Paper City Article

Winston Wows Us, 3x

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:21:25 GMT

Harry Winston has added another captivating gem to its notable collection at the Highland Park Village boutique: a sparkling new salon director, Golbarg %26#8220;Goli%26#8221; Parstabar. Mined from the Beverly Hills salon, Parstabar%26#8217;s Los Angeles precious-stone pedigree reads %26#8220;VP of private sales and salon director,%26#8221; meaning she is skilled in last-minute red-carpet requests, gargantuan jewels and great conversation. But there%26#8217;s more big-city news from the Winston camp: The house will stage mega-exhibits in two other notable cities this fall. On Wednesday, November 17, at the Fifth Avenue salon in NYC, Harry Winston launches the re-creation of the astonishing Court of Jewels exhibit that premiered in 1949 and traveled to select American cities. On display are perfect-replica stunners such as the sapphire of Catherine the Great, the Star of the East, the Inquisition Necklace and the infamous Hope Diamond, Winston%26#8217;s most famous acquisition. Then, on Thursday, November 18, in Washington, D.C., the Hope Diamond%26#8217;s new setting %26#8212; %26#8220;Embracing Hope,%26#8221; appropriately enough %26#8212; will be unveiled at the Smithsonian%26#8217;s National Museum of Natural History, to which Mr. Winston bestowed the Hope Diamond in 1958 as a gift to the world. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of this treasure, Winston designed a new setting that suspends the 45-plus-carat dark-blue diamond in a three-dimensional ribbon of white diamonds. Mark your calendar three times: Coffee with Goli, then a mad dash to NY and D.C.

Images: Above, Winston-designed Hope Diamond setting; below, Harry Winston%26#8217;s new salon director, Goli Parstabar.

Jewels of Wonder, Jewels of Night

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:21:27 GMT

Who better to inspire gift giving than three iconic kings from the Orient? We reimagined the Wise Men%26rsquo;s trek across the sands with frankincense, myrrh and gold %26mdash; lots of gold. Here%26rsquo;s our take: gilded pieces that glitter like the Northern Star, with Old World and Persian influences, plus a touch of crosses and crowns.

By The Light of the Moon. Early Victorian crescent-moon pin with Persian turquoise and pearls $985, at Queen of Heirs, Bellaire.

Say a Prayer. Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels Estate Maltese cross clip on chain in gold with onyx, diamonds and one emerald, price upon request, at Neiman Marcus.

Star Bright. Buccellati one-of-a-kind wide cuff bracelet, price upon request, at Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch.

Arabian Jewels. Kara Ross Arabian Nights large titanium cuff with sapphire and diamonds, made to order, through Kara Ross,212.223.7272.

White Knight. Konstantino oval faceted mother-of-pearl ring in gold and sterling silver $530, at Lewis Jewelers, Webster.

Vintage Revival. Etruscan Revival hinged bypass bracelet, circa 1870, $3,950, at Past Era Fine Antique Jewelry.%26nbsp;

Regal Ring. Charriol Celtique ring $1,495, at I W Marks, Zadok Jewelers.

Tiny Vessel. Gold, turquoise and lapis perfume-bottle necklace $3,200, at Louis Tenenbaum.

Bold Bauble. Stephen Dweck quartz and bronze ring $1,820, at I.W. Marks.

A Cross to Bear. Bakelite and tourmaline cuff $6,650, at DeVille Fine Jewelry.

Mosaic Masterpieces. Lockets, prices upon request, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Major Coin. Monete necklace $13,500, at the Bulgari boutique.

Star of Wonder. Nini Collection Stars and Moon diamond and gold cuff $31,500, to order through Nini, 866.513.6464.

Like a Virgin. Sevan Madonna necklace $34,550, to order at Judith Ann Jewels.

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Coco Bijou. Chanel metal filigree necklace $5,250, at the Chanel boutique.

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Slippery Serpent. Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels 1946 Estate necklace in gold with diamonds, detachable clip and snake chain, price upon request at Neiman Marcus.

Royal Beauty Bright. David Yurman rubellite Tapestry ring, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.

Magenta Magi. One of a pair of ruby and emerald bead bracelets, circa 1950s, price upon request, at Wayne Smith Jewels.

New Religion. Konstantino gold and sterling silver pendant with carved onyx, inscribed %26ldquo;Father, Son and Holy Spirit%26rdquo; in Greek $2,135, at Lewis Jewelers, Webster.

A Cross to Wear. Katy Briscoe Open Light cross pendant $17,000, and Taterpillar necklace $38,000, both at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Stars of Night. Paloma%26rsquo;s Venezia Stella ring $9,500, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Can%26rsquo;t Wait to be King. Faberg%26eacute;-style gold, ruby and diamond enameled crown cuff links $3,450, at Louis Tenenbaum.

Stoned

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:24:20 GMT

Dripping in Diamonds. Bulgari gold necklace with sapphires, turquoise and diamonds, from the High Jewelry Collection, price upon request, at the Bulgari boutique.

Kaleidoscopic. Irene Neuwirth Boulder opal ring $10,450, at Barneys New York,Ylang 23.

Red Eye. Roberto Coin Art Nouveau ring in gold with tourmalines, sapphires and diamonds, $3,500 at Bachendorf%26rsquo;s, Neiman Marcus.

Magic Mushroom. Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels Femme au Lotus decor clip from the Bals de L%26eacute;gend high jewelry collection, to order, at Neiman Marcus.

Over the Rainbow. Andrea Fohrman rainbow pendant $5,000, at Ylang 23.

Groovy. Vintage gold brooch, circa 1970s, with jade, sapphire and diamonds $2,450, at Tenenbaum %26amp; Co.

Edgy. Diane von Furstenberg by H. Stern ring with gemstones $10,300, at Neiman Marcus.

Like a Rock. Kara Ross raw African dioptase with gold and diamonds $15,000, by private appointment at 212.223.7272.

Blue Magic. Tiffany %26amp; Co. Montana sapphire and diamond bracelet $140,000, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Flower Child. Harry Winston Incredible Star ruby ring, price upon request, at the Harry Winston boutique.%26nbsp;

Disco Glam. David Yurman Starburst pendant, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.%26nbsp;

Twisted. Wendy Yue gold chrysocolla drop with sapphires and garnets $10,725, at Stanley Korshak.

Star Bright. Chanel Bulles de Ciel ring, price upon request, at the Chanel boutique.

Hypnotic. Hypnose de Cartier ring $42,300, at the Cartier boutique.

Stoned

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:18:28 GMT

Dripping in Diamonds. Bulgari gold necklace with sapphires, turquoise and diamonds, from the High Jewelry Collection, price upon request, at the Bulgari boutique.

Kaleidoscopic. Irene Neuwirth Boulder opal ring $10,450, at Judith Ann Jewels.

Red Eye. Topaz with diamonds and tsavorites set in gold, $5,790, at I.W. Marks.

