Have some old outfits that need refreshing? The quickest way to bring them back to life is with an eye-catching collar. This coral-shaped design from Kara Ross (on Kara Ross for $315) was crafted out of slick black resin and wrapped it in gold-plating and crystals. Toss it over a your favorite white t-shirt, slip on a flowery skirt, and you’ll feel ready to sip Caipirinhas in Capri!

Marni Embellished V-Neck Collar Necklace: This collar is so big it could pass for a sash. Wear it over a simple dress for maximum impact. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $740.

Lucy Liu attended the American Ballet Theatre’s Spring Gala in a stunning all-white ensemble, but my eyes went straight for those earrings! She even pulled her hair back into a sleek ponytail to give us a good look (as if all those diamonds could be hidden). The Lorraine Schwartz sparklers coordinated perfectly with her silver-accented J. Mendel capelet. The icy flourishes seemed to mimick the angelic ruching of her Vivienne Westwood gown. When it comes to diamonds, more is never enough, so her wrists got a heavy dose of shimmer, as well. If you can’t be extravagant at the ballet, where can you?? With jewels as blinding as the lights on stage, Lucy looked positively on point. Inquire at Lorraine Schwartz.

When we talk about “rocks” as Jewel Snobs, we often mean huge gems like the ones on colossal diamond engagement rings. In the case of this ring, it’s a literal rock. Who knew that such a stunning, high-end piece of jewelry could be built off of a mere pebble? Athenian designer Dolly Boucoyannis! She studied jewelry design in the UK, gemology in the US, and goldsmithing in Florence, so she comes at design with a truly unique, original perspective. She masterfully cut two holes into this pebble to fit in a gold band that loops into a large, flowery support at the base of the ring and covers the top of the rock with a row of shining white diamonds. The juxtaposition is immediately striking. You’ll never look at the pebbles in a riverbed the same way again. Available on Luisa via Roma for $1,375.

A set of gorgeous gold bangles is a style statement for sure, but what if each of the bracelets had meaning behind it? That’s the idea with BuDhaGirl’s all weather bangles. The PVC bracelets are filled with 24K gold dust (meaning you can walk right through that TSA metal detector, jewels on hand) and sealed up with prayer beads, a reminder that each individual piece should be put on with a happy thought, meditation, or goal in mind. When I saw my girlfriend wearing just three, she told me she hadn’t had time to list all of her intentions that morning. BuDhaGirl’s set comes with nine, wrapped together with a prayer ribbon. They make for truly meaningful gifts and are available for different faiths. Choose from Buddhist, the Lord’s Prayer, St. Teresa, or Serenity (best for general spirituality) beads. With these, you’ll find a balance in your life and style to match! On BuDhaGirl for $110.

When Elizabeth Taylor’s jewelry collection went up for auction at Christie’s in late 2011, Bulgari bought up $20 million worth of their creations. Smart move – the value of pieces rapidly appreciated in the actress’ keeping. This summer they will exhibit several of these special gems in honor of the 50th anniversary of Taylor’s film Cleopatra (where she famously met Richard Burton, the gifter of many of these jewels). Jessica Chastain will host the Cannes Film Festival event wearing Taylor’s famous emerald and diamond necklace, so you can probably bet that the matching brooch (which went for a cool $6,578,500 at Christie’s) will also be on display. Cleopatra’s gold and turquoise mirror is of course on the roster, and I imagine so is Burton’s 40th birthday present to his love – the sapphire and diamond sautoir. One exciting surprise? A brand new Bulgari exclusive that’ll be auctioned off to benefit the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. Sounds like an event fit for a queen!

In addition to being Jewel Snobs, Tina and I are both Mom Snobs, and since Mother’s Day is the most important gift giving time of the year, we both wanted to offer up some ideas. No matter what extravagant gift she tells you to get her, all mom really wants is to know she is appreciated for her daily selfless acts of love and servitude. Yeah, good luck finding a gift that will fully convey that to her satisfaction. That’s why sentimentality is key when getting her jewelry. These are gifts I know I would shed a tear of joy over. And the reality is, your mom has no interest in breaking your bank, these are gifts she will cherish forever and are all within budget.

