Silver and Gold...and Platinum Too!

This time of year, mention “silver and gold” and I start hearing Burl Ives as Sam the Snowman singing in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. But all three metals took center stage recently as the World Gold Council, the Platinum Guild International, and the newly-revitalized Silver Institute each hosted an editors’ event.

Design trends from the Gold Expressions 2009 collection are largely inspired by science, expressed in such forms as circles, squares, or planetary or lunar concepts. For example, The Fifth Season’s station necklace combines interesting finishes of gold with puffed, river-rock elements. Dall’Avo offers a globe with filigree and Nuovi Gioielli’s bracelet blends the symmetry of weaving with the round roughness of the moon.

Dell’Avo’s filigree globe necklace

Nuovi Gioielli’s moon-inspired bracelet and earrings

At the Platinum Guild editor event, however, romance ruled the trends. Following on the heels of spring fashion trends, which were marked by soft, flowing lines and floral or fruity colors, platinum jewelry for spring will include looks inspired by leaves, vines, and scrolls. Look for simple twists on classic designs, executed in updated finishes or details such as patterned or milgrain edges, gypsy-set diamond sprinkles, or even rough-hewn hammered styling.

 
Coast Diamond’s canary engagement ring with platinum millgrain and scrolling details

Erica Courtney’s platinum and diamond tulip necklace

Finally, the Silver Institute hosted an editors’ event at Michael’s, the publishing set’s powerhouse restaurant in midtown Manhattan. The Institute unveiled a new logo, a new theme, and a new spokesperson for its jewelry sector, Michael Barlerin, whose long tenure at the World Gold Council stands him in good stead in his new endeavor. His timing couldn’t be better, as the price points for silver are sure to appease consumers who are either hesitant to shop or sticker-shocked by the ups and downs of other metals. Silver trends on display included bold, architectural looks, woven textures, and nature inspirations.

 Robert Lee Morris’s sterling silver cuff

Paz Collective’s nature-inspired bracelet

Elle Jewelry’s woven earrings