magazine - Benari Jewelers
Transcription
magazine - Benari Jewelers
A T U F T S C O M M U N I C A T I O N S F I N E J E W E L R Y P U B L I C A T I O N SPRING 2015 MAGAZINE Bicego’s Lunaria Collection Refresh, Restyle, Redesign Classic Time The Rolex Cellini Collection She Said Yes! natural flair John Hardy’s new collections reflect the team’s exotic surroundings and a dedication to craftsmanship © D.YURMAN 2015 contents I S S U E 6Welcome 8 Marco Bicego: Soft and Feminine S I X • B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E p16 10 The Rolex Celini 12 Refresh, Restyle, Redesign 16 David Yurman — Signature Scintillation 18 Cartier: The Original Timekeeper 20 John Hardy: Natural Flair 22 Classic Time — Ladies Timepieces 23 Breitling Sneak Peek 24 Moments Like These 26 Pearly Pastels by Michele 28 Gifts for Anniversary Milestones 30 Meira T. 36 She Said Yes! p10 p12 Todd Tufts • Editor in Chief/Publisher/Creative Director Carol Besler • Editorial Director Larry Stuart • Art Director Stephen Lewis • Assistant Copy Editor Vence Vida • Production Manager/Designer Kyle Boyer • Designer *Prices subject to change. Please contact the store for current pricing and availability. Benari Jewelers Magazine is published by Tufts Communications, 1201 E. 5th Street, Suite 1009 • Anderson, IN 46012 T: 765-608-3081 • E: todd@tuftscom.com • © 2015, Tufts Communications. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. The Ralph Lauren Stirrup Petite-link Timepiece. Stainless steel, snow setting with 148 diamonds, highprecision quartz movement, Swiss-made. WELCOM E A ME SSA GE F R OM BEN A R I TO BENARI JEWELERS MAGAZINE J EWELERS Welcome to the spring issue of Benari Jewelers Magazine. We have worked hard over the winter to refresh our world-class selection of jewelry in order to bring you the most exquisite new classics and the very latest styles. Our passion for seeking out quality jewelry is limitless, and takes us from New York and Milan to Las Vegas and Switzerland. Benari Jewelers travels the globe to visit hundreds of brands to hand-pick the most refined designers and to find the most unique pieces for our showcases. We work hard to curate a collection of jewelry and timepieces that are worthy of their function as family heirlooms or everyday accessories. Year after year, we endeavor to stay ahead of the latest jewelry and watch industry trends and innovations, and we are proud to say we work with an exceptionally talented group of internationally renowned designers and luxury brands, who value our partnership. We collaborate on collections that are made to the highest standards of craftsmanship. In this issue, we bring you an inside look at the spring collection of John Hardy, inspired by the design team’s working trip to an exotic city in Southeast Asia. We also offer a glimpse of the beautiful new Cellini collection of classic watches from Rolex. And finally, we offer advice on how to upgrade your wedding jewelry while preserving its precious sentimental value. We at Benari Jewelers understand that jewelry make a statement about who we are. We would like to thank for sharing with us your joy in commemorating life’s special moments and for allowing us the opportunity to share with you our vision and passion for exquisite jewelry. Sincerely, – The Benari Family 299 Main Street • Exton, PA 19341 3606 West Chester Pike • Newtown Square, PA 19073 BenariJewelers.com Store Manager, Bobby May with Marco Bicego in Milan, Italy Owner, Jacob BenAri visiting Mikimoto boutique at BaselWorld Jewel & Jacob BenAri at Hearts on Fire in Last Vegas David and Sybil Yurman designer spotlight b y C A R O L Soft and feminine Marco Bicego’s yellow gold jewellery is natural, understated and seductive There is nothing like the softness of yellow gold. It is the ultimate feminine jewelry statement, classic and timeless. It works with vintage styles, and vintage dresses, which is important today, as vintage-themed weddings are very much in style right now. Yellow gold is more subtle than other gold colors, and it is also more natural. There is no such thing as naturally occurring rose, white, or green gold. Gold itself is only one color: yellow. Any other color is produced by mixing pure 24k yellow gold with various other metals, creating alloys, or mixes of metals. Adding copper, for example, produces rose gold. Adding nickel or palladium creates white gold. Yellow gold is mixed with traces of nickel, copper and zinc, which make it stronger and slightly lighter in color than pure gold. It is ideal for jewelry. 