100 Ideas: Jewelry & Accessories

62 What’s in a Metal?
Yellow gold has a long history of adorning the bride-to-be’s all-important finger, but in recent years platinum, which offers a cooler hue that may enhance the clarity and size of your diamond solitaire, has been the metal of choice. The trio from Scheherazade Jewelers and the cluster of three from Continental Diamond show this in spades. In the end, it really depends more on the coloring of the bride and personal preference than any trend. A light-haired, light-eyed bride looks best in platinum; while gold will enhance the coloring of a dark-haired, olive-skinned bride. If you have a mix of these characteristics, you’re one of the lucky ones who can pull off both. Scheherazade Jewelers, Galleria, Edina, 952-926-2455; Continental Diamond, 1600 Utica Ave. S., Ste. 130, St. Louis Park, 952-593-5602

63 A Room to View
For many, shopping for a ring is a sacred experience. JB Hudson’s diamond salon provides buyers with an unparalleled experience—a light-filled sanctuary where couples can come for private diamond-buying sessions and view one of the Twin Cities’ most extensive and exquisite collections of diamond engagement and wedding rings from designers such as Martin Flyer, Ritani, Varna, Jeff Cooper, Jack Kelége, and Christian Bauer. 901 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-338-5950

64 Something Old
Looking for a diamond with a bit of history? Antique and estate diamond jewelry is gaining in popularity as brides and grooms seek a ring style that is as unique as their love. From the detailed cut of the stones—antique stone designs were cut to sparkle in much dimmer light, such as candlelight and moonlight—to the vintage settings and intricate engravings, an estate ring simply looks different from any modern style. Estate is especially ideal for the bride looking for a cushion, rose, Asscher, or emerald-cut diamond. For a list of local estate jewelers, click here.

65 Custom Made
A custom-designed engagement ring or wedding band, like our picks from Robert Foote and Studio Vincent, allows the bride or groom to get involved in the design process and fulfill the wish for a one-of-a-kind ring. If you decide to go custom, sketch out what you want for the ring before meeting with a designer, noting your ideal metal, diamond cut and weight, and design elements, or find examples of other rings that illustrate your vision. Customization is also a great option if there is a favorite heirloom stone you’d like reset or if you would like to use a unique material. Robert Foote Jewelers, 5009 France Ave. S., Edina, 612-929-2279; Studio Vincent, Gaviidae Common, Mpls., 612-332-3646; for a list of local custom-ring designers,click here.

66 Something Blue
Wear your something blue in the form of blue topaz or sapphire earrings, and add a drop of color to your wedding attire.

67 To Have and to Hold
With all the emphasis placed on the bridal gown, it makes sense to carry a purse that captures the bride’s personal style. A wedding clutch or handbag by locally based designer Laura Nelli of Nelle Handbags, can be designed to play off the colors and material of a dress, as well as the shoes and jewelry. Often, it also can incorporate a piece of heirloom jewelry or a special fabric. Even better, instead of having your entire wedding party decked out in matching taffeta dresses, give them matching custom clutches. The look is much more subtle and the bridesmaids will be left with a lasting gift that they can actually use. Custom wedding clutches start at $200 for an order of three. Select styles available at I Do & Baby Too, 846 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-476-0046

68 It’s in the Details
Anyone who knows style knows the accessories always make the outfit. So, no matter how gorgeous your dress, the right hairpiece, veil, earrings, or shoes will make all the difference. Che Bella, a St. Paul store started by Jennifer Meyer, offers a variety of accessories for the bride, bridal party, and wedding. 611 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-209-8822

69 Local Luxe
Want custom earrings or a big-day bauble? Local jewelry designer Penny Larsen handcrafts all of her designs, and although some are based on a set template, no two styles are ever the same. L’atelier Couture Bridal Boutique, 651-602-9492. Custom jewelry starts at $150.