Guest Blogger: Her Royal Highness The Princess Maria Gabriella di Savoia

January 4, 2013, 6:40 am

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To kick-off the New Year, CIRCA Geneva Director Vivien Yakopin met with Her Royal Highness The Princess Maria Gabriella di Savoia at the Nest Gallery to discuss her current art exhibit as well as her passion for jewelry!

Her Royal Highness The Princess Maria Gabriella Giuseppa Aldegonda Adelaide Margherita Ludovica Felicita Gennara di Savoia is the second daughter of Umberto II, the last King of Italy, and Queen Marie José, previously the Princess of Belgium. A student of the arts, Princess Maria Gabriella graduated from the Louvre Art School in Paris, France studying Art History and Antique French furniture with famous Professors Germain Bazin and Pierre Verlet. Her Royal Highness also completed summer courses at “Sommer Akademie” in Salzburg, Austria with the renowned Oscar Kokoschka.

Your Royal Highness, how did it all begin? Tell us about the concept for your artworks.

I had all these jewelry catalogues at home, and it broke my heart to think I would be throwing them away with all these beautiful pictures of amazing jewelry. I have always loved beautiful jewels. So I decided to start the collages. A friend of mine sold her jewelry collection and I created a special order for her with all the pictures as a souvenir, and then it just continued. I just love making them and giving jewels a second life!

You’ve done such impressive work with the Savoia Foundation. What was your inspiration to start such an organization?

I acquired a passion for history and in particular the history of the Savoia family from my father, King Umberto II. He gathered a collection of over 15,000 engravings, sketches, and 60,000 books. In an effort to continue his legacy, I decided to establish a foundation dedicated to the preservation of family’s history and collection. In 1986, Fondazione Umberto II e Maria José Savoia was born!

The Foundation’s mission is to promote historical research on this illustrious house which ruled long before the unification of Italy. I’ve added many photographs, gowns, cloaks and uniforms to the collection of thousands of engravings and books.

How did your passion and knowledge of jewelry begin?

When my father left Italy in 1946, he left jewelry in custody care of the Bank of Italy. The collection is still kept in a vault and never shown. Such a shame - jewelry should be worn and enjoyed! Since no one is allowed to see them, I was repeatedly asked to give conferences and show family pictures. I began giving lectures, and eventually decided to publish a book. Last year, with the collaboration of the Italian Cultural Institute, I lectured in Chicago, and hope to visit New York in the near future!

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Guess Who!

January 8, 2013, 10:04 am

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Hans Wilsdorf  
Founder of Rolex     
(March 22, 1881 – July 6, 1960)


"We want to be the first in the field and Rolex should be seen as the one and only–the best." –Hans Wilsdorf (1914)






In 1906 Has Wilsdorf decided to set up in business alone, feeling that his training and education had prepared him to stand on his own. The rugged individualist had a commitment to excellence. With his uncanny insight into strategic design and marketing, he refused to compromise quality. In 1908, Hans Wilsdorf registered the name of Rolex as a trademark for Wilsdorf & Davis Ltd., and the image shown right is the official registration from July 2nd, 1908.

In 1926, at age 45, Hans Wilsdorf had successfully designed, manufactured and patented the waterproof Rolex Oyster. The challenge he faced was, how to communicate the value-proposition of such a product. Wilsdorf developed the idea of associating the fantasy of mermaids with the waterproof Rolex Oyster as seen in the 1926 French Rolex advertisement seen below.

Stay tuned to the CIRCA blog for more on Rolex, Hans Wilsdorf and other visionaries from the world of jewelry!



Photos courtesy of: Rolex Watch Reviews.

CIRCA Sightings!

January 10, 2013, 7:24 am

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CIRCA proudly sponsored the Palm Beach Police Foundation at the 7th Annual Policeman’s Ball held at Mar-a-Lago Club. Senior Directors Angelina Chen and Craig Miller joined in the star-studded festivities.

Spotted were Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster, Donald and Melania Trump, along with co-chairs Annie and Michael Falk. The evening kicked-off with poolside cocktails, followed by dinner, a live auction and the much anticipated presentation of the annual Palm Tree Award.

CIRCA donated this stunning 18 karat white gold, diamond, and black sapphire floral bracelet by Roberto Coin. Part of the "Fantasia" collection, this piece is highlighted with 2.70 carats of diamonds, 15 carats of black sapphire and accented with signature Roberto Coin rubies. It raised over $16,000!

