Author: TrueFacet

TrueFacet is an online marketplace for pre-owned fine jewelry and watches. Every item sold is verified by our in-house team of gemologists and watch experts to ensure its authenticity.

The Best Red Carpet Watches

The Oscars are of one the most anticipated events of the year as the most stunning stars of Hollywood come together to display their best style. From there, new trends begin and are talked about, desired and followed by the rest of the world. Tag Heuer, IWC, Piaget, Omega, Chopad are the kind of classic wristwatches spotted at this star-studded event.

Leonardo Dicaprio’s Tag Heuer Carrera 1887 Chronograph wristwatch is the perfect finishing touch to his black suite and bow tie. The croc fashioned black leather strap, sturdy steel case and gold dial accents are attractive features of this spectacular vintage watch. Made in the 18th century, this timeless Tag Heuer Carrera Caliber is an edition inspired by road racing. Besides being a beautiful timepiece, it also comes with futuristic functions such as an automatic chronograph, anti-scratch curved sapphire crystal, double-anti reflective treatment, waterproof mechanism and a date window.

Another star who appeared on the red carpet in a classic wristwatch is actor Bradley Cooper. His choice of wristwatch is exquisite and perfect for the event and it’s none other than a limited edition Chopard L.U.C 1937. It is a stainless steel watch that comes in strap variations of leather and heavy metal. 100 meter water resistance, COSC certified chronograph, self winding mechanical movements and scratch resistant sapphire crystal are just some of its amazing features.

Bradley also appeared in an IWC automatic chronograph at last year’s Academy Awards, which also comes with a self-winding chronograph movement. This black dialed watch has a stainless steel body and a black leather strap.

IWC is always a popular choice for celebrities at any red carpet event and this year Kevin Spacey, who won an Oscar for best supporting actor role in The Usual Suspects, was spotted in limited edition IWC Portuguese yacht club chronograph “Laureus Sport for Good Foundation”. It has an elegant blue dial with Arabic numerals, while the strap is finished in alligator leather. IWC donates a certain percent from each purchase to Laureus Sport for Good Foundation.

Chopard is known for luxury, which is why it is such a popular choice for celebrities like Cate Blanchett, the Oscar winner for her performance in Blue Jasmine. Another Oscar winner, and one of our favorites, Matthew McConaughey recently sported a Chopard L.U.C. XP Tonneau. 18 carat white gold crown and buckle material, see-through sapphire crystal case back, glare-proofed scratch-resistant front glass and waterproof functions come along with chronographic movements.

Jared Leto, winner of best supporting actor for his amazing performance in Dallas Buyers Club also wins our hearts with his fashion sense. Jared arrived at Hollywood’s 86th annual Academy Awards in a white and black Saint Laurent suit with a Piaget watch. A Piaget Altiplano 40mm to be exact, the thinnest mechanical watch in the world. It has 18K white gold case, sapphire case backing, and ultra-thin self-winding mechanical movements – 3mm thin. 22K pink gold oscillating weight, 3 ATM water resistance and alligator strap are some other highlights of this exceptional wristwatch.

All About Rubies

All about Rubies: The Best Jewelry Featuring Rubies

Celebrities Who Wear Rubies Well!

A perfect hairstyle, blush on cheeks and a colorful stain on lips – we think of these as the resources of a picture perfect presentation. But let’s not forget the most important item, a piece of jewelry, when perfectly paired with a suitable dress, is what can make a look complete. Some are really great at pairing jewelry, especially celebrities on whom media and the public always keeps a close eye on. Just like Rihanna who rocked stunning rubies at the Diamond Ball recently. A sizzling diamond necklace with an eye-popping ruby was just perfect with her satin gown and intense lip shade.

Natalie Portman is such a dazzling doll in those stunning, beautiful ruby earrings encircled with diamonds. They are vintage Harry Winston earrings and I think they easily double the grace of her strapless evening dress.

Red Carpet Rubies

Heidi Klum, Project Runway host, who is known for her bold jewelry choices, walked the red carpet in a lavishing 3 million dollar diamond and ruby necklace.

The next on the list of ruby rockers on red carpets is mom-to-be Black Lively who paired exquisite Lorraine Schwartz ruby jewelry with a Gucci chiffon gown. Opal shaped danglers and an oval shaped ring, both in red ruby complete her look.

