Make your own style statement with Cubic zirconia jewelry

Cubic zirconia has come out to be the best alternative of diamonds. The most important feature is that it costs nearly a fraction of the original costs of diamonds. This is a synthetic metal that can be developed in laboratory. Cubic zirconia jewelry is very much in demand and people are just dying to have them. It’s not possible for everyone to have diamonds so having a beautiful set of bracelets made of zirconia can make you feel happy and somewhat contended. You can get these gems attached to any set of jewelry like clip on earrings and have a fake diamond set ready for you.

However the original gem does not have a color and is colorless in its original form still you can have these gems in any color you want. Metal oxides of different colors are added to it and desired colors are made according to this. Thus this is the process how you get different colored stones in a cubic zirconia jewelry. This metal out shines more than original diamonds and hence special care is needed to be taken with these stones so as to save them from losing their lustre. You should follow certain measures with your CZ to impart it a long and safe life. There are many ways to help you clean the surface of zirconia including the new found technology of electronic cleaners.
You should always clean your cubic zirconia jewelry with the help of soft fabrics such as flannel and other soft cottons. Rough surface of the fabrics used can wear away the surface of the metal and thus snatch away the lustre. You should move the fabric in such a way that straight and gentle motions are created which can gently rub away the dust particles and grease accumulated on the surface. Circular motions should never be made as such motions would rub the dust particles with the surface of the metal and thus the surface will be damaged. Then you can also go for using soft brushes to clean the dirt from all the nook and corners. You can also put your cubic zirconia jewelry against the steam from the hot boiling water. The hot team will get stuck to the impurities and when you rub a soft flannel or any other fabric these dust particles can come out easily. The above methods would only save your jewelry from getting damaged but would also increase their lives and make them strong from the outer adverse effects.

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Socially Responsible: Fashionably Fabulous

If you have seen the film “Blood Diamond,” you will know that diamonds have a history of causing both social and environmental damages. While the diamond industry has remained secretive, many consumers are now aware of the social and environmental impacts diamonds can have due to films and the internet. The diamond market is a monopoly as it is controlled by one major company with very few competitors. This company controls the availability of diamonds to the public and therefore the price. The company has the ability to make diamonds appear rare and special. Commercials and society only perpetuate and regurgitate this idea. Diamond jewelry sets sell for way over their actual worth. Here is a Cubic Zirconia Jewelry set that looks extremely similar to a diamond jewelry set that would be very expensive and possibly very detrimental in several ways.





Cubic Zirconia jewelry is just as beautiful, but does not hold the same connotations as diamonds in society because they do not have the reputation of being rare or special. However, savvy consumers know that jewelry is more than showing off. CZ jewelry is affordable and socially responsible as it does not have any of the same impacts that diamonds can have socially and environmentally. Jewelry should represent something more than just status and wealth. Jewelry is often bought to mark or celebrate a special event like a graduation, marriage, a wedding anniversary, or Christmas. Giving jewelry should be more of a symbol of love and affection than a status symbol. Fortunately more and more consumers are looking for companies that allow them to reflect their interests and social responsibility. More consumers are looking towards homemade jewelry, recycled jewelry, and fair trade jewelry. These options have many beautiful styles that will have you feeling great not only about how you look, but also about your socially responsible choices.

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Personalized Jewelry for the Grad

Wondering what to get for your favorite student that's graduating this year? Consider giving the gift of personalized sterling silver jewelry. Custom engraved sterling silver makes a great commemorative gift, and is something that can be worn again and again. Typically, sterling silver jewelry is given for special occasions, and can be engraved with a keepsake message for birthdays, holidays, or, in this case, graduation. What better way to celebrate the end to one journey and the beginning of another, than with a beautiful piece of jewelry to mark the occasion?

Custom sterling silver is available in a variety of styles and shapes, so you're sure to find something to please every grad on your shopping list. For young women, opt for classic charm bracelets with circular or heart shaped charms. You'll have just enough room to include a message of "Congrats" or "Class of 09". If you and a friend or another family member wants to go in on a gift together, add the matching necklace to the charm bracelet for a stunning sterling silver set that the new grad is sure to appreciate.

If it's a young man that's graduating, wrap up a stainless steel or thick sterling silver tag bracelet with his name engraved on the faceplate. For something a little more demure, try long dog tag necklaces with inspirational quotes. You can always add the date the engraved message as well.