Tiffany and Co. 1837 Interlocking Circles Pendant: Who wouldn’t want a gift from Tiffany and Co? The circle (which has no beginning and no end) symbolizes never-ending love, while the intertwining rings can represent members of your family. At Tiffany and Co. for $300.

Jennifer Zeuner Mattea Double Heart Necklace: For a new mother, there is nothing more endearing than a baby heart next to a mommy heart. On Shopbop for $165.

Minor Obsessions Gold #1 Stud Earrings: We all know who’s the boss. Keep it straight and to the point with these cute studs (although, I’m pretty sure she can already tell where she stands in your life!). At Barneys New York for $200.

Oscar de la Renta Gold-Plated Rose Ring: A rose for a rose! Why give a real flower that will wither and die? This is eternal (and she’ll love how it’ll pop against her summer wardrobe). On NET-A-PORTER for $185.

Jennifer Zeuner Addison Cursive Love Bracelet: Simple and sweet! All she’ll have to do is look down at her wrist to be reminded 365 days/year of how much you love her. At Neiman Marcus for $140.

Mom is always sitting on the sidelines cheering us on. It’s high time we let her shine, and what better way than in the season’s must-have gold jewels?? I always have my Vita Fede close at hand (or more likely, on hand!). Right now my favorite of piece is Cubo Eclipse Bracelet (on Vita Fede for $375). Get a mini ring ($150) – or three – to match. Then check out the rest of my Mother’s Day gift guide…

Katie Decker 18K Yellow Gold Earrings: Katie’s mom turned me on to these delicate designs (I hope she returns the favor by giving mom a gorgeous pair like these diamond-encrusted chandeliers!). Inquire at Katie Decker.

Jennifer Meyer 18-Karat Gold Diamond Letter Necklace: After you and dad, diamonds are mom’s best friends. Go in with him on this gift and she’ll have a present to remind her daily of how much you all love her. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,800.

Sarah Chloe 14K Cara Monogram Necklace: Have her initials monogrammed into the pendant or use a mix of family members’. On Charm & Chain for $398.

Stephen Dweck Etched Mother-of-Pearl Drop Earrings: What’s more appropriate for a mother than mother of pearl jewels? Puns aside, these gorgeously etched earrings will make a stunning addition to her jewelry box. At Neiman Marcus for $370.

Gift Boutique Three Level Jewelry Box: Speaking of which…Mom’s been amassing an impressive jewelry collection over the years, and with her new Mother’s Day gifts, she’ll surely need a bigger box to hold them all! On Shopbop for $116.

The Punk Shop section of Moda Operandi is my new obsession. I’m dying to see the MET’s “Punk: Chaos to Couture” exhibition (running from May 9th – August 14th) – these jewels will have to get me through until then. I would never get a tattoo like the VBH Black Diamond Tattoo Band ($8,250), but replace the ink with gems and the style becomes refined and ready for display. You get to be a bad girl for the day without committing to it for a lifetime!

Zana Bayne Black Leather Choker Collar with Nickel Hardware ($125): If you want to make a statement without crying at the sight of your credit card statement, then take a walk on the wild side with this dominatrix-style choker.

When a jewel has been designed for the film version of The Great Gatsby, you know it’s going to be as over-the-top opulent as the titular character himself. Costume designer Catherine Martin collaborated with Tiffany’s to create the headpiece for Carey Mulligan’s character, the charming Daisy Buchanan. In the novel Gatsby says Daisy’s voice is “full of money” and it seems her hair is, too! The platinum band drips in pearls and 25 karats of diamonds. I was immediately awestruck – Art Deco is my favorite style era and Fitzgerald my favorite author. After a couple of sleepless nights (nursing a sick 8-year old), I misread the price as $2,000 and leapt for the phone only to realize I had missed a couple of zeros. Try stealing the look on a smaller scale with a headband like Deepa Gurnani’s (on Shopbop for $65). Available at Tiffany & Co. for $200,000.

This spring is all about excess. After a long, drab winter, it’s time to break out the biggest and the best jewels. Clusters of colorful gems, chains by the foot, and an abundance of sparkle the likes of which hasn’t seen since the glittering Jazz Era. If you’re not rocking at least ¾ of the rainbow, you’re doing it wrong. Check out some of the brightest baubles here:

Bijoux Heart Sucre Gold-Plated, Swarovski Crystal and Chrysolite Necklace: A garden of colored chrysolite and Swarovski crystals flowers on this thick gold chain necklace. Exclusively on NET-A-PORTER for $1,560.

