Jewelled spring surprises

One of the world’s most famous jewellery lovers and timeless icon Elizabeth Taylor once said, “I’ve never thought of my jewellery as trophies. I’m here to take care of it and to love it, for we are only temporary custodians of beauty.” Probably that’s why her treasured pieces are still some of the best preserved and admired as jewellery is truly one of the finest expressions in art. For this issue of Aviamost we select the season’s stunning tributes to femininity by leading jewellery brands where inspired artistry accesses precious materials from across the world and is matched by intricate and innovative craftsmanship of the finest order…

Match it with Pomellato's Victoria ring. Recently, Pomellato’s new brand ambassador, the mega-talented and gutsy, Mexican, American director, producer and actress, Salma Hayek wore the brand’s new Victoria collection ring to dazzling effect in Madrid at the WOMAN Magazine Awards where she received an award for her work with “Chime for Change,” a global campaign to convene, unite and strengthen the voices speaking out for girls and women around the world. And the reason for starting the campaign is absolutely clear: “because none of us can move forward if half of us are held back”. Meaning unless women move forward (or are allowed to do so in any society) it cannot be rightly termed as progress.

Ever so elegant and unconventional, jet, a type of lignite which is considered a minor gemstone is sumptuously interpreted by the Italian luxury jewellery brand’s Victoria collection. In it, large volumes and archetypal lines blend with extraordinarily lightweight and refined workmanship to offer truly unique jewels. We feature Pomellato's boho chic Victoria necklace chain fashioned in rose gold and set with jet and black diamonds.  

American style icon Tiffany & Co hosted an unforgettable evening to unveil its much-awaited 2015 Blue Book Collection, the ultimate expression of couture jewelry. The event attracted several beautiful people such as Oscar winner Reese Witherspoon, Olivia Wilde and Amber Heard. Present was of course the luxury brand’s highly acclaimed Design Director Francesca Amfitheatrof.  The talented and beautiful actress Olivia Wilde was seen sparkling in emerald-cut pink spinel and diamond drop earrings from Tiffany’s 2015 Blue Book Collection. We feature its Blue Book 2015 Art of the Sea necklace composed of a delicate string of gems proudly suspending a facetted emerald which in turn suspends a doughnut disc pendant richly encrusted with sapphires, topaz and emeralds. With “The Art of the Sea” as its theme, this Blue Book collection is full of fluid designs and watery gems that capture the energy and movement of the sea perfectly. At the 87^th Academy awards, Oscar winner and presented at the event, Cate Blanchett wore the collection’s eye-catching necklace of aquamarines and turquoise set with diamonds in a fluid platinum setting, with aplomb.

Renowned jewelry house Mouawad celebrates 125 years of its existence this year. As part of the celebrations, the brand has launched a special collection of limited edition novelties. These include additions to the Flower of Eternity and Rosette lines, as well as premium Grande Ellipse roller ball pens. Founded in the year 1890 Mouawad has been growing ever since with each generation bringing its unique business acumen and creativity to it. In pursuit of excellence, Mouawad has embraced the bold spirit of evolution, constantly pushing new boundaries and entering new markets. To mark the milestone, it introduced limited edition assortments from its best selling Flower of Eternity ® collection from which we pick some fresh and beautiful three-petal blooms! The limited edition assortment from this line sparkles with different gradations of beautiful colours resulting in a contemporary glamour. Crafted from 18k white gold, and set with diamonds, tsavorites and multi-colored sapphires, the Flower of Eternity® new additions feature gradient pink, yellow, blue and orange designs available in pendants, earrings and rings. The result is a selection of iconic pieces perfect for every mood from daytime chic to a dazzling evening sophistication.

Swiss luxury brand which has captured the limelight for all time is Chopard which is set to play a starring role in the coming Cannes Film Festival where it will launch its much-awaited Red Carpet collection. We present its enchanting High Jewellery Snake earrings where the coy and jeweled reptile, fashioned in 18k yellow gold is richly decked in emeralds and sapphires gazes at the onlooker through ruby red eyes. The brand’s rings are a sight to behold and we present a marvelous piece that’s a definitely steal – its sapphire and diamonds ring.  

Did you know that the world’s greatest sugar addict is also one of the smallest bird species on earth? Now who would have every thought of that? But it’s true! And it’s the tiny hummingbird! Acclaimed French jewellery brand Boucheron pays charming tribute to this feathered beauty with its delicate Hopi the Hummingbird earrings and ring where a little hummingbird in 18k white gold, decked lavishly with diamonds, pink sapphires and blue sapphire eyes is featured sipping nectar from a peach-pink morganite playing bloom. The ring crafted in rose gold also flaunts a tasteful sprinkling of diamonds. The petite birds have especially long beaks in order to reach deep into the flowers for nectar. They remain suspended at their task by rapidly beating their wings, which causes a humming sound, hence their name.

