Jenn
Whitekiller, Head Jewelry Designer
What
an exciting time to be a jewelry designer! I've been in the industry for almost
nine years now, and I have to say that the latest trends in jewelry design have
been among my favorites!
One
of the hottest trends right now is pink gold, commonly referred to as
"rose gold." The soft pink color is obtained by alloying (or mixing)
copper and yellow gold resulting in a very unique color. The pink hued gold
looks incredible when paired with white diamonds, as well as white gold, and
can take on a particularly charming look when juxtaposed with the rugged
appearance of rough or rose cut diamonds. I am also seeing rose gold used in
settings with colored stones like amethyst, topaz, sapphire, and natural colored
diamonds. One of my favorite combinations is that of natural, cognac colored
diamonds and rose gold. The warm tones play off of each other for an
unexpectedly pleasing look.
Another
trend that continues to gain attention is the use of rough or rose cut diamonds
in place of traditional cuts. Rough cut diamonds come in many interesting
colors and shapes. Some are used in their natural cubic form while others look
more like a rock plucked from a river bed (and in some cases they are just
that!). Rose cut diamonds traditionally have a smooth, flat surface on one side
with a multi-faceted surface on the opposite side. Rose cuts are particularly
interesting because they allow for a variety of color (or clean and clear)
while still giving off a little sparkle.
Whether
I am starting from scratch with a rose cut diamond or sapphire, or have been
provided with stones that a client wishes to incorporate into the design, our
custom design process is fun and exciting for us as well as the client. Many
times we start with a few different sketches that incorporate the ideas and
details that the client wishes to capture in the new piece. Once a drawing has
been decided upon, the piece is often created in a 3D, wax form making it
easier for the client to visualize the size and scale of the piece as well as
where the stones and metal detail will be placed. From this point the piece is
cast in the chosen metal, and then given the appropriate finish and texture
once the stones have been set. The entire experience is very personal, and the
client is involved every step of the way, making custom design at Naifeh Fine
Jewelry a truly memorable experience.