Sterling silver jewelry is classic and timeless, so you can rest assured that your gift can be worn time and time again, long after the days of graduation celebration. So, if you have a grad in your family, or know a close friend who will be walking to pomp and circumstance, then give the gift of happiness with personalized sterling silver jewelry.

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Michelle Obama's Fashion Jewelry Style

Over the past few years, we've watched as now First Lady Michelle Obama has undergone a style evolution. From her super-chic sheaths to floral printed dresses, she's upped the style quotient in the White House at every appearance she makes. Not to be forgotten are her look-at-me accessories that define her signature look and pull her outfits together. From bubble-gum size pearls to big brooches and hoop earrings, we examine some of the most memorable pieces she's worn and try to keep up with this fashion-forward all-American mom as she makes history.



Pearls, pearls, pearls – Michelle Obama favors these classic stones, but she adds her own contemporary twist by wearing oversize faux pearl necklaces and gorgeous strands of color in gold and brown.



Pendants – Ever the fashion icon, Michelle pushes the envelope by wearing multiples of classic necklaces. One of her most memorable pendant choices was a peace symbol and hope dog tag necklace, that she has casually sported on several occasions.



Classic shaped earrings – On election night, the new First Lady of Fashion chose a pair of double oval hoop earrings. The silver tone set a beautiful compliment to her black and red dress. She's also opted for gold hoop earrings as a simple accessory to accent colorful pieces.



Color – Michelle is not afraid of adding a pop of color here and there, and that includes her jewelry. She loves look-at-me beads, like the chunky double-stranded blue choker she wore to a speaking engagement. More recently, she wore a layered necklace look with canary and turquoise colored beads to contrast an all-black ensemble.

Mrs. Obama certainly keeps up with – or is responsible for setting – some of the most favored fashion jewelry trends to date. We can only wait in anticipation to see what she pulls out of her hat next.

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Jewelry like Jennifer Lopez - Fashion Style

Jennifer Lopez has been on our style radar for some time now, shocking us with daring choices and dazzling jewelry that is fabulously frivolous and over the top. Though most of us probably can't afford to spring for Jennifer Lopez size gems, we can take some tips from her to create jewelry looks that add glamour to our own wardrobe.

Jennifer Lopez makes her own rules, as she chooses combinations including both gold and silver. On a recent promotional experience she wore a large silver chain link bracelet with a jumbo size pair of hoop earrings and a handful of rings. She favors hoop earrings, often choosing oversize textured pairs to compliment a flowing hair style.





Mrs. Mark Anthony also likes to pile on the bangles, wearing wristfuls of sterling silver thin bracelets as a casual accessory. She also stacks large wooden bangles, sporting several at a time, plus big earrings to complete an outfit.

Jennifer Lopez's jewelry style is versatile and fashion, as she switches back and forth from pop rocker to glam goddess. Onstage, she needs to be the center of attention, rocking piles of accessories. But lately, her red-carpet look has leaned more toward tailored and posh, consisting more of classic pieces like humongous diamond studs, which shine with an elegant up-do. Other faves include romantic art deco drop earrings with matching bezel-set bracelet. Often the gowns she wears are decadent unto themselves, so she's careful to choose jewelry that doesn't overpower. Instead, it adds just the right touch of sparkle.





To get her look, try opting for costume jewelry with glitzy gems in fun colors like canary yellow or baby pink. Also, dare to wear gold and silver at the same time if the designs are similar. Just remember that your signature style doesn't necessarily have to follow a certain set of style rules. You can play with jewelry and mix it up, just like Jennifer Lopez.

Eva Longoria Parker's Signature Jewelry Style

Eva Longoria Parker's Signature Jewelry Style - Fashion

Eva Longoria Parker may come in a pint-size package, but her style packs a lot of punch. Always polished and dressed to the T, Mrs. Tony Parker has a jewelry style that is reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour meets modern elegance. She knows what works on her tiny frame and what accessories best help her shine.



