Archive for February, 2012

Designers and collectors from all over the world tend to keep a close eye on the red carpet events and runways, especially during this time of year. If you missed out on last Sunday's Academy Awards broadcast, you might be wondering which fashion and vintage jewelry trends had the most tremendous impact on the event.

Although diamonds are just as popular as ever, it seems that more guests and nominees are opting for lavish colored gemstones. Green pieces such as emeralds were popular choices last year, and this time the trend stuck around, according to Forbes. However, warm-colored gems like rubies and orange sapphire were also in the spotlight. Whether it's elegant cocktail rings or traditional necklaces, celebs definitely used color to attract attention this year.

Men's jewelry items such as platinum cufflinks and sporty wristwatches seemed to be one of the fastest-growing styles on the market as more guys are making it a point to look professional.

If you're wondering which jewelry pieces to expect at retailers this spring, you might want to stay informed about fashion shows and red carpet events.

This is perhaps the most exciting time of the year for many jewelry enthusiasts across the globe, as a combination of the SAG Awards, the Grammys and the Oscars reveals which trends will dominate the remainder of the year. From vintage jewelry pieces to cocktail rings, this year's awards shows are unveiling a lot of pep and style-blending – signs of plenty more sunny days ahead in the fashion world.

One intriguing red carpet number that will certainly ring true throughout the year is Naya Rivera's sleeveless white sequined gown with white gold Neil Lane jewelry pieces. While streamlined colors and precious metals are being weaved into fashionable vintage jewelry combinations, other designers are aiming for awe-inspiring colors. For example, Sofia Vergara's amethyst Lorraine Schwartz combination paired beautifully with her lengthy purple formal dress.

However, don't be fooled into thinking that this year's jewelry trends are determined only by color and stone types. Designers are also making it a point to draw inspiration from previous generations, bringing back glamorous items like diamond brooches and antique engagement rings.

Seasons often have a tremendous influence on fashion trends, paving the way for unique styles and state-of-the-art jewelry schemes. If you have several events marked on the calendar for the upcoming spring and summer seasons, you might be interested in knowing which vintage jewelry items are trendiest for 2012.
It seems as if contemporary trends are shifting gears in reverse, as more celebs are strutting their stuff on red carpets with jewelry and clothing items that were popular during the 1960s and 70s.

According to BecomeGorgeous.com, for example, prominent designer Maria Francesca Pepe is implementing the concept of serpents into black onyx bracelets and beaded necklaces, a style that was widely used in the 70s.

Some jewelry enthusiasts are taking another route, going for the glamour of the 60s with diamond brooches and elaborate cocktail rings with massive colored gemstone centerpieces. Emerald, sapphire and opal are ideal examples of gems that can pair well with precious metals like white gold and platinum.

If you're preparing for a summer full of formal events, now is the time to start shopping for eye-catching jewelry items that can complement your best outfits.

Although it's safe to say that there are plenty of new trends that are changing the face of the industry, many collectors still prefer vintage jewelry. There are certain exhibits that give attendees the chance to feast their eyes on the pieces once worn by Hollywood legends.

According to Art Fix Daily, U.S. Antique Shows, a producer of exhibits in North America, has announced its intention to launch a new festival in the Midwest. Known as the Chicago Antique Jewelry and Watch Show, this event will take place at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers from April 20-22.

"We are very excited to bring this unique and diverse merchandise to the residents and jewelry community of Chicago," show director Andrea Canady told the news source. "We are not only featuring pieces from all eras of jewelry history, but attendees will also have the chance to get up close and personal with jewels from the stars."

Popular items include an 18-karat gold and diamond brooch from the estate of Ella Fitzgerald and white crystal dangling earrings that belonged to Marilyn Monroe. Events such as these can give you a better idea of the type of estate jewelry you're looking for.

If you love nothing more than an exquisite jewelry piece that can accommodate your best outfits, you probably have a strong interest in cocktail rings. Colored gemstone items usually have a strange way of making any ordinary clothing ensemble look more luxurious, and they typically don't cost too much.

If you prefer wearing basic streamlined colors like black and white, colored gemstones such as black onyx, pearls and opal might just be the most suitable pieces for you. While precious metals and diamonds can just as easily accommodate such apparel, colored gemstones might make a louder and more unique statement.

On the other hand, colored gemstones like turquoise, sapphire and emeralds are incredibly trendy items for spring attire. Since most of the numbers you'll be wearing at this time of the year will involve bright hues and fashionable styles, these gems might just provide the most suitable complement.

When searching for vintage jewelry pieces and cocktail rings, your choices should really depend on your fashion preferences as well as your sparkling personality.

The only problem with shopping around for vintage jewelry is the fact that you almost never know what you can expect to find at festivals or in someone's collection. However, even if these events don't offer exactly the type of piece you're looking for, they can give you a good reference for antique jewelry retailers.

According to Auction Central News, more than 1,500 guests made an appearance at the inaugural Art, Jewelry and Antique Show in Naples, Florida, on February 10. Art collectors and enthusiasts from all over the region ventured to the 40,000 square-foot Naples Exhibition Center to feast their eyes on the antique designs of more than 75 international exhibitors.

"We have met some of the most interesting people we have ever met in 30 years of doing shows," Michael Teller of TK Asian Antiques told the news source. "I spent nine hours with one couple and five hours with another couple. These people are knowledgeable, and the exchange of conversation and intelligence is unlike any other."

At popular jewelry exhibits such as this, you can easily find state-of-the-art pieces and network with some of the most skilled artisans in the craft.