So wise. Like a miniature Buddha covered in hair. But seriously – what girl doesn’t want jewellery? It’s a no-brainer. I don’t know anyone that would, upon receiving a beautiful ring or necklace, hand it back with a stern expression and a crisp, ‘No thank you – I’d have preferred Susan Boyle’s new CD’. Except maybe my mum who tells me that her CD is fantastic.
But back to the jewels. As for which occasions to buy said jewellery, there are several to choose from including the one that’s just around the corner. Now I always make a big show about not caring about Valentine’s Day and voicing how I think it’s just marketers combining globally to make us think we need to buy fluffy red hearts and countless other stupid things for our adored other half.
But while I detest all that over-the-top stuff, I secretly would like to receive something special and meaningful. I’m not talking expensive (necessarily), but simply something that has thought behind it. Take note boys – if you think stopping at the servo on the way home to buy flowers is acceptable, then I advise you to think again. In fact boys to help you out (and I shall be sending this link to my own long-suffering boyfriend, Shane) I’ve compiled some of the most beautiful, yet reasonably priced, jewels for your consideration. Girls – you can thank me later.
It must be said that I agree whole-heartedly with Mae West when it comes to jewellery. She always thought that a gift diamond shines so much better than one you buy for yourself. And it is so. And don’t worry if you can’t afford a diamond. No matter, any jewellery that is shiny, pretty and original will do.
So before you head out, credit card in hand, check out these beautiful jewelers.
Siobhan Way
A beautiful and talented woman, Siobhan has been designing her unique brand of jewellery since 2000. Her brand kicked off when Wendy Marshall, from the renowned Elle Boutique in WA, bought pieces from her first collection and ever since her limited edition designs have garnered an avid following both in Oz and abroad.
A passion for gemstones and a love of travel has taken Siobhan to many exotic locations and her collections reflect her adventures that stretch from the outback in search of Australian black jade, ancient Burma for translucent green jade and Thailand for beautiful semi precious stones such as citrine, smokey quartz and amethysts.
My picks? Check out the Petalé Cross Pendant $2285, crafted from 18-carat Angkor gold with mixed brown & champagne coloured diamonds. I also love the Petite Petalé Earrings $1975, which are made from 18 carat Angkor gold with royal blue moonstone. My mother’s engagement ring is moonstone (her favourite) so this stone has always had special meaning for me.
www.siobhanway.com
Kailis Pearls
For 30-odd years Kailis has produced some of the world’s finest Australian South Sea pearls and fine jewellery. Their designs are fresh, versatile and breathtakingly beautiful. I recently had lunch with a lovely young lady who was wearing Kailis earrings and I couldn’t take my eyes off her (well, the earrings). I thought about tackling her to the ground and making a run for it, but decided instead to invest in their new range of contemporary silver jewellery.
The Silver Collection offers the same quality you’d find in any Kailis piece, but with an edgy silver twist. Silver is also a great alternative for those who like the look of white gold, but want a less expensive option (yes please!) Each piece from the Silver range features pearls with polished sterling silver and a ‘secret’ black diamond discreetly set into each piece as a sign of authenticity. The Mabe´ Dome Ring $450 is currently top of my wish list. (Shane? Are you getting this?)
www.kailisjewellery.com.au
Sophie Kyron
Sophie Kyron’s over-the-top designs aim to transform a simple outfit with the addition of a few timeless and dramatic accessories and I’m pleased to say they do just that. Known for her contemporary costume jewellery, Sophie’s signature style of intricate bead weaving uses a variety of materials, fashioned into a range of rings, chokers, necklaces, earrings, brooches, bracelets, cuffs, bodices and belts. Celebrities such as Kylie Minogue, Sara O'Hare, Cate Blanchett and Naomi Watts are all fans and own pieces of Sophie Kyron Jewellery – so we’re in good company! Right now I’m loving the black Faithful Heart Earrings $132 made with black crystals and fossil beads and Faithful Necklace $264 made from onyx beads and cut beads.
www.sophiekyron.com.au
Melissa Harris
Melissa’s store is always delightful to browse in as you always find something new and exquisite. As well as her own beautiful wares, Melissa also stocks international brands like Me&Ro and Whitney Howard. Her jewellery is handmade on the premise and I always like to peek over and see what is being created. I have a couple of favourites for Valentine’s Day including the White Gold and Diamond Leaf ring $1795. Leaves symbolise renewal, growth and hope – a lovely sentiment for a V-Day gift. I also love the dainty pendants in the Braille range. The sentiment is kept secret, thanks to its Braille inscription, so you can send someone a clandestine message of love, hope or joy. And lastly the dainty Gold Heart Ring $395 and pendant necklaces are just adorable. (Shane can you confirm that you’ve noted all that please?)
www.melissaharrisjewellery.com
Linneys
I wandered into Linneys on King Street the other day and fell in love with several pieces in the store (as well the gorgeous young man who served me. Troy was his name for any girls that want to pop into the store to steal a look and perhaps a phone number?). The piece that stole my heart was an 18ct white gold, diamond set heart necklace. The Pave´ Heart necklace comes in two sizes, the smaller retailing for $1750. (Shane – this is the one!)
www.linneys.com.au
Jan Logan
Recently opening her first Perth store, Jan Logan is one of Australia’s leading jewellers. Her range is large and varied – there really is something for every style and taste. For Valentines Day you can’t go past the traditional 9ct Love Knot Ring at $475 or for something different try the achingly beautiful 9ct Peruvian Amazonite ring $945.
www.janlogan.com
If funds really are limited this year, then take comfort in the words of Mark Twain who said, ‘Let us not be too particular. It is better to have old second-hand diamonds than none at all’. Although Holly GoLightly might have disagreed. She thought it was tacky to wear diamonds before you're 40. At least by then you can use the jewellery to takes people's minds off your wrinkles. Who needs botox when you’ve got bling?
It seems everyone has an opinion on what you should and shouldn’t wear. I say wear whatever makes you happy! Me? I’ve decided that henceforth I shall follow once again in the very stylish footsteps of Miss West and never worry about diets. The only carrots that interested her were the number of carats in a diamond.