We love coastal destinations for the same reasons that we flock to the Caribbean or South Seas for an occasional psychological reboot; warm sunny days and balmy nights, loads of exotic fragrant flora, and of course beaches to laze away the days.
Starfish, Nautical Collection; 18k white gold, diamonds and gemstones. Courtesy Cherie Dori.Ah, water, so inspirational. A leisurely stroll along the shoreline reminds one of what is truly important in life. Simply put, water refreshes inside and out. So it’s also natural that we occasionally wish to flaunt this charmed lifestyle with jewelry that gives a nod to our favorite seaside locales.
Nautical themed jewels are not a new concept by a long shot. Actually, the first known human adornment ever found dates back hundreds of thousands of years to Morocco, Tunisia and Israel; all Mediterranean coastal regions. Whereas early fashionistas used actual shells and found objects from the sea, modern jewelry lovers prefer artfully designed marine themed pieces set in precious metal and gemstones.
But not all nautical themed jewelry is equal. Mass manufacturers crank out dolphin and gator charms by the boat-load for the tourist trade; and that’s all fine and dandy. But those of us who collect only what are excellent to wear demand exclusive styles with superb craftsmanship. I think I found just the ticket.
Glamorous designer Cherie Dori launched its yummy Nautical Collection recently and it’s being snatched up like Cronuts. The collection features seaside icons like a dazzling seahorse and the sculptural starfish shown here. The fluid lines of its form mesmerizes in diamonds and colorful precious gemstones, set in 18k white gold.
Cherie Dori also is tapped in to the current trend for using analogous color combos with a fresh twist on color gem jewelry. You don’t have to live by the shore to enjoy owning these mini-memorials to a carefree getaway we may dream about. I think this type of jewelry will resonate with your customers as well.
Award winning trade journalist and gemologist Diana Jarrett is a Registered Master Valuer Appraiser and a member of the Association of Independent Jewellery Valuers (AIJV). She’s a popular speaker at conferences and trade shows. Jarrett writes for trade and consumer publications, online outlets, her blog: Color-n-Ice, and www.jewelrywebsitedesigners.com. Contact her at info@dianajarrett.com, visit her website at www.dianajarrett.com, and follow her on Facebook and Twitter (Loupey).
