Release Your Inner Royal

https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a45469498/princess-margaret-jewelry-geoffrey-munn-book-excerpt/

Excerpt taken from A Touch of Gold: The Reminiscences of Geoffrey Munn published by ACC Art Books.

Since time immemorial, the immediate indicators of royal status have been the finest colored silks, exotic feathers and furs worked up by skillful couturiers to rich and elegant effects and even today not much has changed. Jewelry is still the highest form of dress, and it remains the most powerful royal emblem of them all. Before photography and the dizzy electronic media of today, the monarch’s image was virtually unknown to the populace and jewelry was not just a prop but an absolute essential to the successful stage management of sovereignty.

"Jewelry is the highest form of dress, and it remains the most powerful royal emblem of them all."

Wartski’s part in all this, as a jeweler and specialist in Fabergé, meant the firm’s relationship with the British Royal Family has been an enduring honour. In fact, it spans six generations, beginning with King Edward VII and continuing with the Catherine, Princess of Wales, whose wedding ring was made from Welsh gold given by The late Queen. Of all the luxury trades, jewelry in particular is very personal and inevitably implies a close connection between supplier and patron.

During my part in that unique relationship, I have observed the great sense of duty that prevails amongst the senior members of the royal family, which in some cases is derived from a profound religious conviction. For instance, it is little known, and certainly never reported, that Princess Margaret maintained a deep sense of Christian faith. I came to realize this by rather a circuitous route in 1980, during the preparation of my book about Castellani and Giuliano.

A Touch of Gold: The Reminiscences of Geoffrey Munn

SHOP AT AMAZON

Earlier that year, I had heard about the Princess’s small collection of Giuliano jewelry and so I wrote to her private secretary, Lord Napier and Ettrick (1930–2012) to ask if I might see it. I never doubted permission would be granted and when indeed it was, I set off on the bus to Kensington Palace dressed in a slate grey suit and flared trousers, my hair fashionably long and sporting an equally fashionable moustache. The journey gave me plenty of time to imagine what might happen next. I had never visited Christopher Wren’s historic palace before and that, together with the sight of the jewelry that would be laid out for me in an anteroom, was likely to be quite thrilling enough, but I was wrong.

The Princess was a genuinely artistic person with a great sense of curiosity about every aspect of life, particularly music and art. Luckily for me, she wanted to know more about my particular enquiry. On my arrival, her lady-in-waiting, Elizabeth Paget took me into the hall past the Princess’s portrait by Pietro Annigoni (1910–88) and then a pair of lacquer torchères in the form of turbaned moors ushered us through double opening mahogany doors into a long reception room, papered in the Princess’s favorite color: blue. To my great surprise, I was told this was where Her Royal Highness would join me shortly. The heady scent from a vase of hyacinths filled the air. Whilst waiting, I noticed an ottoman chair in the center of the room but there was nowhere to sit because it was strewn with anthologies of prayers. They were to have a remarkable resonance for me, but more of that later.

Some of our favorite Regal looks:

Pave Diamond Signet Ring

Emerald & Diamond Earrings

White & Rose Gold Amethyst Pendant

Labradorite Earrings

London Blue Topaz & Diamond Pendant

Copied from the web page of Elle Magazine:

https://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/a45193999/spring-2024-jewelry-trends/

The 5 Best Spring 2024 Jewelry Trends From the Runway to Start Wearing Now

Add these to your collection, stat.

During the weeks that comprise fashion month, most people have their eyes firmly fixed on the clothes. And that’s wholly understandable, especially if you’re keeping a tab on the best spring 2024 fashion trends. But, coming from someone who lives by the sartorial rule that accessories make an outfit, you simply cannot overlook the details (a.k.a. the jewelry). Not to worry, I took stock of the best spring 2024 jewelry trends so you don’t have to. The only thing you need to do is choose your favorites.

Fortunately, there’s a ton to choose from. This season was chock-full of investment-worthy classics like bold chain necklaces, diamonds, and pearls. Of course, there is always room for statement-making options, too. Scroll down to see them all below—I promise they’ll each be well worth valuable real estate in your collection.

Pearls of Wisdom

My initial prediction of the great pearl’s return was solely based on my own personal interests—so it was a true delight to see my instincts were pointing me in the right direction. Brands including Theory, Kate Spade, Jonathan Cohen, DSquared2, and Anna Sui all had models sporting the look—many of which took on the form of more traditional styles like classic pearl necklaces or simple stud earrings. They might inspire you to wear your grandmother’s prized pieces or perhaps get some new ones of your own.

