 | Faberge Wants to Become a Luxury Brand Number 1 in the World | Jan 18, 2008 |
Faberge trade mark has been associated with luxury for almost two centuries but it must be admitted that they have invented nothing new for a long period of time.
Taking into consideration that nowadays a great number of brands come in the world of fashion and become popular due to their famous projects, we can regard Faberge only as a glorious history.
But probably everything will change – the world is waiting for the beginning of Faberge's rebirth due to new owners of the brand.
Very soon they will sell precious metals, Easter eggs, cosmetics and even clothing – in general 8 classes of production.
Such a change has happened because Unliver company the brand Faberge belonged, sold it to a big investment fund Pallinghurst Resources.
They want to become a leading world producer of precious stones. At the same time there is a big chance to make Faberge a worldwide producer in the luxury goods sphere. There is an impression that it will be of great use for Faberge to return its popularity and prestige all around the world.
Let's remind you that the history of Faberge began in 1842 when Gustav Faberge opened his first workshop and jewelry store in Saint Petersburg. Since that time the Faberge brand has been associated with greatly executed easter eggs and jewelry pieces as well as unique style combining rich heritage of Russian craftsmen.
The company is proud by 10 Emperor Easter Eggs with surprises made for a Russian emperor and his family. They are amazingly beautiful and refined.
Jewelry eggs-souvenirs were surprises not only for those the gift was destined to but often even for emperors who ordered them. When Faberge was asked by the emperor about the subject of the next egg he usually told:”Your majesty will be pleased.”
| Milus Apiana 'Joaillerie' for Ladies - Streams of Diamonds | Dec 29, 2007 |
Having noticed the ever-increasing popularity of black and white combination, the Milus company has created the most elegant Apiana watches for ladies in two variations.
The timepieces reflect refined and glamorous personality, being crafted in 18K white gold and embellished by brilliant white diamonds. The zest of the Apiana 'Joaillerie' is found in curved relief numerals 3, 6, 9 and 12 that will remind you the art nouveau style.
The creators of the Apiana watches applied into their development the finest skills of jeweler's artistry and craftsmanship. The Apianas are aimed at ladies who appreciate precious materials, boundless stream of creativity and meticulous attention to detail.
The Milus Apiana models are available in a few original variations - pure white or elegant black with the bezel catching attention due to radiant diamonds, the golden case and the dial, or with a brilliant gold case and sparkling diamond-paved bezel.
The supreme elegance of the Apiana hand-screwed case is successfully underlined by the diamond-adorned bezel and the inner and outer lateral details of the Apiana 'Joaillerie' model that goes on a white strap. The lines of the case profile are complemented by 1.61 carats of diamonds.
The Apiana 'Joaillerie' featuring white-gold case is presented on a velvet-black strap. The timepiece reveals a slightly different look fascinating by its pure, brilliant aura. The bezel is crowned by 98 diamonds.
Having created Apiana 'Joaillerie' in white gold, Milus has come up with a new stylish way of time-telling for ladies.
| Roger Dubuis New Sporty-Styled Timepieces | Nov 15, 2007 |
As all of us are increasingly interested in active life style and go in for sports, watchmaking companies do their best to satisfy the existing demand for reliable sporty-styled timepieces. The Roger Dubuis started its Sports Activity Watch collection (SAW in short) in 2004. The SAW opened a new page in the creative development of the brand. In 2007, Roger Dubuis has added new exclusively designed timepieces to its popular sports line.
The Roger Dubuis SAW movement RD78 is created to correspond to the top technical and aesthetic standards as well as reflect the current fashion trends. You will notice rubber inserts on the watch's bezel and pushers that add a sporty yet elegant touch to the entire look of the chronograph crafted in rose gold. The rubber strap is attached to the case with help of the triple lugs appreciated as the signature feature of the Roger Dubuis brand. The strap sports the distinctive 'RD' logo.
The SAW movement RD78 self-winding chronograph is proud to bear the Poincon de Geneve quality hallmark. The RD78 movement is rhodium-plated and reveals Cotes de Geneve motif. The chronograph hand is positioned in the center of the dial. The watch displays a seconds counter at 9 o'clock as well as a semi-instantaneous 45-minute counter found at 3 o'clock. The watch provides 42-hour power reserve.
The timepiece offers the choice between rose gold and steel model. The exclusively developed model is available in strictly limited edition of 28 pieces.
The Roger Dubuis SAW movement RD14 is an originally styled timepiece. The peculiarity of the watch is an unconventional combination of materials. Pay your attention to the rubber inserts on the bezel and crown in the eye-catching union with the exquisite diamond setting. Due to this Roger Dubuis ladies' watch has acquired a distinctively refined and sporty touch. In the heart of the timepiece there beats a mechanical self-winding movement, the reliability of which is guaranteed by the Poincon de Geneve. The mechanism is rhodium-plated and reveals Cotes de Geneve motif.
As for the seconds sub-dial, it is positioned at 6 o'clock. This elegant model offers the choice between a steel and rose gold version. The timepiece provides the 48-hour power reserve.
| Gifts for Colleagues | Oct 09, 2007 |
If is not so difficult to choose a gift for your relative or friend but to choose a gift for your colleagues and partners is not an easy task. You should treat the point seriously. The most important is to know the preferences and interests of the person the gift is destined to. It has to correspond to what he/she does and what his/her job specifics is. A gift expresses your gratitude towards people that are around you and have helped you professionally all year long. With the help of a gift you can demonstrate how much you respect and value that person. But in order to avoid misunderstandings you should follow several psychological laws of giving presents.
