[Continued from Part 1]

As I mentioned, in Part 1, I decided to curate a capsule collection – let’s call it the “ShulmanSays Curation” – containing my two favorite pieces from each of the collaborations between Rio Tinto Diamonds (owners of Australia's Argyle Diamond Mine) and their five jewelry design partners.

So, along with a quote from each designer, I’ve spoken to why I’ve selected each of the pieces I have, as well as what that collection says to me.

Jewelry has evolved to become statement making and with always be emotional and sentimental.  Why not buy heirlooms created by an independent designer?Jennifer Dawes

Nature’s influence runs through everything from Dawes Design.  The Drop Branch Earrings give me a very Tree of Life vibe; while the Trio of Stacking Bands features articulated “petals” in swivel findings.  Also, the latter reminds me of the nautical antiquities that my mother used to collect.

Feeling good about the provenance of your diamonds should be a given, in today’s world.  There is no compromise in design or integrity, which is crucial, particularly with the Millennials. –Paige Novick

The pieces from Paige Novick’s “Infinity” collection serve as both armor and adornment, perfect for those Riot Grrrls, hailing from the Upper East Side (in other words: clean lines with a dash of punk and a whisper of funk).  The Diamond Pave Curved Palm Cuff is, to my mind, the jewelry equivalent of a pair of Chanel’s fingerless gloves, while the Diamond Curved Bar Single Statement Earring is giving me Vanity 6 (even when worn as a pair).

Being able to showcase Rio Tinto’s sustainable diamonds, with a modern, feminine design, is a great way to introduce diamonds into your everyday life.  For work, play, or evening; a great diamond piece is really the little black dress of jewelry.Sandy Leong

Organic, free-form shapes and music figure greatly in Sandy Leong’s “Harmonic” collection.  The Harmonic Bracelet is jazzy and modern; and the Harmonic Earrings beautifully frame a woman’s face, while giving-off a bit of a disco flair.

I’ve always loved Middle Eastern culture, so with the Primordial collection I explored that history by designing pieces that brought to mind the sun and the sand.  The colored Argyle diamonds complemented these designs, perfectly.Suzanne Kalan

Movement and sparkle are the two words that come screaming to mind whenever I see one of Suzanne Kalan’s pieces, and her “Primordial” collection is no exception.  The Primordial Three-quarter Hoops and the Primordial Ring – both with their fringe of cognac diamonds on sunburst settings – instantly transport me to Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa.  Also, that ring would make a marvelous toe-ring.

I love natural color diamonds, more than white diamonds; and I like playing with different shades of Champagne and brown diamonds, in my designs.  I think it’s very important to know from where one’s diamonds are coming; so, that’s very on-brand, for me.Xiao Wang

When it works, asymmetry is fantastic; but when it doesn’t it can look forced.  Xiao Wang’s geometric pieces are balanced enough that her use of asymmetry makes sense, and works beautifully.  The way she’s combined the Mismatched Earrings’ drop and stud is just cool; and the Bypass Ring..?  Yes, please!

So, there you have it.  My curated capsule of Rio Tinto’s five jewelry collaborations for 2016.  Wear them in the very best of health!

Rio Tinto
2016 Design Partners
Click HERE for info

Get into it!
#Argyle

The world’s greatest hip-hop collective returns this weekend with the second edition of the history-making WU-TANG CLAN: THE SAGA CONTINUES… THE LAS VEGAS RESIDENCY