h1

Joseph Alexander Gets Style Tips from Fashion Editor Jennifer Heebner at JCK

November 25, 2011


Hot off the JCK red carpet is a great interview with Joseph Alexander, from West Coast Jewelry,  and Jennifer Heebner, Senior Editor for JCK Magazine,  discussing the best colors and trends of the season.Pink Crystal Bib

Jennifer states that in the jewelry world “pink is the color of the year”.  You can add pink to your wardrobe by introducing a statement crystal bib, or something a little more low key such as this beautiful “Disco Night” pink crystal bead from the Pacific Beads Collection.

Rose-cut CZ Dangle Post Earrings Jennifer also states that “rose quartz, and red” are very popular this year. It is the “season of the ear”, and “high up necklines”.  Not only do I completely agree, but I can’t wait to start wearing beautiful dangle earrings such as these Gold Plated Sterling Silver Rose-cut Dangle Earrings.
Turquoise Dangle Post Earrings
West Coast Jewelry offers so many great choices, such as these elegant Gold-plated sterling silver simulated turquoise earrings.

Jennifer also stated that the “trends off the red carpet are a lot of green, from Emerald to Tourmaline”.

Some great ideas for this trend are these beautiful Sterling Silver Pear Shaped Dark Green Threader Earrings.

These would be beautiful to wear with a high neckline, and are right on trend for winter fashion.  You can dress these up for a holiday party at the office, or are great for everyday wear with jeans and a light colored cashmere sweater.

These 14K Square Green Amethyst Earrings are another elegant option to show off the winter trend. Square Green Amythest Earrings

When asked “What are some great Men’s trends that you are seeing?,  Jennifer states that “Titanium is a great option” as well as “Big bold bracelets with a wide band and lots of patterns” . West Coast Jewelry offers some great Bold Bracelets in Titanium. This Titanium Men’s Link Bracelet is a great classic option for a Christmas gift that he is sure to wear for years to come. Titanium Men's Link Bracelet

If you are looking for something a little more fashion forward, then this Titanium Men’s Link Bracelet with Black Carbon Fiber Accents is a wonderful option.

Check out other options for gift ideas at www.westcoastjewelry.com, or give us a call and we can help you with your shopping needs.

h1

West Coast Jewelry Partners with the Young Survivors Coalition

October 2, 2011

Young Survivors Coalition Partnership

The Young Survivors Coalition is the premier global organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. Their website states, “Young women Can and Do get breast cancer. While breast cancer in young women accounts for a small percentage of all breast cancer cases, the impact of this disease is widespread. There are more than 250,000 women living in the U.S. who were diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 40 or under, and approximately 10,000 young women will be diagnosed in the next year. But, despite the fact that breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women ages 15 to 54.”

After reading many survivor stories, and knowing friends and family who have dealt with breast cancer first hand, West Coast Jewelry wanted to get involved. West Coast Jewelry wanted to make a difference, and knew that the Young Survivors Coalition was a great place to start.

Breast Cancer Awareness Bracelet

West Coast Jewelry Breast Cancer Awareness Bracelet

West Coast Jewelry partnered with the Young Survivors Coalition to raise money to donate to Breast Cancer Awareness.  WCJ will donate $1 for every “like” received on Facebook during the month of October, breast cancer awareness month.

West Coast Jewelry commemorated the partnership by offering this beautiful Breast Cancer Awareness glass and leather bracelet.  For every bracelet sold through October 2012, WCJ will donate 50% of the proceeds to the Young Survivor Coalition. The limited edition Pacific Beads bracelet is a fun and fashionable addition to any jewelry collection. This leather bracelet features 2 pink glass Pacific Beads designs surrounding one metal ribbon bead with round pink crystal. The bracelet also comes with the signature West Coast Jewelry satin pouch for you or to give as a gift. They are great for stacking and are a great way to show your support.

h1

Trends from JCK Las Vegas: Pacific Beads

September 10, 2011
Ari Mahller at JCK

Ari Mahller at JCK

We catch up with Ari Mahller, Founder and President of West Coast Jewelryon the show floor at JCK Las Vegas, the largest jewelry trade show in the United States.

