Recently in Rings Category

To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the passing of Keith Haring the fabulous Leeora Catalan of nOir teamed-up with the also fabulous Patricia Field for a collection called K.Haring by House of Field. Using the bright colors and characters found in Haring's work, the Catalan-designed pieces feature images of some of Haring' most iconic pieces and do an amazing job at paying homage to an artist that has inspired so many designers. Plus all the proceeds from the collaboration will be going to the Keith Haring Foundation to assist AIDS
related and Children's charities. Oddly enough, though I'm a big fan of bright colors, my fave piece is the cuff below:)

Mary-Kate Olsen, Rihanna, and Angelia Jolie are among the many celebs that have been spotted in Made Her Think recently. The knuckle rings are totally up those stars alley, but I think the Made Her Think Talon Knuckle Buster Rings ($110) are a bit too intense for my taste. They look like a bird claw to me! Plus I've never seen a ring that covers multiple fingers that I've liked.

My vote is slob. What say you? Snob or Slob?

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

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

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

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!

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:-)

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.

As all things YSL, its jewelry collection is chic and edgy. I fell in love with this ring only to find it does not come in my size! The largest size I can wear is a 5 on the middle finger and this ring starts at a size 6. So, I purchased it anyway, for a friend who loves all things Celtic. At least I can admire her wearing it! The shape is so cool, it's a large heart that wraps around your finger and spans up the first knuckle.  It's definitely a don't F with me ring!  The intricate motif is actually the YSL logo ingeniously designed to look like Celtic symbols!
At YSL.com and boutiques (Was $395 now $179!)

It's not even that Henri Bendel is a must stop shop for me in New York but somehow when they opened in LA, I just had to go. And good thing I did. Their fashion jewelry collection is so much fun! Like this totally outlandishly fabulous disco cocktail ring. It is giant, but I have big hands so I can get away with it. The other thing that is huge is the WOW factor. There are over 100 crystals and cubic zirconia on the dome shaped ring. There are 3 color choices but this hematite with the brown and anthracite stones is clearly the stand out. At Henri Bendel online for $78, available in sizes 6,7,8.

Temple St. Clair is known for exquisite designs that are understated and classic. There are those who appreciate fine jewelery but are modest about the amount of bling. She calls her designs "restrained", I call it fabulous! These pieces from her current collection shows her range and background of art and architecture.

The Tolomeo Pendant with blue sapphire and diamonds is very architectural with an element of engineering feat that is eye catching. I love sapphire and the monochromatic simplicity of this piece because there is already so much going on, but there is also a version with multiple colored stones. For $25,000 (chain sold separately - 18K Classic Extra-Small Oval Link Chain, 18", $1,350).

I love pieces that are versatile and impactful.  The Graduated Necklace with Mango Green Moonstone and Diamonds is exquisite and elegant for formal affairs but this can easily be worn with a simple cocktail dress or even a nice luncheon.  for $85,000.

These Cluster Drop Earrings with Morganite, Diamonds and Green Beryl are gorgeous and of course curbs your pink diamond craving, or at least mine =)  For most, giant pink diamonds are not a reality but that does not mean we can't get the look of our favorite color!  For $15,000.

Cocktail rings are my thing.  I like to keep things simple and have one point of focus and this clearly fits the bill.  This Cluster Ring with Precious Topaz and Rosecut Diamonds is showy but in a modest, "restrained" way.  Yes, I am a sucker for anything pink but this isn't girly in any way, the setting is absolutely sophisticated.  For $62,500.  Available at Temple St. Clair, although not all the pieces shown here are on the website.  Contact their sales department at 800 590 7985 or 212 219 8664.

Pyrite rings are the absolute best for making fun, bold statements that are always conversation-starters. When I was in Paris last year for the S/S 2009 collections I was waiting for the Estrella Archs show to start (yes THAT Estrella Archs who now, a year later, made a disastrous collection with Lindsay Lohan over at Emanuel Ungaro), when I spotted a nearby-boutique that had all these pyrite baubles in the window. I can't remember the exact location of the boutique, but Estrella Archs' show was at the Garage Turenne (66 rue de Turenne), in the 3eme that season so for anyone heading to Paris you'll see it if you go to that address. If Paris isn't in the decks for you, for about the same price you can snap this Dannijo Rocco Pyrite Ring ($385), over at Shopbop.

