Putting on the glitz: New generation
Although we may all dream of owning diamonds from Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier, not everyone can afford such luxuries. Luckily, a new generation of jewellers is emerging online, selling hip designs that are stylish and won't break the bank. Here are a few to watch out for.
Alex Woo
A favourite among It-girls such as Jessica Simpson and Eva Longoria, New York-based Alex Woo studied fine arts and jewellery design at Cornell University, the American University of Paris and Parsons School of Design. She draws inspiration from her travels and her designs are sleek and trendy. Her best-selling Little Numbers collection features handmade numbers in various sizes made from sterling silver or 14 carat yellow gold, with or without diamonds dangling off a thin chain. She has also launched the Little Letters and Little Faith collections.
Ginette NYC
Founded by French-born, New York-based Frederique Dessemond, Ginette NY's collection features everyday objects such as locks and watch spare parts that are transformed into necklaces and bracelets, rings or earrings mostly in 14 carat gold. The brand is best known for its personalised monogrammed pieces, including a simple flat disc-necklace with a thin chain strung through holes on either side. Her latest take on personalisation is a delicate lace mongram necklace that comprises three intertwined letters in an unusual script. Choose your own initials or words.
Abigail Percy
Since she graduated from Glasgow School of Art in 2005, Abigail Percy has been making jewellery by hand in her small workshop in Glasgow. Using traditional techniques, she describes her style as 'organic with a vintage twist. It features contemporary silhouettes with soft antiqued finishes and styling.' The results are ultra-feminine pieces featuring leaf and flower motifs, embellished with fresh-water pearls and semi-precious gems. All her designs are limited editions or one of a kind.
Jennifer Fisher
A California native, Jennifer Fisher founded her jewellery company out of a desire to create jewellery she could wear herself. The result is a line of customisable necklaces, bracelets and anklets featuring a limitless number of removable charms, all hand-picked by the customer. Choose from a host of designs including crests, feathers, skulls and puzzle pieces, and charms can also be stamped with your initials or a favourite number. Deliveries take about two weeks.
Rachel Leigh Jewellery
Spotted in the film The Devil Wears Prada, Rachel Leigh was launched by former Yves Saint Laurent publicist Rachel Bravman in 2004. The collection is extensive and features fashion jewellery that's unique but fun. Standouts include her chunky chain link bracelets intertwined with silk ribbon, square bangles engraved with words or decorated with gemstones and necklaces featuring animal motifs such as roosters and ladybugs.
