Jewelry lovers rejoiced last night during the 97th Academy Awards. The evening is always a reliable source for memorable jewelry moments–who could forget Lady Gaga in the iconic Tiffany Yellow Diamond drop necklace or Angelina Jolie’s Lorraine Schwartz emeralds in 2019, or Nicole Kidman’s L’Wren Scott stacked necklace in 2008, and of course, Gwyneth Paltrow’s matching choker and earrings from Harry Winston in 1999? And yet, too often, we see our favorite stars adopt a “less is more” mentality when they hit the red carpet. They may eschew a necklace in favor of big earrings, or let a bare décolletage in a strapless dress do all the talking, or offset a bejeweled gown with barely-there baubles.
It felt like this year however, the stars, and their stylists, aimed to please! While, as Julia Chafe of Jewels with Jules fame lamented, somebody has to do a better job of educating the stars about the details of the jewels with which they adorn themselves, everyone seemed to share the mindset of Michelle Yeoh, who responded to a compliment by one red carpet interviewer by proclaiming it a duty of the stars to bring the heat, “We have to make an effort because the fans are out here to see us; and we’re celebrating!” In her incredible Balenciaga gown, she did not shy away from piling on the glam with a Boucheron necklace, asymmetrical earrings and ring and a bejeweled Richard Mille timepiece.
We hope that the drama we saw last night has its influence on popular culture and when it does (come on, let’s conjure it up, people!) the show floor at the upcoming JA New York Show has plenty of options to help anyone feel their most glamorous.
Precious Colors:
Part of KGK Group, Precious Colors will be showcasing their “Viana By Precious” line at the upcoming show. With a legacy that dates back to 1905, the company has a long and storied history in the gemstone business. Still operating under the tenets of its founder, Shri Keshrimalji, this third generation business keeps faith, respect and integrity as a guiding principles. While maintaining the never-out-of-style appeal of classics, these pieces are decidedly modern in their sensibility, and would add just the right pop of color to any black tie (or date night or boardroom!) ensemble.
RIU Jewels:
Established in New York City more than 40 years ago, RIU Jewels is led by the 5th generation of the Kotahwala family. With a staff of over 200 highly qualified professionals, many GIA accredited, the company partners with mines and artisans in 15 countries to source the finest materials that they incorporate into singular and imaginative designs. With a reputation for introducing new materials and designs into the marketplace, any of their bold and dramatic designs would be the perfect complement to any black tie look.
Cashmere:
If you want to know where the designers at Cashmere find their inspiration, one need look no further than the brand’s name. Based in the heart of Vicenza, Italy, the company’s skilled artisans represent the spectacular design and craftsmanship for which the region is famous. Creating work that is elegant and sophisticated, their jewelry drapes and hugs like fine cashmere, proving that beauty and glamour can feel as seamless and natural as a second skin.
Shiva
Shiva‘s modern and contemporary jewelry gives a nod to some of the edgier looks seen at the Oscars (think Cynthia Erivo’s…everything, and Lisa’s avant-garde suit/gown mash up). Bold and unrestrained, these pieces provide the perfect finishing touch for anyone who wants to march to the beat of their own (stylish) drummer. With asymmetrical styles, geometric silhouettes and unexpected uses of diamonds and pearls, these looks could make anyone feel like a rock star.