Modified Jewelry Aims To Be The Hallmark Of The Future

At the start of 2020, the American jewelry industry seemed destined for success. Constantly playing with warm earth tones, exciting textures and the concept of proudly wearing your heritage on your sleeve, it seemed a safe time and space to cultivate creativity. But within a few months, the jewelry market segmentation was blindsided by the global pandemic and the forthcoming consequences —that would subsequently change the trajectory— from that point onward.

In creating jewelry that feels personal, delicate and feminine, today, jewelry brands require connection to the shapes and textures of the natural world. Silhouettes experiment with the ideas of balance, proportion and movement with attention to both the positive and negative space the pieces embody. More to the point, consumers are craving quality creation and longevity; such as a necklace that is hypoallergenic, stronger than gold, 100% recyclable, and will never tarnish. The fresh product offerings today have a laser focus on what is customer-centric For instance, The About Time Necklace by Electric Picks, was cast and molded from a 1980’s hand-carved clock with roman numerals. As history informs us, the first clocks were known as sundials and they date back to ancient Egypt. Clocks, are a symbol of opportunity often associated with new beginning and rightly so. This present time is a new beginning.

In short, social media has given consumers a creative voice with relation to the customization of modified product. Since the pandemic, there has been an upsurge with consumers in looking for ways to refresh the everyday jewelry style from office hours to weekend styles to glamorous yet modified, evening styles.

On a separate but equal note, given the process of mining diamonds is labor intensive, exceedingly more expensive and exceptionally time consuming, the process of producing lab grown diamonds has become increasingly less expensive and fractionally less laborious. Grown in laboratories, the presses mimic the natural conditions to create rough, unique man-made diamonds which are then cut and polished by hand to sparkle at their best. The manmade diamonds have become very popular with consumers driven by ethical and sustainable measures.

Below, these beautiful pieces exude a simple modern elegance that will surely be the hallmarks of the future. Take a look and see.

AGMES:

The Wishbone Pendant was inspired by the enchanting sculptures of Yayoi Kusama. Both playful and serene, the artist’s puffed forms retain a connection to the shapes and textures of the natural world. We looked to these soft volumes in designing pieces that range from the refined to the exuberant, creating a special collection of pieces shaped in our take on a traditional wishbone, with pillowy curves sculpted of precious metal. $230 USD   

Also, Freedom:

The Token of Freedom Evil Eye is made of 14-karat gold and a colored enamel inspired by the piercing blue colors of traditional evil eye jewelry and the lifeguard towers of Southern California. Detailed with the brand’s motto “Don’t Postpone Your Freedom”, this necklace is the result of a craving for quality creation and longevity. $380 USD

Andreanne Patry:

Inspired by a trip to Turkey, the Bomonti necklace – named after a chic neighborhood of Istanbul – is a versatile piece made of stainless steel and Swarovski crystals. It can be worn two ways, long or short, to add sparkle to a casual outfit or character to an evening dress. The Bomonti necklace is hypoallergenic, stronger than gold, 100% recyclable, and will never tarnish. This is the most elegant and intricate stainless steel jewelry you will find on the market. $102 USD   

AMY O Jewelry:

At AMY O (Accessories Make Your Outfit), we believe in creating jewelry of the utmost quality that feels personal, delicate and feminine. AMY O’s founder and designer, Gina Nam, set out to create a brand that pays attention to detail and offers handmade pieces designed to last. From our designs to our productions to our operations, every decision is made with intention. To provide beautiful dainty jewelry that is functional and made with the best quality. $265

Allurez: Allurez

Allurez is know as the “Internet Family Jeweler,” Allurez offers direct-to-consumer special pieces for a variety of classic jewelry styles. This necklace is made of natural diamonds and is a timeless piece that’ll last a lifestime. $825

Allurez Diamond Station Necklace Bezel-Set in 14K White Gold

Courtesy of Allurez

Hand crafted with natural diamonds, this fourteen brilliant cut round diamonds sparkle in a bezel setting and is a great complement to both dressy

Beepy Bella:

Beepy Bella was founded in 2019 by Isabella Lalonde. With a prominent focus on ethereal creatures, fairy tales and magical symbolism, Beepy Bella bridges the gap between adulthood and childhood, while specializing in jewelry as elegant as it is innovative. This unique jewelry label has already made a lasting impact on the international jewelry market, as well as building a supportive community of artists and innovators surrounding the brand.With Lalonde’s background in Fine Arts (she received my BFA at Parsons in 2018), she refers to her jewelry as a modern adaptation of art practice. Each piece is one-of-a-kind and supports artists who work with mediums like glass, ceramics and metal. $275 USD   

Electric Picks:

The About Time Necklace was cast and molded from A 1980’s hand carved clock with roman numerals. The first clocks were known as sundials and they date back to ancient Egypt. Clocks are a symbol of opportunity often associated with new beginnings. $128 USD

Fernando Jorge:

Crafted from 18-karat gold, the “Flame” earrings have been finished with a high polish and evoke the sense of a flickering fire as they catch the light. They’re also engineered to move and “dance” with the wearer. $14,900 USD

Fernando Jorge:

Pear shaped emeralds appear to dance around the neck. Each emerald is surrounded by a tapered gold setting, which creates a dynamic, upward trajectory. This piece features emeralds that were ethically-sourced from a vertically-integrated mine in Brazil, which Fernando visited himself to select the stones. A percentage of the proceeds from the “Flame” collection will be donated to protection and reforestation efforts in the Amazon. $28,500 USD 

Gabriel & Co:

We designed and handcrafted this special edition necklace with the finest materials at an attractive price point in the hope to attract as many people as possible to buy and wear it as a sign of togetherness and strength in these challenging times. As a brand we thrive on supporting children in need with our Gabriel Love Foundation. All proceeds from the sale of the Stronger Together necklace will therefore benefit Jewelers for Children (JFC) and one of their causes. This time we like to raise awareness for the National CASA/GAL Association and its mission to find permanent homes for neglected and abused children. The money raised will help finance court-appointed volunteer advocacy to place as much children as possible into new families. $100

Haverhill Collection: 

The team at Haverhill Collection actively supports this movement. In its honor, we have created the Hope Collection, modeled here by local mama and photographer, Kayla Elizabeth.  All profits from this collection will be donated to  Color of Change. Each stone in the collection has meaning: Amethyst is known to generate positive transformation and communication. Sapphire is known to guard the innocent. Blue Topaz promotes peace. We are listening. $365

Idyl:

Idyl is an ethically made jewelry brand based in Belgium that uses lab-grown diamonds. The brands ethical diamonds are real and genuine. Grown in laboratories, our presses mimic the natural conditions to create rough, unique man-made diamonds which are then cut and polished by hand to sparkle at their best. Created so you can mix and match your earrings you first start with one earring stud at $125 and then add-on a variety styles so you can mix and match – it’s super easy and fun! And if you don’t want to mix and match you can still purchase pairs of matching earrings! Idyl was created for the mere joy of owning less while combining more. Earrings are available in traceable 14k gold, white gold and rose gold that comes from conflict-free regions. $655 USD

JEAN DOUSSET:

Faith Eternity Band. In honor of the brand’s partnership with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), founder and designer Jean Dousset designed the Faith Eternity Band, which is a ‘shared-prong’ ring made of natural diamonds and one pink sapphire. The ring is available in either a platinum or 18k rose gold setting, with the brand’s signature cutout detailing on the interior of the ring. Dousset says of designing this ring: ‘A pink sapphire is a symbol of deep love. Incorporating this gemstone is a tribute to BCRF’s iconic pink ribbon and the organization’s meaningful work. The singular pink sapphire is meant to evoke protection, strength, and sincerity.’ Jean Dousset will donate 3% of the purchase price of the Faith Eternity Band and Jean Dousset Bespoke collection jewelry sales made from October 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020. Jean Dousset is the great-great grandson of Louis Cartier and celebrating 10 years of his namesake bespoke line, which specializes in custom diamond jewelry.Image in dropbox   $6,200 USD

Keane:

KEANE explores materiality and upends conventional notions of matter and craft. In meticulous studies of hand blown glass, crystalline primary shapes cocoon the essential physicality of each element in Keane’s first collection. Inspired by the depth of color, texture, and form in non traditional materials, every piece offers an alternative view on value and preciousness. Colin Lynch is an artist and designer based in New York City. Lynch was classically trained in glassblowing in Venice Italy and continued his training at the Corning Museum of Glass and the Pittsburgh Glass Center and in 2008, received his degree in Glass from the Rhode Island School of Design. After almost a decade in the fashion industry, Lynch’s studio practice and work with fine jewelry design has culminated in KEANE launched in 2017.USD $95 USD   Speckled glass ring   

Knockout:

When Kate Davis began Knockout from her apartment in 2016 she had no experience in business or jewelry-making, but as a young woman born and raised in New York City, she knew plenty about the importance of personal safety for women. From childhood Davis was taught about the dangers of navigating the city as a girl. She quickly realized this was not the world she wanted for girls and women, and she developed a lasting interest in making women feel more powerful through personal safety. $150 USD  

Linjer:

Worn by A-list celebs like Brie Larson + Millie Bobbie Brown, Linjer’s Kirsten Huggies are produced using eco-friendly and long-lasting materials. Sprouted from the need for high quality products, built to last, without the luxury price tag, Linjer merges modern style with minimalistic designs. Your everyday Kirsten Huggies with a sweet little freshwater pearl. Linjer only use AAA grade pearls, so you know you’re getting the very best. Cute and classy! $85

Liven Co:  

Liven Co—Human connections are the best part of our day: holding open a door, chatting with a barista, making plans with a BFF. We know that a tiny gesture can have huge impact, and living with love makes us stronger. From this ethos, the Unity Chain Collection was born. Lengths of fine chain alternate with delicate, hand-pulled wires, creating balance, shine and our new go-to necklace. Beautiful paired with our clip-on charms, while striking enough to wear alone, this unique and elegant chain style is a must-have staple for your jewelry wardrobe. This classic bracelet features a six inch length of our custom hand-made Unity chain, finished with a half-inch and one-inch adjustable extender, a sturdy lobster clasp, and as a centerpiece, a sparkling bezel set diamond. $698

Made by Mary:

Make it personal with our new Solid Gold Letter Ring. Featuring our custom font in solid 14k gold, these rings are unique treasure you’ll be able to pass down. Designed by our team in SLC and handcrafted in LA. We love stacking multiple letters, or combining with solid gold symbols! $109

Maemarie Wraps:

MaeMarie Wraps, is a lifestyle and jewelry brand 100% focused around personal intention, from the way you wear them to the message they carry. Founded by a dedicated mother-daughter duo, all MaeMarie Wraps are individually hand strung in the USA with 1,800 uniquely sourced 1.4mm European glass beads, making each wrap as one-of-a-kind as we are. Nearly weightless, MaeMarie Wraps will soften and confirm to your body the more you wear them, and the hope is that as you begin wrapping your mindfulness jewelry, you set your intention and leave them on for days, weeks, or even months! The wraps are available in 19 color selections with great versatile styling, and fit beautifully around the neck, wrist, ankle, and fingers; with a strong nylon cord that has just enough give to withstand one last role. Whether you are striving to improve your physical and mental health, determined to adopt a new lifestyle/habit, or simply pushing yourself to make your bed in the morning; the tiny gems on each Intention Wrap exist to help drive your intentions forward. MaeMarie is a way to remember what is divine in us: our desire for well-being, using our own mindfulness. Cut Fuel Luxe Wrap is $68 USD

Maroske Peech:

Maroske Peech was established in 2017 by Jordan Conder and Elisa Keeler. After attracting the interest of progressive, independent boutique; Distal Phalanx during their stint at RMIT in Melbourne, they decided to design their first capsule collection together. After renting the cheapest studio possible, they combined their mothers’ maiden names and Maroske Peech was born. With their art studio as backdrop, they began working on orders and developing one-off costumes for editorials and performers, all while working part time jobs. $273 USD   

Marrow Fine Jewelry:

The Mid century Collection combines an architectural aesthetic with the intimacy of fine jewelry, featuring pieces inspired by the architecture and art of mid century masters: Wexler, Cody, Calder, Eames, Matisse and so many more. This line is a culmination of Jillian’s favorite design era and incorporates her signature low profiles and bold colors. $780 USD

 Courtesy of Marrow Fine Jewelry 

From the Mid Century Modern Collection, the everyday cigar band features half moons & old cut white diamonds that are unexpected and the stone arrangement feels fresh & bespoke.