8 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E Marco Bicego’s new Lunaria collection epitomizes the femininity of soft yellow gold. The collection is inspired by the translucent, disc-shaped seed pods of the Lunaria flower. This unique, organic shape is beautifully interpreted by Bicego with petal-like disks of gold that are linked by chains. The surfaces of the pods are engraved using the brand’s signature Bulino technique, a satin finish that lends itself particularly well to the motif because it creates an organic look, an essential expression of the Marco Bicego style. Each delicate, 18k gold petal-like element is surrounded by a carefully forged frame that is given a contrasting high polish, for an even closer resemblance to the Lunaria pod of nature. The collection includes necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings, some of which incorporate precious gemstones cut in slices to repeat the shape of the flat, petal-like gold elements. B E S L E R marcobicego.com designer spotlight b y C A R O L The Rolex Cellini SETTING A STANDARD OF LUXURY When people think of Rolex, they often think of the iconic sports The 39 mm cases in the Cellini collection are made of 18k white watches that have brought the company global recognition — the or Everose gold, cast by Rolex in its own foundry. A characteristic Oyster series of chronographs, regatta timers and record-setting dive feature is the double bezel, domed on the inside and delicately watches. But Rolex has another, more classical side: the Cellini. This fluted on the outside. collection of dress watches is a contemporary interpretation of classic Vintage features include the slightly domed caseback and the flared watch design that combines the best of Rolex know-how and the shape of the screw-down crown. The dials are either lacquered or refinements of timeless design. The name of the collection is inspired embellished with a black or a silver-plated classic “rayon flammé by Italian Renaissance artist Benvenuto Cellini, who was a goldsmith de la gloire” guilloché motif, and adorned with gold applique hour and a sculptor to the popes. The designs pay tribute to the clean markers. lines and harmonious proportions of monumental architecture. 10 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E B E S L E R There are three models separated according to function. Cellini Time models track hours, minutes and seconds. The Cellini Date includes an added date window to the mix, in an elegant subdial. Cellini Dual Time models feature dual time zones and a day/night indicator. All contain high-precision automatic movements manufactured by Rolex, and all are chronometer rated, which means they have passed a series of tests that guarantee the ultimate accuracy and reliability. Nothing about the Cellini line is over-embellished or over-sized. They are available only on alligator leather straps in either black or brown. The dial is restricted to the timeless codes of fine watchmaking, including elongated Roman numerals, stretched applied hour markers and two-edged, sword-style hands. The minute track has been moved closer to the inside of the dial, intersecting the numerals at the halfway point, to make the time easy to read. All of these elements combine to make the Rolex Cellini the ultimate watch for daily wear. B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E [ 11 wedding guide b y refresh restyle redesign 12 ] D E B O R A H Y O N I C K THE MAXIM “SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW” CAN ALSO APPLY TO YOUR WEDDING JEWELRY Just because it’s been a while since you walked down the aisle, a variation on the original design. You could even use the same doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate how far you have come, and gold and melt it down to form a brand new ring design. We are dream about milestones left to celebrate! Why should newly constantly evolving as people and couples, and celebrating our married couples have all the fun! lives together in our wedding rings affords lots of opportunity to As tastes and financial circumstances change, many couples look be creative.” to refresh, restyle and redesign their wedding rings. The jewelry Long-time clients of Rachel BenAri know that they are in good you wear everyday is steeped in sentiment and symbolism, and hands, and that any redesign of their precious jewels will reflect by restyling your engagement ring, you can preserve the special their own personal sense of taste and style. meaning attached to it while at the same time updating the design An engagement ring upgrade can mean anything from swapping or the diamond. It’s the best of both worlds. out a center stone to enhancing the original setting with a halo of “Redesigning your engagement ring means you don’t have to diamonds or a detailed prong and gallery setting. Many couples give up the precious keepsake of your wedding day,” says Rachel add diamond anniversary bands or wraps that can also have the BenAri. “You can keep the original metal and even the setting, power to alter the look and elevate the impact of a diamond in an while upgrading the diamond or adding more gemstones to create existing