Recently in Choker Category

If all my jewelry came from Ippolita, I would a happy girl and a very well accessorized one. The line is very clean and simple but not without boldness and character. The hammered sterling silver collection is one that I simply cannot live without, especially the Bastille Necklace for $1095. Amazing and perfect with just about everything. I would not necessarily wear these together but a complimentary look is the Chain Bracelet for $795. It is chunky and cool, great for layering or making a statement all by itself. The collection also comes in rose gold, which is so beautiful and equally timeless.

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.

My friend Caroline was wearing a set of very rock and roll necklaces to dinner in NYC last week that I couldn't take my eyes off. She's been trying to "get me downtown" (as in my style is too uptown) for months now and I'm starting to think she's right. I mean my big jewels are starting to age me, when you're 25 and wearing big south sea pearls, it's kitschy grandma chic fun. When you're 40 and wearing said pearls, you look like a grandma.  I found out the set is actually a spiked choker worn with a lariat.  Very edgy and definitely nothing grandma about them!  Fenton and Fallon is an eclectic line of both high end (Fenton) and costume (Fallon) jewels designed by Dana Lorenz.  Definitely keeping my eye on her, I can get my bling cravings from the luxury line and still be downtown. That will make Caroline very happy :)

The Fallon Santa Clara Spiked Choker is a 16" bronze cross chain necklace with spikes and crystal pendants for $220.  It may be worn alone but I like the layered look.

The Fallon Slater Lariat is a mixed chain and rhinestone chain lariat with cross-pendent necklace and tassel fringe-- 55" chain length for $285.00  Both at Barneys New York.

Modern and edgy is not the first words that come to mind when describing Van Cleef & Arpels-- but the latest from the legendary French jeweler is fit for a rock princess. A leather and diamond collar with 14.22-carat Capriccio pear-shape diamond set in white gold, this is a major statement piece but still carries with it the quiet elegance that Van Cleef has been known for since Estelle Arpels married Alfred Van Cleef over a hundred years ago.  I would actually wear this with a t shirt and jeans and not feel one bit self conscious!  The baguettes are placed to look like a zipper, an ode to the '80s I presume.  I don't even dare ask how much this piece is but if Santa is reading, top of my wish list please!  At Van Cleef & Arpels, price upon request, call 877-VAN-CLEEF