I’ve been obsessed with “toi et moi” rings since 2013, when the diamond and sapphire engagement ring that Napoleon Bonaparte gave to Josephine de Beauharnais went up for auction. Embed from Getty Images But even before then, I liked the double takes that two-stone rings get, no pun intended. In fact, one of my earliest…
bridal jewelry
Wednesday’s Video: Wendy Brandes Wedding
I recently kicked off my Wendy Brandes Wedding collection with an 18K gold snake tiara … … that was modeled by my gorgeous friend Alyssa Brownell. This week’s YouTube video is about the general concept behind my wedding collection and the three tiers of jewelry available: fully custom, one-of-a-kind inventory, and customizable semi-mount settings. While…
The Week in Review
In case you missed it, here’s what was on the blog this week. Tuesday, August 1: Introducing my Wendy Brandes Wedding jewelry collection for brides and grooms who want to make a statement. Wednesday, August 2: This week’s YouTube video is about what I wear on casual days … which is most days! Thursday, August…
Jewel of the Month: Queen of Scots Snake Tiara
I started work on July’s Jewel of the Month in January, shortly after Alyssa Brownell — one of my gorgeous jewelry designer friends — got engaged. Alyssa, who has always had adventurous taste in jewelry, initially asked if my Cleves swan earrings in 18K yellow gold and onyx could be her “something borrowed.” She’s worn…
A Mind-Blowing Diamond Eternity Band
Every job has its peculiarities. For jewelry designers, one of those is the unexpected loaner. Last week, I met with a manufacturer who’d I seen in person maybe four times before. I came away with temporary custody of this amazing diamond eternity band. That’s what happens sometimes. You say, “Great ring,” and suddenly you’re wearing…