Flower Power

Spring is the perfect time to get a little playful with your style, no? And there may be no better way to embrace the warmer months than with jewelry that depicts one of the biggest symbols for new beginnings. Whether it’s in the form of crystals or tulle à la Sandy Liang or the budding necklaces from Carolina Herrera—or even the petal drop earrings at 3.1 Phillip Lim, these are sure to be a welcome addition to your jewelry box.

Chain Reaction

Is it just me, or is big, bold jewelry the theme as of late? Models at Gabriela Hearst and Gucci donned chain necklaces that gave their ensembles the perfect finishing touch without taking away from the rest of the looks. Needless to say, I’m on board.

Bold Bangles

For the past couple of seasons, it’s been all about chunky bracelets. And now, we’re opting for a slightly different take to wear in the spring: bangles. Staying true to the bold aesthetic, wide, cuff-like bracelets appeared at Tom Ford, Alaïa, and Khaite. We also saw variations of the trend at Falguni Shane Peacock. Prepare to put those dainty little chains to the side, these ones are meant to be seen.

Dripping in Diamonds

Okay, let’s be real: This is a jewelry trend that never goes out of style. (I mean, how can one ever say no?!) But if you’re looking for a new way to sport the precious stone, the runways have a few ideas—starting with Altuzarra’s luxurious take, which included glimmering drop earrings. Tiffany & Co. also launched the Tiffany Blue Book x Givenchy collection, which is even more telling of the rise of fine and high jewelry. Whether you opt for natural or lab-grown diamonds, or even a style from an affordable jewelry brand, one thing is for sure: diamonds are always worth the investment.

New Men's Jewelry at Sharfmans

I’ve been working part time here at Sharfmans for 3 years and I really enjoy meeting and helping our customers with their jewelry purchases. I’ve always been a fan of our watches but now I have a new favorite: Borsari Bracelets for men.  

The jewelry is designed and made in Italy. It’s comfortable and stylish with a great backstory. Here are some excerpts from their website: 

-Sean

 “According to the interpretation of dreams, the door symbolizes novelty and change: it is said that Romeo, wanting to give Juliet a jewel to win her over, turned to the best craft shop in the city. 

The jewels that Romeo wanted had to be imported into the city especially for the occasion and would have passed through Porta Borsari paying the duties”. 

Dexterity and craftsmanship translate not only into the quality of the raw materials and the work performed, but are also synonymous with originality, uniqueness and attention to detail. 
There are many aspects that should not be overlooked, which is why we work with love and passion to create jewels that give emotions. 
Our materials and design are exclusively made in Italy, 
for one-of-a-kind products. 

Net-a-Porter Strikes Again! What a Cool Article...

Copied from https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-gb/porter/article-e6e3d0a3a48f3afe/jewelry-watches/fine-jewelry/what-your-jewelry-says-about-you

WE ASK FASHION PSYCHOLOGISTS WHAT YOUR JEWELRY SAYS ABOUT YOU

The perfect piece of jewelry can provide you with a captivating way to express your personality or make a sartorial statement. Here, CHARLIE BOYD speaks to three leading fashion psychologists to learn how fine-jewelry collections can influence our mood, reflect our identity and empower us every day

14k Paperclip Chain Necklaces in varying sizes

“Fashion psychology is the application of psychological theories and principles to the fashion industry,” explains Shakaila Forbes-Bell, founder of Fashion is Psychology. Forbes-Bell has specialized in fashion psychology for the past five years, helping clients and companies gain a deeper relationship with their wardrobes. “Fashion psychology also provides insight into how our purchases shape us and enables us to navigate different elements of our identity,” she adds. Whether it be clothes, accessories, shoes or jewelry, the premise remains the same: studies have revealed a feedback loop between what we wear and our mood, confirming that how we dress can boost our morale, build confidence and even improve relaxation.

Sterling Silver & Blue Topaz Necklace

“The simple act of dressing up can influence how we feel,” agrees Dr. Dion Terrelonge, an accomplished applied psychologist, psychology-of-fashion researcher and commentator. “The process of dressing, in itself, can be enjoyable and generate feelings of pleasure, which in psychology we may describe as hedonic wellbeing,” she says. “What we choose to wear can make us feel more or less prepared for the day, more or less confident and, in some situations, as research has shown, more or less competent.”

Sterling Silver Bangle Bracelet

When it comes to jewelry, some of these attributes are heightened. “Like clothing, what makes a piece of jewelry most potent for the wearer is often the meaning it holds,” says Dr. Terrelonge. “I think jewelry can hold even more meaning, as it tends to be longer-lasting so has more time to accumulate stories,” agrees Professor Carolyn Mair, who developed the Psychology of Fashion degree courses at London College of Fashion, is the author of The Psychology of Fashion, and consults with H&M Group as the company’s behavioral psychologist. “Special items of clothing can do this but, in the end, clothing may fall apart unless it’s handled extremely carefully or kept in a museum, whereas jewelry can be worn daily,” she explains.