The fairytale castle brooch in Van Cleef & Arpel’s high jewellery collection, based on one of France's most popular fairytales, Peu d'Ane (Donkey Skin) rivets our attention. Inspired by the classic French fairytale by the same name, the storyline is recounted through a glittering array of jewels. Written by Charles Perrault, Peau d'Âne was first published in 1694 and tells the story of a princess who runs away from the castle after the death of her mother drives the king mad. She hides her regal dresses and jewellery in a chest and conceals herself in a donkey hide before seeking refuge in an enchanted forest, where she is found by the prince, who instantly falls in love with her. We feature its spellbinding brooch designed as a princess adorned in a grand blue ball gown perfectly set with diamonds, turquoise, aquamarine and tourmalines. It’s a piece that pays grand tribute to the French fairytale, its chief protagonist the princess, to the undying beauty of the art of haute couture and finally, also to the genius of the famous jewellery brand which has enriched the realm of jewels.

Parisian luxury brand Cartier’s jewels are truly forever! We select an antique brooch featuring two owls shaped in yellow gold and set with magnificent opals for their bodies and emeralds for their eyes, while the top of their shoulders is accented by diamonds. They are perched on a colourful branch featuring a colourful bloom of diamonds, blue sapphires and rubies and appear to be in deep discussion, probably about their young ones. The brand’s favourite but endangered beast find pride of place in its Panthere de Cartier platinum necklace sporting a chessboard design on its back of black and white, appearing to urge us to make our moves but carefully. The intriguing piece is set with one 35.80-carat briolette-cut sapphire, agate mosaic, onyx, sapphire eyes and brilliant-cut diamonds.

Spanish jewellery legend Carrera y Carrera's jewels are works of art that are inexhaustible sources of joy. Its signature style is its sculpted excellence and eye for detail, which is so beautifully displayed in its Garzas Maxi ring which is part of its Seda Imperiale collection. Inspired by the herons embroidered on Manila shawls, the artisan goldsmiths at Carrera y Carrera elevate this figurative element to its maximum splendor. Fashioned from 18k gold it is set with a magnificent prasiolite and brilliant diamonds on the wings of the graceful feathered duo. Voluptuous forms, sublime detail, and magnificent finishes make this line an excellent example of gold craftsmanship and of the beauty of a great relationship with one’s soul mate.

Since the early twenties the renowned German brands Schoeffel has presented the world some of its most stunning pearl jewelry in the breathtaking designs containing the finest that the sea has to offer. Schoeffel is known for beautiful, classic pearl jewelry, but recently alongside its traditional collections the brand has unfurled a fresh, youthful line: The Creative Collection. In it, painstakingly selected beautiful Tahitian pearls are combined to amazing effect in new designs which are stylish and innovative at the same time, with names like Cool Candy, Happy Hour and Liberty.

Yet another Parisian brand which continues to enthrall us over the years is Chanel. Its famous founder who was almost always spotted with heaps of pearls around her neck, reportedly once said, “A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls around her neck!” And it’s not without reason. Pearls do make one of the most timeless and dependable accessories for a woman. Her brand recalls Ms. Coco’s fondness with a tribute in the shape of its SS 2015 bracelet with natural stones, diamante pearls and CC signatures. As a bonus, we present Chanel’s short two-tone, glass-pearl multi-strand necklace with its interesting combo of dark blue and lustrous creamy pearls. Just the piece for you!

Damas, the Middle East's leading jewellery and watch retailer, unveiled a new collection for the annual Indian festival Akshaya Tritiya which this year fell on April 21. A holy day for Hindus and Jains, it is also a day when the alignment of the stars is highly auspicious. The Sanskrit word Akshaya means ‘that which never diminishes' so the day is ideal for beginning new ventures as also charitable acts as it is believed one will reap rich rewards. This year’s Akshaya Tritiya collection includes bracelets, earrings, pendants and necklaces in a vibrant variety of precious gems and diamonds, all inspired by  the mood and colour of this festive period. From it we feature two statement bangles richly fashioned in 22k yellow gold in a beautiful, traditional Indian design and featuring paisley motifs set with rubies and diamonds.

