I have a weakness for jewelry that began when I was four.  My mother gave me my first piece of jewelry then, a beautiful 24 karat gold bracelet.  I’ve been collecting jewelry ever since.  It’s a passion I share with my sister.

There were years when I would only gravitate towards sterling silver, white gold, or platinum, but lately, I have a fondness for gold.  I especially love mixing metals – gold with silver.  And, I like jewelry that’s modern, yet classic.  When I was living in Hawaii, I began a love affair with By Boe jewelry.  It has a simple understated elegance.

By Boe jewelry was created by designer Annika Inez, who graduated from Parsons.  The jewelry is handmade in New York and has been worn by celebrities. You’ll recognize the names from Cameron Diaz, Oprah Winfrey, Mandy Moore, Kelly Ripa, to Jessica Alba, etc.  It has been featured in several magazines such as Elle, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, In Style, Real Simple, and Lucky.

I love the materials they use from 14 karat gold-filled to sterling silver.  Their new collection for Spring and Summer 2010 incorporates a combination of new and vintage materials like hundred year-old metallic yarn from France or leather.  If you buy a piece of jewelry from By Boe, you’ll absolutely love it.  I have given out By Boe jewelry as gifts to some of my friends on their birthdays.  Days later, I usually receive a thank you note where they are gushing about it.

dainty and demure – copper 175 necklace, and sparkling thread

sexy dimepiece – slip-knot necklace, signum 169, wire arc, and dangling paddle; on sale – falling water

cool rock n’ rolla – braid bracelet, braid ring, waterfall hoop; on sale – tiered chain

classic everyday – zacky circle, joely