Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Onyx Takes The Lead

Just had to share what I wrote in my column last weekend on one of our favorite jewellers:

Not too long ago, while having afternoon tea with my mom at EDSA Shangri-la Hotel, we decided to check out the shops and stumbled upon JMA Jewelry Center. Their detachable drop earrings are what caught our eyes, those being both our first purchases from the shop, and have become one of my favorites to date.

Frequent visits led us to an introduction with the lady behind JMA Jewelry Center—doe-eyed and petite Jesusa “Suzette” M. Ayson, a third generation jeweler who’s roots are from Bacolor, Pampanga. “I started helping out my mom when I was 13 years old. That's over 34 years in the business. I was taught, along the way, how to detect artificial and real stones and how to grade diamonds and colored stones. The eye is still the best tool in assessing jewelries. What was not taught in school, you learn from the masters in the business like the gemologist you deal with and the master goldsmith you work with. Some of the tricks of the trade are acquired by hands-on experience,” she shares.

For her latest collection, onyx took the spotlight—a refreshing choice among the sea of translucent and opaque colored pieces: “Black has always been my favorite color, because of its elegant effect especially when it is set as a background for diamonds and other bright stones. Onyx is a material that is easy to find and most cutters have mastered the technique of cutting this stone.”

Mounted in 18k white, yellow, and rose gold, this collection of baubles is mixed with diamonds, amethyst, corals and other gemstones for a modern yet feminine appeal. Suzette adds, “The value of gold and precious stones have escalated over the years, which prompted designers and manufacturers to think of materials that can limit the use of these precious materials without compromising value for money and style. The onyx collection is giving a twist on a likewise predictable accessory one would normally use everyday or an event.”

Rose gold is a refreshing color choice for this black and white piece.

Amethyst keeps this pair feminine.

You can take out the citrine and quartz drops and wear the studs alone—very versatile!

Paired with corals, this diamond-and-onyx number is a standout.

Turquoise is here to stay. These look great on your favorite jeans and shirt ensemble.

* For appointments, call 634-7034, 636-5827.

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