Rapaport Magazine
Retail

Designer Lines

By Amber Michelle
The tropics of Northeast Brazil are the inspiration for “Tropical,” the newest collection from Jack Vartanian. The coconut leaf is the foundation of the collection, which includes necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings in silver, blackened silver and 18-karat gold and diamond versions. The coconut leaf against the blue sky caught Vartanian’s attention and led him to focus on the organic shape of the leaf that conjures up the image of a remote beach at a chic resort.
   The ever-popular Angélique de Paris has introduced the Jet Set Collections, created by globe-trotting designer Angélique Knafo for the elite world traveler. She combines colored gemstones with shagreen, python, leather, wood and, of course, her signature resin. Knafo considers jewelry an art that reflects the uniqueness of natural gems. She has also introduced Tropiques Jewels, which pairs turquoise and coral, two warm-weather favorites. The collections are inspired by her own travels and her art history background.
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   In keeping with F. Scott Fitzgerald’s quote, “Too much of anything is bad, but too much champagne is just right,” designer Mary Esses has added a new collection to her eponymous line showcasing champagne, chocolate and black diamonds paired with her special blend of white gold.
   Old-world forms reimagined for the twenty-first-century woman is the heart of the creations of engagement ring designer Erika Winters. Her newest collection, Fidelia — derived from the Latin word meaning faithful, loyal and true — defines the essence of marriage, according to the designer. It is comprised of eight bands that are handcrafted, hand-etched and hand-carved. The bands are available in white, yellow or rose gold, as well as platinum. They showcase French-cut diamonds — a revival of a cutting style where each diamond is individually cut for a specific ring. The ring designs are inspired by the shapes and forms of the Medieval and Victorian eras. Each ring is named for an historical literary character. Rings from the Erika Winters Fine Jewelry Fidelia collection may be customized by engraving secret messages. The bands can be worn singly, with an engagement ring or stacked to mark relationship milestones.
   Congratulations to Omi Privé, the Grand Prize winner of the 2015 JCK Jewelers’ Choice Awards. The Los Angeles, California–based firm that specializes in colored gemstones also took top honors for its Lightning Ridge black opal ring in the “Best Ring Design Over $10,000” category. The opal is accented with tsavorite garnets and blue sapphires set on a shank sparkling with diamonds.

Article from the Rapaport Magazine - April 2015. To subscribe click here.

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