According to Ferrer, her designs are inspired by the lush, natural beauty of Maui. Her designs are meant to enhance the beauty and individuality of the person wearing the jewelry, and many pieces can be customized with initials to create a truly one of a kind jewelry statement. We are very excited to introduce her lovely pieces into our collection of fall and winter jewelry, and think they make fantastic presents for a friend or loved one.

Kira Ferrer's Romantic Besos Bangle

Three of our favorites from Kira Ferrer’s line include her sterling silver rustic lotus earrings, her sterling silver trio letter charm bangle bracelet (or the trio charm necklace if you prefer), and her besos bangle. The rustic lotus earrings would be a brilliant choice for women who love dangle earrings, the charm bangle and necklace are customizeable with three initials of your choice, and the besos bangle is a charming, romantic bracelet with a row of small hearts dangling from the bangle. Each one is beautiful in their own way, and is perfect for your favorite jewelry-lover… or perhaps even for yourself!

Since diamond crosses are such a great gift, Apples of Gold carries a stylish assortment for our customers to choose from. Our diamond crosses range from strikingly modern to traditional and ornate, making it easy to find the perfect pick for yourself or a loved one.  Since we know every penny counts, we are also proud to present an affordable selection of diamond crosses that make a big impact without the need to pull out the plastic. Here are a few of our favorite affordable diamond crosses, which just might inspire you to start the Christmas shopping a little bit early this year:

Modern 14K White Gold Diamond Heart Cross

This modern looking cross strikes the perfect balance between style and symbolism. The single diamond in the center of the cross symbolizes the light and love of God, making it the perfect gift for the modern Christian woman who love minimalist design.

14K White Gold Cross and Heart Diamond Pendant

A beautiful solid white gold cross (shown at top left) lies nestled in a diamond-studded heart, creating a powerful symbolic statement and beautiful piece of jewelry.  This lovely cross necklace is the perfect present for a woman who steers toward classic, traditional style.

10K Yellow Gold Heart and Diamond Cross Pendant

A cross and heart are forever intertwined in this gorgeous jewelry design. The yellow gold cross has a natural, organic shape that complements the diamond-studded heart beautifully.  A twist on the traditional yellow gold cross design, this diamond cross necklace is just the pick for the girl who likes contemporary style with a traditional influence.

We love taking the jewel toned trend to the next level by adding a stylish piece of gemstone jewelry that echoes the look.  After all, since the trend is named after jewels, is there a better way to embody the spirit than wearing gorgeous, richly colored gemstone jewelry? We think not, which is why we have been lusting over this spectacular 5.2 carat emerald-cut blue topaz cocktail ring with matching emerald cut earrings.

The blue topaz cocktail ring is modern in design and vintage in spirit, with .4 carats of emerald cut diamonds flanking the whopping topaz center stone for a stunning sparkle. Add to the mix the solid 14K white gold setting with delicate band, and the effect is irresistibly delicious. If this ring were being picked for a team, it would undoubtedly be picked first. If it were in a beauty pageant, it would be crowned the winner. And if it were the one piece of jewelry purchased this fall, it would unquestionably be the best wardrobe decision of the year.  Not only because it is absolutely stunning and encompasses the loveliest of fall’s trends, but also because this is the kind of ring that you wear a lifetime and pass down as an heirloom. Not only because it’s beautiful, but also because it is a complete steal at the current price. And now that we’ve convinced ourselves of its undeniable beauty, value and usefulness, please excuse us a moment while we add it to our shopping basket….

Rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets are most often carefully crafted into precise shapes featuring smooth edges and exacting designs. Gemstones are valued based on the quality of the cut, which is an art in itself. Getting light to reflect perfectly off of a diamond requires a talented jeweler wielding finely tuned tools. Throughout history, the perfection of a piece of jewelry has had an important impact on the item’s price.

However, with fashion’s recent focus on the natural, green and organic, the more abstract, flowing shapes are becoming trendy and preferable to carefully uniform designs. Irregular shapes, gemstones left rough and natural and uneven patterns etched into gold are edging out the sleekly polished look. It’s a refreshing, untamed style that adds an unexpected pop of rebellion into both classic and laid back wardrobes.

