I don't know about you, but when it comes to fine jewellery, I'm a bit of a novice. I've always found fine jewellery a little bit too serious which is why I've received most of it as a gift rather than buying it myself. Don't get me wrong, it's lovely, but I know what I like - shiny precious metals, big gems and bold fine pieces that demand attention.
A CUT ABOVE
Jewellery is back with a vengeance.
I'm not talking here of cheap and cheerful 'mix and match with every outfit' jewellery, but rocks, gems and classic timeless pieces. Faking it til you make it, is fine to a limit; I have my own collection of imitation sparkly accoutrements, but nothing feels as good as when I wear the real thing - it's like adorning yourself with cashmere instead of lambswool - you never want to take it off.
Fashion trends of recent years have seen
women shy away from silver and gold
in preference of a frivolous mix of
colourful and readily available costume
jewellery. This has been, in part, due to
TV makeover programmes and the
economic downturn which has created
a different attitude to jewellery.
Yet, as any style conscious person
knows, trends come and go and it was
only a matter of time before jewellery,
in its proper sense ,made a huge
comeback. That time is now!
No one knows this better than Jack
Cohen and Deborah Rawle of David
Edwards Jewellers in Cardiff's Royal Arcade. Content in the knowledge that precious metals and gems will never date, their confidence is borne out of their combined 50 years experience and the solid reputation on which David Edwards Jeweller trades.
The shop and private offices are
traditional in the way you might expect
of a jeweller in a Victorian arcade;
wood panelling, regency style chairs,
mahogany desks and subdued colours.
It is reassuring to know that in spite of
the newer and more modern class of
jewellers, David Edwards have
remained steadfast in their own style.
Don't let this fool you though, as you can be assured of friendly, unstuffy and knowledgeable service that will make you feel at ease the minute you walk through the door.
So, is this the type of jewellers that
you can browse without feeling
awkward or obliged to buy? The
answer is a resounding 'yes'. Jack and Deborah realise that some people are understandably quite nervous about buying gems and gold, either due to a lack of knowledge or because pieces tend to come with a heftier price tag than fashion jewellery.
What's a novice to do? Firstly, find out whether you have any old or unworn pieces of jewellery lurking in your drawers that could be sold or remodelled. This way you could invest in a new piece or have an existing piece redesigned to make it look more contemporary.
If you hanker after something with a
sense of history then have a look at
some of the beautiful second hand and
vintage pieces on offer there.
Secondly, work out how much you are
prepared to spend and what style you
prefer. Perhaps you like classic, dainty
bracelets and diamond stud earrings;
or maybe bold rocks, stones and
statement pieces are the mainstay of
your jewellery box. Whatever your
style, the team at David Edwards will
be happy to talk through your options
and help you find some truly exquisite
jewellery that will becomes your
signature piece. They are there to
explain, inform and educate.
Talking to the converted is a different
matter, as fans of fine jewellery will
appreciate the importance of skilled
craftsmen, registered valuations and
quality graded gems and precious
metals. They recognise the significance
of passing heirloom pieces through the
family and the meaning or sentiment
that they carry.
Gold and silver is making a big
comeback in fashion terms and
customers realise that jewellery is a
lasting investment purchase that will
stand the test of time rather than being
just a fickle trend. There is no need to
be so serious about fine jewellery
which is why today's trend is for striking, fun pieces that make it more accessible and appealing.
And, for anyone in doubt, diamonds really are a girl's best friend - why else would Jack and Deborah seek out unique designs and diamonds of the highest quality and grading to add to their large collection of precious gems and pearls.
Whether you are looking for bracelets, a necklace, earrings or rings, there is something there to suit all tastes and budgets. The trick is to buy something that suits you, your personality and of course your pocket; then wear it and love it.
