Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Is Bigger Always Better?



Whether people like it or not, celebrities set the trends for what is in style for normal civilians. And of course, jewelry is no exception. Looks that stars wear on the red carpet are soon available in similar versions at jewelry stores for the common people. This is a simple fact. The trends seen in Hollywood are translated into the pieces seen in chain jewelry stores. In accordance with the current celebrity climate, big is definitely in. Stars are sporting hefty engagement rings. Paris Hilton had two from former fiancĂ© Paris Lastis-one weighing 24 carats, the other 15 carats. Jennifer Lopez wore a 6-carat pink diamond ring while engaged to Ben Affleck. Catherine Zeta Jones received an antique 10-carat marquise diamond ring from Michael Douglas. The list goes on and on. Celebrities seem to be in a battle to determine who can get the biggest and priciest rings out of their men. Not only are engagement rings growing in size, but other kinds of jewelry as well are putting on weight. Celebrities are embracing the old Hollywood glamour style of chunky jewelry and lots of sparkle. Marilyn Monroe best summed up this style in singing, “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Jewelry of this style is big and bold, but also beautifully designed and artistic. As far as diamonds are concerned, the more the merrier, and the bigger the better rings true for this trend.




Big jewelry has a lot of good qualities. The pieces currently in style are large bringing about vast amounts of sparkle. This sparkle is eye catching and beautiful. It also attracts light to the face of the wearer, enhancing natural beauty. Big jewelry looks good on almost everyone when worn on appropriate occasions. Large engagement rings are a fun way to let the world know that one is off of the market. Although quite heavy, they are great tokens of love, and beautiful additions to women’s hands.




Unfortunately, one of the biggest drawbacks to big jewelry is the price tag. Large pieces, like those seen on the stars, are worn by celebritiesfor a reason. They can afford the jewelry. The average American doesn’t make nearly enough to buy an engagement ring even half of the size of some of the ones which celebrities wear. Cost factor aside, where can a normal person actually wear the type of jewelry that the stars wear? Average people don’t go to red carpet events where this type of adornment is considered normal. Depending upon where a person lives, they could have their hand chopped off walking down the street with a 10-carat diamond ring on their finger. At the very least, showy jewelry can look arrogant, out of place, and even fake if worn in the wrong circumstances. Sometimes, big jewelry just is not practical to wear.






How can one incorporate the trends of the stars into their own look affordably and appropriately? This is easy-downsize. Even though the hot look is big diamond pieces, the same look can be achieved using smaller pieces. Invest in one decent sized piece such as a necklace. Let this be the focal point. Compliment the big necklace with smaller sized diamond earrings and modest bracelets. If an impressive diamond ring is in one’s collection, use this as a platform on which to build a “big look” with smaller jewelry. Another way to achieve the look of Hollywood glamour is to layer one’s jewelry. Layering multiple simple diamond necklaces or bracelets is a great way to increase the shine factor without breaking the bank.




For those who would rather swim against the current trends, now is a great time to make a statement with smaller and more detailed jewelry pieces. To find pieces that drift away from the style of Hollywood, visit independent jewelers. Chain stores are most likely to tailor their merchandise to what style is currently hot. Independent jewelers often have better quality pieces that have individual flair. Many of these businesses will sit down with customers and help to custom create unique pieces that are following nobody else’s trend. In this manner, one can build a smaller but unique piece while still saving money. Wearing jewelry like that, one is sure to stand out from the crowd.




The look of Hollywood glamour is here to stay for awhile. As long as the celebrities are still sporting the big jewels in lavish settings that is what will be considered in style. With the right knowledge, average people can choose to successfully emulate the look of the stars on a small budget. One can also choose to break away and invent their own style on a small budget. Jewelry and diamonds are not just for the wealthy. Everyone can afford to look radiant in jewels with a little creativity and individuality.