There are several rules concerning what kind of gifts we can present our colleagues with.
A business gift shouldn't be expensive. Even if you work in a prosperous company don't present your colleagues or bosses with the expensive gifts. Otherwise they will feel uncomfortable and obliged. Moreover a too expensive gift for your boss can be regarded as a bribe.
What you shouldn't present:
Lingerie: this is completely inappropriate gift even if you work in a lingerie shop.
Clothing: Hats, shirts, socks and the like. Ties, scarves and neckerchiefs present an exception.
Alcoholic beverages: there are special rules in some companies that forbid to present with alcoholic beverages.
Religious cult objects: It is very difficult to guess what kind of religion the person professes. He/she might be an atheist.
Be careful with funny and joky gifts. Some people may not understand your joke and even take offense.
Perfumery and cosmetics: Even if you think that you know the taste of the recipient very well you can be mistaken still. Never present a colleague with a second-hand item. The only exception is vintage objects.
You can present a colleague with:
Office objects: pen, calculator, organizer, set of office objects.
It can also be a lighter, a key trinket, a manicure set etc.
Items made of glass, leather and ceramics are a great option of a gift for a colleague.
As for products, it can be a candy box or a coffee. If you want to make a gift for your colleague-woman who is probably your friend, you can choose some jewels for her, it might be for example a pair of earrings or a chain with a cute pendant. But don't choose too expensive jewels with diamonds.
You can choose flowers and houseplants especially exotic ones as well as books, music, disks and DVD.
Don't forget about a good and beautiful cover - it is better to choose a classic and not too bright one. Remember that a beautiful cover makes the first impression.
| Jewelry Pieces – the Latest Trends | Sep 11, 2007 |
Jewelry pieces has always accompanied us in life. They not only please the eye but serve as a guarantee of our financial security. That is why it is not occasionally mankind pays special attention to jewelry fashion thinking that these beautiful items are even able to change the march of history. And some fatal histories of famous diamonds are the best prove to it. Jewelry pieces are a part of modern culture,and very often namely TV dictates us what to wear. It often happens that after a famous movie shown, the world starts wearing for example beads the protagonist worn.
Classic diamonds are always on the height of fashion. But you should know that they can be not only colorless but yellow for example. Yellow diamonds are extremely popular today. And it is possible to find jewels made with yellow diamonds that are extremely popular all around the world.
Also very popular are unusual and unexpected color tints that add a special beauty and refinement to the stone. Those tints can be even blue or black. If you cannot afford to buy a splendid diamond, pay attention to amazing gems such as a tourmaline or aquamarine and many others. They are also in fashion and are amazingly beautiful.
Italy is considered to be one of the leaders among jewelry pieces production . First of all Italy can be called a leader in ethnic jewelry production. Namely such kind of jewelry pieces are extremely popular in a number of countries all over the world. For instance people love massive gold necklaces, elegant bracelets and original earrings that remind the time of gorgeous princesses.
And you should also be aware of the fact that very cheap bijouterie is not in fashion any more. If a very young girl can afford to go somewhere in cheap earrings, a working woman can't do the same thing. She has to keep to her status with the help of gold or platinum jewels. But of course don't forget that your work place is not a place to show your vanity. A small pair of earrings or a string of beads made of natural pearl will accentuate your beauty, good and refined taste and will help to maintain your image.
| New Vacheron Constantin Watch for Tradition-Lovers | Jul 31, 2007 |
Vacheron Constantin has developed a new timepiece to join its emblematic Malte collection. The Malte Power Reserve and Date model has become a harmonious addition to the collection.
The Malte Power Reserve and Date is created for connoisseurs of traditional watchmaking and those who appreciate timepieces developed for refined everyday living. It may be presented as an elegant and valuable gift for serious-minded gentlemen who value long-established traditions.
As suggested by its name, the watch provides two advantageous complications, a power reserve and date function. The timepiece is presented in an attractively designed round-shaped case featuring slightly fanned horns. The case measures 38 mm in diameter, so it is a medium-sized timepieces in comparison to other watches in the Malte line.
Vacheron Constantin watchmakers have developed the model in two versions - 18K white or pink gold. The Power Reserve and Date watches feature a silvered dial in contemporary guilloche work to improve its legibility. The dial shows the time with help of central 18K gold fan-shaped hour and minute hands, while a seconds counter is found at six o'clock. As for the power reserve indicator, it is placed at eleven o'clock and reveals 18K gold applied facetted hour-markers. The large counter for the date function is featured at three o’clock.
In the heart of the Malte Power Reserve and Date watch there beats the brand's newly developed manual-wound 1420 movement. The mechanism is characterized by perfect finishing innate to every creation that belongs to the realms of traditional watchmaking craftsmanship. The immaculate operation of the movement to join the latest generation of mechanisms elaborated by the Geneva-based manufacture is guaranteed by the prestigious Geneva hallmark.
