Banknote jewelry

Pieces from the Banknote Jewelry collection actually created from old banknotes. With styles ranging from bracelets to necklaces to pins, the baubles are created from banknotes that have been folded into various patterns.

I wouldn’t mind accessorizing my favorite dress with a little cash; it would certainly attract some interesting attention. Banknote Jewelry uses bills from countries like South Africa, Australia, China, Argentina, Bhutan and the USA.

Modern Engagement Rings

Traditionally, the bands on engagement rings and wedding rings seldom came in colors other than yellow gold. Those brides who didn't particularly like yellow gold didn't have to worry too much, though - because traditional engagement rings often placed very little emphasis on the bands, which were often plain, thin, and obscured by scatters of diamonds and other ornate detailing.

Then there's the diamond itself: with traditional engagement rings, it's always front and center and secured by claws, a look seen in such traditional styles as the "Tiffany".

So, What Makes an Engagement Ring "Modern"?

In this context, we're using the word "modern" to describe the style of the ring rather than the era in which its made. Not all rings designed over the last decade are necessarily modern, and many traditional engagement ring styles are considered classics, and still going strong. But engagement rings that can be characterized as modern usually display one or more of the following features.

• Asymmetry: What happens on one side of the ring doesn't necessarily happen on the other - while one side may feature swirling, unpolished platinum, the other side may be made of an entirely different metal and shaped in an angular design.
• Clean lines: Although modern engagement rings place more of an emphasis on the band than traditional rings do, the lines of the band are still relatively free of decorative scrolls, filigree, and tiny encrusted diamonds.
• Thicker and wider bands: Unlike traditional engagement rings that usually feature a band that's very dainty compared to the diamond, modern engagement ring bands are often just as wide if not wider than the diamond(s).
• White gold, platinum bands: silver-toned metals are the most popular choice for modern engagement rings.
• Tension settings: In keeping with the minimalism of modern engagement rings, many feature a diamond that is simply clutched on both sides by the band, with no claws to secure its underside or top edges. This is known as a "tension setting".
• Futuristic design: Does the ring you're looking at sort of remind you of the control center of a spaceship? It's pretty safe to say it's probably modern!

Market Sampler: Modern Engagement Rings in Canada

A triangular diamond embraced in sleek, asymmetrical pieces of 19 k white gold creates an eye-catching, artsy piece. Designed by the Alberta Diamond Exchange.

This ring features the kind of asymmetry that is evocative of modern architecture. Diamonds hidden in unusual spots around the sides of the ring also make it a compelling piece of eye-candy. Designed by Kaleido Jewelry in Toronto

An unpolished platinum band securing a diamond with a tension setting creates a stunningly sleek "floating" effect. Also designed by the Alberta Diamond Exchange.

This platinum, princess cut engagement ring features a swirling-style band that is a bit futuristic without being over the top. Designed by Goldart Jewellery Studio in Ottawa.

Although this engagement ring set was custom created by Toronto's 18Karat, they can still re-create the piece to suit any size or style requests. Featured here in 18k white gold, this set displays two princess cut diamonds on the engagement ring and diamond encrusting on the band.

Here we have big, bold proof that modern engagement rings are not without bling! The ring's band parts on both sides of the diamond, encasing it in a rounded, polished setting. Also designed by Toronto's Kaleido Jewelry.

Another great 18k gold engagement ring by Ottawa designers Goldart Jewellery Studio, features an eye-catching tension setting. The industrial style of the band contrasts so strikingly with the diamond it holds in place that the ring is just as much modern art as it is jewelry.

A combination of both circular and square settings adds an asymmetrical quality to this ultra-modern engagement ring, Meanwhile, the dazzling cut of different-sized diamonds flash like lights on the front grill of a futuristic car. Kaleido Jewelry.

Vancouver Artist, Alisa Nakatsuru designed this engagement ring and band set which features swirling wood designs at the center, creating a modern eco-chic look.

Overlapping on the band creates an interesting visual effect that highlights the ring's dazzling diamond. Also designed by Kaleido Jewelry, in Toronto.