Magic Mushroom. Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels Femme au Lotus decor clip from the Bals de L%26eacute;gend high jewelry collection, price upon request, at Neiman Marcus.%26nbsp;

Flower Power. Roberto Coin Art Nouveau ring in gold with tourmalines, sapphires and diamonds, $3,500 at Lewis Jewelers, Webster.

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Groovy. Vintage gold brooch, circa 1970s, with jade, sapphire and diamonds $2,450, at Tenenbaum %26amp; Co.

Edgy. Diane von Furstenberg by H. Stern ring with gemstones $10,300, at Zadok Jewelers.

Like a Rock. Kara Ross raw African dioptase with gold and diamonds $15,000, by private appointment at 212.223.7272.

Blue Magic. Tiffany %26amp; Co. Montana sapphire and diamond bracelet $140,000, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Diamond Head. Snake earrings $8,970, at DeVille Fine Jewelry.

Disco Glam. David Yurman Starburst pendant, price upon request, at the David Yurman boutique, Neiman Marcus.%26nbsp;

Acid Green. Peridot and diamond ring set in platinum, $36,000, at Wayne Smith Jewels.

Star Bright. Chanel Bulles de Ciel ring, price upon request, at the Chanel boutique.

Hypnotic. Hypnose de Cartier ring $42,300, at the Cartier boutique.

Hermès Whips Up Something Haute

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 04:33:36 GMT

Pierre Hardy, the talented Frenchman who helms both the men%26rsquo;s and women%26rsquo;s shoe collections at Herm%26egrave;s, has crafted a 14-piece jewelry line called Haute Bijouterie, the first high jewelry collection for the luxury label. Haute Bijouterie consists of three mini collections: the Centaure and the Fouet, which are both inspired by the brand%26rsquo;s equestrian roots, and the Exceptional Pieces, which are classic Herm%26egrave;s designs. Hoof-shaped rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces %26mdash; many crafted of black jade and orange aventurine stones surrounded by brilliant-cut diamonds %26mdash; make up Centaure, while the Fouet line mimics the lines of a whip and is pierced with an array of dazzling diamonds. Customize the pieces as you wish, and they will be delivered approximately seven months later, in custom-made black-alligator boxes. The collection, on a world tour, makes a stop at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique in Highland Park Village Wednesday through Sunday, November 16 through 20. To order at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

Images:

Fouet earrings

Centaure ring

Diamond Doctor

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:31:58 GMT

Keys to the Door: President David Blank.
Doctor%26rsquo;s Orders: Despite its clinical-sounding name, there is some serious glimmer and gleam happening here. Should you be looking for a tiptop gem to slip under someone%26rsquo;s Norway spruce this year, get thee to the Diamond Doctor, in its new 7,000-square-foot digs at The Plaza at Preston Center. The diamond wholesaler and custom jeweler has relocated from its former space near the Galleria Dallas, where it opened in 2001. And with plenty of good reasons: The Doctor%26rsquo;s new Preston Road showroom swells with two levels, nine consultation rooms, loose-diamond displays, dazzle-inducing (yet energy-saving) LED lighting, a jewelry manufacturing studio and a glass-enclosed workshop, where you can hand over your existing precious stones and watch as repairs and design work are completed. Will you go Deco? Will you go modernist? Maybe a little Rococo? Whichever way, this doctor can cure any diamond fever. 8127 Preston Road, 972.342.6663; diamonddoctor.com.

Image: A Diamond Doctor creation: 11.53-carat fancy yellow diamond ring with 1.38 karats of round diamonds in 18K yellow and white gold.

Yacht Club

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:00:59 GMT

I. Herm%26egrave;s Clipper $6,825, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

II. Calibre de Cartier $7,700, at the Cartier boutique, Eiseman Jewels.

III. Harry Winston Project Z6%26nbsp; $46,100, at the Harry Winston boutique.

IV. Girard-Perregaux Sea Hawk Pro 1000M%26nbsp; $9,350, at deBoulle.

V. Tiffany %26amp; Co Atlas chronograph $7,900, at the Tiffany %26amp; Co. boutique.

VI. David Yurman Belmont 41mm chronograph $4,250, at the David Yurman boutique.

VII. Chanel J12 Chromatic $16,500, at the Chanel boutique.

VIII. Rolex Yacht-Master II watch, price upon request, at Bachendorf%26rsquo;s, deBoulle, Eiseman Jewels.

IX. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver $18,900, at Markham Fine Jewelry, Frisco.

X. Bulgari Diagono X-Pro $16,250, at the Bulgari boutique.

XI. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M chronograph $8,000, at Bachendorf%26rsquo;s.

Yacht Club

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:53:34 GMT

I. Herm%26egrave;s Clipper $6,825, at the Herm%26egrave;s boutique.

II. Calibre de Cartier $7,700, at the Cartier boutique, Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch.

III. JeanRichard diverscope $9,010, at Lewis Jewelers, Webster.

IV. Girard-Perregaux Sea Hawk Pro 1000M%26nbsp; $9,350, at Donoho%26rsquo;s Jewellers.

V. Tiffany %26amp; Co Atlas chronograph $7,900, at the Tiffany %26amp; Co. boutique.

VI. David Yurman Belmont 41mm chronograph $4,250, at the David Yurman boutique.

VII. Chanel J12 Chromatic $16,500, at the Chanel boutique.

VIII. Rolex Yacht-Master II watch, price upon request, at Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch, I W Marks.

IX. Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Tribute to Deep Sea, price upon request, at Zadok Jewelers.%26nbsp;

X. Bulgari Diagono X-Pro $16,250, at the Bulgari boutique, Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch, Zadok Jewelers.

XI. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M chronograph $8,000, at the Omega boutique, I W Marks.

Weaving a Webb

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:35:16 GMT

David Webb had us at the first jawbreaker cabochon. You%26rsquo;ll remember the David Webb store cut quite a social swath in Houston in the %26lsquo;70s, until it closed in 2001. Well, it%26rsquo;s back, exclusively in Houston at the Neiman Marcus fine jewelry salon, just as Webb makes a revival and is hot, hot, hot with young socials such as Aerin Lauder and Tory Burch. When David Webb began his business in the %26lsquo;40s (he died young of cancer in 1975), women with impeccable taste and style flocked: Jackie Kennedy, Gloria Vanderbilt, the Duchess of Windsor and, most famously, editrix Diana Vreeland, who sported Webb%26rsquo;s black-and-white enamel zebra bracelets and saucer-sized bejeweled necklaces. David Webb, in the fine jewelry salon at Neiman Marcus.

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Image: David Webb turquoise platinum diamond ring $16,900; hammered nail ring, both at Neiman Marcus.

A New Era at Past Era

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:52:57 GMT

Past Era Antique Jewelry, after 20 years at the Antique Pavilion, has moved to 3433 W. Alabama at Mercer Street. The new 2,000-square-foot boutique, designed in the Art Deco style, is larger than its former incarnation, with more space for owner Marion Glober%26rsquo;s collection of timeless jewelry from the Georgian, Victorian and Art Deco periods, Ms. Glober journeys the globe to find her exquisite antique bracelets, earrings, brooches vintage watches and diamond wedding and engagement rings. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.

