Jewelry Box
Something Blue
Since Dominique Cohen opened her Los Angeles flagship store in 1999, her “untraditional fine jewelry” has been a regular on celebrity stylists’ must have lists. Her unstructured pairings of gold with gemstones and pearls create thoroughly modern accessories for red carpet brides. 18k gold and etched aquamarine necklace $5,500; 310-859-7206.
Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph Receives the Royal Treatment
Mikimoto, the Originator of Cultured Pearls since 1893, loaned one of its exclusively designed tiaras to actress Sheryl Lee Ralph for her summer wedding to Pennsylvania State Senator Vincent Hughes. Ms. Ralph (Dreamgirls, Designing Women) was given the difficult task of trying on several stunning pieces at the Mikimoto boutique in Beverly Hills before choosing one featuring a heart shaped design with Mikimoto Akoya cultured pearls and 1.71 carats of diamonds set in silver $16,000. See how both bride and tiara shine in our coverage of the Ralph/Hughes wedding in the Spring 2006 issue of Inside Weddings which hits stands in January. 310.205.8787 or mikimotoamerica.com
Brilliant Design
Designer Michael B. is already a favorite of brides thanks to creations like the Flatband Engagement Ring, above. This platinum piece features nearly 2 carats of round, brilliant cut diamonds meticulously set into three rows along the top of the band and two rows along each side, as well as on the tips of each prong to further highlight the 3 carat center stone, $10,000 without center stone. Now, man may have found a new best friend in Michael B.’s Men of Substance platinum and diamond bands, below left. Offered in a variety of widths, each ring features an exquisite diamond set into a brushed platinum exterior that contrasts with the comfortable polished interior. Men’s small band, $4,500 with diamond and large band $6,500 with diamond; michaelbjewelry.com
Blush & Bash
Pamela Froman's distinctive Blush Crush collection lets wedding bands stand on their own. With diamonds set in unique rose gold and platinum, theses rings are hip alternatives to the traditional matched set. Top and bottom, Harlequin Sparkle rings in quartered 18k rose gold and platinum $1,550 each. Middle, Crushed Beauty rings in rose gold $3,560 and platinum $4,100; pamelafroman.com or 323-954-7436.
Jewelry Hint
"The key word in shopping for a wedding band is versatility; you want to purchase a band to wear with or without the engagement ring"
Simon G
A Cut Above
Just when he'd gotten a handle on your favorite cuts of diamonds -- princess, cushion, emerald, etc. -- a new one will send him back to the drawing board. A. Jaffe introduces the Liquida cut, a dramatic combination of a rectangle and a round, designed to maximize a stone's sparkle and brilliance. Latin for fluid, flowing and certainty, the Liquida is available in both 18k gold and platinum settings. 2.44 ctw platinum ring (including 1.81 Liquida center stone) made-to-order, $38,000. www.thering.com
A Time to Remember
A fitting reminder of your "I do's," the Happy Bride watch from Chopard $14,960, will keep you smiling (and punctual) for many anniversaries to come. Fastened with a black alligator band and set in 18k gold, the mother of pearl dial is surrounded by two circles of 84 diamonds totaling almost 1 carat and a pattern of 8 diamond baguettes equaling .48 carats. It is an elegant piece that will stand the test of…well…time. Available at www.chopard.com or 310-550-7220.
A Many Splendored Thing
Unlike your dress, wedding jewels should lend themselves to a repeat performance. Made of intricately woven webs of diamonds, Judith Ripka's Garland Necklace $19,500., brings understated sophistication to a gown as well as a fresh white shirt and jeans. The designs features open circles covered in pave diamonds and is available in 18k white or yellow gold. Available at Judith Ripka, Beverly Hills, 310-275-3013 or call 800-JR JEWEL for a retailer near you.