One of our favorite pieces that typifies this jewelry trend is our 14K solid gold fashion ring. Crafted with careful irreverence, this hefty statement piece is a devil-may-care twist on the classic wear-all gold ring.  It would look equally lovely paired with a ladylike little black cocktail dress as it would with a long, free-flowing 70s style maxi dress or worn jeans and a v-neck tee.

The ring is nearly an inch wide at the top, a nice size that’s not for the faint of heart. But, if you’re looking for that perfect stylish piece of jewelry to turn an outfit from blah to amazing, our fashion ring is the perfect addition to your jewelry box.

A baroque pearl is identical to a regular pearl, except for its unique shape. The unusual oblong look of baroque pearls are formed due to an irregularity in the typical coating process of the mussel or oyster. Since baroque pearls are comprised of the same material as round pearls, they come in a an equally wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Though baroque pearls are most commonly found in freshwater pearl varieties (due to the way the mussels are nucleated to form the pearl), gorgeous baroque Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea pearls also exist and are used in fine jewelry.

At Apples of Gold, we appreciate the beauty of round and baroque pearls alike.  The funky, organic shape of baroque pearls is a must in every woman’s jewelry box, which is why we are proud to introduce our stunning baroque pearl necklaces.  The shapes of the baroque pearls vary from slightly oval to very elongated with swirls of color gradation, making each necklace a truly unique treasure. Every pearl lover should own a beautiful set of baroque pearls, as should all women who desire a well-rounded jewelry box.

Our scintillating selection of baroque pearl necklaces can be found on the Apples of Gold website. Though fine jewelry is usually all about perfection, we’d like to encourage you to go for baroque and embrace the beauty of imperfection.

One of our favorite ways to wear this new, trendy color palette is to integrate the pretty soft pastels into your jewelry box. Amethyst (and green amethyst), pale citrine, aquamarine and morganite are the best gemstones that embody the muted color palette, although we also love the idea of pastel freshwater pearls.

Freshwater pearls are not only affordable, they also come in a range of pastels. Lavender, baby pink, champagne and peach are the best freshwater pearl colors to rock the muted pastel trend.  Though pearls might not be the first gem that comes to mind when thinking of a fashion-forward jewelry look, freshwater pearls are a bit hipper and trendier than their more expensive counterparts. Not only because they can be used generously to create interesting looks (thanks to their lower price), but also because they come in more fashion-forward hues.

Two Ways To Wear The Trend

One of our favorite ways to wear the lavender and pink freshwater pearl jewelry is to layer long different colored necklaces on top of each other. The colorful layers create a pretty gradient of pastels, and look super stylish paired with a simple black or gray cocktail dress.

Another look we love is a pearl necklace that mixes South Sea pearls with freshwater pearls for a stunning single strand. Since the necklace encompasses so many different colors, it can be worn with virtually anything, year round. Although it certainly embodies the muted pastel trend, the darker pearls interwoven with the pastel give is to much versatility that it transcends one season’s trend. Plus, multicolor pearl necklaces are just so chic that it’s hard not to fall in love with the look.

Don Ed Hardy has been reinventing the art of the tattoo for the last four decades. Known as the ‘godfather of the modern tattoo’, he is inspired by many different subcultures and their respective iconography. As a result, his tattoo creations are a mixture of American, Japanese, Cholo, tattoo, surf and hot rod imagery; giving his designs a wide range of cultural appeal.

Apples of Gold is proud to introduce an extensive selection of watches from the coveted Ed Hardy brand. His watch designs range from a slight twist on a classic to bold and edgy, and we’d like to share with you some of our favorites. They’re perfect for gifting, although you can’t hold us responsible

if you end up keeping them for yourself.

Ed Hardy Antoinette White Watch 

The white Antoinette leather strap watch is perfect for a punk rock princess or glamourous lover of gothic romance.  Beautiful tattoo style red roses pop against a stark white background, framed by sparkling crystals around the watch face. The white face is paired with genuine leather, crocodile embossed white straps that add glamour and luxury to the overall appearance.

