Happy Stories From our customers

We all know dressing well sends a powerful message to the world. It’s our shell, our exterior–the first aspect of our personality that everyone sees, before they get to know us on a deeper level. From the clothing you put on to the jewelry you wear, every element sends micro-messages to those around you.

Did you know you can also dress with a particular goal in mind? That’s right. When you think carefully about who you’d like to influence, you can craft an outfit accordingly. How? By reflecting on what your “audience” deems important.

[Note: your “audience” can be anyone, from a potential employer to the man/woman of your dreams.]

Ask yourself these simple questions: who are you talking to and what would make them trust you? Really put yourself in their shoes for a moment then dress accordingly.

Of course, you don’t always want to dress with the “other” in mind but its something to consider when you really want to send a powerful message for certain occasions. T

The beauty of this philosophy? Expense isn’t a factor. Often a simple outfit with understated jewelry can come across as powerfully as anything you’d buy at a spendy boutique.

Many of our clients go through a crash course in understanding jewelry terminology when they’re choosing an engagement or wedding ring. That’s why we write blog posts like this one: a little learnin’ goes a long way!

Today’s lesson? What’s a channel set ring and is it the right choice for your ring?

Rings that are channel set contain what is called “accent gemstones.” These are small gemstones (often diamonds but not always) that are incorporated into the design of the ring and add additional sparkle to the overall look.

“Channel” is used to describe this type of ring because these gemstone accents are placed in channels or rows, formed by two strips of metal. This is done by creating grooves in the metals so the gemstones are held firmly in place.

So who likes a channel set ring?

Someone who likes a real sparkle effect to their ring. And that’s not everyone. Some really like the simplicity and power of the center stone taking the stage and don’t want anything that deviates from it. Others think those accent stones add more to the overall look. Ultimately, its a matter of taste.

Many are concerned that channel set stones will eventually loosen and fall out. That’s where a reputable custom design jeweler comes into play (hint, hint). Channel set stones do need to be set with particular care, so they’re securely in place for the life of the ring ideally.

Many men are at a loss when it comes to buying a gift for their wives (no shocker, right?). This can often be a source of dissension since wives generally expect something personal and meaningful (again, no shocker).

Enter the anniversary ring, stage right!

Packed with meaning and romance, anniversary rings are an ideal gift. And for obvious reason: think of how she reacted when she saw the engagement ring you bought her. An anniversary ring signifies love and honor. An anniversary ring says “I would propose to you again today if I could.”

Our advice (which we can happily help you with in person or over the phone): choose an anniversary ring that pairs nicely with the wedding and engagement rings. Generally, women with simpler wedding bands like the added sparkly “oomph” of an anniversary band with a little more embellishment. Eternity bands are also a popular choice.

While some women will wear anniversary bands alongside their engagement and wedding rings, others wear their new anniversary band on the third finger of their right hand instead of their left. Others choose to wear the anniversary ring in place of their wedding or engagement rings.

Bottom line: don’t purchase any old gift for an anniversary. Make it count. This also provides you more leeway for future anniversaries if you just buy flowers and chocolate!

Award ceremonies are full of surprises. And for a rather non-surprising reason, if you think about it. Actors are creative types and like to flaunt non-traditional or trend-bending looks. It helps them stand out among a sea of other look-at-me’s on the red carpet.

Stand-out stars at this year’s Emmys included Jane Fonda (who is almost 80!) wearing an amazing necklace…backward!

According to InStyle:

And that necklace—she had to turn around for viewers to get the full effect because she wore it backwards. That’s right, the jewels—70+ carats of diamonds and 82 carats of emeralds—draped down her back right where the dress opened. According to Gismondi 1754 [the designer], the piece was indeed originally designed to be worn in the front, but “minor adjustments enabled the piece to cascade down the back as envisioned by stylist Tanya Gill.”

The takeaway: take some chances with your jewelry! Because aren’t we all stars on the red carpet of life anyway?