Erikson Beamon Bosa Nova Pink Bracelet: These vivid hues would stun if worn with a basic white sheath. And since “bossa nova” means new trend in Portuguese, need I even say more? On Charm & Chain for $514 (from $642).

Shourouk Arlequin Silver-Plated Swarovski Crystal Ring: Yes, bright stones always garner attention, but that neon glow isn’t what is so special about this. These three rings sit staggered along your finger, creating a unique look that no one else will have. Exclusively on NET-A-PORTER for $655.

One Off Fancy Gears Necklace: This one-of-a-kind necklace looks like it was made with the inner workings of a clock. It was inspired by Steampunk, a sci-fi genre featuring steam-powered machines. On Luisa via Roma for $1,128.

Les Néréides Champêtre Enamel Necklace: As you plant spring flowers in your window box, don’t forget to plant a few in your jewelry box, too! On Luisa via Roma for $423.

I met Kendall Conrad on one of my recent trips to LA. The fifth generation Californian has an empire that includes everything from bags to shoes to jewels. I love it all, but the clean lines of her brass and leather jewelry line are impeccable. Their distinctive curves were inspired by the work of architects such as the great Frank Gehry and artists like her father (whose second career as a bullfighter influenced her Lusitano collection – look for the bull and matador jacket charms!). With its modern bohemian style, the jewelry begs to be heaped on without abandon. And at such great prices, you can buy up as many thin stacking rings ($36 each) as your fingers can fit! Same goes for bangles, although the shapes of the leather cuffs ($215) have me even more transfixed. While there are classic designs like hammered hoops ($160) and a pretty shell pendant necklace ($500), Kendall’s more unusual pieces are the ones that set her apart. Shopping for the girlfriend who has everything? A brass hair hook ($100) won’t fail to impress. Available on Kendall Conrad.

Jewelers are always trying to sell you diamonds with the best of the four C’s, but there’s something almost more beautiful about a rough diamond. While it may not be as precisely cut as others, its surface is polished to bring out sparkle (left unpolished, there would be no shine at all). A rough diamond has a sense of hope bubbling just under the surface, so that each escaping twinkle feels special. This is especially true when you have a whopper like this vivid yellow “Dieu de Soleil” solitaire ring (on Diamond in the Rough for $275,000). At 12.41 carats, this stone doesn’t need a flawless cut to grab attention. Yellow is the most rare type of diamond in the world, so why waste one just because it’s not completely “perfect?” This is a one-of-a-kind wonder, just like the Champagne Bubbles Wreath necklace (on Diamond in the Rough for $295,000). The name says it all – wreath? You’re getting 100 diamonds, a.k.a. 106.88 carats! For something more attainable, try the De Deers Talisman yellow gold hoops (at De Beers for $9,500) or Diamond in the Rough’s dark cognac ring (at Neiman Marcus for $8,880).

I just bought a multi-layered necklace and absolutely love it! The profusion of chains makes you feel untouchable and abundant à la Marie Antoinette, but you don’t need to be in a ball gown to rock the look. I stack bracelets all the time, so this is just the next step in my obsession. What about you? When it comes to jewelry, what’s your lucky number? Here are some options with anywhere from one to eight chains that you can mix and match:

Chan Luu Set of Two Beaded Charm Necklaces: This is probably my favorite since you can control the lengths of the necklaces. Double one up or wear both long. On NET-A-PORTER for $85.

Ben-Amun Layered Pendant Necklace: From the mix of chain links to the huge centerpiece, this piece is unapologetically in your face. On Shopbop for $182.

Lulu Frost Immortality Tassel Necklace: A chain fringe tassel cleverly adds length to the third tier of this necklace, while the green stone provides a fresh pop of color. On Shopbop for $288.

Wouters & Hendrix 8 Strand Gold Chain Layered Necklace: This is another fun one – with eight different chains you can create whatever look suits your fancy, be it minimal or plentiful. On Shopbop for $626.

By Malene Birger Lutan Necklace: But maybe plain metal alone is not enough for you. Neon nylon gives this simple silver necklace bold style for summer. On Shopbop for $95.