Ed Hardy Gladiator Eagle Watch

The Ed Hardy Gladiator Eagle Watch is a bold twist on the classic leather cuff watch. Red suede lacing and a screaming eagle design lend interest and attitude to the typical cuff watch silhouette. It’s a cool spin on an established design that makes the watch simply irresistible.

Ed Hardy Warrior Hollywood Watch

The Ed Hardy Warrior Hollywood Watch is a study in contrast with its two juxtaposed images. On top is a curvy, sexy Hollywood pinup girl and beneath her is a snarling black jaguar. The jaguar is one of Ed Hardy’s trademark tattoos, and ups the ante of this otherwise demure watch.  The beige cuff of the watch keeps it tame enough for the everyday, while a closer look at the images on the face reveal a wilder side.

Ed Hardy Love Child Black Watch

The Love Child watch is just what your inner rockstar ordered. A black leather cuff is studded with metal and sparkling black gems while the sleek stainless steel face features a black tattoo-style rose.  It’s perfectly Ed Hardy, and undeniably fabulous.

We, like many before us, have fallen in love with the striking splendor of the Tahitian black pearl. Though we have always carried a few black pearl jewelry pieces, we are excited to announce that we have recently expanded our collection of Tahitian pearls to give customers a greater opportunity to own the exquisite pearl.  So without further ado, below is a quick highlight of the many Tahitian black pearl rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces we have added to our selection:

Tahitian Black Pearl Necklaces

One of the most striking qualities of the Tahitian black pearl is its brilliant range of shades. We adore the Silver Green Tahitian Pearl Necklace for its timeless design and eye-catching, unique color. Though its rarity makes it worth a pretty penny, it’s a sound investment for women who want to wear the best.

Another jaw-dropping piece for women who want the ultimate pair of pearls is the natural Chocolate Tahitian Pearl Necklace. The only thing rarer than a Tahitian black pearl is a Tahitian chocolate hued black pearl. Accented with sparkling diamond rondelles, this necklace is truly a pinnacle of beauty.

Tahitian Black Pearl Rings

Bold statement rings are one of our favorite accessories, which is why we’re partial to these lovely Tahitian black pearl rings. Two designs we’re in love with are the Tahitian Black Pearl and Diamond Eternity Ring and the Tahitian Black Pearl and Diamond Blossom Ring. Both are a beautiful balance of design and taste, and would look stunning matched with a pair of Tahitian Black Pearl earrings.

Tahitian Black Pearl Earrings

Tahitian black pearl earrings are the perfect accompaniment to the famous little black dress. Oozing with style and designed with a touch of sass, this pair of Tahitian pearl and diamond drop earrings is just as wearable as an LBD. And unlike a dress that will go in and out of style, the earrings last a lifetime.

Tahitian Black Pearl Bracelet

Though an all-black Tahitian pearl bracelet is perfectly stunning, there is just something about the multicolored pearls strung next to each other that visually ups the ante.  The color variations on the Tahitian black pearl are undeniably pretty, and present a slight twist on a classic that sets it apart from the standard same-hued variety.

It is a time for “team building” within our own company as well as strengthening relationships with current suppliers, and discovering new designers. Just being there envelops your senses in the latest and most rarefied fashions to hit the jewelry industry.

As expected, turn-out was much more conservative this year, with turbulent economic news on everyone’s minds and the unfortunate reality for many manufacturers and wholesalers that the financial expenditure of exhibiting, and for some, merely attending the show is no longer feasible (not to mention the scores of jewelers who have closed up shop permanently).

The previous year we had seen about a 30% decrease in attendance (utilizing our keen visual observance) as the first signs of economic trouble descended upon the jewelry industry in 2008. This year, 2009, as I strode the near-empty halls and conversed with fellow observant jewelers, it had seemed that we had not a 30% drop in attendance, but a 30% attendance rate compared to 2008 (in effect 70% or so less people walking the confusing, maze-like halls of the Venetian/Sands Expo where JCK houses its exhibition).