The Palm Beach Police Foundation supports the Town of Palm Beach Police Department through gifts and contributions to continue its dedication to the safety of the community. In addition to police support programs, the Foundation provides funding to various community, residential and business crime watch programs, such as Palm Beach Crime Watch, a 30 year-old non-profit organization that promotes citizen participation in crime prevention.

Penny Lancaster and Rod Stewart

Annie and Michael Falk

CIRCA treasures our friends at the PBPF and we congratulate co-chairs Annie and Michael Falk on another incredible evening!

Photos courtesy of the Palm Beach Daily News.

CIRCA Sightings!

January 15, 2013, 8:35 am

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CIRCA proudly sponsored the Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s®Perfect Pink Party at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach this past Saturday. Palm Beach Director John Bianco and colleagues Natasha Cornstein and Natalie Newman were out to support along with several luminaries including Governor Rick Scott and Donald Trump!

The dazzling pink evening kicked-off with elegant poolside cocktails and dinner, followed by an exciting live auction and dancing! CIRCA donated this rare 18-karat white gold, diamond and mixed color stone bracelet, depicting a nature motif of flowers, leaves and vines. 686 round brilliant cut diamonds are surrounded by 26 carved emerald leaves, and cabochon cut sapphires, rubies and emeralds. A bidding war ensued for this highly coveted bracelet - raising over $17,000 for this important cause!




CIRCA congratulates founder, Ambassador Nancy Brinker, and co-chairs Ellen Levy and Mark & Mary Freitas on a spectacular event! Please join CIRCA in furthering our support for the cure!

About Susan G. Komen:Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure® and launched the global breast cancer movement. Today, Susan G. Komen is the boldest community fueling the best science and making the biggest impact in the fight against breast cancer. Thanks to events like the Komen Race for the Cure, we have invested almost $2 billion to fulfill our promise, working to end breast cancer in the U.S. and throughout the world through ground-breaking research, community health outreach, advocacy and programs in more than 50 countries. For more information, check out the website: http://ww5.komen.org/

CIRCA's Natasha Cornstein, Philanthropist Irwin Levy, Natalie Newman

Palm Beach Director John Bianco, Natasha Cornstein, Ambassador Nancy Brinker, Natalie Newman

Hollywood Correspondent

January 17, 2013, 11:17 am

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Beverly Hills Director, Wes Carroll

A New Year marks the start of award show season here in Beverly Hills, and this past Monday was the 70th Annual Golden Globe Awards. I was very pleased to see the ladies dressed to the nines and accessorizing with just the right gems.

The red carpet means all eyes are on you; your gown must fit perfectly, your hair must be in place, makeup not overdone, and the jewels must sparkle! Also, don’t trip! This year the gowns were a mix of colors and silhouettes, but I spotted my favorites right away, those of course who accessorized with statement jewelry!

Julianne Moore and Rachel Weisz both chose Bulgari to accent their ensembles. Moore adorned herself with yellow gold and diamond pendant earrings, and Weisz, a Serpenti platinum and diamond bracelet.

Jessica Alba wore quite the sparkler, a Harry Winston Mrs. Winston diamond necklace with a fiery hue Oscar De La Renta gown. Diamonds were certainly her best friend! To accessorize her Vivienne Westwood, Jennifer Garner wore statement David Webb gold and diamond earrings, and Salma Hayek, an elegant Boucheron Irene diamond bracelet.

As for the gowns, I noticed many black and red hues, and plenty of mermaid cuts. Some of my favorites were; Kate Hudson in a belted Alexander McQueen with impressive gold embroidery, and Zooey Deschanel in a bold red, princess style Oscar De La Renta. Tres Chic! Taylor Swift chose a fitted plum Donna Karen Atlier mermaid gown, very sophisticated but youthful. However, Salma Hayek’s black shimmery Gucci Premiere gown was a great pairing with her Boucheron diamonds.

Congratulations to all the Globe winners!

Seashells by the Seashore

January 21, 2013, 11:23 am

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Rising to prominence in the 1930’s, Seaman Schepps (1881 – 1972) defied all previous ideas of what jewelry should look like, diverting from the traditional, and juxtaposing platinum and diamonds with luminous accents of color, as well as man-made and natural materials. Like these recently purchased 18 karat yellow gold, ruby and sapphire shell earrings – one of Seaman Schepps’ more renowned designs inspired by the early works of Verdura.

As “America’s Court Jeweler,” Schepps developed a high profile client list including Coco Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli, the Duchess of Windsor, and members of Du Pont, Mellon and Rockefeller families. His jewelry stood for style and originality more than wealth, with cover features in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.