ring. B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E M I K I M OTO.CO M wedding guide For some couples, the best option is to upgrade to a new engagement ring due to a change in style preference or damage to the original ring. Consider enhancing the design with layers of meaning by adding children’s birthstones, specialized filigree metalwork, inscriptions to the band or three-stone “past, present, and future” symbolism. The trend for stackable bands is a wonderful way to upgrade existing jewelry and at the same time, to build on the story of you and your partner’s lives together. Adding bands for special anniversaries and life events creates new wedding ring ensembles. Many women also upgrade by adding color to their rings, with fancy color diamonds a favorite choice, as well as color in metals like rose or yellow gold. Just as when you picked out your original wedding rings together, it might be fun to make the choice to upgrade together — including a new ring for the groom — reliving the original moment of commitment. If you do choose to buy a new ring, take care to preserve the original, either for yourself or future generations. It is always possible to renovate fine jewelry in the future! REFRESH, RESTYLE, REDESIGN 14 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E POIS MOI COLLECTION designer spotlight Signature Scintillation David Yurman’s Albion collection brings out the beauty of unique gemstones David Yurman, one of America’s leading jewelry designers, has become an icon of American style. A former sculptor, David began to design jewelry more than 30 years ago, developing his passion into a global business. His signature pieces have become legends in jewelry design. One of the designer’s most important motifs is the cushion shape, and the Albion collection of cushion-shaped gems, introduced in 1994, is a classic example of this aesthetic. The gemstones in this iconic collection are cut with David Yurman’s signature checkerboard faceting, an arrangement that creates a greater play of color and light than with traditionally cut gemstones. This season, David Yurman is unveiling a refined new interpretation of the Albion collection, characterized by softer, more sensual edges. The settings in the new collection hold the stone closer to the skin. The precious gemstones used, including blue topaz, amethyst, citrine, margonite, garnet, peridot and prasiolite, are backed with sterling silver for enhanced brilliance. The diamonds are set in a mosaic pattern, creating a scintillating sparkle. 16 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E Albion stud earrings, with gold domes and white diamonds in sterling silver. Albion® ring in sterling silver with black onyx and diamonds. Albion Green Orchid ring in 18k gold with diamonds. The Albion elongated cushion bracelet, with prasiolite and white diamonds in sterling silver. B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E [ 17 designer spotlight b y Cartier Tank Anglaise, medium sized, in 18k rose gold, with diamonds and a mechanical automatic movement, with a date window at 3 o’clock. The Original Timekeeper C A R T I E R ’ S M A K E R O F D A T E S H E R I T A G E I C O N I C B A C K T O A S A W A T C H E S 1 9 0 4 Cartier created the world’s first wristwatch in 1904. It was called the Santos Dumont, and was created for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos Dumont, who wanted a watch he could use for navigation without having to extract it from his pocket. The Santos Dumont has since become iconic, as have many of the watches introduced by the company over the years. From across the room, it is possible to spot the distinctive features of a Cartier Tank, a Santos Dumont, a Panther, a Ballon Bleu or a Cartier Calibre. All of them exude not only the spirit of creativity, but the signature classic design codes that define Cartier’s unique timepiece aesthetic — chemin de fer “railroad track” chapter ring, sapphire cabochon crown, Roman numerals and sword shaped hands. The Cartier collection of timepieces includes complicated and high jewelry pieces at the very top of the luxury world, but it also includes accessible, everyday luxury watches. Perhaps most recognizable of all is the classic Tank. Jackie O wore one; so does Michele Obama. The Tank is the definitive ladies’ power watch (and men’s too!), and the ultimate classic. Not only did it define the look of its era — it was first introduced in 1917 — but has never lost its relevance, thanks partly to continual updates by Cartier. 