MOUNSER:

Mounser focuses on a sculptural approach to design with inspiration rooted in both nature and modernist and contemporary art. Silhouettes experiment with the ideas of balance, proportion and movement with attention to both the positive and negative space the pieces embody.  Minimal elements are thoughtfully joined offering an artful yet wearable composition. $225 USD

Nia Thomas:

niathomas.co —After graduating with a BFA in Fashion Design from The Fashion Institute of Technology, Nia Thomas began to explore realms in the New York City fashion/fine art scene. Constantly playing with warm earth tones, exciting textures and the concept of proudly wearing your heritage on your sleeve, she cultivated a safe space for her passion to cultivate. Furthermore, capitalizing on the opportunity of representing what a vegan and eco-conscious woman of color could create and positively share with the world. $59 USD   

PDPAOLA:

PDPAOLA—Zaza collection is inspired by the virtuous flying crawlies that keep nature in constant bloom. The subtle beauty and fragility of small insects is captured in Crystals over Green Mother of Pearl which allude to the rapidly flapping wings and the iridescence of wild insect bodies. Meanwhile, delicate white zirconias sit as a subtle ornamental detail over 925 Silver and an 18K Gold plating, evoking the centre of life in constant movement. This homage to nature could not be complete without moving a bit closer to environmental responsibility. For this reason, PDPAOLA has joined the Eden Reforestation Project to Plant a Tree for Every Zaza Jewel. $157

Pharaoun:

Pharaoun’s Chakra Mandala rings are “inner” mandalas that represent the person. Each ring includes the seven colors of chakra, an ancient framework for recognizing the energies in a woman’s body, extending radially and allowing the wearer to progress through each chakra as prayers to a rosary. $495

Platinum Born:

Platinum Born reimagines fine jewelry with the world’s rarest and most precious metal, platinum. Flexible, luminous and dynamic, the Magnetic is handcrafted from precision-cut platinum and designed with integrated magnets to create and hold multiple shapes (necklace or bracelet) for any occasion. With a natural diamond-like sparkle, the Magnetic brings refined sophistication to everyday life. Price: $3,400

Roxanne Assoulin:

Because sometimes we forget, tie one on to remember…. Inspired by Brazilian wish bracelets, you can wear these babies until they fall off, or, until you get the message. $45 – $540 USD   

Courtesy of RoxanneAssoulin.com Japanese cotton ribbon embroidered with seed beads, 14″

Rhys Kelly:

Rhys is a 25 year old LA based artist. Her hand painted eye pendants are custom designed to match anyone’s eye color. Rhys was fascinated with the infinite possibilities and the freedom of expression when it came to drawing eyes. The collection is meant to inspire, fascinate and celebrate the unique perspective of every person. Each of Rhys pieces tell a story and wants all clients to relate and feel the love and passion that comes with each hand painted eye. $245 USD

Simon G. Jewelry (item 1):

Simon G. Set Right Hand Ring MR1720 – Simon G’s proprietary setting style ensures each princess cut diamond is secure with four prongs while replicating the look of invisible set. This ring also combines a touch of rose gold and pink diamonds. $17,996 USD  Simon G. Jewelry (item 2): Simon G. Set Bangle MB1902 – This Simon G. set bracelet is the ultimate luxury statement with an astounding 13.64 ctw of white princess cut diamonds in its midst, accented by edges of .75 ctw of pink diamonds in rose gold. $55,484 USD   

The Carat Lab:

The Carat Lab provides direct-to-consumer lab-grown diamonds all made to order in the USA with styles available in a variety of metals including white, yellow and rose 10k/14k gold as well as white, yellow and rose sterling silver. All diamonds range G-H in color and VS2-SI1 in clarity. The lab-grown diamonds are structurally and chemically identical diamonds to that of mined diamonds.While the process of mining diamonds is labor intensive, exceedingly more expensive and exceptionally time consuming, the process of producing lab grown diamonds has become increasingly less expensive and fractionally less laborious. $423.50

State Property (earrings):