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Image: Photo by Jack Thompson.

The Jewelry Box We're Peeking At

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 12:56:55 GMT

We all love playing in our grandmother%26rsquo;s stash of jewels. And when it comes to over-the-top bauble collections, we can think of few better ones to raid than that of the late grande dame, Elizabeth Taylor. Start eyeing your favorite sparklers: Beginning on December 13, 2011, Christie%26rsquo;s New York will present top finds from Taylor%26rsquo;s stunning archives, during a three-day sale of some of her most iconic pieces. The first day kicks off with a special evening sale, boasting 80 of Taylor%26rsquo;s most ravishing gems. The following two days will highlight even more of the star%26rsquo;s collection %26mdash; everything from Cartier stunners to Van Cleef collectibles will go on the auction block. The value of all those glittering treasures? A cool $30 million. Oh la la, indeed!

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Eden Rocks

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 04:20:27 GMT

Bulgari has debuted a new collection of baubles, touched off by the rich hues of the Mediterranean and the ancient architecture and mythical art masterpieces that the sea has inspired for centuries. Released in a series of separate collections, the lines range from the stylishly simple pink-gold rings, necklaces and earrings of the Intarsio collection (their design taken from the ornamental motifs of Middle Eastern inlaid marbles) to the ornate Sassi collection of tumbled peridot, amethyst, topaz and diamonds, which evoke the naturally shaped and weathered stones of a riverbed. Cabochon cocktail rings, coin-inlaid and floral-inspired designs and one-of-a-kind High Jewelry pieces, plus bejeweled handbags, watches and sunglasses, complete the spectacular new offerings. Mediterranean Eden jewelry collection from $1,950, at the Bulgari boutique.

Image: Sapphire, ruby, turquoise and diamond ring from the Bulgari High Jewelry Collection.

Cartier’s Odyssey on the Orient

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:48:55 GMT

Cartier embarks on a journey to faraway lands with its second collection of designs for the Evasions Joailli%26egrave;res Collection. Inspired by the architecture and landscapes of ancient Asia and Persia, the necklaces, bracelets, rings and ear pendants, many set with diamonds and sapphire cabochon jewels, are beaded with Asian-inspired pink opals and contrasting onyx, highlighting Cartier%26rsquo;s deep roots in design influenced by exotic travel. From $6,575, at the Cartier boutique.

Spring Glitters

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 04:40:27 GMT

How much sparkle is May packing? So much that you%26rsquo;ll be squinting the whole month long. Our first find gleams from Forty Five Ten, where we%26rsquo;ve unearthed a chic gift to share with Mother (her big day is Sunday, May 8, don%26rsquo;t forget) by nature-obsessed designer Kimberly McDonald. The set of silk macram%26eacute; bracelets ($4,100 for the pair) is born of a single geode, split in half and encrusted with diamonds, 18k white gold and black rhodium. One for you, one for Mom, and 10 percent of sales goes to The Family Place through Mother%26rsquo;s Day. Sharing has its benefits %26hellip; We love a sexy collaboration %26mdash; especially the kind that%26rsquo;s sparked between legendary Brazilian jeweler H. Stern and the queen of flirty American fashion, Diane von Furstenberg. The duo%26rsquo;s Sutras collection, available at Neiman Marcus, is packed with eight gilded pieces, ranging from $3,200 to $19,400, including a statement ring set with rock crystals in the shape of flower petals and pendants engraved with DvF%26rsquo;s mantras of love, laughter and confidence. Acquire as many as you can %26mdash; your good karma depends on it %26hellip; For an over-the-top, boast-worthy buy, book it to Bachendorf%26rsquo;s for the Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry Collection. The socialite%26rsquo;s sparkling wares debuted in Dallas late last month and are exceptionally glamorous, with everything from Art Deco-style diamond-covered estate bracelets to a weighty, black-onyx and shagreen cuff. Perfect for frolicking with the Upper East Side upper crust.

Images:

At top: Diane von Furstenberg by H. Stern Sutras bold ring at Neiman Marcus.

Below: Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry Collection octagonal link chandelier earrings at Bachendorf%26rsquo;s. Kimberly McDonald geode bracelets at Forty Five Ten.

Lily Cluster Comeback

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 04:50:31 GMT

Who needs horticulture? When it comes to cultivating beautiful lilies (ones of the carat-covered nature, of course), it%26rsquo;s best to turn to the incomparable Harry Winston. In re-inventing its iconic Lily Cluster collection of the 1940s, Winston%26rsquo;s expert designers and craftsmen delved into the archives, pulling decades-old sketches for inspiration. This month, the re-imagined Lily Clusters collection is in full bloom, with earrings, pendants, bracelets, rings and barrettes %26mdash; all effortless and joyfully versatile, with dozens of round and marquise-shaped diamonds set in platinum or yellow gold, marking the first time we%26rsquo;ve seen the latter on a Winston gem since the 1990s. It seems we%26rsquo;ve found just the sparklers to don at our next Garden Club f%26ecirc;te. For a closer peek, ring Harry Winston%26rsquo;s Goli Parstabar at 214.647.5830, pop into the boutique at 19 Highland Park Village or tap to harrywinston.com.

Swan Song

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 05:38:18 GMT

We%26rsquo;re arrested by Australian jeweler Shari Louise%26rsquo;s stunning black swan brooch with a single baroque pearl breast and pav%26eacute; of black and white diamonds, clutching a diamond cygnet in its black-diamond webbed feet. The drama knocks us over. Price on request, at Sloan/Hall.

Getting in the Spirit

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 05:19:36 GMT

Two Houston gals are fashioning wonderful from-the-heart jewelry that made us think Mother%26rsquo;s Day (May 8, remember): Kathy Bracewell%26rsquo;s Agate Ranch + Marfa stone necklaces are fashioned from split and polished agate found on her family%26rsquo;s ranch. Each is matched with vintage Madonnas, crucifixes and talismans, and strung on vintage leather cording or rosaries. Pictured: agate with peace sign on leather cording 125, at Elaine Turner boutique, Muse boutique, Tootsies and agateranchmarfa.com. Trunk show at Tootsies May 12 %26ndash; 13, benefitting The Monarch School %26hellip; Teri Contant began making her outsized rosaries as a school beading project for her children, and it grew into a collection called BellaBlue Designs. She searches for interesting crosses for each rosary %26mdash; some old, some new, in gold or sterling %26mdash; and pairs each with a stunning color combination of gumball-sized handmade clay beads (starting at $120). Also charming: Contant%26rsquo;s small-sized prayer beads ($40). Rosary pictured, $150. At Silver Ideas, 564 Chimney Rock at Woodway, 713.953.1313. Custom orders, bellabluedesigns@gmail.com.

Images:

Agate Ranch

Bella Blue. Photo by Jenny Antill.

