MARIO GARAVELLI

18K Gold Hoop Earrings with Diamonds

There is an unconventional tourist attraction in Venice, Italy: the Palazzo Ducale (or Doge’s Palace).  

Housing the courts and seats of government the structure is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and “vast collections of paintings.”  Italy is also home to jewelry house Garavelli.

APRIL STAR DAVIS

Turquoise and Gold Orbital Bracelet

Named for Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa, Balboa Park is a nearly 200 year old site that offers lush scenery, performers and the San Diego Zoo.  California is also home to featured jewelry designer April Star Davis.

ISOBEL WALKER | frAsh

Trixie Turquoise Points Necklace with
White and Lemon Crystals & Gold-Filled Cable Chain

The 18^th century Fortress of Louisbourg, located in Canada’s Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, is a “nostalgic”

site ripe with history. 

Initially built “to support the fishing industry,” the structure’s attractions presently educate visitors of Canada’s past.  Canada is also home to featured jewelry designer Isobel Walker.

YASUKO AZUMA JEWELRY

14K Gold Wire Wrapped Bell Drop Earrings
with Rubelite 

The unconventional Ghibli Museum, located in Mitaka, Japan, was designed to “entertain children through anime projects”.

The twelve-year old museum boasts maze-like interiors, special exhibitions, a reading room, and the Saturn Theatre.  Japan is also the birthplace of featured jewelry designer Yasuko Azuma.

CUBIC ZIRCONIA | AN INFERIOR DIAMOND SUBSTITUTE?

The highly dense and refractive cubic zirconia (or CZ) has been a strong competitor to the well-loved and ubiquitous diamond for a little over three decades and counting.  

Unfortunately, however, this flawless isometric crystal has been marred for years by a derisive reputation.  This edition of Splendor Sidebar will explore the origins of this misunderstood man-made gemstone.