Eva loves drop earrings. From star shaped danglers to turquoise cascades to diamond teardrops, she likes earrings that have movement and a little swing to them. She's not afraid of color either, as she easily accents gorgeous gowns with fresh colored jewels in sparkling hues. A few of our favorites include ruby drop earrings used to accent a hot pink frock for a charity gala or a canary colored pair of drop earrings she wore with a spring floral dress. For her wedding abroad, Eva pulled out rich colored stones, best of all, the sapphire stunners she wore with matching cascade necklace for her wedding and the emerald oval cut drop earrings she playfully paired with a headband and casual do.







No matter what Ms. Parker wears, she does it with ease and effortless grace. She can easily pull off art deco inspired pieces, such as glittering cuffs and bangles. Or, when she's feeling a bit sassy, she likes pieces that are fun and youthful, such as waterfall earrings. Her favorite accessory is a number 9 pendant that she wears as a reminder of her husband Tony's jersey. You can easily replicate this sentiment by choosing a charm or bracelet with removable charms.







Eva steers clear of 'here today - gone tomorrow' jewelry trends and instead opts for stylish statements that are timeless. She just might be the next style icon in the making. We love watching her rule the red carpet and can't wait to see what jewelry she chooses next.

Nicole Richie's Jewelry Style

Nicole Richie's Jewelry Style - Fashion!

From celebrity child to outgoing socialite to artist and designer, Nicole Richie holds many titles. She's been in the public eye for many years, and we've watched her style evolve from eccentric party girl to chic mom, all the while keeping her signature jewelry look. Nicole's effortless laid-back vibe carries through in each piece she wears.

Nicole loves accessories, whether it's headbands, scarves or sunglasses. But she does a great job at complementing her style with fun bracelets that add interest to on-the-go looks. Nicole has long been seen sporting simple thin red and black bracelet as an accent, both day and night. They add just a pop of color and can easily be imitated. Nicole is also known for piling on loads of bracelets. She isn't afraid to play with textures and materials, effortlessly mixing colored beads with black and gold chain bracelets. She uses these types of bracelets to doll up casual everyday looks.

At nighttime, Nicole's flower child persona shines through with long flowing dresses, billowy fabrics and jewelry that is uncomplicated. She's best-known for thin to medium size bangle bracelets that she wears in sets of multiples or pushes to her upper arm. She plays with color combinations and prints to evoke a worldly sense of style.

For necklaces, Nicole favors pendants like circular disc apple shapes. She also regularly wears a cut-out "H" pendant necklace as a reminder of her daughter Harlow. When she does wear beaded necklaces, the beads are small, so as not to overpower her petite frame. She knows what works on her and sticks to it.

The love child that she is, Nicole favors jewelry in materials that are organic in nature. From corded bracelets to natural wood to leather bands, she mixes and matches, throwing in gemstones and metallics to create a jewelry style that is distinctly her own.

Expert Advice - How to wear fashion with Jewelry

Ever wondered which items you should wear right now, which ones you should store in your jewelry box, and which ones you should part with? Well, we're here to help with some expert advice on what's hot in the world of fashion jewelry.

Necklaces
You should wear big, bold, chunky designs with handcrafted stones or geometric shapes. Long strands of pearls, delicate beads or multi-strand gold and sterling silver chains are also a big hit right now. For a personalized look, nameplate necklaces are still popular.

You should store vintage and hand-me-down birthstone necklaces and keepsake lockets, as these favorites never really go out of style. That's the difference between a trend and a piece with true staying power. Also keep classic short strands of pearls and beaded chokers.

You should toss stretchy chokers that have might be classified as grunge or gothic. Chunky peace sign necklaces have seen their hay day, as this look has been updated in favor of more feminine and delicate designs.

Earrings
You should wear mini florals with small details for a fresh bohemian touch. Large hoop earrings have also made a comeback, and are acceptable outside of the office.

You should store small hoop earrings, lightweight feather earrings and understated pieces. They're sure to make a comeback in years to come.

You should toss earrings that drop below your collarbone, as this will never be a fashion "do", as it causes the neckline to look shorter than it is.

Bracelets
You should wear oversized cuffs and layers of bangles in natural fabrics and textures. A sterling silver or gold metal works with either. Watch cuffs are also one hot ticket this year.
You should store beaded stretch bracelets and basic black bangles.
You should toss spiked bracelet cuffs.

Rings
You should wear a statement cocktail ring or multi finger ring.
You should store rings that are too small or can be worn as a pendant.
You should toss rings with missing center stones. In this case, it's more cost effective to replace the whole ring.

