Wednesday 24 July 2013

Ravishing Rubies

Rubies are the birthstone for July. They range in colour from pink to deep red due to the presence of chromium, and like sapphires are part of the corundum group. Rubies are the red version of this group whereas all other colours are referred to as sapphires.  The value of a ruby is based on the same criteria as diamonds; cut, colour, clarity and carat weight.

Here are some fabulous pieces of ruby jewellery to enjoy.. 

Ravishing Rubies

Wednesday 10 July 2013

Polyvore Fashion Picks

I have recently discovered Polyore and am becoming quite addicted! For those unfamiliar with Polyvore, it is a platform on which fashion items can be dragged and dropped to make collages or sets. It is great to see how outfits would look together or to create different mood boards. Here are a few items i have put together which are definitely on my wish list!

I absolutely love these Phillip Lim skinny jeans which i have paired with a simple white jersey tank by OAK. Accessories include a stylish vintage Chanel tote bag and gorgeous Jimmy Choo shoes. I have added this beautiful 1970s vintage Trifari pendant from the online shop as a final touch.

Silence is golden


Oak jersey tank
net-a-porter.com


3.1 Phillip Lim skinny jeans
net-a-porter.com


Jimmy choo shoes
net-a-porter.com


Leather handbag
my-wardrobe.com


Tom ford
my-wardrobe.com


Sophie Hulme leather belt
my-wardrobe.com

Monday 8 July 2013

The Cameo Ring

Cameos have been popular throughout history but were especially fashionable during the Victorian era. A cameo ring is made by inserting a carved cameo into a simple hoop. Queen Victoria was a big fan of Cameos, and Cameo rings carved with her portrait were given to guests at her wedding to Prince Albert.

Here are a few gorgeous examples…




Cameo Rings



Alcozer & J vintage cameo jewelry / Amedeo agate ring / Olivia Collings Antique Jewelry / Seashell ring / Amedeo seashell ring, $3,670

Friday 5 July 2013

The Cocktail Ring

Here are a few stunning cocktail rings i found on Polyvore. Cocktail rings are thought to have originated in the prohibition era when they were worn by fashionable women to glamorous secret cocktail parties. The cocktail ring was designed to be eye catching and ostentatious. The term 'cocktail ring' is associated with any over sized ring but typically contains a large central stone surrounded by smaller ones. 

Cocktail Rings



Yellow gold ring / Roberto Cavalli metal ring / Fantasy Jewelry Box aqua ring / Vintage ring / Astley Clarke african jewelry, $4,195 / ABS by Allen Schwartz emerald cut ring, $70

Thursday 4 July 2013

Book Review: Millers Costume Jewellery


This is a great reference book for anybody interested in collecting vintage costume jewellery. Judith Miller gives a comprehensive history of costume jewellery from ancient times to the modern day including topics such as Art Nouveau, Art Deco jewellery, and the Hollywood inspired jewellery of the 1950s. The backgrounds and influences of many 20th century costume designers are discussed including; Coco Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli, Hattie Carnegie, Stanley Hagler, Christian Dior and Miriam Haskell. With beautiful photographs throughout, this book is both a pleasurable and informative read.

Wednesday 3 July 2013

Jewellery Trends: Statement Style

Statement Style

Shop the trend  with our collection of 1980s  vintage statement necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings. When it comes to accessorising this summer, bigger is definitely better! Worn as an accent piece or layered for a more dramatic look, our vintage bling is the perfect accessory to complement your summer wardrobe.

Tuesday 2 July 2013

Costume Jewellery and Chanel

Coco Chanel was a pioneer in the popularisation of costume jewellery during the 1920s, 30s and 40s. She believed jewellery should be worn to decorate and complement current fashions; not just to display a person’s wealth.  Costume jewellery which had previously been viewed as a cheap alternative to the ‘real’ thing, was now becoming an acceptable and popular accessory in its own right.

Chanel’s jewellery was not designed to imitate fine jewellery but to embellish and enhance her uncomplicated couture.  Her use of non precious materials allowed greater creativity in her designs; for example, her exaggerated faux pearl necklaces which became a signature look.  Other materials include poured glass, gilt chains and antiqued gold settings in jewellery that was deliberately designed to look fake.  She would occasionally design pieces which combined cheaper materials and precious gems; creating jewellery that made a daring statement whilst still retaining a chic elegance.

Chanel believed in simplicity, and her 1926 ‘little black dress’ was the perfect backdrop to showcase her costume jewellery creations which included crosses, military style themes and long strings of faux baroque pearls. The effect was a look unparalleled in glamour and sophistication.

Vintage Chanel jewellery is highly collectable and as a result demands high prices. Collecting vintage Chanel can be an excellent investment however it is important to do your homework as there are many fakes on the market. Buying from a reputable dealer is advisable