Types of Ruby Jewelry

Rubies are almost seen in every type of jewelry, from bracelets, pendants, earrings and rings to brooches, tiaras and hair pins. Take a look at these Harry Winston cluster drop ruby earrings; they are temptingly beautiful with those thick, red rubies centers, while the diamonds surrounding them are like the perfect crystal petals of a flower.

While most people today opt for a diamond engagement ring, did you know that rubies were more common placed in centuries past? Rubies were featured in the engagement rings of high-born, including Indian Maharajas and Russian royals. Rubies are one of the most valued gemstone, which is why they were used so often when making King’s crowns or princess tiaras.

Best Designer Ruby Jewelry

Rubies look great whether they are assembled in silver, gold and platinum or paired with diamonds. For instance, this classic Cartier 18k gold panther ring featuring ruby from 80’s is a remarkable piece in the history of jewelry-making.

Jack du rose, who made his mark as a fine jewelry master, spends a ton of time around the detailing of his art work and it totally pays off. These ruby and diamond studded white gold jellyfish earring are a marvelous example of his best work.

Best Vintage Ruby Jewelry Highlight

In the summer of 1957, the Cleopatra star Elizabeth Taylor gets a gift from her love, Mike Todd who was a director and producer. And the gift is none other than a Cartier ruby and diamond bib necklace with matching earrings and bracelet. In Taylor’s exact words – this jewelry was glorious, “rippling red on blue like a painting. I shrieked with joy, put my arms around Mike’s neck, and pulled him into the pool after me. It was a perfect summer day and a day of perfect love.”

The Best Watches for New Year’s

As the year comes to a close, you’ll most likely be surrounded by family and friends watching midnight approach and getting ready to toast to 2015! It is the perfect night to pick out your most stylish outfit and best jewelry pieces. Of course, you don’t want to forget the accessory that will let you know when the clock strikes midnight… a luxurious watch. 2014 has seen some amazing timepiece trends and these are ones that are sure to be seen all over town.

One of the most popular watches here at TrueFacet, this Rolex Daytona is sure to make a statement with amazing 18k Yellow Gold Oyster gold and white index dial.

If you’re looking to go vintage, this limited edition Tissot is an amazing gold-plated timepiece featuring 12-hour dial fixed, 24-hour dial fixed, AND universal 24-hour disc indexable.

Ladies, if you are looking for something sparkly to go with you New Year’s Eve attire then this Michele Urban Mini Diamond watch is the perfect match. Featuring 160 sparkling diamonds, this statement piece can’t be missed!

Of course, let’s not forget about the ever popular Michael Kors watches. These watches have adorned the wrists of actors, models and tv personalities alike and will certainly complete your New Year’s look. Watch out 2015!

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Her

Valentine’s Day is celebrated all over the world and if you’re among those who believe in true love, then you know the importance of expressing this love in the perfect way! The question now becomes how do you know the perfect thing to get for that special someone this Valentine’s Day? Let us help!

We bring you the best jewelry suggestions for this Valentine’s Day. From rings, necklaces and bracelets to diamonds, gold and platinum – pick the perfect gift with your heart, without digging a hole in your pocket.

A Perfect Pair of Earrings

Think of something elegant and exquisite! A stunning pair of white and gold earrings studded with single diamond makes a nice impression. They are light, feminine and expressive!

Gold earrings are good to go – gift her a pair of 18k solid gold earring set – they come in several beautiful patterns of flowers and petals while a pair of heart-shaped earrings are always an amazing, romantic gesture.

Platinum diamond studs are a high-profile statement and a perfect example of simple yet elegant jewelry. From a sizzling, single diamond-studded platinum set to marvelous, multiple diamond aligned platinum figurative earrings such as flowers, petals, swans, bows and butterflies are some eye catching options.

How about a Heart shaped Pendant?

Pendants are perfect for classic style and when they are heart shaped, well they become the perfect symbol of love. Though, choosing is a bit of a task with the huge variety that is available. Diamond pave golden hearts, platinum hearts with a single diamond stud, white gold heart shaped pendent with diamond lining are all amazing options.


Beautiful Bracelets

Two basic rules apply when picking a Valentine’s Day bracelet, number one, go for a brand that matters and number two, let it sparkle! The cartier panther bracelet is a symbol of sophistication.

