4th of July Sparklers

Bling on the festivities! This July 4, make sure that the fireworks aren’t the only thing lighting up the night. After the yearly assault of DIY party tips featuring red-white-and-blue snacks, outdoor table settings, and arts and crafts, I started thinking about all of the fun gem-centric tchotchkes that are at our fingertips. It’s your time to shine, so assert your Independence: Play it subtle or blind them with your brilliance.

• Get creative with jewel ice-cube trays, fun for a variety of treats, or simply piled high in a clear ice bucket, at Fred Flare.
• Alissia Melka-Teichroew’s acrylic rings á la the Tiffany setting are a modern, playful accessory, and can double as an elegant gift-wrap add-on, at the MoMA store.
• For something a little more lowbrow, try out Party Mart’s light-up diamond rings for ladies, and for the gents, have a stash of Plum Party’s metal player rings on hand.
• Or, for a childhood classic we can all enjoy, stock up on Topps’ Ring Pops.
• Now for place settings, go clear, and stick with the diamond pattern with this dinner set, at Plum Party.
• Have extra ring boxes hanging around? Display open by place settings and tuck names inside. Calligraphy would be a nice touch.
• No doubt your guests will say “I do!” to Plum Party’s diamond napkin rings.
• Or for paper napkins, the diamond paperweight is perfect for holding them down—or try it as part of a centerpiece …
• … Perhaps paired with an “ice” bucket filled with crystal-clear diamond dots, which can also anchor flowers, sparklers, or anything, really—how about a tiara?
• If you’re giving away party favors or baubles of any kind, might I suggest the emerald or sapphire key chains or lady and man bling temporary tattoo jewelry?
• Wrap them up with Bunny Maxwell’s Warhol-inspired engagement-ring paper, and stash the swag in Fred Flare’s fancy necklaces tote.
• And don’t forget: July 4 is all about making some noise, so shake your diamond maracas.