How to Wear Native American Inspired Beaded Necklaces and Bracelets

Beaded jewelry is nothing new to the fashion scene, but the way its being worn certainly is. On the street and on the runway, socialites and trendsetters alike are pairing beaded bracelets and necklaces with one-off vintage pieces and classic favorites to create unique fashion forward looks.

Native American inspired beads are hot, hot, hot right now. From Megan's Fox's eye-catching turquoise beaded choker to Drew Barrymore's funky beaded and chain necklace, this look is versatile and beautiful for anyone. You might be wondering how to make this look your own. We've got some great suggestions for creating a signature look out of these stunning Native American inspired pieces.

The bangle bracelet is all the rage on the fashion scene right now. Take Rachel Bilson's chic sense of style for example. She recently paired multicolored beaded cuffs and bright beaded nylon bracelets with an all black ensemble. The bracelets she wore, along with her cuffed sleeves and neutral booties gave a certain laid back sense of style. The vivid colors of the Indian designs on her bracelets offset a standard outfit. At home, you can easily take any classic piece out of your closet and update it with an inexpensive and fun beaded cuff.

For a casual look, don’t be afraid to call out your inner rocker with a long multi-strand American Indian patterned necklace. The arrow and diamond shaped designs add interest and funk. Try pairing the necklace with a t-shirt and blazer for a business casual look.

As spring and summer draw near, bright Native American necklaces and bracelets are a great way to spice up neutrals, such as peasant blouses and sundresses. Wear one at a time as a statement piece, or pile them on for maximum effect. You'll feel like you're on vacation, with these gorgeous cultural beads and natural cut stones.

Top Jewelry Trends for spring

This year, spring's hit list includes smart and savvy jewelry trends that can update your closet inexpensively, albeit fashionably. Here are our top favorite jewelry must-haves to get you going:

Top Jewelry Trends for spring - Florals
Jumbo blooms with quirky details are fun, fresh and fabulous. Try an oversize choker necklace in a bright color like canary yellow or hot pink. These pieces can easily take you from a day in the office to a night out on the town.

Top Jewelry Trends for spring - Pink
From hot pink to punch pink to pastels, this feminine color is all over the style circuit. The feminine hue looks best in bold statements like bangles and oversize necklaces. Just remember, a little pink goes a long way!

Top Jewelry Trends for spring - Geometric jewels
High-impact shapes like funky triangles and boxes are all the rage this season. Try geometric bracelets that can be stacked for maximum impact. Or, embrace the look of chain link metal and choose a necklace that is outside the box. These fabulous pieces are fierce and perfect wearable art.

Top Jewelry Trends for spring - Prints
Paisleys, florals and global inspired prints are not just for clothing. Thankfully, these gorgeous patterns have spilled over into jewelry as well. Bangle bracelets are a great way to incorporate embroidered prints, a hint of snakeskin or exotic colors. These eye-catching pieces grab attention and are an affordable way to try out the latest fad.

Top Jewelry Trends for spring - Safari inspired accessories
If you can't afford to be a globetrotter, then at least you can accessorize like one! Work in vibrant fun pieces that have natural stones and earthly materials. Try jewelry made of wood, cork and leather. If you're going neutral with your outfit, make sure your jewelry adds color.

Top Jewelry Trends for spring - Bold choices
Looking for a way to re-invent some wardrobe favorites? Take classic pieces and pair with a daring necklace for a completely re-vamped look. Choose tops that have a simple scoop neck to let the necklace take center stage. You can find some great buys on beautiful costume jewelry right now.

Top Jewelry Trends for spring - Hoop earrings
This accessory is back in a big way. Wear small to medium size hoop earrings to work or for play. Dare to live a little with larger choices for nighttime.

Floral Jewelry - Never Lose Fashion

I'm not sure if florals are really a fashion trend, but one thing's for sure, they have staying power. Florals have always represented an air of femininity, grace and beauty. From the Victorian age to the flower children of the 60s and 70s, floral jewelry, especially necklaces, bracelets and earrings have been all the rage. This season the focus is on the dainty flower, the mini floral, which can be worked into any trend-setter's collection.



