Tag Archives: jewelry

Odes to Everyday Things from Every Continent

In the spirit of Pablo Neruda’s marvelous poetry about ordinary things, we’ve compiled a photo essay spanning the seven continents. Plato taught us long ago, that the “beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity.” Let’s take a moment to celebrate the design of everyday things.

 


 

Africa: Ostrich Egg

Homes all over South Africa include ostrich eggs in their array of objet d’ -art and it’s easy to see why. Perfected by nature, oversized ovals are a unique surface for artisans to decorate. Enameled, painted, or even untouched, save for a stand, the results are astounding.

 

South Africa ostrich eggs
Photo by: flickr/Redmond licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

 

Antarctica: Ice

Contemplating the ice of Antarctica is a meditation in white. Something commonly thought of as one color, is in the purity of the Arctic landscape, many, many hues. Behold shades of ghostwhite, floralwhite, ivory, lavenderblush; yes, lavenderblush, all in sheets and bergs of ice.

 

Antarctica ice
Photo by: stocksnap.io/Casey Kiernan licensed under CC0 1.0

 

Asia: Bangles

Among the most beautiful creations in all corners of the Indian subcontinent are stalls of shimmering, fragile, glassy, colorful bangles sold by the dozen. A proper “sleeve” of bangles requires at least three dozen bangles. Since they’re glass, they’re expected to break. Shattering one by one, it’s time for another visit to the bazaar when they’ve all broken away.

 

bangles
Photo by: flickr/Garry Knight licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

 

Australia: Didgeridoo

Indigenous Australians created this exquisite instrument almost 1500 years ago from hollowed out tree limbs. How does one hollow out tree limbs? Termites do it for you. Decorative motifs vary depending on the provenance of the person making the instrument, and makes for a variety of styles and sounds. Its familiar droning is inextricably linked to the culture and people Down Under.

 

Australia Didgeridoo

 


 

Europe: Tulips

It’s a flower so gorgeous it inspired a frenzy in the 1600s. Legend has it that at the height of their value, certain tulip bulbs commanded prices 10 times the yearly income of a skilled craftsman! To this day, economists use the phrase “tulip mania” when speaking about fluctuations in the intrinsic value of goods in the marketplace.

tulips
Photo by: pixabay under license CC0 1.0

 

North America: Maple Syrup

During early European colonization in northeastern North America, indigenous peoples taught arriving colonists how to harvest sap for survival. Many years later, Civil War abolitionists opted to use maple syrup rather than southern sugar cane. And during WWII, maple syrup was the go-to sweetener in a time of increased rations. This is a flapjack syrup with some serious historical cred.

 

maple syrup
Photo by Unsplash/ Sonja Langford

 

South America: Caipirinhas

The classic libation of Brazil that’s as fun to drink as it is to say: KAI-PE-REEN-YA. A refreshing concoction that goes great with Rio’s hot, hot, hot beaches. You can order them with a variety of fruits like pineapples, grapes or strawberries but we recommend taking it classic: a little lime juice, cachaça (sugar cane hard liquor) and a hint of sugar. Saude!

caipirinha
Cachaca Dave/under license GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0, Wikimedia Commons

3 Affordable Jewelry Companies To Check Out Now

Jewelry is transformative for an outfit, helping to complete a look, make it and even showcase your personality. Small jewelry brands are busy ensuring that customers get exactly what they want with pieces that reflect their interests or serve as inspiration. We’ve put together a short list of some of our favorite affordable jewelry companies, and best of all, they’ll fit into even the tightest of budgets.

 

Mae Cargo

Mae Cargo combines fitness with fashion to create durable and functional fashion. Designed by CEO Kate Ronca, the company’s slogan is “Making Rad Happen,” which Kate explains, “Means to love your life and crush your goals.”


As a CrossFit coach for six years, Kate’s ultimate objective is to design jewelry for men and women who are active, jewelry that “does not discolor or fade or turn your skin weird colors” when you wear it while you sweat. Kate’s love of CrossFit has taken her back and forth across the United States and all the way to South Africa before moving back to Southern California to make jewelry full time. Still, her time as a CrossFit coach plays a strong role in her designs, including her “Dumbbells + Donuts” pieces.

Find your own inspirational Mae Cargo piece at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MaeCargo.

 

GLDN

GLDN is the new incarnation for Layered + Long. Founded by Chrissy Lavdovsky on her living room floor, Layered + Long began as an Etsy store but has evolved into GLDN, a more realized vision of the original jewelry brand. GLDN makes delicate custom-made pieces by hand in a small studio in La Conner, Washington.

There are no limits with the custom handwriting bar… I absolutely LOVE where @phoooebers went with this  #burritos

A post shared by GLDN by Layered & Long (@itsgldn) on

Since evolving, GLDN’s dedication to craft and quality remains the same. The team handcrafts each tiny piece so that everything is ethical and sustainable. GLDN uses gold-filled jewelry as a more affordable alternative to solid gold products, and most pieces are also available in sterling silver and other metal options.