Hot Rocks: Spring’s Alluring Jewelry Auctions

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 05:43:08 GMT

If you’ve ever needed an excuse to ooh and aah over brilliant baubles, good news: Mid-century stunners from Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels, a yellow sparkler from Tiffany %26amp; Co., a South Sea cultured-pearl brooch — they’re all up for bidding at a few of our favorite auction houses in April and May.

• Indulge in the Dallas Auction Gallery’s April 20 sale, featuring a matching mid-century bracelet, necklace and earrings set from Van Cleef %26amp; Arpels. The diamond, black onyx and 18K gold pieces hail from a Dallas collector; all signed, numbered and together estimated at $100,000 to $150,000. Information dallasauctiongallery.com.

• May 2 and 3, Dallas-based Heritage Auction Galleries holds its Signature Fine Jewelry Auction in NYC (with lot viewing in Dallas April 15 through 17, at Heritage’s Design District showroom at 1518 Slocum Street). You won’t want to miss this little gem: a black South Sea cultured-pearl and white-gold pendant-brooch adorned with more than five carats of full-cut diamonds. Information ha.com.

• Also in New York, Christie’s spotlights a heavenly, purplish-pink, 10-carat diamond ring as part of its Magnificent Jewels sale April 12. This cushion-cut rock is estimated at $12 to $15 million. Information christies.com.

• Finally, scoop up an 11-carat, yellow-diamond bee-motif ring by Jean Schlumberger, the late jewelry designer for Tiffany %26amp; Co., April 14 at the Sotheby’s sale in New York. Where to put all these chic pieces? We’re already making room in the safe. Information sothebys.com.

Image: Bee-motif ring by Jean Schlumberger. Photo courtesy of Sotheby’s.

Pop Tops

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 06:41:41 GMT

Wondering what to wear on your next jaunt to the Beer Can House? We%26rsquo;ve got the perfect hops-inspired accessory: Houston jeweler Debbie Wetmore%26rsquo;s dainty Haute Tops necklace, crafted from sterling silver, pull tabs and bottle caps from domestic and imported brews ($1,400, through Goldesberry Gallery). Catch more of Wetmore in Goldesberry%26rsquo;s %26ldquo;Boxed In/Breaking Out: Three Houston Jewelers%26rdquo; exhibition alongside Heidi Gerstacker and Mary Rogers (through April 23).

Image: Debbie Wetmore%26rsquo;s Haute Tops, 2011, at Goldesberry Gallery. Photo by%26nbsp; Jack Zilker.

World Wide (David) Webb

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 05:27:56 GMT

Venerable jeweler David Webb returns to Houston %26hellip; in a way. John Evatz, whom we all know and love from his days as director of the Cartier store in the Galleria, has been swimming with the big fish in New York (Chanel, Graff) and is now with David Webb as sales director, with Texas a focus area. So we%26rsquo;ll see more of John, along with Webb%26rsquo;s dazzlingly intricate, bold jewels in the most magnificent color combinations. (Stay tuned for dates of David Webb showings.)

You%26rsquo;ll remember the Webb store cut quite a social swath in Houston in the %26lsquo;70s, until it closed in 2001. Elyse Lanier was the first manager, with Bob Bibb at the Houston helm for 15 years. Ironically, the David Webb signage remains on the fa%26ccedil;ade of the former store at the Pavilion on Post Oak Boulevard as Webb
makes a revival and is hot, hot, hot with the young socials such as Aerin Lauder and Tory Burch. When David Webb began his business in the %26lsquo;40s (he died young of cancer in 1975), the women with impeccable taste and style flocked: Jackie Kennedy, Gloria Vanderbilt, the Duchess of Windsor and, most famously, editrix Diana Vreeland, who sported Webb%26rsquo;s black-and-white enamel zebra bracelets and saucer-sized bejeweled necklaces.

Owners for 35 years after Webb died, Nina and Arnold Silberstein and then son Stanley Silberstein sold the business last year to a triumvirate: Sima Ghadamian, Mark Emanuel and Robert Sadian, each of whom has businesses dealing within the wholesale/estate and antique jewelry markets. COO Sebastien David (a Van Cleef alum from Paris) is also new to Webb. During the sale, a cache of 50,000 archival drawings was discovered. Only 10,000 of these designs were produced, so slowly the remaining designs are being introduced. The Madison Avenue store (one of only two) moves in May to 942 Madison, a 19th-century bank building refurbished by architect Peter Pennoyer and designer Katie Ridder %26mdash; think fireplaces, crown molding and chandeliers to die for. The boutique is downstairs with an archival gallery above, along with the workrooms where 55 artisans ply their trade producing all the Webb gems in-house. So, whew, a lot going on in this new worldwide Webb.

Image: Classic Webb Burmese ruby tiger bracelet with diamonds and emeralds.

Put a Lock on Love with Tiffany %26 Co.

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 11:21:37 GMT

Last year, you gave her the key to your heart in a little blue box. This Valentine%26rsquo;s Day, throw the lock her way, too. Venerable jeweler Tiffany %26amp; Co. now offers clever dangling-lock pendants and charm hardware in 18K yellow and rose gold, platinum set with pav%26eacute; diamonds and sterling silver. Many of the designs are culled from Tiffany%26rsquo;s storied archives. $100 to $5,500, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Image: Tiffany Locks large heart diamond pendant in platinum $5,900. Photo %26copy; Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Tiffany %26 Co. Goes to Market (Street)

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 01:35:43 GMT

Tiffany %26amp; Co. opened its sixth Texas store last month in the Woodlands at Market Street. The luxury jewelry store debuts a new interior-design concept, including an intimate jewelry salon with ceruse-oak paneling, custom-made seating, pearlescent wall coverings and showcases framed with stainless steel. The shop carries the full assortment of Tiffany jewelry and accessories, including engagement and celebration rings, diamond jewelry and watches, plus collections by Paloma Picasso, Elsa Peretti and Jean Schlumberger. 9595 Six Pines Dr. at Market Street in the Woodlands, 281.292.4360.

Image: Tiffany Sparklers with cushion-cut aquamarine and amethyst

The Glittering Life of Jeweler Paul Flato

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 05:39:53 GMT

Considered the world%26rsquo;s first celebrity jeweler, Paul Flato was a name more recognized in the Hollywood-obsessed %26rsquo;30s and %26rsquo;40s than those of Tiffany and Harry Winston. And, more unbelievably, he was born in Shiner, Texas. Around 1900, his father and uncles purchased newly available Mexican land and christened their new town Flatonia for the Flato family. Who knew. According to the new book Paul Flato: Jeweler to the Stars (out this month from Antique Collectors%26rsquo; Club, $85), Paul grew up in the proximity of the King Ranch, wore Buster Brown suits that assuredly caused schoolyard fights and had an African-American mammy who smoked a corncob pipe and dipped snuff. His birthdays were duly reported in the social pages of the newspapers of the day, and he witnessed his first jewelry display in the Texas woods when he stumbled upon a gypsy camp filled with voluptuous women in low-cut blouses with cleavage, dripping with necklaces and dangling earrings %26mdash; a sight not often seen in Flatonia. He was struck senseless, and his style icon was born.

