When it comes to jewelry, nothing does it like diamonds.
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, some of us may be dropping hints to our honeys. But it’s also satisfying to splurge on a diamond for yourself, whether it’s for a special occasion, a personal reward, or just because.
If you’re in the market for diamonds, it’s most important to deal with a retailer you trust and that carries a good reputation, says Matt Burdeen of Burdeen’s Jewelry in Buffalo Grove. This is especially critical if you’re looking for antique pieces, since replicas are a dime a dozen and provenance is harder to establish. The best high-end stores have a graduate gemologist on staff who can help you find what you’re looking for.
“There are a lot of variables besides color, cut, clarity, and carat,” says Burdeen. “There are many intangibles, and a good jeweler will help you sort through them.”
Cy Fredrics Jewelers in Glenview provides a helpful explanation of the “four c’s” of diamonds, which contribute to a diamond’s value. However, though it may sound obvious, Burdeen stresses that you should love what you’re buying.
“Look with your eyes before you look at the paper,” he advises. “A diamond’s certification is about value, so you know you’re getting what you’re paying for, but beauty really is in the eye of the beholder.”
So what will be dangling from the wrists, ears and necks of glamorous girls in 2011? Read on for trends we’ll be seeing in the coming year.
Classics
Though statement jewelry hasn’t disappeared, we’re starting to see a swing back to more classic, understated pieces like diamond hoops and studs, which give you a hint of sparkle and will live in your jewelry box forever.
VioLLa diamond earrings, starting at $4,500, Lester Lampert
Pendants
After seasons of bib and collar necklaces, pendants are having a resurgence. From dainty shapes to striking medallions, these versatile pieces can be worn alone or layered together, and strung on different length chains.
Dana David Scribble pendant with pave diamonds and white gold, $2,600, TDC Jewelry
Warm Hue
Tiffany unveiled its yellow diamonds collection last year, and we’ll continue to see combinations of gems in sunny yellows, pinks, champagnes and chocolates, as well as settings in rose gold.
Digging Deep earrings with yellow diamonds and whiskey quartz, $1,450, Eve J. Alfille Studio
Florals
In conjunction with warmer colors come organic shapes both whimsical and romantic.
Flower ring with pink diamonds and rose gold, $5,800, Burdeen’s Jewelry
Bangles
The tennis bracelet never goes out of style, but for a more contemporary piece that’s still a study in elegant simplicity, try a diamond bangle or two.
Metro diamond bangles in white and rose gold, starting at $3,000, Tiffany
Black Diamonds
The ultimate in modern minimalism, black diamonds add a graphic quality to any outfit, and will look super chic with spring’s black and white ensembles.
Eternity stackable rings with black and white diamonds, starting at $750, Burdeen’s Jewelry