18 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E C A R O L B E S L E R The first Tank, the Tank Louis Cartier, was designed in 1917 as a special edition. It was inspired by the Renault tanks of World War One that were used by the Allies to liberate France, which explains why high-ranking American officers in France received the first models, in 1918. Beginning in 1919, it was launched to the general public. Among those that followed the original were the Tank Cintrée in 1921, Tank Chinois in 1922, Tank Étanche in 1931, the reversible Tank Basculante in 1936, the Tank Asymétrique in 1965, Tank Allongée in 1968, Tank Americain in 1989, Tank Française in 1996, the manchette-style Tankissime in 2005 and, in 2012, the Tank Anglaise. The Tank Anglaise, for both men and women, is already a modern classic, with elegant, rounded edges and a more squared case than its predecessors. Its distinguishing feature is the crown’s seamless integration into the right brancard, the side element of the case. Pierre Rainero, Cartier’s style, image and heritage director, explains that Jean-Jacques Cartier, son of Jacques Cartier and grandson of the brand’s founder, “designed watches that were always rounded at the edges, and the Tank Anglais is a tribute to that aesthetic.” Available in three sizes, a choice of three gold colors, and with diamond options, the Tank Anglaise is a full collection. Another new collection that is gaining a lot of attention at Cartier is the Ballon Bleu, which takes one of the signature Cartier design codes, the sapphire cabochon crown, and elaborates on it by enlarging it and building a protective arch around it. The case is softly rounded, giving the watch an elliptical profile, and the dial is traditionally guilloched in a wavy pattern. Calibre de Cartier in stainless steel with a black dial and a mechanical automatic movement. Ballon Bleu de Cartier, with a 36mm, stainless steel case and an automatic movement. The Cartier collection of timepieces includes complicated and high jewelry pieces at the very top of the luxury world, but it also includes accessible, everyday luxury watches. Finally, the Calibre de Cartier chronograph in 18k gold weighs in as the brand’s signature sports model. It is equipped with in-house Cartier movements that drive sporty functions, and the collection includes the new Cartier Calibre Diver. The Calibre may be sporty, with its crown protector, wide lugs and robust case, but it is also pure Cartier, with elegant Roman numerals, railroad chapter ring and a minimalist dial. Cartier manufactures its own mechanical movements at its workshops in La Chaux-de-fonds, Switzerland, and many of its models are also available with quartz movements, making them accessible and convenient, as well as luxurious. B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E [ 19 designer spotlight b y C A R O L B E S L E R natural flair John Hardy’s new collections reflect the team’s exotic surroundings and a dedication to craftsmanship. The John Hardy Jewelry collection is renowned for its authenticity. While many designers are inspired by the sights and surroundings they take in while on vacation, John Hardy’s team of designers lives the dream. They are inspired on a daily basis by the natural surroundings of the southeast Asian landscape they call home. Founded in Bali, headquartered in Hong Kong, and with offices in New York, Bali and Bangkok, John Hardy is one of the most exotic jewelry companies in the world. The designs are inspired by a combination of Asian, North African and Western influences The new spring collections are particularly inspired by a trip to the magical city of Luang Prabang, in northern Laos, north of Thailand. Here, the natural surroundings and native culture inspired head designer Guy Bedarida and his team of designers. Everything from the majestic Mekong River to the royal residences and traditional Laotian architecture influenced elements of the new collections. “At John Hardy, we are dedicated to hand crafted luxury and creating objects of meaningful beauty, so each season, I take inspiration from my natural surroundings as well as native artisan cultures,” says Guy. “Similar to Bali, where the John Hardy workshop and design center is located, Luang Prabang is world-renowned for both its gorgeous natural surroundings and its artisanal traditions, which have been preserved carefully over the years.” The new collections are dedicated to the preservation and reinterpretation of these traditions. 