Mini floral earrings are a nice touch when done in sterling silver, as they are quite versatile and can easily go from day to night. Another way to wear a pair of floral earrings is to choose a design with color. Your earrings should be fun, whimsical and youthful, so don't be afraid to add a bright pop of color to accent the setting of the metal. Pastel floral earrings are always a hit in the spring and summer months, but wear them with contrasting pieces to avoid looking overly sweet. Mini floral earrings can also be worn in a cluster setting, as they gently overlap one another.



When looking at floral bracelets, there are many options from which to choose. A sterling silver cuff with floral cut outs can provide a modern twist on classic Victorian style. Beaded bracelets are often printed or embossed with beautiful designs of different flowers for a throwback to hippie fashion. These look best when layered and suit any outfit by drawing out the prominent color. Don't be afraid to wear several styles of bracelets on either wrist. For example, a giant floral cuff on one arm with small silver bangles and several beaded floral bracelets on the other is quite fashion forward. Jessica Simpson, Ashley Tisdale and Rachel Bilson have all been spotted wearing multiples of mini floral print jewelry.



With all the varieties offered, this is a style statement you can't afford to pass up.

Animal Instinct Jewelry - Fashion

Safari inspired jewelry has always been a fashionable way to subtly bring animal prints into your wardrobe, but animal jewelry this season offers so much more.

Wild animals such as cheetahs, leopards and jaguars are now being bejeweled with precious and faux gems to create eye-catching adornments in the form of bangle bracelets, stud earrings and statement cocktail rings. Insects such as crickets, ladybugs and butterflies are covered side-by-side in diamonds or cubic zirconia for glamorous sparkle. And birds are taking flight on precious metal cuffed bracelets and glittery brooches. The call of the wild is truly and beautifully translated into the latest fashion jewelry trends to hit the runways and the street scene this season.

One of the most popular trends right now is the butterfly. It's popping up everywhere from cutout cuff bracelets to fun-loving pendants that can add a touch of youth to any casual outfit. We're also seeing designers send out unique pieces that go out on a limb and incorporate animals such as armadillos and porcupines, for those daring enough to wear these creatures of the wild.



For summer jewelry styles, ocean animals of the deep such as starfish and tropical rainbow colored fish are ever-present in beautiful pendant necklaces and pins. They add an air of far off places and vacation get-a-ways to gauze fabrics and lightweight linen. Animal jewelry is so versatile; it can either be casual or dressy, art deco or geometric. Or, it can add an earthly feel or focal point to plain pieces such as khakis and denim.

If you're wondering how you wear these fabulous pieces, let the jewelry speak for itself. Let your animal themed necklace, earrings or bracelet take center stage and keep other accessories simple and understated. Let the call of the wild shine through, and you'll be sure to be a fashion 'Do'.

Vintage Jewelry Makes a Comeback - Fashion

Vintage Jewelry Makes a Comeback - A Fashion "Do"!
Remember rifling through your grandmother's vintage jewelry box when you were a little girl? Trying on those strands of pearls and vintage costume jewelry and dreaming of one day being old enough to wear them?

Vintage jewelry has long had a place on the red carpet of Hollywood (donned by the likes of Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman and Cate Blanchett), but it's also just as acceptable to wear it for a night out on the town or to accent a professional look. Vintage has an old world glamour to it, an essence of classiness and a throwback to a time when dresses and pantyhose were a must. Now, mixing vintage necklaces or earrings with modern pieces provides an updated and relevant look, popularized even more with style-setters like Michelle Obama.

If you are lucky enough to have inherited, or be a collector of this type of costume jewelry, then you should know that authentic vintage jewelry sets are the most valuable of the group, given they are in good condition and contain all stones. If you love the look, but don't have access to hand-me-down pieces, there are several options. Many current designers offer this style of jewelry for a very affordable price. Another good bet is to check out the local flea market for deals on one-of-a-kind finds.

Vintage pieces can really dress up an existing look and can act as a good conversation piece. Your jewelry can help you to create a one-of-kind outfit that is sure to garner compliments. The look of antique inspired jewelry is best characterized by brushed metal, giving it that worn-in look and feel. Cameos pendants are a popular choice, as are chandelier earrings. There are many categories of vintage jewelry, so it will depend on how you choose to wear and style the pieces with the rest of your wardrobe.

Jewelry Inspired by Movie: SEX and City

Jewelry inspired by the movie: Sex and City!