People have been crafting turquoise imitation stones since the time of the Ancient Egyptians, so there’s no shame in that game. There are even benefits to it – just look at this Kenneth Jay Lane ring (on The Outnet for $40). Finding turquoise this perfect is basically impossible. It’s a mineral, so there are many “imperfections.” If you prefer a burst of solid color, then this turquoise resin might actually be better. Check out more after the jump, including a couple of authentic gemstones –

Kevia Gold-Plated Turquoise Earrings: Since these gold-plated leaves are dotted with real turquoise, this set of earrings is probably the best quality find of the bunch. On The Outnet for $57.50 (from $115).

Earth Month is a nice reminder to appreciate all things natural, but the look never goes out of style. While often you see jewels modeled after woodsy elements like leaves or flowers, it’s better to just go for the actual organic materials. Horn and wood give you that relaxed feel that’s perfect for summer (especially in rich, neutral tones), so answer nature’s call with these woodsy favorites!

Nest Set of Five Horn Bangles: Stack these natural African horn bangles or wear them out solo. With their distinctive edge, you don’t need many to get noticed. At Neiman Marcus for $250.

Ashley Pittman Pande Zote Hoop Earrings: You could also go for polished horn. With the hand-inlaid gold studs, these hoops are best for the Snobs who need just a touch of metallic in their jewels. At Neiman Marcus for $265.

Nest Wooden Bangle: Nest is all about repurposing, yet when you look at this gorgeous wooden cuff, it seems brand new. At Neiman Marcus for $95.

Lela Rose Wooden Chain Necklace: Chain links this big might have looked tacky in metal, but wood cleverly gets the job done. Wear this chunky statement chain with a sleek mini for serious contrast. Pre-order at Neiman Marcus for $295.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Blixen Wood and Cubic Zirconia Necklace: Only Marc could mix metal with wood this flawlessly. The bold juxtaposition deserves an equally bold color pairing, so go all in. On NET-A-PORTER for $158.

Ear cuffs combine two fun types of jewels – clip-ons and asymmetric earrings. They’re part of an experimental trend that celebs like Diane Kruger and Rihanna have already embraced on the red carpet. Just remember to wear your hair back – that way everyone will have a great view and you’ll prevent any strands from moving around the delicate clips. So leave your post earrings at home and cuff yourself into the newest style!

Maria Black Crescent Earcuff: If you can get past the Bluetooth shape, this crescent moon design will fill the rim of your ear with a galaxy of gold-plated stars. On Farfetch for $106.56.

Jacquie Aiche Love Ear Cuff with Diamond: Some say you should wear your heart on your sleeve, but why not wear it on your ear instead? On Shopbop for $110.

Repossi Berbère 18-Karat Gold Diamond Ear Cuff: This diamond-studded clip (inspired by the tattoos of the Tuareg people in North Africa) is the top of the line, so make sure your interest in ear cuffs is a long-lasting love. On NET-A-PORTER for $13,781.

Pamela Love Maia Ear Cuff: This leafy design will have you looking fresh for spring! Wear it with your regular earrings (preferably something small like studs) or go solo. On Farfetch for $150.

L’Agence Door Knocker Ear Cuff: This blink-and-you’ll-miss-it hoop is great for first timers who want to dip their toes into the water before investing in a large/pricey piece. On Shopbop for $150.

Not since the lavish days of Dynasty have we seen so much unapologetically bold gold. This heavy hardware will have everyone lunging at your jugular, but never fear – they just want an up-close look at the armory’s worth of metal hanging from your neck. While Lanvin’s Oracle collar (on NET-A-PORTER for $1,242) will give you the strength of pure metal, Vita Fede’s subtler (yet no less intimidating) black leather and gold match (on Vita Fede for $625) will happily arm you with just as much style.

Saint Laurent Three Strand Collar Necklace: In history and spirituality, there’s always power in sets of three, so give yourself a little extra strength with Saint Laurent’s three-strand collar. On NET-A-PORTER for $995.

Topshop Chunky Box Collar Necklace: This chunky linked choker looks like it belongs on a princess from an ancient age. In spite of its cool price tag, you get double the hardware here. At Nordstrom for $70.

