MISA HAMAMOTO | MISA JEWELRY

14K Gold Vermeil Journey Steps Necklace

Known for its blend of Japanese and Chinese cuisine and exotic marine life, Okinawa, Japan is a playground for the senses.  

Consisting of islands Okinawa’s Moon Beach is among the top tourist destinations with its white sand, coconut trees, and a plethora of water activities.

Japan is also the ancestral home of featured jewelry designer Misa Hamamoto.

SATOMI KAWAKITA

18K Gold and Oxidized Sterling Silver
Circle Necklace

Japan’s twenty-six year old Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is a marvel of engineering.

With an expanse of over 12,000 feet not only is it the world’s longest suspension bridge but it was created with state-of-the art technology to withstand harsh sea currents.  Japan is also the birthplace of Satomi Kawakita.

HOUMAN OMIDIFAR | LUZ Jewelry

18-Karat Yellow Gold Breakup Ring
with Diamonds and Rubies

The Central Bank of Iran holds an amazing display of spectacular, centuries-old regalia known as the Iranian Crown Jewels.

The collection includes tiaras, crowns and thrones from the Safavid dynasty.  Iran is also the birthplace of Houman Omidifar.

AOIFE O'MAHONY DESIGN

18-Karat Gold Eye Candy Stacking Rings

Ireland’s Newgrange monument is considered one of Europe’s “finest achievements of European Neolithic art.” 

The mound-shaped passage tomb is constructed of engraved kerbstones; and according to Irish mythology the structure is the dwelling place for Oenghus, the god of love.  

Ireland is also home to featured jewelry designer Aoife O’Mahony.

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.