According to the company, “Our jewelry is meaningful because it can be personalized and custom made to the customer’s liking. We hate the idea of mass-produced jewelry and pride ourselves on making every piece to order.”

Find something that suits your personal style at https://www.gldn.com and know that it is made with love and care.

 

NUUK Designs

NUUK Designs hails from Porto, Portugal and has garnered a small international following. Created by mother and daughter team, Paula and Joana, NUUK combines the backgrounds of the duo, in management and design, into elegant minimalist jewelry. NUUK stands out from the crowd of delicate pieces for the geometric and linear lines the brand uses. Trendy yet timeless, NUUK has branched out from an Etsy store to capture the attention of fashionistas the world over looking for unique ways to make a statement.

Each season seems to bring new inspiration and pieces from NUUK. Dedicated to quality and longevity, most of the collections are made with sterling silver or are gold-plated sterling silver for an affordable indulgence.

Find the NUUK design that completes your look at https://www.nuukdesigns.com.

*Featured image: courtesy of GLDN by Long + Layered

On the Short List: 5 Choker Necklaces to Wear Now

When it comes to accessories, sometimes the best approach is to keep things short and sweet. Case in point: choker necklaces. This jewelry all-star is officially back in style, and there’s no shortage of options to suit your needs (pun intended). From sleek metallic must-haves to embellished chokers that are big on details, we’ve rounded up a mix of designs that prove once and for all that the best things really do come in small packages.

Five Choker Necklaces That are Big on Style

1. Chan Luu Pyrite Disk Choker, $120

choker necklaces

Just because something’s trendy doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t invest in a quality piece. (After all, what goes around comes back around in the world of fashion.) If you haven’t heard of jewelry designer Chan Luu, you’re missing out on one of Hollywood’s favorite luxury brands. Luu’s popularity came into full swing after Brad Pitt purchased one of her handcrafted designs for then-wife Jennifer Aniston — and that design just so happened to be a seashell necklace on a choker-length leather cord.

Treat yourself to the same style with the brand’s current lineup of modern chokers. This sterling silver piece is lined with delicate coin accents and dainty pyrite semi-precious stones for a subtle hint of sparkle and shine. And hey, you can always pretend it’s from Brad.

2. Charming Charlie Suede Bow Choker Necklace, $8

charming charlie choker

Prefer to stock up on trendy accessories that are a tad more affordable instead? Charming Charlie is one of the best places to score on-trend styles at on-point prices, and they have so many chic and colorful choker-length necklaces to browse. This classic black-and-white design is made with the softest faux suede, and it features a pretty bow and an opalescent pendant dangling front and center. (So Audrey Hepburn, right?)

3. BaubleBar Axelia Choker, $36

choker necklace

All chokers are not created equal, and there’s no rule that says a choker design has to be short. Go for the Grecian goddess look with this dangling gold style by BaubleBar instead. Known for its assortment of contemporary accessories, this popular brand makes some of the cutest necklaces around (as evidenced by this wrapped chain with tassel details). Wear it with basic tops and plunging necklines alike for a notice-me accent that takes center stage.

4. BaubleBar Acrylic Monogram Choker, $42

chokers

When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with a tried-and-true monogram. This customizable design by BaubleBar is ideal for gift giving, but don’t feel a bit bad about buying one for yourself. It’s kind of like Carrie’s nameplate necklace on Sex and the City with a dash of old-fashioned Southern charm thrown in for good measure.

5. Sole Society Stone Statement Necklace, $54.95

choker necklace

If you’re a fan of color pops and bohemian-chic style, this is the choker for you. Sole Society’s gold design features a blue lapis pendant that’s accented with a touch of triangular shimmer. Even better, this statement maker is super versatile, so you’ll wear it with mixed prints and LBDs alike.

Are you as obsessed with this trend as we are? Which of these choker necklaces is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The 7 Best Pieces of Jewelry a Woman Can Buy Herself

Jewelry is dangerous, because you can never have too much. Before you know it, you have enough pieces to open your own boutique. The best part is digging to the bottom of your jewelry box and finding something you completely forgot you ever had. It’s like Christmas morning. It kind of feels like you’re going shopping at your own private store.

You love your feathered earrings and your lightning bolt ear cuff; and you swear you’re going to bring back the ‘90s with your favorite black choker. But what are the day-to-day essentials? We’ve compiled a list of the jewelry must-haves — the basic pieces that can complement a great variety of outfits and take you from the office to drinks to dinner. Here are the seven pieces of jewelry that every gal should buy herself.