The fashionable women of the hit HBO series Sex in the City take Manhattan by storm with their trend-setting sense of style and have already hit the big screen once in a blockbuster movie based on the hit show. Always the fashionistas, the fierce foursome are responsible for creating some of the hottest designer and jewelry trends to date. Since they've already signed on for a movie sequel, we thought we'd take a look at each of the lady's unique sense of jewelry style.

Heroine of SEX and City - Carrie


The heart and soul of Sex in the City, Carrie's the ultimate style icon. Because of some of the jewelry that she wore on the show, certain pieces have topped the list of must haves across the country. For example, the signature 'Carrie' necklace that she wore started a trend that is still popular today. The horseshoe pendant necklace that she sported is as iconic as the pink cosmopolitan sipped on the show. Carrie's jewelry choices also included fun twists on classic pieces such as a peace sign pendant necklace or a charm bracelet.

Heroine of SEX and City - Charlotte


The all American girl, Charlotte was a true romantic at heart, and wore jewelry that reflected her feminine side and well-to-do upbringing. Charlotte's love of all things proper, she gravitated toward single strand pearl necklaces and earrings. She also made famous the bow shaped pendant and paid homage to classic cuts of diamonds.

Heroine of SEX and City - Miranda


The hard headed work-a-holic sets up her signature style with bold pieces and whimsical jewelry sets. The red head is best known for accenting her short sassy do with duster or dangly earrings in gold or beautiful stone settings. She also plays with colors that compliment her hair color, using royal blues and aquamarine in her accessory choices.

Heroine of SEX and City - Samantha


The confident vixen struts her stuff in outrageous jewelry that is as bold as her personality. Samantha loved signature cocktail rings, such as the two fingered flower ring that she received as a gift in the movie. She also took risks with funky neon geometric earrings, large Lucite bracelets and animal print bangles.

Birthstone Pendant

Everyone loves a gift that is tailored to their personality, interests and lifestyle. So what's better than giving a birthstone pendant necklace, bracelet, earrings or ring?

With birthstone pendant, it's all about the personalization. You choose the setting, the cut and the stone. Here's a quick guide to help you get started creating the perfect gift for that special someone in your life:

1) Choose your setting. Does the recipient tend to wear a lot of gold or sterling silver? If she's allergic to 14K gold (some women are), it might be your best bet to go with beautiful sterling silver. The setting of the birthstone pendant should be reflective of the recipient's personality. For example, if she is a modern woman, then she might appreciate an infinity setting (circle of birthstone pendant) which is quite stunning. If she has classic tastes, then perhaps something more feminine and ornate would be preferred.

2) Choose your cut. This may be dictated by the setting you choose, but if you decide upon a birthstone pendant, then you have some additional options. There are: princess cut, emerald cut, brilliant cut, pear drop, teardrop or bezel set stones, to name a few.

3) Choose the stone. This is pretty much decided for you by the birth month of the recipient, with the exception of the last 3 months of the year. As a refresher course, here are the months and corresponding modern birthstones:





January - Garnet birthstone
February – Amethyst birthstone
March – Aquamarine birthstone
April – Diamond birthstone
May – Emerald birthstone
June – Pearl birthstone
July – Ruby birthstone
August – Peridot birthstone
September – Sapphire birthstone
October – Opal, Tourmaline birthstone
November – Yellow Topaz, Citrine birthstone
December – Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Tanzanite birthstone



The origin of the birthstone comes from the bible and the 12 stones representing the 12 tribes of Israel. The gemstones correspond to the signs of the zodiac at that time.

Once you've chosen your personalization elements for the birthstone pendant, the only thing left for you to do is enjoy the thanks that you receive for your thoughtful gift.

Vacation Inspired Jewelry

As the weather heats up and the stores stock the racks with sundresses, shorts and tank tops, the jewelry of the moment is inspired by the cool colors of vacations to tropical locations. Here are some baubles that will help to remind you of paradise abroad.

Shells – Authentic sea shell jewelry is both beautiful and unique, but this year, why not try something new and equally as stunning? Shell shaped charms, pendants and drop earrings are absolutely eye-catching when adorned with rhinestones or CZ in a pave setting. Sterling silver jewelry starfish shapes are delicate and can up the style quotient when worn in jewelry sets.



