AC Silver Blog: February 2011

Friday, February 25, 2011

The world waits with baited breath…

On Sunday a collection of the worlds most celebrated actors, directors and other showbiz heavy hitters will gather at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles for the 83rd Annual Academy Awards. As intense as the competition is to walk away with that coveted gold statue, the battle to top the best dressed lists can be of parallel or greater significance to an actress. After all, it can make or break a career. Get it right and that dress will catapult you to superstardom (See Liz Hurley!). Get it wrong, and watch the tabloid vulture’s descend. It’s a guarantee that come Monday morning the world’s press will be dissecting each outfit, with fleeting comment given to the actual ceremony.

But what’s the perfect dress without the perfect jewels? Well, when it comes to the Oscars, very little indeed. As we speak stylists are tearing around jewellery showrooms, clamouring to borrow the finest jewels for their leading ladies. Be it Pearls, Rubies, Sapphires or Diamonds- the world’s most magnificent jewels are showcased on the Oscars red carpet.

Now, the closest I may ever get to an Oscar winner’s speech is standing with my shampoo bottle, thanking my imaginary fans, but that won’t stop me taking inspiration from those who collected their own gold statue. Without further ado, cue my favourite Jewellery looks of the past few years and how their style can be replicated, enjoy!

Helen Mirren accessorising her Oscar with a sparkling diamond bracelet.

Helen Miren

W4096: An Antique Victorian Diamond, Sapphire and Platinum Bracelet

Penelope Cruz with upswept hair revealing elegant diamond drop earrings.

W3764: A Pair of 1.30 Carat Diamond and 18 Carat White Gold Drop Earrings

Kate Winslet forgoing a necklace in favour of statement diamond earrings.

W4123:A Pair of Antique Diamond and Platinum Art Deco Style Earrings

Eva Mendes wearing a statement necklace to give her ensemble a burst of colour.

W2210: Antique Victorian 9 Carat Yellow Gold Amethyst and Pearl Necklace

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Party like its 4708

As someone who is always on the hunt for an excuse to celebrate, I couldn’t be more thrilled as a dreary January trundles in February to welcome in Chinese New Year. Over a fortnight of feasts, gifts and fireworks? Oh go on then! The perfect antidote to lift us from the winter gloom!

Based on the Chinese Lunar Calendar the origins of the Chinese New Year stem from ancient myths and traditions, revolving around sixty year cycles rather than centuries.

So as I consider adopting the Lunar Calendar I think about all the things we have to thank the East for. Aside from Crispy Duck, Chicken Fried Rice and Prawn Crackers, traditional Chinese Art is unique and instantly recognisable with its iconic style .

Chinese silver is distinctive as it is usually exquisitely decorated with symbols that have cultural connotations including dragons, birds, landscapes, human figures and flowers or bamboo. Originally such silver was made to order for Western visitors to Hong Kong and Shanghai rather than for the local market.

4708 welcomes the year of the rabbit, which according to legend has associations with wisdom, good fortune and excellent taste! And on the subject of excellent taste, AC Silver has some wonderful examples of Chinese silver for you to add to your collection!

W3915: Chinese Export Silver Cup