The Klebergs of the King Ranch encouraged the Flato family to move to Kingsville near their land, and the two monarchial families become fast friends. One wouldn%26rsquo;t think the dusty, barren Texas landscape would foster stylishly eccentric personages. But Paul%26rsquo;s father Rudolph wore a Stetson, carried a pistol, wore Shriner regalia and had a jeweled saddle with carved silver box stirrups. The lavish parties for visiting dignitaries and celebrities at the ranch afforded Paul more sightings of beautiful jewels. Kingsville was no Mayberry.

After a stint at The University of Texas at Austin, Flato moved to Manhattan and attended Columbia University, then spent several years working for jewelers before he went into business for himself, opening a boutique on 57th Street. He advertised in Vogue, Harper%26rsquo;s Bazaar and Vanity Fair; hosted lavish jewelry fashion shows; had a booth at the 1939 World%26rsquo;s Fair; and soon sold his extravagant jewels to Brenda Frazier, Doris Duke, Norma Shearer, Katharine Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, Millicent Rogers, Linda and Cole Porter, and dukes and duchesses. His genius lay in eccentric assemblages and unlikely color combinations of stones that were theatrical and conceptual. He employed seriously talented designers to work with him, such as Fulco di Verdura, and together they fashioned Byzantine medals and Maltese-cross bangles, necklaces of fragmented love letters, jeweled cigarette boxes, highly articulated brooches and the famous sapphire-and-ruby buckle necklace designed for Mrs. Cole Porter and willed to Ava Astaire, which appears on the cover of the Flato book.

In 1938, Flato opened a store on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood at the urging of George Cukor and designed jewels for the movie Holiday with Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant. Then came five more motion pictures: Hired Wife, That Uncertain Feeling, Blood and Sand, Two-Faced Woman and The Lady is Willing.

In ensuing years, slow-paying clients, World War II, the new luxury tax, a robbery in his Sunset Boulevard store and a heist from the safe in his New York store left him unable to pay his bills. He pawned pieces that were consigned to him, was arrested, declared bankruptcy and was sentenced to Sing Sing, where he corresponded with Doris Duke and Harry Winston. After his parole, he fell back into old habits and soon faced Sing Sing again. Instead, he hotfooted it to Mexico %26mdash; and landed in a Mexican jail. Then it was extradition and back to Sing Sing. After another parole, he made a fresh start in Mexico City in the fashionable Zona Rosa district and opened a stunning shop with great success. Then 85 years old, he reunited with many of his Hollywood and society friends. But an earthquake hit Mexico City and forced him to return to Texas and to Dallas, where his two daughters lived. He died in 1999 at age 99, in an assisted-living facility in Fort Worth.

Even before his death, Flato%26rsquo;s enigmatic works began receiving attention from collectors, as well as Christie%26rsquo;s and Sotheby%26rsquo;s. This month, a stunning book, Paul Flato: Jeweler to the Stars by Elizabeth Irvine Bray (Antique Collectors%26rsquo; Club, $85), promises to regenerate interest in his extraordinary
life%26rsquo;s work.

Images: All photographs from the book Paul Flato: Jeweler to the stars.

For more image and details, click on 'launch slideshow' above.

Bring on the Buccellati

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 01:25:17 GMT

Founded by the %26ldquo;Prince of Goldsmiths,%26rdquo; Mario Buccellati, in 1919, the Milanese jewelry house Buccellati has enlisted engravers, stone setters, enamellers and lapidaries to craft tiaras and ornamentals for the royal families of Spain and Egypt, as well as popes and cardinals. Now one only has to travel as far as deBoulle for your own royal-worthy objet d%26rsquo;art. %26ldquo;All of this is handmade, all done by a jeweler, line by line,%26rdquo; says deBoulle VP of operations Alan Katz of the $45,000 women%26rsquo;s gold cuff watch in hand. Of the more than 60 Buccellati pieces in residence, from both the gold and silver lines, %26ldquo;rarely are two identical,%26rdquo; Katz says of the remarkable craftsmanship. As only the second store in Texas to carry the collection, owner Denis Boulle is stocking a treasure trove of earrings, bracelets, necklaces, watches, rings and silver pieces, including a $206,000 gold mesh bracelet dotted with more than 18 carats of bezel-set rubies and diamonds. DeBoulle, 6821 Preston Road, 214.522.2400; deboulle.com.%26nbsp;

Image: Buccellati at deBoulle.

Oops!

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 01:21:03 GMT

So knocked over were we by Headstone Designs, the new artisan-meets-architect jewelry at Forty Five Ten, that we flubbed the name of its creator in our November issue. The elegant eye behind all those found objects turned into sculptural necklaces and bracelets is Jacqui Stoneman. Our apologies %26mdash; and our continued admiration.

The Chicest of Silver Anniversaries

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 01:19:37 GMT

From hand-delivering a $40,000 necklace to a client waiting on a private jet to shopping visits from Janet Jackson and Steven Tyler, there%26rsquo;s little that Ylang 23 owners Joanne and Charles Teichman haven%26rsquo;t seen. Last month, the couple marked 25 years of Ylang 23 memories %26mdash; and their 30th wedding anniversary %26mdash;%26nbsp;with a beautiful bash at the Nasher Sculpture Center. To keep the party going, the Teichman%26rsquo;s have enlisted 10 designers (think Irene Neuwirth, Cathy Waterman, Jamie Joseph) to design whimsical charms available exclusively through Ylang 23, with proceeds benefitting The Family Place, North Texas Food Bank, Vogel Alcove, The Stewpot, St. Philip%26rsquo;s School and Community Center, and the Jewish Family Service. Herewith, PaperCity%26rsquo;s Christina Geyer embarks on a bit of time traveling, as Joanne paints a picture of those moussed and magnificent glory days that began in 1985.

Christina Geyer: Can you believe it %26mdash; 25 years! What did the boutique look like in 1985?
Joanne Teichman: It was groundbreaking in design. The floor tile came on a slow boat from France. The architect was Joel Brand of Brand + Allen Architects. It was a freestanding glass pavilion just down the aisle from our current store. I wish he had found a way to include a bathroom, but in retaliation, I now have a proper powder room, with a major Lalique mirror called Les Causeuses [The Gossipers].

CG: Favorite Ylang 23 moments:
JT: Having to crowd control when Victoria Principal and another cast member from Dallas shopped. Recognizing Tom Cruise doing wheelchair wheelies outside our door in preparation for his role in Born on the Fourth of July. Cathy Waterman%26rsquo;s first visit, which was a feeding frenzy. Ten years ago, launching our Web site. The first time we saw our daughter, Alysa, make a sale.

CG: What did you love most about 1985?
JT: Bruce Springsteen, Rambo, Rocky and a great summer in Dallas with quart-sized iced teas everywhere you went.