20 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E Rings with diamonds, black sapphires and rubies, from the Naga collection. The Classic Chain collection is delicately wand-woven to represent the silky flow of the waters of the Mekong River. The collection is punctuated by feather motifs, some accented with precious shades of blue sapphires. They were inspired by the native eagles, which symbolize freedom. The Naga collection has been reimagined with ornate scales embellished with diamonds and precious stones. The Men’s collection has been enhanced by the beauty of bronze craftsmanship, a hue that was influenced by the lavish gold temples and saffron-hued robes worn by the area’s monks. Hardy’s iconic motifs include bamboo, long a symbol of Asian culture, and the Naga, a mythical sea creature of the Mekong River. The brand is committed to sustainable practices in every aspect of its creative process. John Hardy uses recycled silver, sources alluvial gold and tracks the origins of its gemstones. Large Kick cuff with black spinel and black sapphire in a feather motif. Ring with mixed blue sapphire and ring with black sapphire. B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E [ 21 time for her b y C A R O L classic time Classic Time The ladies’ every-day watch should be rugged enough for the gym and sophisticated enough for the evening Every woman’s watch wardrobe should contain at least one classic timepiece, a go-to watch that can be worn every day, with any outfit. Our expectations for a classic day watch demand that it do double duty, taking us into the evening as well. Diamond accents, mother-of-pearl dials and bracelets (instead of straps) make today’s classic watches versatile and wearable around the clock. Diamonds on an every- day watch should be positioned as accents only — markers on the dial or set around the bezel, rather than as full pavé, as in a jewelry watch. The classic day watch should also be of the highest quality, sturdy enough to take daily wear and to remain scratchfree and fully functional for most occasions. Each of the classic watches we feature here is made in Switzerland, and represents the highest quality in timepiece manufacturing. The Movado Concerto is also endowed with a dash of glamour, in the form of a mother-ofpearl dial and a bezel set with 36 diamonds. The minimalist dial is adorned only with the iconic Movado dot at 12 o’clock, which is matched to the bracelet’s 18k yellow gold plated links. The TAG Heuer ladies’ Aquaracer is a classic day-tonight watch. It is rugged, with a sporty steel case, luminescent markers on the dial and water resistance to 200 meters. The date window at 3 o’clock makes the watch practical, and diamonds on the bezel add a glamour factor, while the two-tone highlights — an 18k gold bezel and bracelet links — add some shimmer. The Pinky by Tissot is casual classic, with a simple dial set with only three markers and one numeral, as well as a functional date window. The shimmering mother-of-pearl dial, along with the open-link bracelet add a sophisticated flair that makes the Pinky ideal for evening as well. 22 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E B E S L E R Caliber b50 launched at Baselworld in Switzerland In 2014, Breitling presented Caliber B50, an electronic multifunction chronograph movement with analog and digital displays. This exclusive ‘motor’ served to offer pilots a vast range of innovative functions, along with unprecedented ease of use and readoff. But it was also intended to pave the way for other avant-garde developments — a mission now accomplished with the launch of the B55 Connected, a new-generation connected chronograph. Two-way communication enables the two instruments to form a perfectly complementary pair in which each is used for what it does best. Since the main assets of a smartphone are its screen and its ergonomic interface, owners of the B55 Connected can use their phone to perform certain adjustments (time-setting, timezones, alarms, display and operating parameters, night mode, etc.). Conversely, the user may also upload the results of various measurements (flight times, etc.) from the chronograph to the smartphone so as to be able to read them more easily, store them or pass them on. In creating its first connected chronograph, Breitling has applied a new philosophy, placing the smartphone in the service of the watch so as to enhance its functionality and conviviality. The instrument of the future. B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E [ 23 moments like this “Here we are, this is our time Like a dream coming to life We live for moments like this” ~The Afters At Benari Jewelers, we are honored to share all the special moments that add beauty and meaning to your life. We are happy to congratulate our Benari couples, who trust us to help them choose wedding jewelry that helps them to express their joy. We are honored to help you to celebrate all of the most beautiful moments of your lives. 24 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E heartsonfire.com designer spotlight pearlypastels Ideal for spring, Michele’s Deco and Serein are dressed up in seasonperfect pastels. On all three, iridescent mother-of-pearl dials are luxe and pretty, and lustrous diamonds accent the pastel mother-of-pearl dials. To complete the understated and playful look, straps in soft shades of grey, white and pink in alligator and saffiano leather are a lovely finishing touch. 