It all starts with colour. And colour has never been so present in a Piaget collection. Firstly thanks to the precious stones, particularly two emeralds (one cabochon-cut and the other cushion-cut, both over 25 ct), one 20 ct engraved ruby, and one cushion-cut sapphire of 20.2 ct. And of course thanks to the hard stones too: natural turquoises, opals, heart of ruby, jade, onyx and lapis lazuli. They are used not only in watch dials, but also in High Jewellery pieces. It’s exciting, Extremely Piaget collection features one of the most interesting cuff bracelets of the season, crafted in 18K pink gold, set with 32 marquise-cut diamonds (approx. 12.42 cts) and 23 turquoise beads. The piece captures the laidback luxe of the 1970s with chased gold, bright splashes of turquoise and a fizz of diamonds.

Swiss luxury brand de Grisogono’s founder Fawaz Gruosi has a penchant for colour. Embodying one of the brightest and most iconic expressions of his style, the Boule collection is inspired by the glamour of the limelight. Since its creation in 1999, the sparkle of the facet balls set with diamonds and precious stones has made it an authentic reference in the world of design. In 2015, de Grisogono is writing the future of the BOULE collection by giving it a new face and infusing it with a new soul. It is composed of full and perfect spheres either in white or rose gold, featuring highly original materials, or showcasing a new aesthetic in the form of honeycomb setting. An apparently simple take on a traditional shape, we feature its cute stud earrings and graceful necklace where orbs recall the magic of the universe.

Legendary Fabergé, the world’s most iconic artist jeweller, creates modern collections of extraordinary jewellery, watches and accessories for a discerning international clientele. Founded in 1842, Fabergé has been the most revered name in jewellery ever since Peter Carl Fabergé became official goldsmith to the Russian Imperial Court; the house created exquisite jewels and objects, including the legendary series of lavish and ingenious Imperial Easter Eggs. Peter Carl Fabergé was renowned for his exquisite and artistic use of colour, making the most of each gemstone’s unique characteristics and developing a vibrant enamel palette. Its’ stunning, Devotion collection exemplifies ‘the art of colour’, seamlessly fusing extraordinary coloured gemstones, artistic ingenuity and exceptional craftsmanship. Fabergé’s vibrant gemstones are chosen for their exquisite colour, cut, clarity and character. This collection celebrates special lifetime events, milestones and memorable moments. From it we select its gorgeous 18k white gold drop earrings set with rubies in round cuts as well as pear cuts while diamonds are set on patterns recalling Russia’s famous Red Square domes. Yet another piece from this collection is its magnificent emerald and diamond ring featuring floral designs all over. There’s no doubt you will soon get highly devoted to them we say!  

ISTANA the leading jewellery retailer presents renowned Swiss jewellery brand Adler’s enchanting new Flora collection spilling over with five-petal blooms await a woman’s touch to herald the onset of spring! Inspired by ancient Europe’s Floralia festival paying homage to Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers and the season of spring, it unfurls multi-strand necklaces, stud earrings, short drop earrings as well as rings. Adler’s acclaimed craftsmanship breathes life into delicate, twinkling buds fashioned in 18k white gold settings and featuring sapphires, rubies and yellow and white diamond petals. Adler’s Flora collection is exclusively available at ISTANA, the UAE-based multi-brand jewellery retailer’s boutiques located at The Dubai Mall and Four Seasons Resort Dubai. 

Italian jewellery brand Roberto Coin’s designer jewellery arrived onto the international stage of luxury jewellery in 1977 and for the first 19 years the brand provided high quality artistic and precise craftsmanship to other well-known prestigious brands. From its vast treasure trove we select its Art Noveau necklace and earrings as the perfect spring accompaniments this season! Fashioned from 18k rose gold settings, these awesome blossoms are richly decked with diamonds, pink sapphires and pink tourmalines. Marked by a definitive style underlined by exceptional craftsmanship and an eye for detail, the famous maestro’s signature motif is a tiny ruby set in each jewel in order to bestow mysterious protection upon its wearer, based on an ancient Egyptian tradition.

This season, popular jewellery brand PANDORA pays tribute to the beauty of a spring garden bursting to life with elements of nature and sweet-scented blooms. The adorable daisy is reinterpreted in a cool, contemporary way that references spring’s top catwalk looks, with bright clusters of delicate daisies swaying in the soft breeze portrayed in one magnificent, hand-finished statement ring. Sterling silver daisy sculptures allude to the in-vogue trend of 3D floral forms and embellishments, and are given a white-out effect with bright white enamel decoration applied by hand decoration. Accents of clear bezel-set cubic zirconia add a subtle touch of glitter. Regardless of the occasion or time of day, this bouquet ring is a styling dream. Whether you are getting ready for a big event or just want to add that little extra detail to your daily outfit, it will add a glamorous touch, crisp white colour and on-trend florals.

