When you want to look elegant and refined but definitely not conservative, look for DeDeMetal and Dendara jewelry for inspiration. These two collections of highest quality silver jewelry are fun, interesting and, well, bling-bling---but in a good way!
Dendara
Dendara, which is an Italian jewelry line based out of Milan, has also taken an unusual and inventive approach to neck accessorizing. The intention of Dendara's designs is to create jewelry that is modern, elegant and chic, designed for the demands of sophisticated lifestyle. These necklaces are designed for those living a fashionable but hectic lifestyle. Meant to be worn in multiple ways, these necklaces are suitable for the day (perfect for the office) and yet can still transcend into the perfect accessories for a glamorous evening out on the town.
We loved their 'Iride' ($450. US) necklace, a perfectly round sterling silver choker and square pendant set with purple amethyst gemstones, which also comes in peridot and blue topaz. This stunningly elegant necklace will look gorgeous with a sexy low cut or strapless top either black or bright white. The other necklace we loved was 'Nosis' ($475.), which has three circles in silver and gold. We discovered that when we travelled, we only needed to bring one of the round chokers since both pendants are conveniently detachable. We also tried Dendara's Iride earrings ($225.), which are simple and beautiful, although they felt like they could easily be pulled off so, as always, wear with caution.
Denara's line of jewelry is unique and interesting; each piece is sold with an insert explaining the historical lore of the stone. In this case, the amethyst's name, Iride, is derived from the Greek meaning, "without intoxication." In ancient times, the stone was said to be a cure for drunkenness and was supposed to quicken the mind and render one shrewd in business. Now who can resist that?
DeDeMetal (d2m)
This unique and eclectic jewelry line was started in April 2001 in New York City by DeDe Sullivan, after having worked for rock stars and top fashion magazines.
Each piece of DeDeMetal Jewelry is hand sculpted or hand silversmithed by DeDe herself, then cast for production in one of the few environmentally friendly casting companies in the USA.
As you can tell from looking at the jewelry, a lot of thought is put into each and every design. The influences at work, acording to DeDe, are Rock 'n Roll, modern art, and pop graphics, to name a few. The jewelry is created to be elegant pieces that transcend time, as obvious in her uniquely stylized leaf and web designs.
We love the Leaf Pendant ($140. US)--which is the perfect accessory for that cashmere sweater you've always wanted to dress up--and the Crescent Moon Pendant ($185.), for those days when you're feeling cosmically connected. Both pendants are elegantly simple--and yet the farthest thing from boring.
Another favorite is DeDeMetals' Lucky in Love Scultped Heart Bracelet ($200.), and the equally as fun Super Star Earrings ($90.) which we thought were very 'rock star' and looked glamorous with an updo hairstyle and a low-cut neckline and feel light and comfortable on.
So the next time you are looking to add a little something-something to your swanky new ensemble, slip on something sleek from Dendara or DeDeMetal (d2m).