The romance and mystery of the past and the elegant restraint of the present distinguish the work of jewelry designer Temple St. Clair. Rooted in the mystery and the romance of the past, Temple’s pieces feature an elegant restraint, a clean modern line, and a sensitivity to color that are indisputably contemporary — yet utterly timeless. I had lunch with a girlfriend who was wearing a delicate gold chain with a gold pendant made of sparking sapphires. Without asking, I knew it was Temple St. Clair. Her signature style is unmistakable as is the workmanship of her jewels.

I was recently introduced to the spirit of Cindy Chao, a jewelry designer based in Taiwan. I love discovering new jewelry designers, especially those with an incredible eye for detail and design like Cindy- one of the most promising jewelry designers I have seen in a very long time! A friend of mine had several pieces made by Cindy and showed them to me during her last visit, the pieces were extraordinary and exquisite and like nothing I had ever seen. Inspired by her Eastern roots and by the forces of nature, Cindy's jewelry is astounding and fascinating. Owning one of her pieces is like capturing the essence of nature and owning the spirit of beauty. Each piece is carefully designed and meticulously handcrafted- a conch pearl rests delicately against the sensual curves of lily petals made of diamonds, a golden pearl mounted as the exotic center of a spray of diamonds, a diamond nestled in a cluster of pearls, each piece unique in its own way. I am waiting for my first Cindy Chao pieces, I was told the wait would be long, but as all things worth owning, it is worth the wait. Email her showroom for details and point of purchase.

More photos after the jump!

I've always been a fan of Hermes scarves but I am always hesitant to wear them because, worn the wrong way, they can make your look so outdated. (I am all for classicism but I don't want to look like a fashionably confused version of my grandmother!) This Alexis Bittar pin can be a cleaver way to allow you to wear your favorite scarf while still updating the look. (The trick is to clip the pin in an unusual place so that you are still revealing an alluring amount of skin that appears accidental.) My favorite way to incorporate a pin in this way is to pin the scarf at the back of the neck or to one shoulder. This way, when you turn around there is an interesting element to your look that looks very creative yet sophisticates. Alexis Bittar Large Jolie Fleur Pin, $245.00, saksfifthavenue.com.

Is this not the most exquisite brooch you have ever seen? From the American Exhibit at Fred Leighton (one of my favorite jewelers, my husband knows to go there for special treats for me), this estate piece is a Tiffany Edwardian Diamond Fan made of natural black pearl, diamonds, platinum and gold from 1910- a hundred years later and it is still relevant, this is why I love great jewelry. I know brooches remind you of your Great Aunt but when worn right, they can be very young and fun! I love brooches and usually wear them as pendants or in my hair. At Fred Leighton New York and Las Vegas. Call 212-288-1872 for purchase.