Ari talks about the continued popularity of sterling silver and glass beads such as Pandora, Chamilia, Troll Beads as well as West Coast Jewelry’s own Pacific Beads Collection.

West Coast Jewelry’s Pacific Beads collection launched early 2010 with 2 distinct and unique glass bead collections, the Pacific 925, and Pacific Coastal Collections.  Additionally, the Pacific CrystalBeads Collection adds some bling to each unique bracelet or necklace created.

Pacific 925 Bead

Pacific 925 Bead

The Pacific Beads 925 collection was created to offer a comparable product to the name brand designer bead collections at a fraction of the price.  The Pacific 925 beads are sold individually and each features a solid 925 sterling silver core, stamped with the “PACIFIC” brand twice on one side, and stamped “PACIFIC 925″ on the other.  With 100 distinct colors offered in the Pacific 925 collection, every bracelet or necklace will be a unique masterpiece.

Pacific Coastal Bead

Pacific Coastal Bead

The Pacific Beads Coastal Collection is our more affordable alternative.  Featuring an almost overpowering 300 glass bead designs, the Pacific Coastal Collection spans the color palette from vivid pinks and blues to calming greens and golds.  Sold in 3 packs, the Coastal Collection offers the most flexibility and affordability of any branded bead collection on the market.  The glass beads are capped with a sterling silver plated alloy core, which is how such striking glass beads are available at a fraction of the cost of other sterling silver beads.

Pacific Crystal Bead

Pacific Crystal Bead

The Pacific Crystal Collection feature colorful designs that can be used in conjunction with either the Pacific 925 or Pacific Coastal collections. Sold individually, the Pacific Crystals are created from silver plated alloy as well making them much more affordable than similar beads from other brands.

Below are a few samples of bracelets created from the Coastal Collection Beads and sold by West Coast Jewelry as “Coastal Creations” ranging in price from $39.95 and up for complete bracelets.  Considering that other brands often sell a single bead for that price, the Pacific Beads Coastal Collection is an affordable luxury sure to impress!

Pacific Beads

h1

Video Interview: Inside Weddings’ Rebecca Verma on Mens alternative metal jewelry.

September 1, 2011

In the first of our series of interviews with respected magazine editors and writers, West Coast Jewelry’s  Joe Alexander and  Inside Weddings’  Jewelry Editor - Rebecca Verma, discuss the latest styles and trends for men’s jewelry, and what men are looking to for a great alternative to traditional precious metals.

Rebecca discusses how alternative metals , stones, and ceramic rings are becoming very popular, and that men are leaning towards these alternatives to achieve a striking look at an affordable price. These are items “they can wear everyday”, states Rebecca Verma. This is a great look for “active men” who want something a little different. With the durability and functionality of these metals, men will feel comfortable wearing them all day, everyday.

See the huge selection of men’s alternative metal rings at West Coast Jewelry.com

h1

John’s Style File: Black by Popular Demand.

August 9, 2011

Hello all you style-philes. I know its summer and the fashion world gets so excited about bright colors for 4-6 months, but I’m going against the grain on this one and I’m bringing it back to black! I’m all for a little bit of color in an outfit but you don’t want to look like a pastel explosion or that you just walked off the set of the original Miami Vice.

I am of the opinion that you can NEVER go wrong with black. IT GOES WITH EVERYTHING. This is not to say you should buy all black jewelry either (we cant all pull off the goth look nor do we want too).

There are so many designs that incorporate silver and black and gold and black . If you are wearing a Black outfit,  Silver or Gold Accessories accent perfectly and stand out well against your ensemble.

If  you’re wearing a bright bold color: a black bracelet or dog tag goes a long way to tone down the ever popular retina searing pinks that are big in Men’s fashion now.