If you’d rather go with Cartier, why not buy the iconic love bracelet?! What else can match with the historic, centuries of love symbol embraced by many popular lovers all around the globe!

Necklaces Are Always Nice

If you like to keep it big and make the moment memorable, necklaces are the key. A necklace with a sizeable gem stone or crystal will be sure to make her smile. Metal links and multilayered neck pieces are in trend and they are certain to wow the love of your life.

A key-shaped necklace sends out the perfect message – ‘you’re the key to my heart’. It’s a sharp and symbolic expression which is precise without too many words and cards.

The Best Ways to Dress up Your New Year’s Eve Look

It’s time for a new year and new looks! Make this New Year’s Eve a memorable one by adding a style factor with statement jewelry and breathtaking dresses. How do you do it? Start by reading this article, as our fashion experts unveiled some timeless jewelry ideas to help elevate your personality and get you ready for the most stylish night of the year.

Stylish Jewelry for Your New Year’s Eve Party:

Break the rules and follow your heart! Hand cuffs are common so make an entry with ear cuffs instead. This was one of the biggest trends in 2014 so rock it this New Year’s Eve as well. Make sure to pair it wisely so they don’t overpower your look.

If rings are more your style, try a ring like the one below with multi-color stones and a dreamy, feminine design. Slide on one statement ring and your look is complete!

Play it cool by going trendy with floral patterns and exciting colors. Pair a floral necklace with a nude dress or a beaded necklace in multiple rows.

Dress or jewelry – which comes first?

Obviously, it’s the dress first and for a good reason! It is lot easier to find jewelry to compliment a dress rather than a dress to pair with the jewelry. You might have a pretty pearl choker in your closet, but that doesn’t mean it will go with anything you buy. Once you have your dress in mind it’s time to start shopping!

Plan your party look wisely!

Vintage jewelry is as tasteful as matured wine! A statement cocktail vintage ring from a brand like David Yurman elegantly matches your evening party look.

New Year Eve’s Jewelry Recap

For the tux and tie look: sophisticated wristwatches and cutting-edge cufflinks are definitely top priority. Which luxury watch would you wear to complete the look? If you’re going for the best, it’s got to be Rolex, for its pristine statement making luxury and sophistication.

Luxury Watches for Women

Who wears a wristwatch on New Year’s Eve? Classy women – yes, they do! A pair of stud earrings and a fancy wristwatch creates a perfectly balanced look.

The Royal Style

Make a princess statement by flaunting an Indian Diamond and gold chocker necklace with a curvy black evening gown.

Whether it’s diamonds, beads, crystals, gold embellishments or sterling silver statements, it’s time to go out and rock your best New Year’s Eve style ever!

The History of Cartier Love Bracelets

The Cartier Love Bracelet is arguably the most popular and widely-recognized Cartier design in the jeweler’s vast collection. Since its inauguration, the simple yet captivating piece has been adored by the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Cary Grant, and Angelina Jolie. The bracelet’s charismatic appeal has been attracting jewelry enthusiasts for almost 50 years. Its long, glamorous past is matched by the many grand people throughout history who have chosen to wear it.

Setting the Scene
Before the Cartier Love Bracelet debuted, the house of Cartier (founded in 1847) was already a well-established and respected jeweler, largely praised for their romantic and inspired designs. Cartier was first a favorite designer among royals. In the 1950s, the brand became a Hollywood mainstay after receiving a shoutout in Marilyn Monroe’s performance of “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend” in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953). Cartier went on to design actress-turned-Princess of Monaco Grace Kelly’s engagement ring to Prince Rainier in 1956.

By 1969, the brand was the talk of the town, especially after actor Richard Burton purchased from them a 68-carat, pear-shaped diamond to give to his then-wife Elizabeth Taylor.

An Unusual Inspiration Source
Fittingly, it was amidst this buzz that the glamorous Cartier Love Bracelet was launched. Designer Aldo Cipullo drew inspiration from an unlikely and less-than-romantic source: the medieval chastity belt.