The Malte Power Reserve and Date watch is provided with a screw-down back. The timepiece boasts 30-meter water-resistance. The overall look of the timepiece is finely completed by a black or brown hand-stitched, square-scaled alligator leather strap equipped with a classic 18K white or pink gold buckle.
| American Style Ice-Cream: a Vanilla Ice-Cream with Cherries for $ 1 Million | Jul 04, 2007 |
Nowadays it has become a kind of usual thing to cover different objects with gold, embellish with diamonds and other precious stones and then sell them for crazy prices.
But they do it for special reason – they want to take more money from wealthy customers. Another matter is when they try to collect money for charity purposes. For example Bruster's Ice Cream company offers for sale an ice cream that costs ...$ 1 million! But they want to give money earned to children in need.
Such a high price is easy to explain – they substituted all the necessary ingredients for precious metals and stones.
Such an exclusive ice-cream was ordered by Bruster's ice cream company to a famous American jewelry company Lazare Kaplan. It successfully created a great copy of the most famous and loved ice-cream of the company – a vanilla ice-cream with cherries.
As a result you see a very nice and appetizing object but you can't eat it. But on the other hand you can buy it – for $ 1 million. A waffle is substituted for more than half a kilo of yellow and white 18 K gold, and vanilla ice-cream for 548 Lazare diamonds and 87 of diamonds of emerald cutting. There is also a huge yellow diamond (5,63 K)on the precious ice-cream.
Probably a real lover of that ice-cream will become a happy owner of such a cute, luxurious and crazy expensive jewelry piece. And one more great thing about this ice-cream is that it will never melt!
But all the money got from sell will come to a fund for children Big Brothers and Big Sisters. So this is a great prove that unselfish actions have a sweet taste!
| Choose a Pair of Earrings for Her | Jun 19, 2007 |
Do you have a good friend and have to present her with a gift but don't know what to choose? Don't panic – we'll try to help you.
You should know that one of the best options of a gift for her is a pair of cute and beautiful earrings. There is a great number of different earrings existed. The most difficult task is not to get lost in such a wide variety and choose something really appropriate for her. So let's find out what kind of earrings exist:
- Massive earrings: you can choose them for the majority of outfits – for a classic cocktail dress or a fashion jeans. Such kind of earrings are decorated with metallic details and gems or precious stones – from classic pearl to refined diamond and aquamarine, topaz, emerald and jasper.
- Dangle earrings: these beautiful earrings are on the height of fashion now. They make any clothing looking smart and are also decorated with gems and precious stones. If small earrings add mystery and temptation, dangle earrings in ethno style or earrings with metallic details are a great accessory for a modern stylish woman.
- Earrings-circles: simple circles-earrings are considered to be a very romantic and feminine ladies accessory. Moreover, you can wear them every day because they look great with any kind of clothing: be it a business costume or comfy clothes to walk.
Moreover such kind of earrings that remind circles have a very good and reliable clasp. You may not worry that you can loose your gorgeous earrings. Often they decorate such kind of earrings with complicated chic prints of white gold that makes them many times more attractive. Earrings-circles with diamonds are a great option for an evening apparel. The choice is really wide – and if you look for a good gift for her- choose a pair of diamond earrings-circles. - Ear clips. This is an ideal accessory for women who are afraid of piercing their ears. Remember that it's easier to lose earrings than ear clips. By the way some earrings can be turned into clips – they have a special additional clip.
- Name earrings: If you want to make a really unforgettable gift that will accentuate her individuality, a pair of earrings with her name or initials is a great idea. Moreover, such kind of earrings is made by a special order that's why you can choose material for them and appropriate gems.
- Magnet earrings: such earrings have small magnets from the front and at the back that hold them. Moreover they say that magnets have curing effects and suppress appetite.
| If in Romantic Mood, Glashutte Original Lady Serenade | May 30, 2007 |
Most experienced in developing timepieces based upon traditional values of watchmaking and aesthetics, in 2007 Glashutte Original launched a new generation of women's watches created in classic style. For Glashutte Original 'classic' style does not mean old-fashioned. It is just timeless and ever popular. The brand's designers wanted to develop the timepieces, so that they win female hearts and fill up their emotional world.
Glashutte created its new Lady Serenade as the most romantic reflection of feminine lifestyle and elegance. The watch model is available in a few successful variations to match any wardrobe. Among this variety ladies will discover elegant timepieces in sporty casual style as well as strictly formal business style and even stylish models for evening wear.
The case of the Lady Serenade is made either from rose gold and stainless steel. Every lady will be able to choose between a chocolate brown dial and a silvery dial. The luxurious rose gold model features gold Roman numerals. The stainless steel timepiece stands out due to a diamond-set bezel.
Stainless steel models of the Lady Serenade offer a choice between three different versions. The first variation features a white painted dial and Arabic numerals. A stylish white Louisiana crocodile leather strap completes the overall look of the model.
The beauty of the silver-colored dial is accentuated by silvery Roman numerals. The timepiece goes on a sand-colored crocodile leather strap. The third variation of steel Lady Serenade catches the eye due to its expressive design. The watch's silver-colored dial framed by a diamond-set bezel is embellished by an iridescent floral pattern. The same pattern continues on the stylish pink satin strap.