To continue his legacy his daughter Patricia Schepps Vaill made jewelry in her father’s style, often using elements from pieces he had designed. Today’s designs draw on archives containing over 5000 detailed renderings and 650 molds. Vaill developed a new look in jewelry aimed at appealing to a younger clientele.

24 Karat Club of New York City

January 23, 2013, 12:41 pm

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CIRCA was out to support Co-founder and member of the elite 24 Karat Club of New York City, Jeffrey Singer, at the annual banquet hosted at the Waldorf Astoria. CIRCA team members joined in the festivities and the celebration of the jewelry industry.

The mission of the 24 Karat Club of NYC is to foster the interests of the jewelry industry by forming a fellowship uniting men and women within the industry and kindred trades in the belief and practice that the greatest values are to be found in raising the quality of human relationships.

This year Jeffrey Singer co-sponsored pre and post-gala cocktails with Howard Hauben, Editorial Director and Publisher of the Centurion Newsletter and Information Hub, for all 24k attendees. The black-tie evening was held in one of the elegant hotel ballrooms with dinner, bag pipe and vocal performances, and entertainment including Dennis Miller.

CIRCA congratulates Co-founder Jeffrey Singer on his prestigious membership!

Gloriously Gold

January 29, 2013, 2:05 pm

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The Retro Period came shortly after the renowned Art Deco period, and large was then all the rage. Jewelry departed from the decorative accessory, ushering in chunky and over-sized pieces. On the heels of Art Deco, Retro jewelry still incorporated the architectural influence however with a more three-dimensional appearance and rounded edges, like this yellow and rose gold bracelet. This was quite a transformation from the sharp angles and symmetrical styles of the previous era.

Postwar, platinum was a rare material, so jewelers turned to gold and combinations like yellow and rose, as shown above. In addition to the popularity of gold, soft, floral and feminine motifs were commonly used, as well as scroll-like shapes.

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Settling An Estate Has Never Been Easier

January 31, 2013, 12:03 pm

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CIRCA was proud to exhibit at the 47th Annual Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning Conference hosted at the Orlando World Center Marriot. CIRCA Co-founder Jeffrey Singer, COO & CFO Jayne Conway along with colleagues Natasha Cornstein, Kara Collins and Natalie Newman met with Trusts & Estates professionals from around the world to discuss the many advantages CIRCA provides when settling an estate.

There was excitement throughout the week – CIRCA raffled a Rolex Datejust rolex and co-sponsored with Trusts & Estates Magazine, a fabulous Irish Coffee event! We are delighted to announce Beverly Mitchell, Senior VP & Estate Settlement Market Director, U.S. Trust, is the winner of our Rolex watch raffle.  Congratulations Beverly!

For over ten years, CIRCA has assisted trusts & estates specialists with the disposition of personal jewelry assets by offering expert, discreet and courteous service combined with the best value and immediate payment.  When compared to traditional auction houses, CIRCA offers many advantages.

• At CIRCA you will receive the highest value for your jewelry assets.  CIRCA does not charge commission fees, insurance fees or photography fees.  Over sixty percent of CIRCA’s client are repeat and referral . . . a testament to our outstanding market pricing.

• CIRCA evaluates estates ranging from simple gold jewelry to the world’s finest gems and watches.  No item is too large or too small.  CIRCA will settle assets as small as $500 dollars and up to $100 million and beyond.

• CIRCA offers immediate payment.  The estate will receive payment within 48 hours of an accepted offer.  The settlement of personal jewelry assets will not be constrained by an auction schedule or the uncertainty of consignment. 

CIRCA welcomes the opportunity to assist you with your estate planning and settlement needs.  For additional information or to schedule an evaluation, call us at (212) 486-6013 or email us at trusts&estates@circajewels.com.

CIRCA Team Members Kara Collins, Natalie Newman, Natasha Cornstein and Jayne Conway

CIRCA's Jeffrey Singer speaking at the Irish Coffee Event

Racing Beauty

February 4, 2013, 7:50 am

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Cartier, one of the most revered jewelry design houses, has created high-quality timepieces for over 150 years. The Roadster, introduced in 2001, was inspired by race cars from the 50’s and 60’s. A contemporary classic, this timepiece offers a sporty yet timeless look.