26 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E anniversary ideas gifts for Anniversary Milestones It is no secret that anniversary gifts have always been dreaded — from the responsibility of remembering the date, to picking out the right gift — what should be a special day often quickly becomes a source of anxiety. But stress no more, because it doesn’t have to be! Our first piece of advice is to forget about the traditional milestone anniversary gifts. While they are good for guidelines, unless you are the overly creative type you are going to have a near impossible task of determining the perfect paper, tin, wood, or other material inspired gift. Instead, the easiest thing to do is to go classic. All women love jewelry, flowers, and romantic date nights. As Marilyn Monroe said, “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” You can’t go wrong taking that advice, so here are a few dazzling ideas she will always love: Atlantico Circle Pavé Stud Earrings by Hearts on Fire. First Anniversary Celebrating your first year of marriage is almost as exciting as celebrating your 10th. You have adjusted to married life after the honeymoon, and you have learned a whole lot about your partner, so you want to celebrate this exciting and important first year of your life together as a married couple. Diamond studs are a great option. They are classic and beautiful and can Lorelei Diamond Floral Stud Earrings by Hearts on Fire. be worn every day. 28 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E Hearts on Fire 3-Prong Solitaire Pendant. Hearts on Fire Obsession Solitaire Pendant. Hearts on Fire Fulfillment Pendant. Fifth Anniversary After 5 years of marriage, you certainly have something to celebrate, so you want to commemorate this exciting milestone with a gift that shows her how much she means to you. A diamond pendant necklace will make any woman feel loved. Tenth Anniversary Celebrating 10 years of marriage is a big deal. You have spent an entire decade together. While there may Hearts on Fire bands top to bottom: Envelop Wedding Band HOF Signature Diamond Band Multiplicity Eternity Band. have been ups and downs, you still love her as much as the day you married her. A diamond band to add to her engagement ring and wedding band is a great gift to commemorate this amazing milestone. “Whether you are celebrating your 1st or 50th year of marriage, the most important thing to remember is it is the thought that counts. Think about her and what fits her style and personality, and she will be sure to love it.” ~Jacob BenAri, Owner, BENARI JEWELERS B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E [ 29 designer spotlight 30 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E Meira Tugendhaft is the designer of fine jewelry brand Meira T. Meira is a vivacious woman who lives to create, design, and manifest fine jewelry. Her collection reflects her European upbringing (Germany and Belgium), her love for fashion, and her passion for world travel. For the past 30 years Meira has called New York her home. In the heart of midtown Manhattan, Meira T designs her collection which utilizes 14 and 18 karat gold, diamonds, and colored gemstones. Her favorite things include strolling in Central Park with her dog, eating Italian food, and spending quality time with her family. In fact her two daughters Nurielle, director of business development and Brigitte, assistant-designer, both work with Meira T keeping the essence of the brand young and fresh. The beauty of nature and the buzz of New York City come together in the work of Meira Tugendhaft Meira T’s partner in business and life, Tobie Tugendhaft, has a rich history in the diamond and colored gemstone industry. Tobie sources all of the brand’s special stones, many of which have been incorporated into Meira T’s collection. Meira T’s trademarked off-centered charms as well as her feminine, wearable, and modern jewels have cultivated a cult-like following. A-list celebrities and models can be spotted wearing Meira T in magazines, TV shows, and movies. Meira T is now available exclusively at Benari Jewelers. B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E [ 31 designer spotlight Q and A with Meira T: Inspiration comes from...Nature and New York City. Natural but edgy the clashing of opposites. The art of jewelry...Makes me feel alive. Success is...Love. After that all things pretty. Favorite cliché…All’s well that ends well; Where there is a will there is a way; A rolling stone gathers no moss. I love my cliches :) Favorite guilty pleasure….Chocalate lava cake. Tech must-have….iphone 32 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E Books that changed your life… Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand. One way ticket to….Thailand, please! Favorite cities…New York City, London,Venice, Hong Kong. Favorite hotels…Four seasons in Chiang Mai. Favorite gallery…MOMA. Favorite restaurant…Serafina. Favorite boutiques…Boutiques in Turkey… Next