I’m not against bright colors by any means but you need to anchor those colors with something dark and substantial. A great new material in the jewelry market that is also available in black is Ceramic. This new material is not brittle as you might think. In fact Ceramic is highly scratch resistant while remaining light weight. It also is a better choice than plated metals, as the black cannot be scratched off and is a great option for people with metal allergies or sensitive skin.

And granted we can’t all afford the jewelry that Kanye West and Jay-Z wear, but style doesn’t have to be expensive. Steel rings look just as good as Silver and will hold up better in the long run, and gold plating looks exactly the same as solid gold.

Black is classy, versatile, will never go out of style and is available for less at WestCoastJewelry.com

h1

Kate Middleton visits LA: Royalty in style!

July 14, 2011

Here in LA, home to many movie stars, we are no strangers to buzz surrounding Hollywood’s big events. But this past weekend was a little different, as all eyes were on Prince William and Kate Middleton’s visit.   The famous couple just left our fair city on Monday, and – I’m not sure about you – but I cannot get enough of Kate’s style: her impeccable wardrobe, that gorgeous hair! and her pitch perfect accessories.

How amazing is this gown she wore on Sunday night:

Accenting her look were chandelier earrings she borrowed from the Queen’s collection and the bracelet she paired with them is her own.  Now, while not all of us have such access to such fine jewely – (what, you mean your in-laws aren’t descended from a long line of royalty?) – check out this lovely set from West Coast Jewelry:

Sterling Silver Filligree Dangle Earrings from West Coast Jewelry for $54.95.

Sterling Silver Filligree Cuff from West Coast Jewelry for $82.95.

You may not be a princess, but who says you can’t be just as stylish? Shop for more royal looks at West Coast Jewelry!

h1

Jewelry tips from Mad Men’s Joan Holloway

June 28, 2011

The pen necklace has come back with a vengance due to Mad Men’s character, Joan Holloway, played by the lovely Christina Hendricks. This fashionable yet utilitarian piece is almost always gracing the lovely Joan Holloway. We have 4 different designs of this same iconic piece.  It has come to truly define her entire style and character.

However lately, I have been struck by Christina’s personal style as opposed to the costumes she wears on the show.

Still simple-chic and definitely not “trendy”, she is a beautiful and modern lady who exudes a timeless elegance with almost everything she wears! These Crystal Vine Post Earrings are subtly beautiful and an affordable way to emulate her sophisticated style.

This recent Red Carpet look has caught my eye.

Looking amazing in this little black dress, Christina goes minimal with her bling and sports a single textured metal cuff.  Its nice to see someone on the  Red Carpet who doesnt feel the need to go over the top with their jewelry,can embrace simplicity, and who isn’t afraid to show off her curves.

We offer a series of these Cuffs to bring a simple shine to any outfit.

Get in touch with your inner Joan Holloway and get all looks you see here at West Coast Jewelry.

h1

Think Outside the Box..

March 9, 2011

While beaded bracelets are short of a fashion innovation, it has evolved into its own industry over the past decade and changed the way we look at personalized jewelry. Whether you purchase beads for yourself or have received them as gifts, there’s no doubt that every bead tells a story and adds personality to your piece.

Pacific Beaded Bracelet

Pair the personality and uniqueness of every bead with beautiful murano-style glass and you’ve got Pacific Beads, sold exclusively at West Coast Jewelry. Each bead, is hand-picked and have adorable names like “Rockin the Boat”, “Strawberried in the Sand” and “Turquiose and Caicos”.  Pacific Beads are compatible with Pandora, TrollBeads, Chamilia, & Biagi jewelry – for a fraction of the cost! The Pacific Beads Collection includes; Coastal Collection (3Packs), Coastal Creations, Pacific 925 Collection, Pacific Crystal, and Pacific Jewelry.Pacific Beads

Coastal Collection Silver Glass Beads (3 Pack) - I've Struck Gold!
My Pick: “I’ve Struck Gold!”

Coastal Collection beads are sold in convenient packs of 3 to make building your creation easy! At $8.95 per pack, creating a piece or giving them as gifts can be as affordable as they are fun.