The Cartier Roadster enjoys the finest movements and internal mechanisms, manufactured by the company themselves. Some versions are fitted with mechanical or self-winding movements, while others have quartz mechanisms. Additionally, the Roadster has interchangeable straps, allowing the wearer to choose a more casual or refined and formal style. The model pictured is made of approximately 37 carats of diamonds set in 18 karat white gold.

CIRCA Sightings!

February 5, 2013, 2:18 pm

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Souk Greiner, Deirdre Koldyke, Beth Eugenio, Margo Reese, CIRCA Chicago Director Ruth Thuston

CIRCA Chicago was proud to host a private tour of the Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts exhibit at the Field Museum last week. Our guests were treated to a fabulous lecture by docent Happie Daat, a private exhibit viewing, followed by cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

“CIRCA was delighted to share this afternoon with so many dear friends. I was especially proud to host my fellow members of the Chicago History Museum’s Costume Council Committee,” Said Ruth Thuston. “As Chicagoans, we are privileged to have access to the world’s finest institutions.”

This special exhibit re-examines the world of the maharajas and their extraordinary rich culture. Key artworks in Maharaja include exquisitely detailed paintings of royal processions, regalia worn by kings and queens, ceremonial daggers, swords and matchlock guns, hand-crafted instruments and board games, and prized photographs by Man Ray and Cecil Beaton. One extraordinary highlight is the Patiala necklace by Cartier which originally contained 2,930 diamonds (including the yellow 234.69-carat DeBeers diamond).

Kevin McGirr, Cindy Polayes and Ruth Thuston

Docent Happie Daat

CIRCA’s Natasha Cornstein and Sherrill Bodine

*Images courtesy Cheri Eisenberg Photography

Club des Leaders

February 6, 2013, 8:04 am

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CEO of Forbes Mike Perlis and CIRCA Geneva Director Vivien Yakopin

In 2010, the Leaders Club was created in Geneva, aiming to bring together personalities holding top positions in finance, luxury, fashion, real-estate, media, politics, arts and International Gotha. Their exclusive lunches are organized in Geneva, London, Paris, and Gstaad, and regularly feature high profile guest speakers.

Last Monday, January 28th CIRCA was in attendance at the Leaders Club luncheon in Geneva featuring guest speaker Mike Perlis, CEO of Forbes. Mr. Perlis so graciously accepted this speaking engagement on his return home from the World Economic Forum in Davos, sharing with us the history of Forbes and his impressions from the forum.

Forbes was started by Bertie Charles Forbes in 1917. Having overheard conversations from industrial giants of his time, such as Carnegie, and Rockefeller, he decided to start writing about it so that others could benefit from their knowledge. Forbes is known throughout the world for its famous lists including; World’s Most Powerful People and World’s Billionaires. Although, Mr. Perlis likes to refers to it as “a 96 year old start-up,” Forbes.com now receives 40 million visitors a month.

His Royal Highness Prince Michel of Yugoslavia, Vivien Yakopin, Mr. Jacques Bonvin

Mr. Perlis reported on Davos, explaining that after several years of pessimism concerning world economic affairs, the mood has shifted to “cautious optimism.” Additionally, Mr. Perlis discussed the great work achieved by the Swiss charity, Gavi Alliance, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, a true example of capitalism and philanthropy working together. “Capitalism cannot exist without Philanthropy,” Mr. Perlis stated.

CIRCA would like to thank Mr. Perlis for hosting such a delightful and informative afternoon!

Love is in the Air

February 11, 2013, 10:48 am

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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! It’s a time to celebrate and cherish those that you love and a day I’ve come to look forward to!  Whether you’re single, in a new relationship or married forever there are many wonderful ways to celebrate.  If the plans call for simplicity or extravagance, just remember . . . it is the thought counts!

For all you gentlemen looking for some guidance, here are my top tips to get on her good side this February:

• Every jewel tells a story - And something sparkly is certainly the ultimate gift on Valentine’s Day!
• Take her out on the town - An evening out for dinner or cocktails at her favorite spot will show her you treasure quality time together.
• All ladies have a favorite flower – Send her a special bouquet of her favorite flowers with a hand written note.
• Feed her sweet tooth – Indulge her with chocolate covered strawberries. Ladies love dessert.
• Pamper her - A gift certificate to a Dry Bar. This is a fabulous new phenomenon  . . . primping over cocktails – cheers!
• Pamper one another – A couple’s massage is an intimate and relaxing experience to celebrate one another.