However, the exhibitors in attendance were focused, in jovial spirits, and in a good position to target the healthier jewelers that had made it to this year’s JCK, Apples of Gold, being among them.

After all, if you were able to tend, you were probably doing okay. There is a sense among many jewelers today that if you can ride this barrage of economic difficulties, you will be one of the stronger jewelers left standing.

Our first stop at JCK was with a current supplier that we had brought onboard only 3 months prior: gold and silver jewelry designer, David Tishbi. Their eclectic and unusual collection, handmade in Israel, had been a great hit for us and we wanted to meet them in person to discuss what we could do to improve our already successful endeavor with them.  David Tishbi mixes bold, fashionable designer pieces using nickel-free sterling silver and 14k solid gold and rose gold.

We also met several fashion-forward designers, including Liz Donahue of Starhaven, whose beautiful silver jewelry line will be added to our designer collection, we hope, in the upcoming months, after having made an exclusive agreement to select and feature some of their top selling jewelry pieces on our website (items that can easily co-exist and augment the Apples of Gold brand). I also couldn’t help but pick up one of their pieces for my wife, whose birthday falls a week after JCK ever year (lucky her!)

Along with several other gold jewelry pieces that we had to fill in from manufacturers who either went out of business over the course of the year, or categories that had been previously underdeveloped, we made many potential successful points of contact to fill these categories with new lines of gold pendants, gold bracelets, gold earrings, and many other of the classic gold jewelry lines that are must-have staples for any serious gold jeweler.

A more daunting task: we also have been attempting to source a quality, affordable, socially conscious diamond supply, with conflict-free diamonds from a reliable source. We made some promising strides in securing several suppliers and socially conscious diamonds are now available from Apples of Gold as loose diamonds by request. The greater challenge is securing new lines of socially conscious diamonds in many of our finished pieces also.

To this effect, we met with Unique Settings of New York to bring on hundreds of new diamond engagement rings and semi-mount. Look for a strong and contemporary line of high-end, handmade diamond engagement rings to come from Apples of Gold over the course of the next few months.

With many more opportunities to come this year, Apples of Gold has and will be expanding its jewelry line more this year than ever before. We are thankful that we have been able to do so in light of the current economic climate.

Look for upwards of 700 or more new pieces to come out of Apples of Gold Jewelry in the remaining part of 2009 alone! And with each piece, there will be a pledge of affordability and quality–as well as fine, designer pieces that you will not find at any internet jewelry retailer.

With a lighter, more colorful wardrobe and the promise of sun-kissed skin, summer is also the perfect time to switch up your Spring jewelry wardrobe.  If deep jewel toned gemstones are the hallmark of Fall and Winter, and light, airy gems are the color of Spring, Summer is defined by warm, simple pieces of yellow gold jewelry. Yellow gold jewelry looks beautiful against tanned skin and evokes the essence of Summer’s biggest ambassador – the sun.

Lower necklines, a classic characteristic of a summer wardrobe, are the perfect opportunity to don a beautiful yellow gold necklace. There are two different ways to rock a yellow gold necklace for summer: by wearing a light gold chain with a delicate pendant, or by wearing a more substantial gold statement necklace.  This week we’d like to highlight some of our favorite gold summer statement necklaces, which look stylish paired with everything from a maxi length patio dress to a crisp white button down shirt:

14K Solid Gold Mesh Necklace

This gold mesh necklace is a perennial classic, but looks particularly sexy in the summer. The simple, clean style is perfect for summer vacations since it can be worn with such a variety of outfits.

14K Tri-color Gold Oval Long Necklace

If you like your gold jewelry with a twist, this tri-color gold necklace is just the ticket.  Solid gold oval links alternate between yellow gold, rose gold and white gold for a stunning piece of summer jewelry that flatters every skin tone.

14K Gold Byzantine Necklace

This yellow gold Byzantine necklace (at top) would make a fabulous addition to a stylish summer wardrobe. The necklace’s design is bold enough that it’s the only piece of jewelry you  need to wear to complete an outfit. Try pairing it with strapless tops and dresses, or let it peek out from under a collared neckline for dramatic effect.