Love the look but hate figuring out what to put on it?

WCJ-PAC-B1044-KB9003

Top Seller: "Abalone Shell" on Barrel Clasp Bracelet

Try Coastal Creations – bracelets (from the Pacific Jewelry Collection) that are pre-assembled with 12 Coastal Collection beads! Each Coastal Creation bracelet has been designed with a unique story in mind and are available on your choice of bracelet style.

At a whopping $65 a piece, it can cost you nearly $1,000 to create a Pandora bracelet. Why bother? For only $12.95 each (that’s 85% less), Pacific 925 Beads boasts the same gorgeous, murano-glass style with a .925 sterling silver core and outer stamp.  The Pacific Beads Collection from West Coast Jewelry is a great way to get the look for less and have your own uniquely styled version of the hottest bracelet of the season!  As colors change, add new beads to your bracelet!

WCJ-K9038

Pacific 925 Collection Sterling Silver Glass Bead "Brown Sugar"

Add a little “bling” to your piece with Pacific Crystal beads. Silver plated with sparkling crystal accents.

Disco Night - Clear Crystal

Pacific Beads Silver Plated Crystal Bead - "Disco Night" Clear Crystal

Creating a new piece? Check out our selection of “starter” jewelry. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, stoppers and more.

WCJ-KB9003

.925 Sterling Silver Bracelet with Barrel Clasp

WCJ-KS1002

Pacific Beads Sterling Silver Antiqued Dots Rubber Stopper

Whatever your reason, we urge you to “think outside the box” and create your own story.

-Justine C.

h1

John’s Style File: NATURE EDITION: Blinged Out Bugs

February 10, 2011

Aristotle said “Art not only imitates nature, but also completes its deficiencies.” Artist, Hubert Duprat uses nature to create art and, in a sense, jewelry for the natural world. The images seen here illustrate the results of an unusual artistic collaboration between the French artist Hubert Duprat and a group of caddisfly larvae. The caddisfly live around streams and ponds and produce aquatic larvae that protect their developing bodies by manufacturing armor in the form of shea­ths, or cases, spun from silk and incorporating substances—grains of sand, particles of mineral or plant material, bits of fish bone or crustacean shell—readily available in their ecosystem. The larvae are remarkably adaptable: if other suitable materials are introduced into their environment, they will often incorporate those as well.

Dupart took this one step further by introducing precious and semi-precious materials to the larvae’s environment, the results are truly amazing. After collecting the larvae from their normal environments, he relocates them to his studio where he gently removes their own natural cases and then places them in aquaria that he fills with alternative materials from which they can begin to recreate their protective sheaths. He began with only gold spangles but has since also added the kinds of semi-precious and precious stones (including turquoise, opals, lapis lazuli and coral, as well as pearls, rubies, sapphires, and diamonds) seen here.

The insects do not always incorporate all the available materials into their case designs, and certain larvae, Duprat notes, seem to have better facility with some materials than with others. Additionally, cases built by one insect and then discarded when it evolves into its fly state are sometimes recovered by other larvae, who may re-purpose it by adding to or altering its size and form.

So in this situation, who is the artist? Is it the man who simply gives the insect the material? Or is the bug the artist, and the man who gave them the material just a financier of sorts?

h1

Liven up those winter blues…

January 12, 2011

Bundling up and keeping warm doesn’t have to bog down your style.  Bring out your brightly colored jewelry and put an end to your drab wintery look.

But turquoise in January? Although clothing and accessories have a symbiotic relationship, the beauty of jewelry is that it does not discriminate. There are no rules when it comes to accessorizing your outfits. Keep in mind that  jewelry is meant to enhance your look, not just match it. So go ahead, mix it up..just don’t get too crazy.

Sterling Silver Turquoise & Amethyst Multi-Stone Earrings

Beautiful semi-precious stones adorn this versatile piece

Blake Lively pairs turquoise jewelry with a jewel tone dress

.925 sterling silver with polished turquoise beads

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.