Among a variety of Glashutte Original Lady Serenade every lady will find an elegant timepiece that will best reflect her taste and inner world. A Lady Serenade will finely add subtle charm to a female look.
| A Gift with Therapeutic Effect | May 01, 2007 |
I have a great offer for you today. Why not to present yourself with a wonderful gift? And not a simple one but to choose something really amazing and expensive? I think it is a great idea from every point of view. So why not to buy a gorgeous jewelry set for yourself? Of course it is rather expensive but on the other hand any doctor will tell you how good mood influences greatly upon your health. But when you buy something of this kind of course your mood will be great for some time at least (smile). Of course everything depends on you, buy you know what - don't be greedy. Especially when the matter concerns you personally.
So look at the picture - do you like it? I hope so because these are the items I've bought for myself today. When I saw them I was impressed so much that I couldn't tell a word. I immediately understood that those gorgeous and stylish jewelry pieces made of yellow gold should be mine!They are made in the style of Ancient Roman or Greek empire.
And when I firstly look at them I immediately saw myself in a snow-white tunic and with those great jewelry pieces on me. The picture I imagined was so bright and vivid that I couldn't resist any more.
So I cleaned out my account but I've become a happy owner of unique jewelry set. And you know what, when I came home and put on the tunic and the gold set I felt the queen of the world. One more thing I have to take care of is appropriate shoes and namely a kind of sandals. One more investment but what to do? It takes money to look original and stylish.
I don't regret - my mood is great and I am very happy. I'm just waiting for the opportunity to put everything on and go somewhere. As you can see I'm not afraid of experiments and always open for something new and original.
It is so nice to make wonderful gifts for yourself! I've never thought it is nicer than to choose a gift for a person you love and respect. Do not think that I'm selfish and egocentric. I'm just in such a mood that I want to pamper myself a little. Do you think it's bad? I don't think so.
But I'm 100 per cent confident that everything should be within
reasonable limits, agree?
| How to Choose Neck Bijouterie | Apr 15, 2007 |
Of course every fashion lady cannot imagine herself without beautiful jewels. But not any lady can be called stylish. Have you ever thought why? The reason is rather simple. a stylish lady has a very good taste. And she knows precisely not only what types of clothing will suit her the best but also what kind of bijouterie will be appropriate for that particular attire and for her appearance. Your apparel can be very expensive and beautiful but if you choose inappropriate jewels the whole your look will be spoiled. In order to avoid such an unpleasant situation it is necessary to know some useful simple rules. Let us discuss how to choose bijouterie for neck.
There are several main rules it is necessary to keep to when you choose neck bijouterie. The older you become the longer and massive your neck jewels should be. Very thin and short chains can embellish only a very young neck with young and soft skin.
It is also necessary to take into consideration the neck shape. Women with long and beautiful neck can wear short necklaces with round tender gems. But they shouldn't wear V-shaped jewels that visually make their neck longer.
Women with short neck should wear necklaces five centimeters longer than clavicle.
Ladies with strong fatty neck are good to wear massive chains and necklaces longer than 46 centimeters. They should avoid short, round neck jewels.
Those women who have very thin neck should avoid close-fitting jewels and heavy and massive as well.
Do not be afraid to experiment with bijouterie but choose only what is really suitable to yiu and feel yourself a queen.
| Indisputable Versace | Feb 23, 2007 |
What to choose?
It is not difficult to find a jewelry item to get. All you need to do is to go to a jewelry boutique to pick up something you like. However, as soon as you start choosing there appears a question: this or that? Or even: what kind of dress shall it suit the best? The choice is wide, the opportunities aren't infinite and desires are many. There should be something specific you need to opt for.
To take a decision you'd better take your time, it is clear. Not to be hasted in choosing anything, consider just your own opinion. There are as many points of view as people around you. And many of them are attempting to give you a piece of advice, starting from the shop assistant up to your closest friend.
No advice
I'm not going to give you any advice. All I want is to tell about is a timepiece that I have recently discovered. It is a jewelry watch by Versace. As you know, Versace is not a brand specializing on timepieces only. It deals with fashion accessories, clothing, jewelry and even writing instruments.
The Versace Company started production of jewelry watches not long time ago. The official name for the watch division of the company is Vertime, which is a combination of the words Versace and Time. Vertime is based in Switzerland and specializes on elegant and stylish watches production. Versace watches are a part of Timex Group with hundred fifty years of experience in the luxury watch market.
Style and experience
The timepiece I'm going to tell you about is called Faubourg. It is a successful fusion of the Versace's style and old watchmaking experience of Timex. The Faubourg watch is marked with a special logo in the form of medusa, just like the rest of Versace watches. There is also a logo on the crown and the dial of the watch. Another classical feature of the brand is a Greek motif of the key.
The Versace Faubourg is a reliable timepiece due to the use of the Swiss movement. Vertime takes care to provide its watches with high quality control during and after the manufacturing process. The water resistance of the Faubourg watch comes to 100 meters. In addition, there are only highest quality materials used at the Versace manufacture: sapphire crystal glass, thorough finishing of the case and watch parts, natural leather and so on. Versace diamond watches are released only after the careful gemologist expertise.
Luxury and simplicity
There are many designers creating new watches for Versace. However, there is just one leader whose name is Donatella Versace. She served as the main source of inspiration for the Faubourg watch. Made of white gold and embellished with diamonds, Faubourg is perfect for any kind of outfit. It will be suitable both for wearing in the day-light and an evening dress. Despite the fact that Faubourg is a small watch, it will be in the limelight due to its luxury and simplicity of forms.
