I’m still sort of reeling from the immeasurable showcase of exquisite jewelry on the red carpet at Sunday evening’s Academy Awards. If jewelry-watching had a beast mode, I think this is what it would feel like.
It’s sort of difficult not to let Lady Gaga’s epic Tiffany necklace—the Tiffany Diamond—overshadow everything, but when you can’t compete on sheer size alone, you can match, or even exceed, with artistry. There are those pieces that are so individual, that, whether big or small, you’re simply dazzled by the fact that it’s different.

Considering all of the pink gowns donned on Hollywood’s biggest night, I think these earrings by Ana Katarina would have been a lovely addition to the parade of color and jewels. Their floral aesthetic bursts with spring style, and they convey a cheerful, optimistic feel.

An ode to the song of the same name sung by Nina Simone (the original was by Jacques Brel in 1959), the Ne Me Quitte Pas earrings—Don’t Leave Me in English—are one-of-a-kinds.

Crafted around the center trapiche rubies (one of those gemstones that I find endlessly interesting, because it may not be one that you instantly recognize), these blooming beauties get their petals from rose-cut, multicolor sapphires. There are also diamonds that sparkle from the top set in white gold, which I think makes them even more visually interesting: The contrasting choice of metal helps to ensure they don’t fall invisible to the colored gemstones, but overall, the details work in harmony.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I’m very happy to write about another sustainably made creation, as Katarina, a member of Ethical Metalsmiths and AGTA, strives to use recycled, reclaimed, and fair-trade materials.

Red-carpet worthy? Oh, yes. And imagine how great it would be to hear a relatively small independent designer’s name when style correspondents ask the celebrities about their jewelry. Still, I think any one of us would be happy to wear this pair going about our daily lives, so perhaps we don’t wish to share them with the stars.

Top: Ne Me Quitte Pas earrings in 18k yellow and white gold with 21.9 cts. t.w. trapiche rubies, 6.39 cts. t.w. unheated rose-cut sapphires, and 0.24 ct. t.w. diamonds, price on request

Brittany Siminitz

JCK Contributing Editor