Monday, March 30, 2009

Jumbo Jewels


Last week I told you about the trend report I put together about the jewelry marketplace, and I shared some tips for shopping from the Diamond Information Center. Well, now I want to share some more insider information from Helena Krodel at the Jewelry Information Center (JIC), a total pro and fabulous trend forecaster.

According to Helena, one of the main trends for the upcoming year will be "Jumbo Jewels"--large-scale accessories that can make an outfit all on their own. She broke this down for me into four smaller groups: Statement necklaces (especially bibs and collars), Statement Cuffs, Gemstone cocktail rings and Hoop earrings.

I'm also really feeling this look for spring and beyond. If you want to shop some of these looks, just click below to check out some of my picks for Jumbo Jewels featured on Portero right now. (For variety, I chose one look for each category at the lower end of the price range and one at the high-end.)

Statement Necklaces:

--Yves Saint Laurent Golden Braided Collar Toggle Necklace. I am loving the bold yellow gold and '80s-vintage feel of this oversized collar.
--18k Yellow Gold 12.06 ctw Diamond Necklace. Totally stunning and will never go out of style.

Statement Cuffs:

--M+J Savitt Hammered Gold Plated Turquoise Cuff Bracelet. The cabochon gemstone, hammered metal and oversized profile are all perfect for the upcoming season.
--Sterling Silver 18k Yellow Gold Rose Cut Diamond Vintage-Inspired Hinged Bangle Bracelet. This Indian-inspired bracelet will go with anything--from jeans and a white t-shirt to a ball gown.

Gemstone cocktail rings:

--Jewel of Ocean 18k Yellow Gold Lapis Lazuli Cocktail Ring sz 5.25. As I mentioned before, Cabochons are right on target for 2009.
--Yossi Harari 24k Yellow Gold Large Opal Cocktail Ring sz 7. Opals are fantastic because no two are exactly alike--thus this ring feels totally custom.

Hoop Earrings:

--SOHO 18k Rose Gold Black Enamel Hoop Earrings. Rose gold looks perfect on every skin tone and the random enamel feels like a bit of modern art.
--JewelMak Hammered 18k Yellow Gold Aquamarine Hoop Earrings. JIC says that "gemmed" or "charmed" hoops will be big.

Image via Fashionverbatim.net