CG: Project ahead. Where will Ylang 23 be 25 years from now?
JT: Ask [our children] Alysa and Jake. I%26rsquo;ll just be doing social media, whatever that will be in 2035.

%26nbsp;

Image: Charmed, we%26rsquo;re sure: The 25th Anniversary charms from Ylang 23

Graff’s New Girl

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 01:13:37 GMT

Roz Colombo is no stranger to sparkle. After an illustrious 22-year career with Harry Winston, and the shortest retirement in history, Colombo was lured from her abbreviated life of leisure by Graff CEO Henri Barguirdjian, to introduce Graff Diamonds, one of the largest diamond producers in South Africa, to Dallas. As director of Graff private sales, Colombo will bring in beautiful stones (think intense pink, blue, yellow and the purest of white diamonds) and watches for viewing, as well as educate anyone on the house%26rsquo;s lauded London history, steeped with record acquisitions %26mdash;%26nbsp;including the 15th-largest diamond ever discovered, the 603-carat Lesotho Promise. By private appointment only. 214.315.4047; graffdiamonds.com.

Image: Roz Colombo. Photo by Haynsworth Photography.

Cocktails are Served!

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 02:15:06 GMT

When the air crackles with witty banter and urbane asides, only swashbuckling, madcap cocktail rings do the trick.

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Tony Duquette one-of-a-kind, faceted kunzite, diamond and black enamel ring $42,000, at William Noble Rare Jewels; tonyduquette.com.

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Wendy Yue %26nbsp;wood and mother-of-pearl ring with white and brown diamonds and colored sapphires $6,420,%26nbsp;at Stanley Korshak.

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Cartier 22-carat, cushion-shaped yellow sapphire, fancy yellow diamond and%26nbsp; brilliants set in platinum. Price upon request, at Cartier.

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David Yurman blue topaz and diamond Albion ring 6,300, at David Yurman.

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Jude Frances Double Round London Blue ring with blue topaz and diamonds $3,950, at Calame Jewelers, Markham Fine Jewelers, Neiman Marcus, Swag, Ylang 23.

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Tiffany %26amp; Co.%26#8217;s Jean Schlumberger Cat%26#8217;s Eye chrysoberyl ring with diamonds in gold and platinum $110,000, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.%26nbsp;%26nbsp;

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Bulgari 48-carat cabochon green tourmaline, pink coral and diamonds. Price upon request, at Bulgari.%26nbsp;

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White South Sea pearl set in gold $4,800, at Matthew Trent.

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Lydia Courteille owl ring set with diamonds, tourmalines and amethysts in gold and silver $35,000, at Grange Hall.

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Rina Limor ring with rose quartz, amethyst, pink sapphires and diamonds set in 18K pink gold, $5,500, at Feizy Diamonds.

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Kimberly McDonald geode, baroque pearl, fire opal and diamond ring $23,350, at Forty Five Ten.%26nbsp;%26nbsp;

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Stephen Webster%26#8217;s fierce Rapture ring in sterling with clear quartz stone and white-diamond pav%26#233; $995,%26nbsp;at Neiman Marcus NorthPark.

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Lucifer vir Honestus Rossi ring with citrine $10,400, at Barneys New York.

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Harry Winston mandarin garnet, spinel and diamond ring set in platinum, price upon request, at Harry Winston.

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Katy Briscoe pink tourmaline and diamond ring $35,000 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

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John Hardy Cinta ring with marble cone shell set in jade, lavender and Iolite with pav%26#233; of amethysts and brown diamonds, $9,500, at Neiman Marcus.

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Emily Armenta turquoise, quartz and diamond ring $1,445, at Neiman Marcus, Ylang 23.

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Rose-gold filigree, diamond and rose quartz ring $7,375, at Pampillonia Jewelers. %26nbsp;%26nbsp;

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Cocktails are Served!

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 02:17:21 GMT

When the air crackles with witty banter and urbane asides, only swashbuckling, madcap cocktail rings do the trick.

%26nbsp;

Tony Duquette one-of-a-kind, faceted kunzite, diamond and black enamel ring $42,000, at Saks Fifth Avenue.

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Wendy Yue %26nbsp;wood and mother-of-pearl ring with white and brown diamonds and colored sapphires $6,420,%26nbsp;at Cotton Club.

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Cartier 22-carat, cushion-shaped yellow sapphire, fancy yellow diamond and%26nbsp; brilliants set in platinum. Price upon request, at Cartier.

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David Yurman blue topaz and diamond Albion ring 6,300, at David Yurman.

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Jude Frances Double Round London Blue ring with blue topaz and diamonds $3,950, at Chard%26#233;, Neiman Marcus, Tootsies, Zadok Jewelers.%26nbsp;

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TIffany %26amp; Co.%26#8217;s Jean Schlumberger Cat%26#8217;s Eye chrysoberyl ring with diamonds in gold and platinum $110,000, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.%26nbsp;

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Bulgari 48-carat cabochon green tourmaline, pink coral and diamonds. Price upon request, at Bulgari.

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Jemma Wynne Ankara cushion ring with kunzite, aquamarine, pav%26#233;%26nbsp;diamonds and pink sapphires $19,800, at Judith Ann Jewels.

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Rina Limor ring with rose quartz, amethyst, pink sapphires and diamonds set in 18K pink gold $5,500, at Zadok Jewelers.

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Vintage yellow pearl and diamond flower ring $4,850, at Tenenbaum %26amp; Co.

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Stephen Webster%26#8217;s fierce Rapture ring in sterling with clear quartz stone and white-diamond pav%26#233; $995,%26nbsp;at Donoho%26#8217;s Jewellers.

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Oxidized sterling Art Deco citrine and diamond ring, circa 1920, $2,450, at Past Era Antique Jewelry.

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Kimberly McDonald geode, baroque pearl, fire opal and diamond ring $23,350, at Neiman Marcus.

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Ivanka Trump emerald-shape black spinel with oval diamond band $3,500, at Deutsch %26amp; Deutsch Jewelers.

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Katy Briscoe pink tourmaline and diamond ring $35,000 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

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Emily Armenta turquoise, quartz and diamond ring $1,445, at Judith Ann Jewels, Neiman Marcus, Tootsies.