What moved Cipullo was not the barbaric, bizarre, and likely exaggerated practice of fair maidens wearing a chastity belt to preserve their purity while their beloved knights were away fighting in The Crusades, however. He was struck more by the symbolism of the chastity belt, an emblem of devotion and faithfulness. “What modern people want are love symbols that look semi-permanent — or, at least, require a trick to remove. After all, love symbols should suggest an everlasting quality,” explained Cipullo.

Cipullo translated this theme of everlasting commitment into the Love Bracelet’s design. Made of two equal halves, dotted with perfectly spaced flat head screws, the Love Bracelet locks with a screwdriver which is to be kept by your significant other so only they can “unlock” your bracelet.

The Love Bracelet was an immediate and complete sensation with celebrities including Elizabeth Taylor, Ali McGraw, Cary Grant, Steve McQueen, and even Frank Sinatra—and this enthusiasm spread to non-celebrity shoppers.

The Love Bracelet Today
When it was introduced, the Cartier Love Bracelet was only gold-plated. Today the bracelet is offered in solid yellow, white and pink gold with variations thereupon, including diamond and pavé encrusted bracelets and ones studded with gemstones like sapphires, spinels, and amethysts. One particularly expensive model is made of 18K white gold, set with 216 brilliant-cut diamonds and retails for $56,500 USD. The collection has also expanded to include unisex styles as the Love Bracelet has been increasingly popular for men as well.

Left: Kanye West dons three Cartier Love Bracelets while out in New York City Right: Eva Mendez shows off her Cartier Charity Love Bracelet on a red carpet

The Cartier Charity Love Bracelet

The modern Love Bracelet counts celebrities Angelina Jolie, Reese Witherspoon, Kanye West, Sarah Jessica Parker, Leighton Meester and Eva Mendes among its fans. In 2006, Cartier leveraged their famous followers for a philanthropic endeavor dubbed the Cartier Charity Love Bracelet. The simpler, special-edition Love Bracelet was made with a silk cord and round “Love” charm. A portion of each the bracelet’s sales went towards the celebrity’s choice of charity.

Spotting a Fake Cartier Love Bracelet
Cartier has gone to great lengths to protect its iconic design against counterfeiters and even launched a lawsuit in the 1990s against a handful of Manhattan-based and international jewelry stores who stood accused of selling forged Love Bracelets. Even still, the Love Bracelet’s incredible popularity leaves it vulnerable to counterfeiters. Here are some questions to ask yourself to determine if a pre-owned Cartier Love Bracelet is authentic.

1. Does your bracelet have a logo and serial number?
If the bracelet doesn’t have the Cartier logo, copyright, the 18k gold 750 stamp and a hallmark, then you are looking at a knockoff. Fake Cartier Love bracelets will only have part of the stamp, usually only a logo. This is a sure sign that the bracelet is not the real deal. The stamp should be clear, easy to read and well aligned.

2. What color is the bracelet?
The next way to determine authenticity is right in the hue of the gold. Cartier Love Bracelets are made with high quality yellow gold, white gold, rose gold and platinum. If the Love Bracelet you’re looking at is tarnished or discolored, then it’s likely a fake. The color tone should be consistent throughout.

3. Are the stamp screws aligned?
If the screws or diamonds placed around the outside of the Love Bracelet look unaligned then it is a fake. A real Cartier Love Bracelet has screws that are meticulously placed and would never look misshapen or too large for the bracelet.

If you have questions about shopping for a pre-owned Cartier Love Bracelet, contact a TrueFacet concierge associate here.

 

 


Go for the Gold: 5 Stunning Pieces of Gold Jewelry

As you head out to those holiday parties this season, you’ll probably be looking for the best way to add some sparkle to your outfit. What is my favorite way to bring some shine and luxury to any look? Why, some stunning, gold jewelry pieces of course! This classic color is always in style and from rings to watches, there are endless ways to incorporate it into your style. Make sure your accessories are ready to go with these trending jewelry finds.

Here are our top 5 favorite ways to make a statement with gold.

This 18K Yellow Gold flower ring by designer Carrera Y Carrera is simply stunning. Walk into any party with this gorgeous statement piece on your finger and you are sure to make an impression.

I have two words for you: Vintage. Cartier. This diamond and gold necklace features 2 carats of diamonds. Now that is some gold inspiration! Add this necklace to a simple, styled outfit and let it take center stage.