Lola Charms

How, then, do we harness the psychological power of fine jewelry? “The jewelry we wear can be a strong signifier of many things beyond our personal tastes,” says Forbes-Bell. “Jewelry can speak to an individual’s wealth, social status, culture and reveal more about their self-identity – therefore, people should definitely consider the meaning behind their jewelry choices, as it’s another way to allow them to embrace their most authentic self.”

Color, for example, is a powerful tool. “We all have personal associations with colors that remind us of a particular time, place or person; when we wear those colors, we embody the traits we associate with them,” she says. “It’s also important to acknowledge the cultural associations of certain colors. For example, in many western cultures, red is associated with romance, and studies have shown that wearing red can increase attractiveness ratings.” Mair explains that red is the most studied color in terms of psychology because its wavelength excites us biologically, which may well explain the eye-catching allure of crimson-colored jewels, including rubies, garnets and tourmalines.

Ruby & Diamond Ring

Another intrinsic quality of jewelry is its magpie effect – by wearing intensely scintillating gems, we can enhance our overall visual appeal. “Studies have shown that people prefer objects that are displayed on a shiny surface than those placed on a matte one,” says Forbes-Bell. “Some evolutionary psychologists believe that our attraction to glossy or shiny objects stems from our innate need to seek out water as a valuable resource,” she explains. “Historically, jewelry would also have been most often worn by those of nobility or notability; those who commanded attention or sought to draw attention to their status and wealth,” adds Dr. Terrelonge.

Rose Gold, Morganite & Diamond Bracelet

A fun-loving spirit can also be signified by our jewelry choices. “We are drawn to jewelry because of its lack of function. It is not utilitarian and is rarely necessary, like clothing, so in this way, it is special – it is fun and, primarily, aesthetic,” says Dr. Terrelonge. “Again, this links back to hedonic wellbeing, otherwise known as the feel-good factor. Jewelry provides a little act of rebellion or escape from the practicality of day-to-day life and adds beauty for beauty’s sake – something humans respond well to,” she explains.

Dauphin Bracelet by Belle etoile

Perhaps the most powerful influence on our psyche, however, is the symbolic value of fine jewels. “The more I became aware of the powerful symbolism of jewelry through my research, the deeper my relationship grew with my own collection,” says Forbes-Bell. A pair of gold hoop earrings made in Trinidad, inherited from her mother, helps to remind Forbes-Bell of her culture and strong familial bonds. Dr. Terrelonge also acknowledges this grounding, centering force: “Jewelry, in terms of holding and triggering emotional memories, can be very powerful,” she muses. “It can remind us of who we are, help us to feel connected, loved and part of something bigger than ourselves.”

Fashion retailer, Net-a Porter highlights the beauty of mixing metals for jewelry…

https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-us/porter/article-0edf690b9b2e85c9/jewelry-watches/jewelry-trends/two-tone-jewelry

WHY MIXING METALS IS 2023’S JEWELRY TREND TO TRY

Of the many unwritten rules surrounding jewelry, one of the most preposterous is perhaps ‘never mix silver and gold’. Or at least it was, until jewelers gently put it aside to search for new aesthetic horizons gleaming with gold in all its hues and streaked with silver, promising new textures, nuances and lightness.

JOrge Revilla 2-tone Venice earrings

Mixing metals brings a modern sensibility to your jewelry look, however you style them

Andrea candela corona earings

2 tone bracelet 14k & Sterling Silver

jorge revilla 2-tone pendant

Kathy's Pick

Can you believe it’s August? The waning days of summer are on the march. This Lola “Shell” charm evokes many happy memories for me. Summers in West Dennis, as a child, were the best. Sandy beaches, ice cream cones, lobster rolls, and the sun kissed smell of the salt air are happy reminders of long ago days. This charm in pink (of course) is a daily reminder that even in the solitude of winter, summer memories live on.

July Birthstone: Ruby

“She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her” (Proverbs 3:15).

Taken directly from GIA.edu

https://www.gia.edu/ruby-history-lore#:~:text=Many%20medieval%20Europeans%20wore%20rubies,also%20signifies%20wealth%20and%20success.

Red is the color of our most intense emotions—love and anger, passion and fury. It’s associated with objects of power and desire—like fast cars and red roses. Early cultures treasured rubies for their similarity to the redness of the blood that flowed through their veins, and believed that rubies held the power of life.