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Oval coral ring with 68 carats of diamonds $3,450, at I W Marks.%26nbsp;

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John Hardy Cinta ring with marble cone shell set in jade, lavender and Iolite with pav%26#233; of amethysts and brown diamonds, $9,500, at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue; Lewis Jewelers, Webster. %26nbsp;

Birds of a Feather

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 06:40:20 GMT

The great chicken-keepers? Royals with avian leanings. Marie Antoinette constructed an entire farm in 1783, adjacent to Versailles, which kept her supplied with eggs. In the 1800s, Queen Victoria fell for a flock of Chinese Cochins, gifts to her majesty. And bonny Prince Charles? At Highgrove, he positively fawns over his baby chicks, feeding them himself on those frosty Gloucestershire mornings. To celebrate these royal roosts, we commissioned stylist and illustrator%26nbsp;Jimmie Henslee%26nbsp;to conjure a gallery of the keepers themselves %26#8212; but Henslee scrambled up a twist. Something%26#8217;s a-fowl here. With fall%26#8217;s finest jewels as some rather stunning poultry props, the tables have been royally turned. %26nbsp;

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Illustrations Jimmie Henslee. Jewelry photography Adam Fish and Kennon Evett. %26nbsp; %26nbsp; %26nbsp;

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For more pictures of jewelry and details, click on 'launch slideshow' at top of story.%26nbsp;

Birds of a Feather

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 03:44:49 GMT

The great chicken-keepers? Royals with avian leanings. Marie Antoinette constructed an entire farm in 1783, adjacent to Versailles, which kept her supplied with eggs. In the 1800s, Queen Victoria fell for a flock of Chinese Cochins, gifts to her majesty. And bonny Prince Charles? At Highgrove, he positively fawns over his baby chicks, feeding them himself on those frosty Gloucestershire mornings. To celebrate these royal roosts, we commissioned stylist and illustrator Jimmie Henslee to conjure a gallery of the keepers themselves %26#8212; but Henslee scrambled up a twist. Something%26#8217;s a-fowl here. With fall%26#8217;s finest jewels as some rather stunning poultry props, the tables have been royally turned.

%26nbsp;

Jewelry photography Adam Fish and Kennon Evett.

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For more pictures of jewelry and details, click on 'launch slideshow' at top of story.%26nbsp;

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Tiffany %26 Co. Launches Leather and Makes a Move

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:14:38 GMT

This month, Tiffany %26amp; Co. launches its much anticipated Tiffany Leather Collection, the legendary American jeweler%26#8217;s first in-depth handbag and accessories line. Design directors Richard Lambertson and John Truex culled through the Tiffany archives and found ample inspiration to create the 29-piece collection of satchels, shoulder bags, top-handle bags, wallets and card cases in a variety of leathers including glazed crocodile, ring lizard, snakeskin and natural-grain calf, with many dyed in rich jewel tones such as garnet and violet %26#8212;%26nbsp;even a Tiffany Blue. As to be expected, the designers included jewelry-inspired clasps and handles on many of the bags, including the Bracelet bag, a frame pouch with a chunky beaded wrist chain, all priced from $95 to $16,500. Also new in the sparkling world of Tiffany is a move within Galleria Dallas. Late this month, the iconic jeweler reveals its new location and lavish reinvention near Saks Fifth Avenue. The new design concept by S. Russell Groves (Coach, Armani Collezioni, Neiman Marcus Boston) is inspired by T%26amp;Co.%26#8217;s Fifth Avenue flagship: Think sleek window displays laden with Tiffany Blue vitrines, fluted marble details, rift-oak showcases and a custom crystal chandelier. Let the little-blue-box obsession resume!

Image: Tiffany %26amp; Co. East Side totes. Photo by Stephen Lewis.%26nbsp;

Très Chic at deBoulle

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:13:28 GMT

"The Jewels of France" traveling exhibition, created by the French Trade Commission, makes a stop at deBoulle Thursday, September 30, and says au revoir Sunday, October 3. Dallas is one of only two cities on the fall calendar for this exhibition, which showcases 11 French jewelers, including Repossi, Marchak and %26#201;d%26#233;enne, with in-store events, French food and wines. Schedule and information, 214.522.2400.

Yurman Hits the Big 3-0

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:24:55 GMT

It%26#8217;s hard to believe that it%26#8217;s been 30 years since David Yurman founded his namesake jewelry company with his wife, Sybil. Made famous in the %26#8217;80s with the launch of its now-iconic Signature Cable bracelet, the all-American jeweler has launched one hit collection after another %26#8212; our favorites being Mosaic, Noblesse and Moonlight Ice. In 2003, the Yurmans welcomed son Evan to the design team, and he charged ahead with edgy and elegant men%26#8217;s cuff links, chains and rings, as well as the timepiece collection. Schedule a trip to the new Madison Avenue David Yurman townhouse boutique, which opened to much fanfare earlier this year. The 2,000-square-foot space showcases the complete range of signature Yurman pieces on the first two floors, with bridal and couture suites on the third.

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Images: Sybill and David Yurman; David Yurman jewelry

Bang, Bang Bling

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:47:41 GMT

Pow, pow, pow! Bullet Girl has made her way into the room, and she%26#8217;s taking no prisoners. Houston designer Jessica Meyer makes an impact everywhere she goes, laden with jewelry of her own design, created from bold, gun powder%26#8211;free bullet casings from her grandfather%26#8217;s ammo plant in Mexico. (Small wonder, then, that she%26#8217;s been dubbed %26#8220;Bullet Girl.%26#8221;) When friend and fan Heather Davis spied the sleek .22 millimeter and .223 Remington ammo strung across Meyer%26#8217;s chest, dangling from her ears and around the nape of her neck, she became positively obsessed, too. Now Meyer and Davis have teamed up to put a glittering edge on the sinister side of the bullet by embellishing it with silver, brass, copper, 18K gold and rhodium metals %26#8212; not to mention diamonds, pearls, rubies and onyx. Not your mamma%26#8217;s costume jewels, these stylish projectiles (which range in price from $150 to $2,800) make a statement that doesn%26#8217;t say %26#8220;fashion victim.%26#8221; Cattle Baron%26#8217;s Ball, anyone? Caution: Sold only by the brave hearts at V.O.D., 214.754.0644; vodboutique.com.

Image: Jessica Meyer and Heather Davis; example of Bullet Girl's licensed-to-thrill craft

Bang, Bang Bling

Wed, 26 May 2010 04:29:06 GMT

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Image: Jessica Meyer and Heather Davis; example of Bullet Girl's licensed-to-thrill craft

Queen of the Ball

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 02:02:47 GMT

J%26#8217;adore these stretchy bracelets from Marni Rocks in yin-and-yang white jade with CZ ball $65, and frosted black onyx with rubies $245. 1415 S. Voss, Second Floor, 713.533.0550; marnierocks.com.

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Image: Marni Rocks. Photo by Jenny Antill.

Queen of the Ball

Wed, 26 May 2010 11:44:31 GMT

J%26#8217;adore these stretchy bracelets from Marnie Rocks in yin-and-yang white jade with CZ ball $65, and frosted black onyx with rubies $245. 8413 Preston Center Plaza, 214.369.1200; marnierocks.com.

B.zero1 Celebrates 1Zero

Wed, 26 May 2010 11:51:49 GMT

Bulgari rounds out the 10th anniversary of its iconic B.zero1 ring, designed around the cylindrical motif of the famed jeweler%26#8217;s logo, with three new sparkling interpretations. Internationally renowned contemporary sculptor Anish Kapoor fashioned a sleek steel and pink-gold design, while Bulgari has produced two in-house ceramic versions, one in refreshing white and the other in black; both display Bulgari%26#8217;s Roman epigraphic logo in polished pink gold. From $890, at the Bulgari boutique.