The hallmark engraving on the watch, as well as the edition number on its back case is a sign of the company's individuality and exclusivity of the timepiece.
| A Useful Gift for a Woman | Jan 23, 2007 |
Are you looking for a special gift for a woman you love? You know, it makes a lot of troubles to choose something for her in case you have an impression your woman already has everything possible. Does she have a great number of different jewelry pieces? You are tired of buying jewels for her? Do some jewellery boutique assistants already know you by your face?
Don't be afraid - there is a special idea for you. Just present her with a gorgeous jewellery organizer. Haven't you heard of something of this kind? Oh, it's not surprising - it is a novelty on a jewellery market. The thing is really exceptional.
Moreover it is well know that women have a special love for order and cleanness. That is the reason she will certainly be surprised getting an opportunity to make order in her jewellery case. The organizer has special sections for every kinds of jewels existed. It allows putting everything to its plays while a woman doesn't have such a possibility if she keeps her precious adornments in a simple jewellery box. In such a case there is a probability for chains to be entangled, for precious stones to be damaged by other expensive adornments etc.
That is why she will certainly be happy to get such a useful gift from you. But there is a one nuance here. It will be enough to make such a gift if you want to bring joy to her in an ordinary weekday. But in case it is an important holiday for her - for example her birthday - she will certainly be depressed if getting only jewellery organizer. A man who gains at least slight understanding of female psychology will never do such a terrible thing. It is evident that a woman will think that you don't love her any more, that you chose a gift for her just to be polite.
Or she can think that you are not attentive enough. It is especially true about women who were pampered by their men.
But don't panic - everything is very simple. Just put a cute jewellery piece into a jewellery organizer and all the problems will be solved that's for sure. Probably you will remember a famous Marylyn Monroe saying that the best friends of a girl are diamonds and will buy her a ring with this gorgeous stone. This is certainly the best option. And of course don't forget to tell your woman some pleasant to her ear words. In this case peace and love in your home are guaranteed.
| New Ideas of Harry Winston | Jan 19, 2007 |
Sooth to say, I have never seen such a strange and original piece of jewelry before. The point is not that various jewelry pieces impress me too much or I am really unaware of this sort of things. First impression is the strongest one, I must admit. However, it didn't happen for the first time to me that I saw and studied a piece of jewelry. Therefore, it is a matter of a specific object.
Some people do not take jewelry watches for jewelry. They think watchmaking is a secondary branch of jewelry and any jewelry item should be, one might say, deprived of functions. A platinum earring should be an earring, gold bracelet should be a bracelet and diamond necklace should be a necklace like all the rest.
However, I came across a very interesting and fine wording: 'Jewels telling time'. I guess it explains the situation in terms of this example.
Example of successful history
The name of the brand producing these original jewelry timepieces is Harry Winston. The Harry Winston Company exists for more than hundred years already. Harry Winston jewelry designs are considered to be timeless by the specialists in the field of jewelry. They also say he is a world leader in producing the modern luxurious jewelry and timepieces. I don't know if it's so, yet Harry Winston products and history serve as a good example of success.
The name of the jewelry watch by Harry Winston is Avenue B Ebony. The second part of the name 'Ebony' means that the bracelet of the watch is made of the ebony tree. This sort of tree is regarded as very rare one while its color is usually black or green.
There are only highest quality materials used at the manufacture of this Harry Winston watch. Both the bezel of the watch and the decorative elements are made of white gold. Diamonds embellishing Avenue B Ebony have been carefully controlled by the Company's gemologists. The number of the diamonds is thirty six and their carats are 1.60.
Highest quality jewelry
On the one hand, Avenue B Ebony watch features a quartz movement which stands for the highest precision of the time measurement. On the other hand, the use of quartz movement is another confirmation of the Company's jewelry specialization. However, there are, for example, such interesting watch models as Biretrograde and Biretro Second. The first features Girard-Perregaux automatic movement and the latter - Frederic Piguet's one.
Original design
Despite very original and artistic design of Harry Winston's Avenue B Ebony, movements aren't a strong point of this brand. That is the Harry Winston Company doesn't produce its own movements and isn't involved in their fine finishing.
The Harry Winston's brand style is the only limit for a customer making his order. All the rest is possible. Noble metals, starting from the 'ordinary' ones like gold and platinum up to the 'exotic' ones like rhodium.
Harry Winston's, to my mind, a very interesting brand, which is going to show its worth in the future. I heard that one of the recent cooperation plans concerned Francois-Paul Journe, who is an outstanding contemporary watchmaker.
| How to Choose Jewellery Pieces for a Woman | Jan 15, 2007 |
Everybody should clearly understand that it's necessary to choose jewellery pieces according to season. Of course such an unwritten law concerns jewels you choose as a gift for a woman. Every season with its weather and colors requires some particular jewellery items.
Of course every man immediately wants to see his woman in the jewels he's just presented her with and not to wait for the appropriate season for this.
It often happens that a thing that looks very stylish in winter is not a good idea to wear in summer. And vice versa correspondingly.
Winter means a short light day, early semi-darkness, and the most mysterious night time when electric light softens all the colors and jewels look differently than last summer.
They as if perform a function of old amulets that carefully keep a small part of summer sun among cold white snows. That is the reason it is so pleasant to wear jewellery pieces made of gold and silver in winter. (And not in vain these metals were considered to be magic metals in ancient times). German silver and gem jade are also appropriate to wear in winter. Also it is possible to list agate, lazurite, chalcedony and "sea tears" - amber. (but namely of dark, not transparent tint).