Palm Tree Shapes – Inspired by the swaying trees of far-off destinations, a palm tree pendant necklace can add a beach vibe to classic pieces. Worn by celebrities such as Kate Hudson, you can recall memories of your favorite vacation spots with this tropical treat.


Fish – With a colorful coat of scales, these underwater creatures look phenomenal when worn as sterling silver jewelry adorned with precious gems. From royal blue to aquamarine, tropical fish inspired jewelry makes a great statement necklace or cocktail ring. For an Asian inspired look, look for a Koi fish piece in red, orange and yellow. You'll be sure to make a splash!



Flowers – Hawaiian flavors abound, flowers like the orchid look great when set with colorful stones in a statement necklace. Asymmetrical multi-strand tropical flower necklaces are chic and stylish as ever this year. For a more understated look, small flower earrings, such as those donned by starlet Hayden Panettiere can make anyone glow.




It's easy and inexpensive to incorporate a beachy vacation vibe that will get you thinking about bright sunny days lounging at a poolside cabana or a beach side hide-a-way. Simply don a piece or two of jewelry inspired by your destination.

Egyptian Influence on Western Jewelry Trends

Fashion and jewelry have always drawn influence from different cultures, both near and far. But what you might not know is that many of the top picks of beauty editor's 'must have' accessories for this season are inspired by the ancient cultures of Egypt and Mesopotamia.

Long before celebrities walked the red carpets adorned with giant gemstones and stylish statements of fashion, Egyptians were creating arm bands, bracelets, earrings and collars for royalty hierarchy, wise scholars and skilled warriors. Today, these pieces have re-emerged into the limelight, as glamorous Hollywood 'It' girls and socialites don giant oversized gold cuffs, art deco themed chokers and arm bands reminiscent of ancient Egyptian culture.

Much of Egyptian culture has roots in architecture and those influences carry over into the intricate and beautifully adorned jewelry designs of the culture. Gold was a favorite, and rare precious gems such as the olive-hued Peridot were often used as accents and symbols of power. Now, we see celebrities such as Amy Adams wearing jewelry inspired by the Egyptian culture. The stunning statement necklace she wore to the recent Academy Awards ceremony was a cascade effect of rubies, emeralds and diamonds. It was a beauty that would make even Cleopatra jealous.

Another trend we can't seem to get enough of is the golden cuff bracelet. The serpent cuff bracelet adorned with gemstones for eyes is a hot seller that has been spotted on the arm of fashion mavens Madonna and Fergie. The beaded lotus cuff bracelet, which is accented with turquoise and blue grass stones looks almost Safari-like and is similar to the designs at many major department stores and retailers. Both of these cuffs are very similar to the arm bands worn by royal Egyptians in ancient times.

As evidenced by the patterns of modern day jewelry, it's easy to see the origin of these pieces dating back to Egyptian roots. From hammered metal pendants to ornate arm cuffs, the culture is carried on and adapted in many beautiful ways.

Chunky chains necklaces: A Fashion 'Do'

If you feel like being a bit edgy this spring, then it's time to get on board with one of the hottest jewelry styles of the season – chain link metal. Featured on the pages of In Style and on the necks of the style-setters like Blake Lively, this is one piece of jewelry advice you simply can't ignore.

Reminiscent of 80s punk rock and 90s hip hop, gunmetal open chain link necklaces are back and they're all the rage right now. With a layered or wound together look, these pieces can be eye-catching and chic. To add interest to a single strand chain link necklace, look for a piece with texture, try wrapping a few times or combine with other more polished jewelry for a fun flirty look. Chain metal jewelry is meant to be interesting, so don't be afraid to play around by adding sterling silver or sparkly charms.

If you can't see yourself piling on chain metal link necklaces, then try an asymmetrical style, with mini chains on one side and a statement flower or rhinestone knot on the opposite side. This is a more polished, yet still unique way to wear the trend. By incorporating heavier chains with more delicate or glamorous pieces, you'll achieve a more balanced and feminine look. For a night out, try incorporating an oversized mesh chain link choker to pump up the volume of a basic black dress.

Chain link necklaces are playful and fun, so the outfits you pair them with should be too. For example, wear one casually with a simple t-shirt and cardigan. Or, play to the layered effect and try one with a t-shirt, open vest and skinny jeans. This style should look completely effortless – like you just threw on the necklace and let it speak for itself.