The Aldrin Earrings are named after Buzz Aldrin, an American engineer and a former astronaut and fighter pilot. Aldrin made three spacewalks as pilot of the 1966 Gemini 12 mission, and as the Apollo Lunar Module pilot on the 1969 Apollo 11 mission, he and mission commander Neil Armstrong were the first two humans to land on the Moon. Description: 18K Gold, White Diamonds (1.09 ctw) and Enamel; $15,900 

State Property (signet ring):

 The Baret Signet Ring is Baret is named after Jeanne Baret, a member of Louis Antoine de Bougainville’s expedition on the ships La Boudeuse and Étoile in 1766–1769. She is recognised as the first woman to have completed a voyage of circumnavigation of the globe. 18K Gold, White Diamonds (1.09 ctw), and Enamel  $12,400

The Sis Kiss:

The Sis Kiss is known for their personalized jewelry, with their bestselling piece being the “It’s All in a Name Personalized Necklace”. You can choose from ten designs, featuring different metal plating and crystal options, to create a one of a kind piece that you’ll cherish. $74 USD

Temple St Clair (necklace):

Precious stones of varying cuts, colors and settings, suspended by gold links create a tapestry of ethereal beauty. The Dreamcatcher Necklace is the ultimate sampler of gems. The centerpiece of the Color Theory Collection, this necklace has everything from lush green peridot and Royal Blue Moonstone, to blushing pink tourmaline and orange spersastite. This statement piece is at once both regal and modern. $175,000 

Temple St Clair (pendant):

This special piece is in the permanent collection at Le Musée des Arts Décoratifs at the Louvre. The Tolomeo Pendant is a jeweled representation of the ptolemaic hypothesis, the two thousand year-old astronomical theory that earth was the center of the universe. Rings of multicolored sapphires represent the planetary orbits from the moon to Saturn. $27,000 

UNOde50:

The Metamorphosis Jewelry Collection symbolizes the never-ending evolution that defines us as individuals. Far from conformity, this collection is inextricably linked to the creation process that drives physical and spiritual transformation. With its pieces infused with light, this collection contains rigid bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces featuring gold and silver-plated metal butterflies. Delicate necklace consisting of a fine chain and a butterfly-shaped pendant, the main character of this exclusive collection ‘Metamorphosis’. A special amulet that you can wear on any occasion, made of gold-plated metal and made in Spain by UNOde50, following a 100% handmade process by UNOde50. $395

VADA:

VADA is a fine jewelry & eyewear line. Our jewelry is designed and produced inside our studio in Austin, Texas. We produce in small batches and everything is made to order. The brand houses a handsome collection and a curated vintage collection. We work with recycled metals and post -consumer diamonds wherever possible. We proudly source conflict-free materials and any out of studio labor within the United States of America. $380 USD   

VRAI:

Inspired by the fluidity and iconic beauty of water, VRAI’s Neptune Floating Necklace sparkles with a graduated brilliance. A delicate oval link strand is joined by the soft curve of nine distinct sustainably created diamonds for a dramatic yet refined take on a timeless bar pendant. The piece is part of the VRAI x Amanda Hearst Rønning collection, which comes from the concept that bridal jewelry should complement one’s engagement ring – while remaining classic and adaptable for both a bride’s special day, as well as everyday wear. $4,500

VUE by SEK:

The Gold Star + Dalmatian Jasper earrings are a stellar combination with just the right amount of statement for any look. The eight-point 14k gold star stud sparkles with its pairing of this season’s beloved Dalmatian Jasper. Originating in Mexico, the stone’s natural properties are said to remove negative and chaotic energies while bringing out our playful spirit and devotion to people. In a year that has been especially tough, by wearing these earrings and keeping the Dalmatian Jasper close, you can practice self care with style. VUE drop earring are lightweight, versatile, and unlike any other pair you own. Every VUE by SEK piece is small-batched, handcrafted, and made ethically and locally here in the United States. Courtesy of Carrie Allen. $52 USD.

YI COLLECTION:

These beautifully handcrafted pieces exude a simple modern elegance. The pieces were designed to shine on their own or to be worn together for added effect. All the gemstone are hand selected from the best sources in the world. No two gems are exactly alike. Each gem brings the wearer a kind of magic rich in history and folklore. Each piece of YI Collection fine jewelry is unique, much like its wearer. $3,950 USD