A winter evening and emeralds are greatly combined with each other. But the most beautiful emeralds are mined by South America Indians.
Onyx of milky-white, coldish with some sparkles of petrified snow is also referred to the winter stones. In Latin America they made Indian masks from onyx.
Among winter stones it's possible to name opal - a stone that doesn't like sun. It is considered to be the stone of legends and magicians…
As a rule all winter jewels such as earrings, brooches and beads are more massive and majestic than bright, light and colorful summer ones.
Usually in summer they seldom wear expensive jewellery pieces because beads, bracelets and earrings made of plastic look more appropriate with simple, light and refined summer outfit. Though there are exceptions to the rule…
As for summer stones it's possible to mention such as turquoise, light transparent amber and even sparkling river pearl.
Every season has its own style of jewels and choosing a jewel as a gift it's necessary to take it into consideration…
| Stephen Webster Jewellery Pieces | Jan 09, 2007 |
Stephen Webster jewellery pieces aren't aristocratic or classic - they're unrestrained and always attracting attention. And of course they attract celebrities' attention: Kate Moss, Pink, Naomi Campbell, Nicolas Cage and Robbie Williams. You know Madonna preferred wedding ring of this brand too. She greatly helped Webster to become a world celebrity.
Nowadays he is in the center of attention, slightly scandalous, constantly discussed and unbelievably successful trends creator.
And not by chance successful and famous "bad girls" and "bad boys" of show-biz choose Stephen Webster. Bright and provoking that are a good match to their clients, jewellery pieces attract attention not just of those who are admirers of jewellery art but real experts and professionals. You know in 2006 Stephen Webster won in "Design" nomination during UK National Jewellery Award and it was his 8th prize!
This year Stephen Webster celebrates 30-th anniversary of his professional activity in jewellery business.
He started in Great Britain but in 1982 moved to Canada where he founded his small workshop. In 1984 he came back to London but very soon he moved again to open his new studio in California.
Namely during 80-es with their bright colors, disco and unisex the "branded" Webster's style began forming. This style was expressed not just in design but in exotic precious stones and gems.
In 1988 the company Stephen Webster Ltd was founded. In the course of time it has become one of the biggest and most successful companies in Great Britain. Today the brand's boutiques are in Great Britain, USA, Australia, Japan, United Arab Emirates, Korea and Hong Kong. There're several company boutiques in post-Soviet territory as well.
Stephen Webster loves gems. He can take turquoise, agate, garnet or opal and set them with diamonds pave (in some jewellery pieces diamonds are in combination with sapphires) as in the refined collection "Crystal Haze Romantic". It has a complicated gothic print but looks great with central stone and being in contrast they look harmonious.
In this line is reflected not just Stephen's love for gems but for unusual materials as well: for instance, there are rings with natural mother-of-pearl in the center.
In the similar collection "Crystal Haze Classic" one more specific feature of Stephen Webster become apparent. They use present-day technologies to create complicated shapes of their jewels.
The most gothic Webster's collection is "Jewelvine". The most mysterious is a ring with big red coral and decorated with black sapphires you can see at the picture.
Less refined gothic is presented in "Rose and Thorn" line. Tattoos inspired Webster to create collection of jewels made of diamonds and gold "Borneo". Its main motive is unique prints of real masters from Indonesia and Borneo. 
One more style direction of Stephen Webster is slightly ironical jewelry items such as Roch'n'Roll line: rings with skulls, pendants-fish skeletons, cufflinks and rings with frightening masks.
And ironic inscriptions "Sex, Drugs, Rock'n'Roll" on the ring with blue cross like topaz set with diamonds or "What's your poison?" on a ring with hematite, diamonds and black sapphires with a secret: the upper part opens and you find a small capacity.
In his new collection "Femme Fatale" Stephen Webster's incarnated his notions about women of 1940-es. This line is very refined, not very colorful (white gold, colorless diamonds and so loved by British jeweler black sapphires).
| Chaumet - not easy to choose… | Dec 29, 2006 |
Searching for the brand: I was searching for some less wide known jewelry watch brand to have a better idea of the current gold watches market situation. I must admit that it took me a lot of time to find an appropriate brand for it had to meet numerous requirements.
One of them was that this watch brand should have originated from Switzerland (take as my caprice - I've got a firm conviction that the best watches are manufactured in Switzerland). On the other hand, I wanted this watch brand to be as old as possible, which is to have a long and desirably glorious history.
Among the most remarkable:: More or less I was aware of the Swiss jewelry watch brands. The most remarkable and well known among them are Cartier, Chopard, Fendi, Bvlgari and some others. So you can imagine my surprise when I found out about Chaumet watches. It happened occasionally while looking through the comparatively old watch magazine. And you know what - it was exactly between Cartier and Chopard!
My heart is won:: Magnificent shapes and designs of the marvelous watch pieces absolutely met my expectations concerning the image of the old, yet contemporary oriented watch brand. Chaumet won my heart.
To fully enjoy the charm of the Chaumet watches one need to have an idea of Chaumet's history. So that brilliance of Chaumet's watch diamond can shine by its every facet.