CIRCA WISHES YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES A HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

Rays of Sunshine

February 18, 2013, 8:30 am

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During his years in Paris, Duke Fulco Di Verdura joined Coco Chanel assisting in textile design and traveling the world for inspiration.  From this collaboration came Verdura’s most iconic jewelry piece, the Maltese cross cuff. In 1934, Verdura departed to America, where he jumpstarted his career in Hollywood fulfilling the demand for glamorous jewelry. Verdura eventually settled in New York City, opening his first boutique on 5th Avenue.

As one of the first major designers of the 20th century, Verdura is recognized for innovative design, expertise, craftsmanship and quality gemstones. His creations typically included cabochon gems, diamonds, enamel and yellow gold.

This particular Verdura “Ray” brooch, recently purchased by CIRCA, is made of yellow gold with a kunzite center stone.

Mediterranean Beauty

February 26, 2013, 1:46 pm

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Synonymous with Italian luxury, Bulgari has never forgotten its Greek origins nor been afraid to utilize color, becoming famous for their breathtaking emerald, ruby, sapphire and diamond jewelry. The house has modernized its styles to reflect today’s tastes and was acquired by French conglomerate LVMH for its daring fashion designs.

The 125 year old company is known for its distinguished jewelry designs, where stones were specifically cut to fit each piece.  This coral, diamond and onyx earrings and brooch set, circa 1950’s – 60’s, uses hand selected materials with flawless technical precision. This suite is 18k yellow gold, set with diamonds and Bulgari’s iconic cabochon cut coral stones. Bulgari jewelry often displays Greek and Roman roots, but most importantly brought a color revolution to the world of jewelry.

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CIRCA and the National Osteoporosis Foundation

February 28, 2013, 1:53 pm

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CIRCA is proud to announce a new partnership with the National Osteoporosis Foundation. On February 26th, CIRCA hosted a Generations of Strength luncheon at the Friars Club. Susan Swimmer, MORE magazine’s Fashion Features Editor and the event's special guest speaker, offered her expert advice on spring fashion trends and spring cleaning, going beyond the home and into the closet and jewelry box.

To kick-off the partnership, CIRCA’s Acting CEO Mary L. Forté presented NOF Executive Director and CEO Amy Porter with a check for $25,000 to support NOF’s mission of preventing osteoporosis and broken bones and raising awareness for the importance of building strong bones for life. The donation is part of a broad program CIRCA has initiated with NOF that also includes a unique fundraising platform, allowing NOF’s supporters to contribute to the organization through the sale of no longer worn jewelry.

NOF Executive Director & CEO Amy Porter and CIRCA Acting CEO Mary L. Forté

“CIRCA is honored to support the National Osteoporosis Foundation, an organization that has made tremendous strides in the education and prevention of osteoporosis, helping millions of women lead happier, healthier lives,” said Mary L. Forté,  CIRCA’s Acting CEO. “The alignment is a natural fit, and we are very excited to build on our initial gift by offering an innovative fundraising platform to NOF’s supporters.”  

Now through the end of May, 2013, National Osteoporosis Awareness Month, CIRCA will donate 10 percent of the price of all jewelry purchased from clients who mention the NOF partnership, up to $100,000, to the organization.

For more information about this partnership or to schedule an appointment, call 855.741.6138 or visit our website www.circajewels.com.

Guest speaker, MORE Fashion Features Editor, Susan Swimmer

Jayne Conway, Susan Swimmer, Mary L. Forté, Natasha Cornstein

NOF's Claire Gill, Amy Porter and Kelly Austin

Images: Courtesy of Patrick McMullan, Amber De Vos.

Hollywood Correspondent

March 5, 2013, 11:48 am

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CIRCA Beverly Hills Director, Wes Carroll

Jewelery starred at the 85th Annual Academy Awards. The red carpet was lined up with ensembles hot off the runway and trends that have jewelry enthusiasts raving. The Oscars usher in the Crème de la Crème of Hollywood, and every season I look forward to the gowns, the gossip, and of course the gems! Here are a few of my top picks this year!



Dripping in Diamonds:
Jennifer Garner was simply stunning in a plum Gucci peplum gown with a spectacular Neil Lane darkened platinum and diamond necklace. Promoting sustainability, Helen Hunt wore an H&M Global Green dress paired with amazing Martin Katz necklace and stacking bracelets. Zoe Saldana chose a dress fresh off the runway by Alexis Mabille delicately accessorized with beautiful Neil Lane diamond and pear shaped pearl drop earrings.

The Backwards Necklace:
Breaking conventions was very trendy on the red carpet this season. I particularly loved the use of the backward necklaces seen on Jennifer Lawrence in a Chopard and Anne Hathaway in Tiffany & Co.