Ruby is one of the most historically significant colored stones. Rubies are mentioned four times in the Bible, in association with attributes like beauty and wisdom. In the ancient language of Sanskrit, ruby is called ratnaraj, or “king of precious stones.”

In the first century AD, the Roman scholar Pliny included rubies in his Natural History, describing their hardness and density. Ancient Hindus believed that those who offered fine rubies to the god Krishna were granted rebirth as emperors.

Hindus divided ruby into four castes, calling the true Oriental ruby a Brahmin. Someone in possession of a Brahmin was believed to have the advantage of perfect safety.

Ruby has accumulated a host of legends over the centuries. People in India believed that rubies enabled their owners to live in peace with their enemies. In Burma (a ruby source since at least 600 AD—now called Myanmar), warriors possessed rubies to make them invincible in battle. However, it wasn’t enough to just wear the rubies. They had to insert them into their flesh and make them part of their bodies.

The name ruby comes from the Latin word ruber, which means “red.” The glowing red of ruby suggested an inextinguishable flame burning in the stone, even shining through clothing and able to boil water.

Ruby has been called the most precious of the 12 stones created by God.

Ruby retained its importance with the birth of the western world and became one of the most sought-after gems of European royalty and the upper classes. Many medieval Europeans wore rubies to guarantee health, wealth, wisdom, and success in love.

Desire for ruby is just as great today as it always has been. As a symbol of passion, ruby makes an ideal romantic gift. Consumers are drawn to the lush color because it also signifies wealth and success.

A Staff Favorite <3 ...

A favorite of our staff is the paperclip chain. We consider it an essential item for every jewelry wardrobe.  It’s available in a variety of lengths and weights, looks chic alone or layered, and has coordinating bracelets and earrings available! This stunning 14k yellow gold piece accents any look with style and elegance. Classic, Timeless AND Edgy – all in one necklace!

Our most popular is this 18”, 8.5 gram sized necklace. It’s 6.1mm in width so it’s substantial enough to wear alone but doesn’t overwhelm other pieces.

More From the Fashion Front

Here’s what www.whowhatwear.co.uk said about looking “in” this summer:

“Sea-Inspired Jewelry”

“I'm not sure if it's because everyone loves the new live-action Little Mermaid, but sea-inspired jewelry is everywhere. I'm a fan of seashell earrings.”

Marilyn's Favorite...

Vietri is one of our most popular lines. Made in Tuscany, The pieces blend well with any décor from “modern farmhouse” to contemporary.  This pitcher is one of my favorites. The cheery yellow of the lemons screams “Summer Fun.”  BTW: there are coordinating pieces like a serving bowl and tray available!

 Vietri Limoni Pitcher $119

Because "Vogue" Said So...

Here’s what Vogue magazine said about 2023 jewelry looks!

Bloom-Filled Bijoux Sure, they’re expected for the season, but the whimsy and color that florals bring to any outfit are always welcome. Wear yours delicately or with pizazz and a statement of color and size.

Bangles on Bangles Wrists really took a back seat for a few years there, huh? This season’s spring 2023 jewelry trends say it’s time to invest back into something high in shine and extra large.

Not Your Grandmother’s Pearls They never, truly, fade into the background. Layer them, or wear them with a touch of sparkle or just simply (and chicly) threaded on a colorful rope.

Sumptuous Simplicity A true jewelry trend for all: simple, low-key. Clean metals in crisp lines make for pieces that cut all the fuss. 

Welcome

Hello! My name is Valerie, and I am the bookkeeper here at Sharfmans Jewelers.  I’m new to the company (last October) and the industry. Before coming here, I was the bookkeeper at Charlton Furniture for 18 years.

It’s not much of a culture shock: I am accustomed to working with great people in a small business and having awesome customers. Not to mention working in a beautiful environment.

Speaking of which; all my friends ask me if I’m bringing home a paycheck or spending it all on new jewelry. I’m happy to say that my mortgage is getting paid and there is food on my table LOL. However, the temptation is strong.

I love coming in each morning to see the displays glistening with beautiful gold, diamonds, and gemstones.  Great care is taken in choosing the inventory.  Sharfmans has been in Worcester since 1937 and our customers expect great quality at reasonable prices. We happily accommodate.

Speaking of Sharfmans’ origins: I found the original ledger book from 1937 while cleaning out this office back in October. So Cool!

Anyways, welcome to our blog. As I am not a jeweler, I probably won’t be submitting very often.  I’ll let our knowledgeable sales staff do that. I can’t wait to read and learn what they have to offer here. 

Love & Peace,

Valerie