to the water tower in Istanbul there are amazing boutiques for new designers. Later today…Flying to a jewelry show. 34 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E wedding guide She Said Yes ! Wedding rings are important both in terms of style and sentiment You Said Yes! Now the mad dash begins to paramount to brides and grooms. Selecting your plan the wedding celebration of your dreams. wedding rings together can be a beautiful part of There’s the venue, the dress, the tux and the the story you tell. cake, photographer/videographer, flowers, It’s very much about personal choice. Wedding favors, invitations… The last thing on your mind bands are not only symbolic, they also make a right now, and what will inevitably fall on your style statement. Every choice you make — gold, to-do list much closer to the big day, is choosing platinum or contemporary metals; wide or thin the wedding rings. bands; textured or plain finishes; matching or not Yet your wedding rings should be more — constitutes a personal style decision. The final than just an afterthought. They are an integral package should make a statement about your part of this union, a signature token of your taste and how you choose to express yourself. commitment. Some believe that the oldest While individuality and personalization are recorded exchange of wedding rings comes from key, there are a few leading trends that have ancient Egypt, about 4,800 years ago. To many emerged among couples getting married. cultures throughout time, the circle signifies There is a minimalist, back-to-basics aesthetic eternity, with no beginning or end. The hole in that connects with the current mood. Trends the center of the ring symbolizes a gateway to point to a return to simple, clean ring styles, but experiences both known and unknown. The act with a twist, something that is often evident in the of exchanging rings embodies eternal love. details. While white metals (gold and platinum) The gravity behind the style of wedding rings are wedding ring favorites, for example, color is they choose inspires limitless ways for couples to coming back, including romantic rose gold, warm represent their relationships and personalities. yellow gold, and two-tone styles. Brides and Perhaps the most exciting development in grooms are also open to colored gemstones in their wedding rings today is the great diversity of wedding rings, notably fancy color diamonds. designs that exist, with both comfort and style But white diamond bands are still number one, with brides who are partial to eternity styles and grooms favoring three-stone flush settings. 36 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E b y D E B O R A H Y O N I C K wedding guide A big design direction among brides is to stack wedding bands, flanking an engagement ring with other bands, even stacking them on the right hand as fashion rings. These other bands can be pieces that commemorate other special anniversaries and life events which, along with your wedding ring, help to tell the story of your journey together. They also give you the chance to change or evolve your style without revising it altogether. In fact, brides are now choosing engagement rings without curved bands because of this trend. For gents, you can kiss the one-style-fits-all band goodbye. Today, it’s all about options. Choices include more comfortable, handfriendly bands and a vast array of design styles. Gents are embracing diamonds, textured finishes — sandblasted or hammered for example — and woven, twisted or beaded designs. Alternative metals, such as titanium and palladium alloys, have become a popular choice for men, not because they’re cheaper than gold or platinum, but because of the different properties and styles inherent in those metals. Because wedding rings are usually purchased by couples together and because they are worn everyday, they carry a lot of significance both in terms of style and sentiment. Start your search early and Yes ! narrow your choices by identifying your preferences in metal, gem preference, color and design. Don’t worry if you like platinum while your partner likes yellow gold. There are no rules that you have to match metals or even styles. Choose wedding bands that reflect each of your style sensibilities and tastes, but have some element, even something as simple as an inscription, to connect them. Keep your lifestyle in mind: Pick something that seamlessly fits into your sense of personal style. Don’t be afraid to be trendy (you can always refresh the design later on), but remember that classic is not boring. Choosing something you still want to wear in 20 years — and all the years in between — is a wonderful way to symbolize the concept of happily ever after! 38 ] B E N A R I J E W E L E R S M A G A Z I N E OYSTER PERPETUAL DATEJUST rolex oyster perpetual and datejust are trademarks.