Here we have more proof that the sleek design which characterizes the modern engagement ring doesn't necessarily mean it's always lacking in bling. These engagement rings from Toronto's AST Jewellery feature layered square and circle platforms topped with a dazzling diamond at the center and tiny diamonds around the band.

The fact that the diamond featured in this engagement ring is the exact width and shape of the band gives it a streamlined, ultra-modern appearance. This piece is available in 14k gold, 18k gold and platinum at Vancouver's Diamonds West.

Wedding Jewelry by Northern Star Bridal

Northern Star Bridal Jewelry & Accessories

Mmmm... look at these! We 're getting addicted to wedding jewelry photography. Our wedding ring photo gallery last week has become on of our most popular stories this year.

Northern Star Bridal Jewelry & Accessories

Today we ran into these: wedding jewelry by Northern Star Bridal Jewelry & Accessories. Northern Star is Vancouver based, but their online store is equally accessible everywhere! Enjoy!

Northern Star Bridal Jewelry & Accessories

Northern Star Bridal Jewelry & Accessories

Wedding Jewellery 2010: A Fashion Statement

There is little doubt that jewellery can warm the heart of every girl, bride or not.
From delicate pieces to bold statements, jewellery is meant to represent a style and personality that is truly unique and individual. Online stores featuring custom designs or designs once found only in magazines and fashion runways are now becoming mainstream and popular.

Ivory St. Tropez Statement Necklace
from Stella & Dot | Stylist

"Trendy pieces with bold colours and styles are changing the way we look at jewellery in 2010."..

FOR THE BRIDE

As an important aspect of every bride's wedding attire, jewellery will not only complete the ensemble it will also define the wedding day look. In 2010, simple elegance takes a dramatic turn with traditional stones placed in ultra modern settings.

"Sylvia" Sterling silver collar necklace
from Lana Sanichar's Jewellery Creations

Ivory/silver pearl drop earrings
from Stella & Dot | Stylist

Gemma stone hoop necklace
from Stella & Dot | Stylist

Swarovski crystal and glass stone cuff
from Stella & Dot | Stylist

FOR THE BRIDESMAIDS

Chunky pieces in bright, beautiful colours truly make a statement. Paired with simple gowns, this jewellery will definitely stand out.

Chandelier earings in green & gold
from Stella & Dot | Stylist

Maching green & gold saveena flower ring
from Stella & Dot | Stylist

"Marie" bracelet, perfect bridesmaids gift
from Lana Sanichar's Jewellery Creations

Blooming flower / lady-bug ring
from Stella & Dot | Stylist

Whether you are choosing the perfect gift for your bridesmaids or simply picking an item to enhance your wedding attire, you won't go wrong with a trendy bobble or two!

Grey baroque pearl necklace with mother-of-pearl pendant
from Dolce Amore Jewellery

Garnet earrings from Dolce Amore Jewellery

"Althea" Earrings from Lana Sanichar's Jewellery Creations

Bridal ring (not a "wedding ring" - a jewellery ring for a bride)
from Pink Tiara Bridal Jewellery

The Yoga-Inspired Jewelry of Sonja Picard

The interpretation of Mantra through Art

Men and women's spin mantra rings
"Love is inconceivable, simultaneously one and different"

"Yogic philosophy and its traditions of adornment allow the wearer to connect to a piece of jewelry as a form of meditation throughout the day. It is a reminder of the divinity within themselves and that which is around them." ~ Sonja Picard

Bringing meaning and substance to every piece of jewelry she designs, Sonja Picard, a Canadian designer and artist, uses her appreciation for yogic philosophy to create pieces of jewelry that carry ancient words of wisdom through Sanskrit mantra (divine sound and vibration) inscriptions (or engravings).

Om mani with eternity
"om mani padme hum - may the jewel of your love shine in your heart"

Yoga's popularity in Canada has grown consistently over the years and continues to grow steadily both for its physical and mental benefits. Artists, like Sonja, take what they have learned through yoga to apply it in other aspects of life. With her unique approach to jewelry, Sonja empowers the wearers to make a connection both physically and spiritually with their most intimate jewelry pieces, like for example, their wedding ring..