Sparkles & Studs:
Sparkles were all over the red carpet, but my favorites were those with strategic embellishments like Salma Hayek’s dark blue velvet Alexander McQueen with a gold  high neck and  Kerry Washington’s bejeweled red Miu Miu. Catherine Zeta Jones glittered in a stunning Zuhair Murad couture gown with gold Art Deco swirls, channeling the Oscar himself. Stacy Keibler went “Old Hollywood” with an updo, silver studded Naeem Khan gown and Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.

The Dramatic & Demure:
As Cinderella for the evening, Amy Adams wore a beautiful powder blue Oscar de la Renta and Mouaward diamond earrings and statement diamond bracelet. Charlize Theron was sexy and striking in a stark white Dior Haute Couture form-fitting gown with Harry Winston diamond bracelets. Best Actress Winner, Jennifer Lawrence, also in Dior Haute Couture, wore a cream color gown with an oversized structured skirt. I loved the dramatic look yet soft touch of the fabric.

The Hair Accessory:
The hair pin is very feminine and elegant accessory. Sandra Bullock chose a beautiful Elie Saab gown and  gracefully pinned her hair on one side with a diamond cluster brooch and accessorized with Harry Winston diamond jewelry. Salma Hayek pinned her thick dark locks in an oversized bun and topped it off with Cindy Chao’s maple leaf choker as a tiara. Tres chic!

Congratulations to all the Oscar winners!

Images: Courtesy of Instyle, Elle, Gotceleb, Huffington Post, JustJared.

Shine Bright Like A Diamond

March 7, 2013, 10:11 am

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Van Cleef and Arpels is known for its iconic pieces ranging from the Two Butterfly collection to the Alhambra collection, but has always had an affinity for abstract and geometric designs. This particular necklace, circa 1950s, displays the craftsmanship and design elements that mark a piece as VCA, as well as the expertise of sourcing beautiful stones. The juxtaposition of different diamond cuts creates a dynamic and intricate look, while emphasizing the impression of stones floating in space.

This necklace includes beautifully graduated baguettes, with scroll-like shoulders as well as hexagonal, old European, and round brilliant diamonds. Each diamond on the extended pendants is set on a knife edge element to create the essence of “floating.” A statement bib- necklace such as this would be an elegant accessory to a lower cut evening gown.

CIRCA Sightings

March 12, 2013, 3:08 pm

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The CIRCA Beverly Hills team attendedExperience Bouchon Bistro hosted by the Chamber of Commerce last Monday, March 11th. Experience Bouchon is a progressive dining experience customized to showcase Chef Thomas Keller and his team: Sebastien Rouxel, Executive Pastry Chef of Thomas Keller; David Hands, Chef de Cuisine Bouchon Bistro; Alen Ramos, Pastry Chef Bouchon Bistro; and Carolyn Ramos, Pastry Chef & Bouchon Bakery Manager. Over 400 guests sampled treats from these masters at a variety of food stations and kitchen tours along with elaborate food demonstrations. Bon Appetit!

CIRCA Beverly Hills Director Wes Carroll and Buyer Adriana Pearson represented the CIRCA team (pictured above with Chef Thomas Keller) and rubbed elbows with friends from the jewelry and luxury industry, such as Jim Jehant from Brooks Brothers and Scott Green from Van Cleef & Arpels. Sponsors included Rothstein Kass, Torrey Pines Bank and Wells Fargo Private Bank, as well as Moet & Chandon providing an additional Champagne experience. Cheers!

Image courtesy of Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Irish eyes are smiling at CIRCA this St. Patrick’s Day

March 15, 2013, 10:10 am

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This St Patrick’s Day, CIRCA is celebrating the best way we know how: with emeralds.

The emerald isles of Ireland may be known for shamrocks and clovers, but that same green can be found in some of our favorite jewelry. Emeralds are found all over the world, but ironically not in Ireland. The best of the best, however, come from the Muzo mine in Colombia. Famous for that iconic color, the mine has been producing stones for hundreds of years. From Cleopatra to Elizabeth Taylor, countless women have fallen for this timeless stone.

These Bulgari earrings from the 1980’s are a classic example of design in the era of excess. Big and bold, the bright colors of the emerald and sapphires contrast beautifully with the clean brilliance of diamonds. This style’s striking contrast fits perfectly with today’s color block trend.  Since emerald is Pantone’s color for 2013, it’s the perfect way to enjoy St. Patricks’s Day in style.