Locket Science
Heather Moore knows all about sentimental message jewels—not to mention bridal designs, thanks to the debut of a collection last summer. Her recent offering, the Locket ring, combines both beautifully in an unexpected way: a gold band with a cavity containing either an inscribable metal insert or a tiny paper scroll ideal for handwritten messages.
The concept actually came from Moore’s grandfather, a World War II spy and code cracker in an organization that was the precursor to the CIA; he used to write tiny romantic notes to his wife and hide them all over their house in a playful lover’s treasure hunt game. (His career cover, reveals Moore, was a post in the jewelry export business.)
“I love the sentiment of these,” says Moore. “And there are lots of opportunities within the Locket ring idea.”
The idea came to her just a month before the Centurion Jewelry show in early February, and she and her team hustled to create two models by show time. Final prices have yet to be established, but the 18k gold model without diamonds is estimated to retail for about $12,000. Handwritten message versions will be sold with small scrolls of paper.
Spin Cycle
Semi-mount in 18k gold with bows from the Pirouetta collection with 0.89 ct. t.w. diamonds; $7,000; Kirk Kara, Northridge, Calif.; 818-882-5272; kirkkara.com
Kirk Kara’s 2-year-old, ballet-inspired Pirouetta jewelry collection is taking its next step: bows, which speak directly to vice president and creative director Grace Terezian’s girly side.
“Grace loves bows,” admits sister and marketing director Angela Karaguezian. Adds Terezian: “I envisioned Pirouetta to be like your first dance with your husband on your wedding night.”
Currently just two 18k gold and diamond semi-mounts are offered ($3,200 and $7,000 retail); entry-level styles are in the works. “We’ll have $2,500 to $3,200 models by Vegas,” says Terezian.