designer Justin Giunta to be the design director of Tory Burch jewelry I'm even more excited about what's to come! The Tory Burch Siddhartha Cuff ($250) pictured above is a versatile piece that would pair just as well with an Upper East Sider's Lilly Pulitzer dress as it would with a young, urban girl's LBD or a more bohemian-type who could wear this on one arm and then stack a bunch of more slender bold, gold and patterned baubles on the other arm. As a nice little extra bonus Siddhartha means "he who has found meaning (of existence)" in Sanskrit, so who knows, perhaps wearing it will bring me luck in finding some added meaning!? ... hey, you never know!

What do you think about Tory Burch's jewelry?

Danielle Stevens' HELP FOR HAITI Necklace

2010-02-02T17:00:00Z

What a beautiful way to support the people of Haiti. This necklace was designed specifically to help raise money for the victims of Haiti. The engraved words, "HOPE, FAITH, SUPPORT, STRENGTH" is something we should all hold near to our hearts.

"I wanted to design a piece that would help benefit a country that has been devastated by such a horrific catastrophe, support those whose lives have been uprooted and turned upside down, and help them re-build with your generous donation that bears an inspirational message to all." - Danielle Zackman, designer of Danielle Stevens Jewelry

Danielle Stevens will be donating 80% of all sales from the Help For Haiti Necklace to the Red Cross Haiti Relief Operation. Necklace is available for $40 through her website only: DanielleStevens.com.

Oscar de la Renta Red Bead Necklace

2010-02-02T11:00:00Z

This Oscar de la Renta Bib Necklace ($790) is the perfect example of what costume jewelry should do -- make a statement! Jewel Snob Tina gave the low-down on the line which is a collaboration between ODLR and style icon Loulou de la Falaise. For me this piece was one of the stand-outs from the current collection. There's an exotic feel to the necklace given the color and beadwork (steel bugle beads, plastic, PVC, and glass stones all made in India), which can add a nice bohemian touch to a classic look. I love that it has been styled with an LBD in the photo above, because it just goes to show how the right accessory can turn a boring look into something that's wonderfully memorable. Plus how great are all the contrasting shades of red and shapes of the embellishments? Definitely a conversation-starter!

The Woods Fine Jewelry: Simple Elegance

2010-02-01T11:01:51Z

I was lunching at my favorite Dallas boutique (FortyFiveTen) last week and discovered the most amazing line of jewelry. The Woods Fine Jewelry, based in Aspen and designed by sisters Samantha Hitchcock and Shawn Hecox, is a stunning collection of jewels that juxtapose natural elements like wood, leather, ivory and even antler with old mine cut/Victorian diamonds. The talented duo created the venture three years ago and has since developed a cult following of jewel snobs with impeccable taste.

It began with a shared fascination with old mine cut/Victorian cut diamonds (you all know my love of old mine cut diamonds!) and they envisioned a line of jewelry that reflected their unfussy yet indulgent sensibilities. The collection also embodies the principles they loved in their favorite clothing designers, simple elegance with unexpected surprises. The burgeoning line is defined by contrast - accessibility/luxury, edgy/feminine. Celebrity clients include Charlize Theron, Ashley Olsen, and Kate Hudson.

The necklace I am dreaming about is the Grey Wood with Diamond Beads and Tahitian Pearls (above left, $4,400). The Woods Fine Jewerly pieces are meant to be worn together in multiple layers; it never looks fussy or unpretentious no matter how many pieces you stack on! Most of the charms are detachable and many are one of a kind. Bracelets and smaller necklaces start at $390. Call FortyFiveTen Boutique in Dallas to order! 214-559-4520

Look at the diamond set in the antler, so unexpected. I spent a good 30 minutes playing with the collection and layering different colors. The look is casual yet elegant, great with jeans or can be dressed up. So versatile!]]> Old mine cut diamonds really stand out when paired with natural wood beads in varying shades.

Simple earrings are all you need to complement the intricate necklaces.

Stacking a few of the bracelets together is a must!

Padma Lakshmi Jewelry Collection

2010-01-29T17:00:00Z

For as long as I've known Padma Lakshmi, I've always been impressed by her unique sense of style. Never one to follow trends, the statuesque former model--and, I'm happy to say, my friend--has blossomed into author, actress, "Top Chef" host and, most recently, jewelry designer. Her eponymous line of fine jewelry ranges in price from $300 to $6,000 and is available at seven high-profile retailers worldwide, including Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus in the U.S. As her third collection debuts this spring, not to mention the birth of her first child in a few short weeks, I chatted with her about how her line has evolved.