Some historical flashbacks:: After completing his apprenticeship with Auber, the jeweler to Queen Marie-Antoinette (just imagine who!), and opening his own store, Francois-Regnault Nitot developed an aristocratic clientele before the French revolution of 1789. But it was only after 1802, when he became an official jeweler to Napoleon, that he acquired fame and fortune. Do you remember what I told you about the glorious past?
Together with his son Francois-Regnault, he created jewelry that fully corresponded to the symbols of power and splendor laid down by the Age of Empire.
Straight to the point:: Well, the history of Chaumet brand is really impressing, though I'm going to skip the Romantic Period and the period of the Second Empire to get down right to the Art Deco period which is to my mind one of the most interesting ones.
Uninterrupted succession:: Marcel Chaumet inherited the jeweler's trade by his father Joseph and succeeded him in 1928. The style of the firm's jewelry and timepieces became more geometric in keeping with the 'tomboy' genre of the Roaring Twenties, turning more feminine in the 30's. This style gave birth to Art Deco, crowned by the Arts Decoratifs exhibitions in Paris in 1925 and characterized by strong contrasts in color and material.
On the fashion's crest:: And, of course, the modern times are marked by the outstanding discoveries and designer's solutions. In the wake of Christian Dior's famous 'New Look', Chaumet carefully maintained its reputation for style and quality. Designs mirrored in the fine taste of Parisian women who were always on the lookout for something new. Until 1965, Haute-Joaillerie and Haute-Couture were inseparable. From the 70's, the easy-to-wear gold jewelry corresponded to a woman's first personal purchase.
Liens line:: Chaumet is international which proves that it is resolutely anchored in the modern day with its brilliant watch collections. The Chaumet's designers also create new, timeless 'legends', such as Liens, for example.
Old, yet contemporary:: As I told you before, I was searching for an old, yet contemporary oriented watch brand, and Chaumet turned out to be the best fit to this criteria. Always ahead of the latest trends, Chaumet is contemporary and classic at the same time remaining steadfastly distinctly Chaumet.
Liens de Chaumet:: An outstanding representative of the Chaumet's Liens de Chaumet collection is a yellow gold ladies watch. This Chaumet timepiece is half diamond paved with a diamond paved link. Liens de Chaumet watch features brown sunray pattern dial and an amazing cacao satin strap. It is a real Art Deco representative due to the shapes and color's choice and combination.
Dandy collection:: The shapes of Liens de Chaumet watch are also reminiscent to the glamour vintage style as well as another Chaumet watch from Dandy collection. Dandy watch is made of pink gold. It features black opaline dial with bayadere stripes and hand winding mechanical movement.
It also features black-box calf and elegant satin strap. It is enough to take a fixed look at the dandy watch to see the perfect contrast of colors and non-standard amazing shapes combination. While the dial is round the watch case is of a barrel-like shape associated in my view with the classical form of the 50's.
I'm absolutely sure that you are going to share my interest for Chaumet watches as soon as you know them better. It is obviously one of the best and sophisticated watch brands in the world.
| Female Possession | Dec 25, 2006 |
You know in 1988 Piaget company enters the Richemont corporation and in 1990 jewellery line possession appears. Later frivolous and very feminine jewelery lines Limelight and glamour jewellery watch Miss Protocole appear.
Possession line is inspired by eternal idea - the idea of a man and a woman's inextricable connection. This idea is greatly realized in shape of jewelry pieces Possession from Piaget.
Elegant, generous, without great influence of fashion they don't have sharp angles and strict geometrical lines.
In 2005 Possession line is replenished with jewelry watches and new jewels-symbols such as rings joint by invisible mechanism or pendants made of rings with "Possession" engraving made of white gold and diamonds.
This year the line is renewed. The new jewellery pieces such as bracelet, chain with pendant, female and male ring greatly continue last year motives. Band "Possession" is now central accent of the bracelet made of white gold with 20 diamonds.
Interlacing of bands as wedding symbol is now presented in a female ring also made of white gold. One decorative band is decorated with the engraved word "Possession" and another one with twelve diamonds.
Men's ring is quite different from female one by its style incarnation. It is a big white gold ring made in laconic design. It really looks great and is appropriate for real men.
Such a style difference in a single collection is simple to explain: it combines both male and female parts. As we know extremes meet. And rings are incarnations of femininity and masculinity at the same time.
To tell you the truth when I look at a lady's ring I feel lightness and elegancy and sensuality but when I look at a male one I feel energy, power and passion.
But there are some jewels that don't have so naïve associations. Designers themselves say that they embody some ancient symbols of male and female beginnings. You know those are very Freid-like jewels. 
Anyway I think that these jewels are very beautiful and refined. As for me I'd like to have such a cute chain with pendants or such an original ring.
The idea is very interesting and unusual.
And you know it's even greater to have all the pieces from the collection in your jewelry box to wear them as a cute set.
You will certainly be called a very stylish and elegant woman with an exquisite taste. But of course it's not worth forgetting about cool and fashionable clothing and shoes in match.
| Love for Jewelry Pieces | Dec 18, 2006 |
Female love for jewels begins in early childhood when a small girl tries on her mother's golden earrings, rings and bracelets with a great number of colorful gems.
And this passion is always with her that's why jewelry pieces are always a desirable gift for a woman. There are a great number of jewels that are great as a gift for her. To present a woman with a jewelry piece is a great option that will certainly fit the bill. Let's take some jewels as an example.
