14 DAY TRIAL // This summer, jewelry experts are set to teach us once again that "less is more". 2008 is all about wearing less jewelry, but at the same time about making more of a bang, being bolder and more unique in our choices. Nothing spells "fashion-savvy" better than a chunky cocktail ring, with jewels and stones in bright, deep colors. For once, there's no need to be subtle - the more exotic, the better. And if you're thinking about getting yourself new pieces of jewelry for the summer, one option you could easily take into account is going for colored synthetic diamond rings. They might have been regarded as "bling" by fussy designers until now, but this summer they're all the rage. Another tiny detail would be that they're not priced in the thousands of dollars, and you can easily get a relatively good quality one for between $50 and $60.
I won't start my pro-simulated diamonds argument by telling you all about all the evils of illegal trade in authentic diamonds. We've all watched "Blood Diamonds" and have a clue what that's all about. I will only add that some socially conscious celebrities the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Minnie Driver or Angelina Jolie have made a vocal issue of wearing only synthetic diamonds to the glamorous events and galas they attend. And if they can do it, we should have no problem doing the same. The point here is to make matters simpler, not more complicated, and synthetic diamonds are one of the hottest trends in accessories at the moment. What I'm saying is that no one will look down on you for sporting a piece of colored fake ice, as long as you know how to match the rings with your outfits and make them reflect the value of your own personal style.
Cubic Zirconia can be mounted in brass, Sterling Silver or genuine precious metals, and they're usually Rhodium plated for an enduring polish. It's important to focus on the stones' layout. Everything from one to three rocks goes, depending of course on the colors and the overall design. Have a look at some of the models we selected, and decide what you'd like to go for. But remember: color is of the essence. Whether we're talking yellow, soft purple, soft pink, light blue or anything else for that matter, it's important to remember that this summer's cocktail rings have tinted rocks. This being said, feel free to have a look and take your pick.