Choosing your wedding rings is an opportunity to find something that represents not only your commitment to one another but that also represents the spiritual bond between you and your spouse; one that will undoubtedly grow and strengthen throughout your life together. After all, a ring signifies an eternal, unbroken bond where no beginning or end exists.

Double lotus heart rings
the symbol of divine relationship

The Sonja Picard Collection

Mantras engraved into each individual piece

Sonja's signature look consists of modern shapes and textural finishes which help showcase the beauty of this ancient philosophy. Her background as a sculptor comes through in every original piece of jewelry created, which she first hand carves in wax. The final result is jewelry that takes on both an organic quality and a yogi appeal with carefully chosen mantras engraved into each individual piece.

Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands

The "Big Crush" Ring

Conflict-free Canadian diamonds

Sonja's new "Bridal" collection fully embodies this love of yogic philosophy by using only conflict free Canadian diamonds. This in itself brings home yet more meaning by adhering to the philosophy of "ahimsa" or non injury to the planet. Plus, the mantra you choose to be included on your wedding rings is also microscopically engraved into the adorning diamond.

Eternity: "ganesh sharnam"
Known as the guardian of the heart and brings blessings and success to new beginnings

Ancient inspiration combined with modern technology makes Sonja Picard's designs stand out in today's bridal jewelry world. The traditional wedding and engagement rings take on new meaning when their inscriptions resonate thoughts of love, wisdom and purity, every day the piece is worn.

Double lotus heart with small eternity
the Lotus Flower represents the unfolding of potentiality

Mainstream Appeal?

Couples who appreciate the ancient eastern philosophy of yoga will be drawn to Sonja's interpretation of mantra through art. Each piece she creates is meant to compliment traditional wedding jewelry by adding to today's options with pieces that are truly unique and that inspire conversation and thought.

2 lords and goddess rings
& eternity band with martini bezel setting

Casual and Formal Inspiration

Sonja's "Studio" or "Couture" collections include pieces that can be worn everyday and on formal occasions, while still offering the wearer yogi inspired philosophy.

The Studio Collection

The studio line consists of pieces made with silver, like..

Gopi Beaded Earrings
"Gopi drops represent tears of pure love and devotion to Krishna who is the eternal lover of the soul."

om drop 9 necklace
"Om"- union of mind, body and spirit, at the heart of yoga

The Sonja Picard Collection

The Couture Collection

The couture line consists of pieces made with silver, multi-coloured 14k gold and 22k gold wrappings around diamonds and precious gemstones:

Lotus flower earrings
The Lotus Flower represents the unfolding of potentiality.

*worn at the 80th Oscars by Carla Wohl*

Shiva Mantra diamond bracelet
"Shiva": the most pure and auspicious

The Sonja Picard Collection

What mantra would you choose?

Whenever considering engraving something into your wedding rings, you should choose something that speaks to both of you and that represents your feelings for the wedding day and beyond.

A few examples of inspiring mantras:

• Om mani padme hum - May the jewel of your love shine in your heart.
• Ganesha sharanam - Lord Ganesh is known as the guardian of the heart and brings blessings and success to new beginnings
• Achintya bhedaabheda tattva - Love is inconceivably, simultaneously one and different.
• Double lotus heart - symbolizes the relationship of the divine eternal couple and the lotus is the symbol of the unfolding of possibilities, purity and eternal renewal.
Lord and Goddess of the ring series
• Lord Ganesh - represents the remover of obstacles and brings one success
• Lord Krishna - eternal lover of the soul
• Lord Shiva - most pure and auspicious
• Goddess Parvati - mother nature and earthly femininity
• Lord Vishnu Preservation, balance and harmony.
• Goddess Lakshmi - opulence good fortune and grace
• Lord Bramha -lord of creation
• Goddess Saraswati - wisdom, beauty and the arts
• Sitaram - Goddess Sita and Lord Ram represent the divine eternal couple

Eternity with martini bezel setting
"Om mani padme hum": may the jewel of your love shine in your heart