The Versace Fine Jewellery collection is full of pieces of pure luxury and the most extraordinary craftsmanship. With this collection, artistic director Donatella Versace brings together the world’s most precious gemstones to create hand-crafted pieces that reflect both the brand’s legendary heritage, and the allure and sophistication of the Versace world today. We feature the Citrine and Diamonds necklace is an innovative vision of the iconic Versace “V”, flipping it playfully to decorate this citrine and diamond necklace that is full of the glamorous spirit of Versace today, offering a truly bold piece for the dynamic woman who knows what she is about.

British fine jewellery designer Stephen Webster introduced his new Gold Struck collection at Baselworld 2015, incorporating amethyst, topaz, tanzanites, rubies, garnets, emeralds, green tourmalines, diamonds and fire opals set in rose, yellow and white gold designs. The collection is inspired by the Cheapside Hoard - the world’s largest collection of Elizabethan and Jacobean jewellery discovered in London over a hundred years ago - and the idea of jewels tumbling from a vintage treasure box. Dating back more than 300 years, the buried treasure included some of the most exquisite examples of 16^th and 17^th century jewellery ever seen, and is now on display at the Museum of London. Entitled Gold Struck, Stephen Webster's fine jewellery collection combines ancient jewellery techniques with modern design, and pays homage to the vibrant palette of the Cheapside Hoard with a myriad of coloured gemstones from amethyst and tanzanite, to fire opals and emeralds.

Showcasing the highly skilled craftsmanship of renowned London jeweler Graff’s Master Cutters, the entire surface of its astonishing, utterly feminine and covetable Pink and White Diamond Briolette necklace has been intricately faceted, encouraging an extraordinary blaze of light to illuminate the stone. Ornate pavé set pink diamonds which gracefully silhouette the central gem are complemented by pink and white fancy cut diamonds hand-set within rose and white gold into a graduating lustrous display. The pink and white diamond necklace is set with a 30.94 carat Fancy Very light Pink briolette diamond (Diamonds 63.52cts).

Sensuality and sophistication reign supreme in the garden of glamour. This tier of Bulgari Diva jewels rules with floral elegance, shimmering with pavé diamonds against the gleam of pink or white gold. It reinterprets the fan-like patterns of intricate Roman mosaics. The Diva shapes arc into an almost flower-like shape, blooming with the most precious of petals and delicate of curves, with seduction and elegance, the “diamond rose petals” fan into renditions of rings, earrings and necklaces bursting with the brand’s style. Immediately recognisable as Diva, they have put a floral twist on the classic shape and turned it into something alive and very romantic. The glamour of this Diva is fascinating, magnetic and a true representative of the Diva’s multifaceted soul and from its repertoire we select two gems: a charm bracelet sporting mother-of-pearl and black onyx and a pair of eye-catching, dazzling 18k white gold short drop earrings set with turquoise, black onyx and just a sprinkling of diamonds.  

The sea seems to have played muse for several leading jewellery brands this year. And why not as it’s increasingly clear that a pristine marine environment is absolutely key to clean and pure air and the resulting increase in good old oxygen for all of us to breathe. Renowned Japanese pearling pioneer Mikimoto presents several delectable treasures from the sea lovingly transformed into irresisitible adornments for femininity. Its Hyacintha earrings have a casual charm of their own and sure to draw the opposition’s envious looks your way. They feature unfacetted tanzanites at the lobe dangling its lustrous Baroque South Sea cultured pearls, while adding the dazzle are diamonds set in the delicate ‘foliage’. Match it with Mikimoto’s Reflection Aquamarine pendant necklace to turn into a marine princess!

The plants and colours of Giverny inspired the artists at Viennesse luxury brand FREYWILLE to create the Hommage à Claude Monet collection. Their goal was to convey the same emotions that Monet must have felt when working in his garden, but they wanted to intensify them in shining fire enamel. Hommage à Claude Monet consists for four sets: Iris is a green and blue interpretation, in Art Nouveau style, of the flowers in Giverny. With its Impressionist-style brushstrokes, Giverny reflects the variety of the garden through strong, bright colour. Honfleur’s focus is the red and orange chrysanthemums so loved by Monet; the set is named after a port town whose idyllic setting was a source of inspiration for many Impressionist artists. Orangerie is dedicated to Monet’s most famous works—the water lily paintings. The motif reflects the atmosphere of Giverny, the scent of flowers, the warmth of the sun and the gentle breezes of Normandy.