Silver Cross
A silver cross is not just a jewelry finisher to a female wardrobe but a symbol of belonging to Christian faith.
Silver comb
If you want to beautifully remind your loved one that you love her and take care of her it's worth buying her a silver comb.
A brooch-butterfly
A brooch-butterfly is a very nice and charming option of a gift for a woman. Colorful gem style has become a symbol of freedom of self-expression.
A brooch-butterfly is a greatly suitable for a woman or a young girl. Colorful and shining brooch-butterfly is a great jewelry item for any woman.
Brooch-bear
Jewels for young people are the best way to wear jewellery items with gems.
A brooch-bear will become a great alternative to diamonds for those who strive for young dynamism of their nature.
A ring and earrings
Nature hasn't managed to invent a better incarnation of romanticism and mystery than a topaz yet.
Original and unique earrings made of this natural gem are considered to be pieces of art that are able to make people smile and admire them.
Silver is always appropriate
Yeah silver is always appropriate. It even doesn't require a very refined and exquisite taste and deep understanding of style context. Of course if the matter doesn't concern some modern and fresh avant-garde jewelry pieces.
They say that silver is loved by people who have a very good taste. And it's difficult to disagree with them.
Silver is always in mind of talented craftsmen-jewelers. And as a result of this obsession are not only gorgeous silver chains, earrings, bracelets, pendants etc. but bags and belts!
Of course it's up to us what a jewelry piece to choose. And it's necessary to be especially careful if you choose a jewel not for yourself but for a person you love and respect.
| Corum and the Matter of Female Exclusivity | Dec 15, 2006 |
It is not a secret that women are greatly attracted by everything exclusive and one of its kind. Every lady feels offended when she sees another female creature wearing for example the identical pair of earrings (quite pricey by the way) that she bought a few days ago at some auction sale. Fashion designers do their best to introduce new unforeseen ideas to help ladies realize their dream of creating one's matchless style.
Why is it so important for a woman to look special? Especially for women? Men in general tend to pay more attention to a specific style, and probably at least look tidy. A man will hardly notice that his friend is wearing a pair of jeans similar to his own. Or if you ask a man what his co-worker was wearing a day ago, he will no doubt be puzzled. It is good if he remembers what HE was wearing. Then, if you ask a lady the same question, you will be amazed by her answer - she will describe her co-worker's appearance in many details, including colors, accessories and shoes.
Of course not every lady may afford buying exclusive things whether we are talking about jewelry or clothes items. Still, her sole seeks for beautiful personalized things and she will be in the seventh heaven if her beloved person presents her with a gift out of this world.
Jewelry accessories are reliable friends of any lady - they are able to add the missing "zest" even to the most common dress. As for me, besides nice jewelry pieces, I also have a small collection of watches. If I see an original watch at a watch stand that seems to perfectly match my new cocktail dress, I just can't help buying it. Moreover, my friends are aware of my passion for nice jewelry and watch accessories and I have got some of their gifts in my collections.
Corum - if Looking for Unconventional
Recently I have come across picture of Corum watches from the brand's new collection. To tell you the truth, Corum watches are among my favorite ones, although Corum has produced more watch models for men than for women.
Every collection of Corum watches has something original about it. Take for example the Bubble watches with their unconventional thin dome-like sapphire in the shape of a bubble and dials featuring the most daring pictures - a skull, a roulette ball, or Baron Samedi. Or have a look at the Admiral's Cup watches created for those overwhelmed by the passion for sailing - you will easily distinguish this brand's creations from any others.
Corum has also come out with another striking idea - it developed the Artisan collection. The collection comprises most beautiful timepieces, each being a real masterpiece of its own. I think that female lust for exclusivity inspired Corum for creating these timekeeping wonders. Every watch has a unique colorful hand painting on its dial - you will see a watch featuring a flying dragon, horses in the wind, garden birds, a cobra snake and a lot of other original images.
However, the watch that attracted not only my eyes but also my mind is called Corum Classical Dragon Phoenix. This special Corum watch is marked by the touch of philosophical approach towards everything around us. Probably you know that in ancient Chinese mythology dragon and phoenix are two creatures that symbolize the yin and yang concept. It is possible to notice these competing opposites being united by everything on this planet - the nature of all things is duel in fact. May be this duality is necessary for the harmonious balance of nature.
What are the Corum Classical Dragon Phoenix timepiece's major characteristic besides its philosophical point of view?
- Corum developed and patented a special technique that includes mother-of-pearl engraving and hand painting.
- The watch's case with 40 mm in diameter is produced from 18kt pink, yellow or white gold and has the transparent sapphire case back.
- The process of timekeeping is performed by automatic jump hour movement - at the top of the watch's dial there is a small aperture featuring the current hour (in a Roman numeral). There is also an elegant skeleton minute hand.
- The watch's bezel and lugs are embellished by full-cut diamonds.
- Corum produced a limited edition of only 50 pieces of this horology wonder, and each depicts one-of-a-kind color palette.
Well, with Corum watches you have a feeling you witness some fine exhibition of artistic masterpieces. Its creations satisfy our human quest for beautiful and delicate things.
Of course such majestic items as Corum Classical Dragon Phoenix watch are destined to enter some personal watch collection of a real connoisseur of exclusive things. However, it is not the reason to stop one's personal search for exclusively beautiful things to compliment one's image or present as a gift to a person close to you. Just feel inspired!