Obviously I love this ring, but what do you think? Snob or Slob?

Tiffany's Blue Book Collection was why Holly Golightly went all batty. This is their most precious of jewels and I was able to preview this collection at their Rodeo Drive store. Trying not to faint was a serious feat. Everything was beyond, but these few pieces caught my eye and imagination (wouldn't it be fantastic to just sleep with these?). For those waiting for that proposal, you can keep your eye and heart out for this 6.19 carat brilliant diamond - flawless and colorless with a double border diamond setting that enhances already giant size of the center stone. A cool $1,475,000 for the lucky man who buys this for his lovely lady.

Tiffany brought back many pieces from legendary designer, Jean Schlumberger.  This flower Jardinet Diamond Bracelet in 18K gold is one of the exceptional pieces with amazingly intricate details, so gorgeous you can't believe your eyes!!  For $320,000.

These diamond earrings set in platinum are blingy and fabulous but the best part is that you can wear them every day.  Why invest in something that only gets to come out and play a couple of times a year?  Imagine these with jeans and a sweater.  Rock it out with a mini skirt and boots.  Anything you wear will surely benefit from these dazzlers.  The Pendulum Diamond Drop Earrings are $35,000, Swirl Diamond Drop Earrings are $35,000 and my favorite, the simple but stunning Teardrop Diamond Drop Earrings are $40,000.

What can be more Tiffany than a blue box with perfect ribbons?  How about an enormous Aquamarine with Diamond and Platinum Bow Brooch?  I don't know the exact weight but it was a good 1 1/2" tall.  Totally fun and shows you're true Tiffany fanatic!  For $100,000.  To purchase any of these, contact your closest Tiffany store.

This Enchanted Lotus Collection from De Beers makes the perfect gift for the most precious of family and friends. The prices are in the range that is affordable for those without the luxury of private jets and jewelry bank vaults. Each piece is unique and special for that unique and special love in your life.

Enchanted Lotus Band Ring
An exquisite thread of diamonds, woven together to create a fine band of lotus flowers as a statement piece or as the everlasting wedding band. Set in white gold, 1.41 carats for $4,500.

Enchanted Lotus Ring
Beautifully intricate, this ring stylishly adorns the hand in a never ending loop for a timeless and chic touch. Set in white gold, 0.47 carats for $2,000.

Enchanted Lotus Pendant
A delicate and elegant pendant for everyday, a perfect accessory to complement any style or to mark any celebration in a meaningful way. Set in white gold, 0.39 carats for $2,000.

Enchanted Lotus Bracelet
A lovely bracelet perfect for any occasion, it strikes a scintillating balance between the diamond lotus feature and its exquisitely fine chain. Set in white gold, 0.33 carats for $1,500.

Enchanted Lotus Hoop Earrings
Light and ethereal, these hoop earrings take a modern twist on glamour with a sculptural feel for evening or everyday elegance. Set in white gold, 1.45 carats for $3,200.

Let them eat cake! Meanwhile, give me the most fabulous fancy yellow diamond ring and throw in clusters of white diamonds to go with. This is a bit much, but hey, sometimes you need a little decadence in your life. This show stopper can go from lavishly formal to everyday if you go subtle with everything else. It all depends on how thick you lay it on =) The cushion cut yellow diamond is 3.09 carats and the total weight of the fancy cut white diamonds are 12.40 carats. Marie-Antoinette Yellow Cushion Ring at De Beers from their High Jewelry collection for $250,000.

Christie's will is holding their "Magnificent Jewels" auction on December 1, 2009. The total value of this lot is estimated at over $33 million and includes 2 vivid colored diamonds that would seriously make me consider doing very bad things for. Especially the 5.00 carats natural vivid pink diamond ring by Graff. The pink diamond is cushion shaped and is flawless (VS1 clarity). This type of naturally colored pink diamonds (type lla) are extremely rare and known for its uniform color. It is surrounded by shield-shape diamonds, mounted in platinum and 18K rose gold. Staring bid is $5 million and is estimated to go for upwards of $7 million.