When it comes to gold statement pieces, you can’t forget about watches. This Michelle Serein watch is the one to want! It features a mother-of-pearl dial and 46 hand-set diamonds, safely earning its spot in our top five stunning pieces list.

Next up: gold and diamond earrings! This pair of earrings from Cartier’s Trinity collection make the perfect addition to any outfit.

Gentlemen, I haven’t forgotten about you! This Tiffany & Co. Atlas Ring is how you too can add the perfect amount of gold to your look.

 

Creative Ways to Organize Jewelry

Creative Ways to Organize Jewelry

If your jewelry collection is taking over your dresser and you can’t seem to find a place for everything, don’t worry!—you’re not alone. Having a lot of jewelry comes with the downside of having a hard time finding what you’re looking for when you need it.

A little bit of organization can go a long way when it comes to your jewelry. And trust us, there are many different ways to do it! For this reason, we’ve been on the hunt for creative ways on how to organize jewelry.

Whether you’re just starting to amass a collection or you’ve been collecting forever and can’t find a good way to store it all, check out these ideas below. You might find the perfect way to keep your jewels safe and easy to access!

Why You Must Organize Your Jewelry

Yes, after an exhausting, hectic day, the last thing you want to do is start an organization project, but after spending a pretty penny on precious jewelry, it’s important to keep it organized. 

Letting it simply pile up is not an option, as the jewelry will tangle. Take our word for it—soft metals and precious stones clashing and intertwining is a recipe for disaster that leaves them aged and unsuitable for wearing.

Best Way to Organize Jewelry

Keep a ceramic tray or a glass plate on your desk, where you can quickly place jewelry while you’re enjoying your beauty sleep. Whenever you find time, slowly begin to organize your jewelry (preferably the next morning). Try to set aside a jewelry drawer or closet with a specific space dedicated to each piece, and put them back immediately after use.

  • Organize your jewelry, including diamond ornaments, pearls, and precious gems, inside the shelves of the drawer.
  • Keep in mind to lay them in their original shape, especially necklaces.
  • Use grooved shelves for rings.

How to Store and Organize Jewelry for Traveling

Keeping the original jewelry boxes from the purchase is always a good idea—these will be helpful in travel packing, if you are planning on less jewelry to carry. If you plan on traveling with many items, bring a jewelry box with shelves to organize your precious jewelry.

How to Organize Jewelry Creatively

Not every piece of jewelry can fit in the drawer. If you have a few items that you wear regularly, why not have fun by exploring a few creative ways to keep them organized?

Tree Branch

Collect some twigs (sturdy enough to hold jewelry) or pick a few up from your local crafts store. Paint them silver or gold and fix them in a base to make them stand. Using them as-is is not a bad idea either. However, to ensure termite-free creative fun, painting is a safe bet.

Towel Hanger

Find some ‘c-shaped’ hooks to hand necklaces and bracelets. Best for lightweight and non-elastic versions!

Clothes Hanger

This is a much less time-consuming and frugal option. Wooden hangers provide a more rustic look.

A Frame

Simply stick some curved hooks to an extra frame. Paint the frame with a bright color like red, orange, blue, green, or whichever goes well with the theme of your room. Tada! You are ready to hang and pick your jewelry – how easy is that?!

Pastry Stand

A pastry stand is a brilliant and stylish choice to grab your regular jewelry quickly. It’s creative and gives a unique look to your bedroom.

Bottles and Flower Vases

Try empty alcohol, coke bottles, plastic bottles, or flower vases with a thin neck to position your bracelets, wristwatches, and bangles.

Groove Card

Take a few old handkerchiefs, roll them individually and stick them with glue. Find a thick base, cut it nicely, stick it on all of these rolls to make multiple grooves, and use it as a holder for all your rings.

Grow Your Fine Jewelry Collection

How you organize your jewelry is a very personal decision, and there is no wrong way to do it as long as you can see everything. Whether you prefer to store your pieces in a jewelry box, drawer, or even hanging from a necklace organizer, the important thing is that they are easy to find and accessible.

If you’re looking for a new way to grow your collection, TrueFacet is the perfect place to start. We offer an ever-changing selection of luxury jewelry from some of the world’s most talented designers, so you’re sure to find something special that catches your eye. 

What’s your favorite method of organizing jewelry? Let us know in the comments below!

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