RAPAPORT...Llittle taste of Italy came to New York City when the World Gold Council (WGC) hosted its Gold Expressions: The Language of Italian Design 2008 event displaying the work of 60 Italian designers. The research-based product development initiative promotes “Made in Italy” jewelry design to spur gold jewelry demand worldwide. Gold Expressions 2008 will be presented at the January 2008 Vicenza Fair. The collection is comprised of designs that reflect the trends of 2008. The five trends identified are: Texture — hammered, brushed and laser-etched finishes; Classics — links in new shapes and longer length chains dominate; Wire Works — innovative Italian technology highlighted in wirework; Hearts, Flowers and Paisleys are popular motifs and Color Gold and Enamels mixed together create drama, charm and a modern twist on classic designs.
Tennis anyone? Gitanjali has launched its Wimbledon Jewelry Collection showcasing the prestigious tennis event’s logo sparkling in diamonds and gold or shining in enamel and gold. The collection, consisting of about 100 pieces, features necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets, dog tags and cufflinks.
Tweety Bird, the cartoon canary, has a new look as he is rendered in sapphires, diamonds and gold in a jewelry collection created by D’Annunzio Group International in partnership with Warner Bros. In addition to Tweety himself, the collection includes daisies, feathers and his birdhouse. The Tweety collection made its entry into new markets during a “Yellow Carpet” event at Harold Jaffe Jewelers in Toledo, Ohio. A one-of-a-kind, custom-built Tweety Hardtop VW Bug is being auctioned off in mid-February to benefit the Jewelers for Children (JFC) charity.
Designer Donna Vock debuted four new collections interpreting her travels and love of nature through jewelry. Inspired by the streets of Paris, the Carousel Collection features handcrafted charm bracelets made of South Sea Keshi pearls, colored gemstones and gold. Carnivale Collection has a feeling of the glamour of the Piazza San Marco, while the Canopy Collection captures the essence of the coastal rain forest of Central America. The Lyrical Collection is Vock’s interpretation of day-into-evening pieces that go from one occasion to another easily and effortlessly.
Article from the Rapaport Magazine - January 2008. To subscribe click here.