Another indeedly magnificent colored diamond in the lot is the vivid yellow, also by Graff. It is a 9.03 carats, oval shaped, fancy vivid yellow diamond with 2 pear shaped diamonds on either side, mounted in platinum and yellow gold. The clarity of this diamond is VVS1 and is type la, which is more common. Thus, the lower starting bid of $933,395 - $1,166,744, even though it is so much bigger!

Bidding begins at Christie's on December 1, 2009 in Hong Kong. You can bid online as well as track the live bidding on their website.

Sometimes a statement ring is all you need. Stephen Dweck is known for bold - quality definitely beats quantity when it comes it jewelry, so always go bold! The green vessonite, orange chalcedony and cognac quartz in a cluster setting has the wow factor that expensive bling have but you won't need to decide between this or a down payment on a new house. This is smart shopping, girls! Bling for the buck! Stephen Dweck at Saks Fifth Avenue for $870.

Wow. Once in a while I peruse the latest jewels from Banana Republic, and find myself blown away by the fantastic designs and the fantastic prices. Kind-of makes me wonder what on earth I'm doing spending more than necessary elsewhere. Anyhow, clearly it's been a while since I took a look at BR's new offerings, because this stunning ring is already on SALE! To me, this piece looks sharp - and significantly more expensive than it is. $34.99 here.

There's something quite alluring about this ring by Devon Leigh. Not sure if it's the fact that it looks sort-of like the mouth of a monster consuming a rather large stone, or just the fact that it's a great combination of yellow gold and emerald green... but I love it. $495 for a bronze dipped in 18 karat yellow gold concoction with a large green cubic zirconia center.

So, to wrap up our Tiffany Week here on Jewelsnob, I thought it appropriate to highlight what makes a Tiffany diamond so special. Prior to my visit with Frank Everett at the Tiffany boutique in Beverly Hills, I wasn't really aware of what differentiates a Tiffany diamond from others. I am now 'schooled' and have a greater appreciation for Tiffany in general.

Evidently, for Tiffany & Co., it all has to do with cut and clarity. (Two of the well known 4 C's). The most famous Tiffany cut is represented by one of the largest naturally colored yellow diamonds ever found, weighing 287.42 carats and featuring 90 facets, which is on display at the New York City boutique. Tiffany's diamonds are cut for brilliance, not size. In addition, Tiffany's standards of grading are significantly stricter than those of their competitors. While certain occlusions are acceptable for the VS and VVS categories, Tiffany holds its diamonds to a higher standard, allowing for less occlusions and prettier stones overall.

Makes sense to me.

Pictured here are three of Tiffany & Co.'s Statement Diamonds Rings in platinum settings. From left: round diamond ring, 8.25 carats, D color, internally flawless, $2,300,000; pear-shaped diamond ring, 6.03 carats, D color, VS1, $575,000; cushion-shaped diamond ring, 8.52 carats, E color, VS1, $800,000.

Talk about making a statement. You might need a bodyguard to sport one of these babies.

My lack of a post yesterday can be attributed to a multitude of things, including fodder for an upcoming post which I am quite excited about. I was at the brand new Judith Leiber boutique at Two Rodeo yesterday, and was absolutely blown away, but more on that later.

In the meantime, enjoy this breathtaking Monaco Ring by Judith Ripka, (not to be confused with Judith Leiber), also available at Two Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, for $15,000. In 18k yellow gold with a black onyx center stone, royal pave black diamond shank and bezel set round briiliant diamond prongs, what's not to love?

Judith Ripka's designs are all absolutely beautiful and there isn't a piece in the store I wouldn't wear. If you live in the area, or are visiting L.A. anytime soon, it is worth a trip to either invest in or drool over all the feminine, pretty baubles - many of which are quite affordable, with pricing ranging from $100, (frugal snob), to $60,000, (super-uber snob).

Somebody is going to have to stop me soon... with all of this nature business, but this Chaumet "Attrape Moi" collection - and in particular the si tu m'aimes ring is, in my opinion, to die for.

The whole collection is rather amazing - and Chaumet, which has been creating exquisite jewelry since 1780, was inspired by its original bee symbol dating back to the Age of Napoleon, when they designed the Attrape Moi collection.