Herve Van der Straeten Gold Petal Collar Necklace: For the distinguished look of laurels, throw on this brightly petalled collar. It’ll make you wish your garden were gold, too! At Bergdorf Goodman for $1,480.

Charles Albert Woven Collar: Charles Albert has the Midas touch, turning a braided necklace into gold. It will bend to your desired size but never break. On Shopbop for $75.

Aurélie Bidermann Gold Surfing Mimosa Collar: A mimosa is not only a cocktail at brunch, it’s an herb! But no matter how you look at it, Aurélie’s mimosa collar would be the perfect brunch accessory. At Barneys New York for $1,775.

Normally, we save animal headwear for Halloween, but with the right playful attitude, cats can be on the prowl year-round. If you envied Anne Hathaway’s Catwoman getup last year, an accessory like this metallic Maison Michel headband (on NET-A-PORTER for $405) will be your chance to shine! While you probably wouldn’t wear these headbands to fancy dinner parties, they’d make for awesome cocktail party conversation starters. In a season full of color and print, you need a way to stand out, and let’s be purrfectly honest – a headband like this is the cat’s meow (last cheesy reference – promise!).

CA4LA Pearl Embellished Cat Headband: The tongue-in-cheek style gets a ladylike makeover. With a thin wire band, you might actually be able to convince people that you’ve grown pearl ears (but let’s hope not). On Farfetch for $284.57.

ASOS Cat Ears Lace Headband: Don’t invest in a pricey headband unless you know you can rock it with confidence. If you’re not sure you’ll land on your feet, try out this Frugal Snob option first. On ASOS for $16.63.

Maison Michel Heidi Lace Cat Ear Headband: These ears are a little more rounded, but make no mistake – the lemon yellow headband is full of flavor. On Browns for $385.

Maison Michel Heidi Lace Cat Ear Headband: It’s clear who’s moving this trend forward. The French millinery may have a storied history (it was acquired by Chanel in 1996), but it still has a fresh sense of humor. On Luisa via Roma for $401.

We’re letting it all hang low this summer. Earrings, that is (everything else has to be up, so stop flaking out on spin class – okay, I’m just talking to myself now)! With a maxi dress and simple flats, these casual drops are just the things. I don’t mean ornate chandeliers. Long earrings are fun and flirty, but not when they’re weighing down your lobes! These sleek selections will give you the look without the droop.

Chan Luu Silver Dagger and Hoop Earrings: There’s no cloak and dagger secrecy about these blade earrings. They’re unapologetically upfront and ready for the spotlight. On NET-A-PORTER for $150.

Isabel Marant Swarovski Crystal Clip Earrings: We place dream-catchers above our beds, but what do you think of hanging them from our ears? On NET-A-PORTER for $325.

Dara Ettinger Syd Earrings: Metal-dipped quartz crystals are certainly nice, but why stop there? Dangle some mixed chains to create a metallic fringe that will blow in the breeze. On Shopbop for $150.

Monserat De Lucca Three Dove Earrings: Longer length doesn’t have to mean longer price tags. Let your free spirit out with these beautiful bird earrings. On Shopbop for $55.

Michael Kors Hoop Fringe Earrings: No matter how young or old you are, the truth is that it’s fun to flip your hair. So imagine how fun these fringed hoops would be! At Neiman Marcus for $125.

Akong London Pink Jade and Quartz Feather Earrings: Feathers are thought to symbolize a person’s enlightenment. And while these aren’t as light as feathers, they’re just as pretty! On Luisa via Roma for $255.

I finally met beautiful jewelry designer Ashley Pittman at her personal appearance in Dallas last week. I’ve been an admirer of her work, but there’s more to it than meets the eye! Since volunteering for the Clinton Foundation HIV/AIDS Initiative in Rwanda in 2006, Ashley has sought out ways to help East African communities in need. Her jewel line provides training and employment to local artisan groups there who use fair trade gems and carved natural horn to create these unique pieces. All of the jewels are true standouts. Made from recycled taupe bone, the spiked bronze and bone necklace ($645) provides a sense of authority to any outfit, while the marbled Almasi horn cuff ($815) gives you some polish. 10% of the profits are donated to fund schooling and healthcare for the Kenyan tribes that Ashley visits, so don’t be shy when you buy! Available on NET-A-PORTER.