How does your culture play a role in your jewelry design?
"Jewelry is so much a part of Indian culture--especially Indian feminine culture--that it couldn't help but play a significant role. Jewelry is also India's greatest export. I have a lot of antiques and archival jewelry pieces I've amassed from relatives and gifts and through my travels as a model. Every kind of jewelry plays a big role in my designing. Some of the pieces have a direct influence from my heritage, but I'm also influenced by a Calder mobile or Erte sculpture or Verdura charm bracelet that I have of Maltese crosses (our charm bracelets are more slick, modern and younger versions of those). I didn't want to do costume jewelry; it's just not my bag. I really wanted, even in a humble pinky ring, it to last--something you could pass on to your daughter or niece. I'm Indian so we put a lot of stock in gold."

]]>

Who is the woman you design for? What are her characteristics?
"I'm not a metal smith and I'm not a classically trained jeweler, but having worked in fashion for 20 years now, whenever I went on a trip I always brought back jewelry. I was very pleased that the jewelry looks good on my 16-year-old niece and my 65-year-old mom. That was very important to me. There's also a lot of movement in my jewelry; it's meant to dance on your ear and dance on your wrist and catch the light--but not be gaudy. My women share a hyper-femininity. This is not jewelry for women who dress in men's suits all the time, although I do pair my jewelry with my YSL men's tailored pieces. It's very pretty, delicate jewelry (we're getting a lot chunkier for fall) and for spring we kept it organic with botanical lines."

Flipping through your lookbook made me hungry because of all the food vernacular tied into your jewelry names!
"Honestly, it's proximity of what's on the desk. In my showroom, we have the jewelry and right next to it is my test kitchen where we mix teas and test recipes. It's kind of what was in my head when I was designing; when I was designing this collection I was also mixing spices for my line of spices and teas called Easy Exotic. For example, I'll see a jasmine leaf and then you'll see a jasmine earring in the collection. Everything sort of bleeds into another part of the desk!"

Growing up, what was your most memorable jewelry moment?
"When a man turns 60, in Brahmin culture it's a very big milestone in his life. When my grandfather turned 60 there was a religious ceremony that happened and I can remember my mom stitching jewelry into my hair and jasmine flowers into the long, single braid that I had tied in my hair. I was no more than six or seven and that was really my first memory of self adornment."

Do you wear any lucky charms?
"If you notice in the collection, there's a micro collection called the Nav. I try to wear a little tiny piece of Nav jewelry whenever I can, especially if I've got a big meeting or am doing a TV appearance or on an audition. The Nav concept is to wear nine specific gemstones altogether in one piece of jewelry. Every Indian jeweler has Nave rings or necklaces, but they were always hideously done, so I modernized it. Wearing all nine stones together is said to bring you balance and harmony because each stone corresponds to a different planet so having all those stones harnessed means not one planet is pulling you in one way."

What would you say is the quintessential must-have piece for spring from your collection?
"I really like the earrings we did. For spring we're going to see a lot of very pale pastels and sexy skin tone neutrals, which are colors that I love. With that backdrop, the earrings are really beautiful because they catch the light. We do them with pink sapphires and we also do them with peridot and aquamarine and it's nice to have a big, feminine earring with these neutral, flowy dresses. It gives you a dash of gypsy or sex appeal."

What's your most favorite piece from the collection?
"My favorite piece is actually the one we did the first season: the long, single strand pod necklace (and also the dangling pod bangle). They're very feminine, they can be layered with anything and they're just a perennial that works. As it happens I'm not wrong because they're out best-sellers."

What other areas of jewelry would you like to branch out to?
"From soup to nuts, I'm the one doing the floors and the windows, so I really have to think about what's going to sell and what we can afford to do. We're getting killed with gold prices. I'd love to do anklets and belly chains--whimsical, beautiful and strange pieces. I'd like to think it's very wearable. There are beautiful strange pieces that I fantasize about making, but at the end of the day as a businesswoman I really wanted the company to make its mark with a broader audience. I wanted something women could layer--that could take them from day to night. I wanted it to be very flattering. I really wanted it to be jewelry that women would become part of--jewelry that you would take off and put on your nightstand and put on again after your shower."

Will becoming a new mom influence your future lines?
"(Laughing) I'm sure it will. I don't know how yet, but I'll let you know after the baby is born. Everything influences everything else. We did the peppercorn necklace because I was grinding spices in my mortar and pestle and I just thought the peppercorn was so beautiful that I had a real peppercorn--that you would find in Dean & Deluca--cast and molded in gold."

What jewelry lines do you like?
"I like a lot of the pieces I've seen at Alexis Bittar. I also go to a lot of antique jewelry shows or estate sales or at the auction houses. I'm lucky enough to have a few pieces from Fred Leighton and they're not at all what we do--or have the budget to do--but it's fun to look at."

Finish this sentence: Jewelry is...
"Jewelry is a personal talisman that can tell you a lot about being a woman."