Ring for a Cocktail

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 01:20:11 GMT

As the temperature rises, we%26#8217;re drawn to the cool colors of Elsa Peretti%26#8217;s new sun-drenched jawbreaker cabochon cocktail rings. Simply set in 18K gold or sterling silver, they%26#8217;re the perfect things to raise with an icy gimlet. From $1,900, at Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Paloma Rings in 30 Years with Tiffany %26 Co.

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 02:11:11 GMT

Designer Paloma Picasso has created three collections to commemorate 30 beautiful years with Tiffany %26amp; Co. The most opulent is Marrakesh %26#8212; a vibrant mix of semiprecious stones and black-onyx pendants and cuffs encased in graphic gold, recalling the mosaics of Middle Eastern architecture, while Hammered Circles forms yellow-gold, rose-gold and sterling-silver circles into necklaces and hoop earrings. Tr%26#232;s charmant, however, is the Dove collection of pendants in sterling silver, gold and diamonds, inspired by the dove drawn by Picasso%26#8217;s famous father, Pablo, for the 1949 Paris World Peace Conference. There%26#8217;s a personal connection for his daughter, who was born that year. %26#8220;My name, %26#8216;Paloma,%26#8217; means %26#8216;dove%26#8217; in Spanish,%26#8221; she says. %26#8220;And it stands as a symbol of peace and purity. There are many romantic songs about %26#8216;La Paloma Blanca.%26#8217; One of them used to bring tears to my eyes when I was a little girl. I%26#8217;ve designed the dove to be your guardian angel.%26#8221; At Tiffany %26amp; Co.

Susan Saffron Fine Jewelry

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 01:10:19 GMT

Susan Saffron is no stranger to socialites and the precious stones in their jewelry boxes. After 25 years as one of Highland Park%26#8217;s most sought-after private jewelers, Saffron is taking all her diamonds, rubies and sapphires to her first store, at Inwood Village. Behind glistening glass display cases you%26#8217;ll find her extensive and ever-changing collection of estate pieces, as well as custom-designed bracelets, rings, necklaces and earrings. When it comes to Saffron%26#8217;s carats and gemstones, the sky%26#8217;s the limit:%26nbsp;Earrings set with diamonds and Colombian emeralds, a white- and chocolate-diamond ring, and a green tourmaline pendant fill out the estate collection, while a bevy of loose stones %26#8212; amethysts, diamonds, tourmalines, emeralds, et al %26#8212; are available for bijoux that Saffron and her artisans will design and craft upon request. A visit here will quiet the voice of your inner, jewelry-loving Duchess of Windsor. 5550 W. Lovers Lane, 214.373.6602; saffronjewelry.com.

Image: Chad Allison at Susan Saffron Fine Jewelry

Style Watch

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:36:21 GMT

Classic American designer Ralph Lauren%26#8217;s first collection of timepieces, created in collaboration with luxury-goods group Richemont, is available%26nbsp; at the Ralph Lauren boutique in New York City. The collection is comprised of three watch suites, each drawing inspiration from a different facet of the brand%26#8217;s iconic heritage: Stirrup (equestrian style), Slim Classique (classic Americana) and Sporting (the worlds of polo, tennis and golf). The latter includes two distinct styles, the Chronograph and the World Time. The timepieces (there are 23 in total) come in gold and platinum finishes, many embellished with diamonds. Stunning. From $8,250, exclusively at the Ralph Lauren boutique, New York.%26nbsp;

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IMAGE: Ralph Lauren Stirrup Collection watch, at the Ralph Lauren Boutique, New York.

Alice's Ever So Mad Wonderland

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 06:22:07 GMT

Leave the mad hatters and talking rabbits to Lewis Carroll and Tim Burton: Our Alice dons vintage Balenciaga (well, hello) and goes on a far more glaaaamorous whirl %26#8212; no rhyme, no reason %26#8212;%26nbsp;wherein she tumbles through her Chippendale looking glass, discovers a rather erudite swami and comes face-to-face with a queen %26#8212; a very important queen. (All hail! All hail!) The icing on the tea cakes? The season%26#8217;s very important gems and jewels. Sparkle plenty!

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Click on "launch slideshow," above, to start the journey!

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Click here to go behind the scenes of the making of our Alice...

Model Gems

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:56:14 GMT

It%26#8217;s carats and catwalks on Wednesday, December 9, when Sotheby%26#8217;s offers up gorgeous gems from gorgeous Brazilian model L%26#250;cia Moreira Salles, the late philanthropist, muse to Valentino and exclusive house model to Chanel. (We loved her for her gift to The Morgan Library %26amp; Museum just before she passed away in January: rare, bound Oscar Wilde letters and manuscripts, their whereabouts unknown to scholars for 50-plus years.) During her highly stylish life, Salles amassed diamond and ruby rings from the unparalleled JAR of Paris, luminous pearl necklaces and rings, even a pair of Verdura onyx cuffs studded with emeralds and sapphires, all on the block as part of Sotheby%26#8217;s one-day %26#8220;Magnificent Jewels%26#8221; sale. If you happen to be taking Manhattan from December 4 to 9, preview it all at Sotheby%26#8217;s glittery headquarters %26#8212; or wave your virtual paddle from here at sothebys.com. Information 212.606.7000.%26#160;

Good Bones

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:40:35 GMT

Skeletons in the closet are a good thing when they%26#8217;re magnificent skeleton timepieces. See slideshow.

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Alice's Ever So Mad Wonderland

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 05:25:10 GMT

Leave the mad hatters and talking rabbits to Lewis Carroll and Tim Burton: Our Alice dons vintage Balenciaga (well, hello) and goes on a far more glaaaamorous whirl %26#8212; no rhyme, no reason %26#8212;%26nbsp;wherein she tumbles through her Chippendale looking glass, discovers a rather erudite swami and comes face-to-face with a queen %26#8212; a very important queen. (All hail! All hail!) The icing on the tea cakes? The season%26#8217;s very important gems and jewels. Sparkle plenty!

Bulgari Celebrates

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:53:54 GMT

Luxury jeweler Bulgari continues to celebrate its 125th anniversary with the launch of the Serpenti collection and a special Christie%26#8217;s auction this month. The new collection, inspired by the dynamism of the serpent, includes sinuous and flexible bracelets, rings and watches in pink and white gold, dazzling with diamonds and multicolored gemstones. Three exclusive Serpenti bracelets will be auctioned at Christie%26#8217;s in New York on Tuesday, December 8, along with eight one-of-a-kind Bulgari creations and seven limited-edition timepieces, a value estimated at $4 million. Bulgari will donate all proceeds from the auction to Save The Children%26#8217;s %26#8220;Rewrite the Future%26#8221; campaign, which provides education for 8 million children in conflict-affected areas. Bulgari Serpenti collection from $3,950, at the Bulgari boutique.%26nbsp;