Holiday Gift Guide 2011: Fine Jewelry
Hey, big spender. You've made your list, you've checked it twice, but you still haven't found the perfect gift for that special someone.
Before you panic and run off to the mall to snap up a boring sweater set, check out these fine jewelry picks—they're sure to dazzle your dearest.
A diamond bracelet often calls to mind a simple tennis style. (How… lovely.) And while we're not about to turn down diamonds, in any form, we'd much rather have a statement piece like this stunning diamond and black enamel cuff by Kwiat. Architecturally inspired, this is exactly the piece you (and we!) need to kick off the New Year. Because, really, nothing says "Hello 2012" quite like 7.20 carats.
Diamond and Black Enamel Pagoda Collection Cuff Bracelet (set in 18K white gold) by Kwiat, $33,000; at Kwiat's New York boutique (725 Madison Avenue; 212-725-7777), and Kwiat.com
The Trinity collection is timeless—jewelry that can be worn for a lifetime and then be passed down in your family. This year, Cartier introduced a white gold, black ceramic, diamond and platinum take on the bracelet—a modern update to the beloved 1924 original. Incidentally, the Trinity ring was made popular by writer Jean Cocteau, and the leopard Trinity series was inspired by the wallpaper in his study.
Trinity Black and White Bracelet in white gold, ceramic, platinum, and diamonds by Cartier, $48,300; at Cartier boutiques and Cartier.com
There are some pieces of jewelry that just scream out your name. This ring by Van Cleef is one of them. The Makara from the Bals de Légende collection features a cushion-cut center sapphire; pink sapphires, mauve sapphires, turquoise, garnets, and, of course, diamonds set in white gold. We're swooning at the thought of being in the same room with this beauty.
Makara Ring from the Bals de Légende collection by Van Cleef & Arpels, price upon request; for store information, visit Vancleef-Arpels.com or call 877-VAN-CLEEF (826-2533)
There's something so elegant about a pair of classic hoops. Of course, when they're set with 170 diamonds (1.19 total carat weight), the chic factor goes through the roof! With 18K white gold and more sparkle than your tree's tinsel, these earrings will no doubt win you the prize as ultimate gift-giver this holiday season. Take that, Santa!
Classic Hoop Earrings by De Beers, $5,900; at De Beers locations and Debeers.com
Why choose between a high-fashion gift and a luxe bauble? They're no longer mutually exclusive. Chanel fine jewelry's Baroque collection offers mouthwatering options in 18K white gold, 18K yellow gold, onyx, and diamonds. A perfect complement to that 2.55 bag,
the house's modern twist on the chain-link necklace is elegant yet cool and doesn't scream "I'm Chanel!" Quiet luxury, after all, is the best kind.
Premiere Sautoir necklace by Chanel, $41,300; at select Chanel boutiques or call 800-550-0005
Every girl loves to receive that little blue box, no matter what the occasion. But if a solitaire diamond isn't in the cards (or you gave that last year), may we suggest a pair of pretty earrings? (And we're not talking your basic studs!) The Paloma Picasso collection is unique, fun and colorful. Plus, you can't go wrong with 20 carats of yellow quartz dangling delicately from 18K gold. The stone's color is flattering to all skin tones and will go so well with Spring 2012's tangerine trend. We just may have to buy a pair for ourselves ...
Paloma Picasso 20 Carat Drop Earrings by Tiffany & Co., $1,500; at Tiffany & Co. locations and Tiffany.com
One of our favorite jewelry trends of late is the resurgence of rose gold. The blush hue is so gorgeous that we can't help but to look at any and every piece twice. Combine the luxe metal with pavé diamonds and you have a quintessentially Bulgari ring. The Parentesi, inspired by the joints of Roman pavements, has a decidedly modern feel thanks to its pink tone and chunky style. We think Elizabeth Taylor would approve.
Parentesi Large Band Ring in 18K Pink Gold with Full Pavé Diamonds by Bulgari, $10,900; at Bulgari boutiques and Bulgari.com
The Starburst necklace is not for the shrinking violet in your life, as Yurman's designs don't usually cater to the fashion wallflower. Featuring over 2 carats of pavé diamonds and 18K yellow gold, this gorgeous piece can carry a look all on its own. The bold collection (there are earrings and a ring as well) was inspired by fireworks, which you'll no doubt see if you give any—or all three!—of the items this season.