1. A Sophisticated Watch

You don’t really need a watch anymore; if you want to know the time, you look at your phone. But nobody can deny the utter class and impeccable style of a woman in a beautiful watch. The market presents an endless variety of styles; you can go for a statement watch, something sleek and chic.

women's jewelry

2. The Delicate Necklace

It’s that dainty piece of jewelry that you can wear with just about anything, from a cocktail dress to leggings and your favorite v-neck. It’s not much of an attention-grabber, but when people finally take notice, they appreciate its subtle sophistication. This Sydney Evan arrow pendant necklace is plain enough to go casual; but the rose gold and black diamond embellishment give you the freedom to dress it up.

women's jewelry

3. A Cocktail Ring

The perfect cocktail ring isn’t just for drinks. Flaunt this day and night, business casual to your little black dress. It works well on its own; or if you’re feeling a bit more jazzy, you can combine it with rings on your other fingers.

women's ring

4. Earrings With Attitude

Bold earrings that make a statement might not be an everyday addition to your ensemble; but you’ll certainly be glad you have them when you’re feeling more adventurous than usual. The Fantasque Drops from Anthropologie add a wonderfully vibrant splash of color without becoming overwhelming.

women's earrings

5. Hoops That Go With Everything

On the other end of the earring spectrum is your pair of simple, everyday hoops. Whether they’re gold or silver, you really can’t go wrong. It’s an elegantly muted touch that pairs perfectly with any outfit and hairstyle.

women's fashion

6. Something Turquoise

Whether it’s a chunky ring, stacked bracelets, or a dangling necklace, a piece of turquoise is another must-have in your jewelry box. The Serene Sea handcrafted necklace brings a special something to any outfit, with its artistic detail and perfectly flawed color pattern.

women's necklace

7. Understated Diamond Studs

Your collection of jewelry isn’t complete without a pair of no-nonsense diamond studs. Diamonds are timeless — they’ll never go out of style. And if you’re ever unsure of where to turn, head to Tiffany & Co.

diamond studs
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Best Modern Watches for Women Under $400

Become a little less dependent on your phone while upping your accessory game with a minimalist and modern timepiece. Gone are the days of gaudy, blingy watches that scream status. With big faces and minimal features, our new favorite watches are both chic and relatively affordable. Tell more stylish time with these five understated beauties, prioritizing Scandinavian-inspired simplicity over flash.

Larsson and Jennings

Emerging watch designer, Larsson and Jennings, blends famous Swedish minimalist design with British elegance. Their unisex watches are the definition of “clean lines.” Handmade leather straps and Swiss movements mean your new watch is built to last for a very long time. If you live in New York, visit their concept store in Nolita to customize your very own. The Läder, one of their most popular models, retails for $360.

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/_MPMlci9Pb/

 

Daniel Wellington

With 1.7 million followers on Instagram, Daniel Wellington is one of the most popular up-and-coming accessories brands today. Their timeless timepieces are thoroughly preppy, but definitely unpretentious and range in price from $149 to $229. The company was named after a British gentleman who seemed at home regardless of the situation, and their watches follow suit. Replaceable straps and quality components mean you’ll have your DW watch for years and years. Tag your photo with #dwpickoftheday and you could be featured on their account, becoming just as insta-famous they are.

 

 

The Horse

Founded by Australian husband and wife team, Scott and Amy Hawkes, The Horse launched their first line of watches in 2012. Today, four unique styles share the brand’s typical understated approach to accessorizing. This classic and versatile aesthetic is appropriate whether you’re wearing jeans or an evening gown. You can claim one from The Original line for $139. The couple says they believe in ‘buying once and buying well.” We do, too.

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/-_QM4Iq3nA/

 

Skagen

“Simple design for a better life” is the motto of Skagen, a Danish design company now owned by Fossil. This ethos is carried out in the more than 100 watch models they produce, most of them retailing for less than $200. The company’s commitment to ethical manufacturing practices that benefit both humans and the environment make these watches even more attractive.

https://www.instagram.com/p/-z2HY9JbWA/?taken-by=nicole.toland

 

Instrmnt

Get hands on with an Instrmnt watch. Each one comes disassembled in a kit along with the tools to put it together. The Glasgow-based design collective makes six different models, each with a simple approach reminiscent of industrial design of the mid-20th century. The $280 price tag seems like a bargain considering the quality of the materials. The multi-disciplinary company also produces bikes, a collaboration with master bike builder, Freddie Grubb. We’re hoping Instrmnt’s next project brings their soon-to-be-iconic watches into full-size wall clocks.

 

Cluse

Based in Amsterdam, CLUSE prioritizes simplicity and sophistication over bells and whistles in their stunning collection of watches. Favored by professional and amateur stylists alike, CLUSE watches exude understated confidence. None costs more than €99.95, either. We would love to visit their atelier on the Amsterdammer canals. Someday…