Unfortunately, I cannot figure out what this ring in 18k white gold with diamonds goes for, so if anyone has an idea, feel free to enlighten me, even though I'm not sure I want to know because this is one web I would love to be caught in.

Anaconda Elisa Ring

Part of the trouble respecting editing for a jewelry site, is that occasionally you'll happen upon something you desperately want - and can't have.

I've found a ring that pretty much encompasses everything I'm attracted to when it comes to investment pieces - classic beauty with a feel of elegant antiquity and a certain amount of uniqueness. (In other words, I'm not the kind of girl who wears a solitaire and calls it a day). That being said, I might spend the vast majority of my day pouting over this ring, because at $7150, it's simply not an option at the moment, unless of course, I'm fine with homelessness or can somehow forgo eating for the next 12 months.

Hmm...

With 19k white gold, brilliant cut champagne diamonds and a large drool-worthy, ethereal center moonstone, it's just, well, perfect.

Anaconda designer Monica Rossi hails from Italy - and has evidently been designing for quite some time, unbeknownst to me. Sort of wish it had stayed that way.

*Sigh*

Erickson Beamon for Target Jeweled Dome Ring


Matthew Campbell Laurenza Enamel Sapphire Ring

I am admittedly a junkie for cool cocktail rings. They're great statement pieces and I feel they flatter any finger. I've never been a huge fan of my hands, particularly as delicate rings don't look quite right on me, hence the cocktail ring obsession. That being said, I was perusing various websites looking for something fun to place on one of my empty digits that wouldn't break the bank - and found the fantastically faux Erickson Beamon ring on the Target website. Considering I'd already guiltily examined and fell in love with a number of Matthew Campbell Laurenza rings at Neiman Marcus including the one pictured here for $590.00, I was thrilled to discover I liked the $29.00 Erickson Beamon for Target ring better! It's always nice to find a less expensive version of something fun like this that you're bound to eventually get tired of anyway! By the time the metal starts to tarnish, you'll be on to the next fun, funky, chunky piece to don.

Sand Pendant Necklace (Left) and Heritage Emerald Ring (Above)

I had the pleasure of meeting Shawn Warren, former psychologist turned jewelry designer extraordinaire, at her Los Angeles launch event a few weeks ago, and discovered a true talent whose eye for design is impeccable. Her collection, which ranges from whimsical yet classic, to modern interpretations of antiquities, is exquisite. What is truly exceptional about her designs is that they can be worn with a cocktail dress or with jeans and a t-shirt. I love versatile pieces like these and the price points are incredibly reasonable as well.

I fell in love with the two pieces shown here: the diamond Sand pendants and the Heritage emerald rings, (of which there are only two and are part of a limited edition series).

The Sand necklaces are available in 18k white, yellow or rose gold and feature either white or champagne diamonds. The pendant has a special open-and-close diamond bail piece, so it can be worn on various chains/ribbons/leather, or whatever suits your fancy. Comes in 2 sizes, the small length: 15"-16" is $1950; and the Medium Length: 16"-18" is $3450.

The Heritage emerald rings feature 18k yellow gold and silver with black rhodium, diamonds and a sizable emerald. It is $2300.

Warren's launch event was among the most elegant events I've been to in quite some time. Warren's jewelry cannot be found in-stores, as she works only with a private clientele, (for now), but you can see her work online at Shawn Warren Jewelry.

Jude Frances is designed by a delightful duo whom I met six years ago when the line was just starting out. Judith and Frances were moms in Suburban Orange County who wanted to create an affordable line of whimsical jewelry that women can buy for themselves. They felt a woman should treat herself to a trinket whenever she felt like it! The line has grown so much, including a high end "Couture" jewelry line for Jewel Snobs! At the core of the line, however, are the reasonably priced baubles like the ones above. The small princess ring is just the thing to lift your mood, and at that price, you should get two to stack! I love Jude Frances' signature motif, the Maltese cross. Chic and timeless, it's jewelry you can wear daily without looking ridiculous. At Saks.
Jude Frances Small Princess Ring
Jude Frances Single Maltese Cross Charms

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!