My Jewel Box

For me, jewelry represents fun, memories and milestones; jewelry tells a story. I bought myself jewelry when I had my children; I've gotten jewelry from my wonderful significant other [actor Djimon Hounsou]; and when someone's needed to say "I'm sorry" or "I won't forget this date again!" As for my yellow diamond [ring], I can't do anything small--I have to be big! It's a phenomenal stone, and I'm really into wearing big precious stones on my pointer finger right now--I think it looks so chic.  It was quite an investment, and I get calls from people asking if it's for sale—it's not! My kids know that everything I have will be theirs someday.

—Kimora Lee Simmons

My husband gave me this locket for my birthday, which was nine days before the birth of our son. Because he was not born yet, my husband put the best image of Kostas we had at the time in the locket - a printout from our first ultrasound. On the other side, he put a photo of our first baby - our dog Crash. I love this locket for so many reasons! It is visually stunning, and in pristine condition for its age, but it is also layered with meaning. It was originally a Victorian mourning locket, which is why it is covered with black enamel.  The diamond set fly is symbolic of the fascination with nature and science at the time. In the interior, under the original glass, are two panels of plaited hair, each side featuring a different pattern of weave. The frames are hand engraved - one with the name and date Marie Louise August 4th 1866, and the other with Helene Catherine April 28th 1868.  It is amazing to me that this locket has lived through so many years and seen so much, and that now it will live though my life with me and hopefully future generations of my family.

Elizabeth Doyle, owner of Doyle & Doyle

I collect vintage jewelry and I have always admired the artistry of vintage  pins. I just never seemed to find the right outfit to wear them with. I also enjoy making beaded jewelry. Eventually I decided to combine my two loves and now I make beaded necklaces that feature a vintage pin as the pendant. This necklace is made from a vintage Coro pin in the shape of a lily. It has an unusual chain tassel hanging from the bottom. I like wearing unique jewelry and each necklace I make is one of a kind.

— Michele McCall

One of my favorite pieces is an Israeli gold large bangle bracelet in 24kt gold over sterling.  The opals are genuine.  It is so cool, sleek  and contemporary.  I wear it all the time.  I purchased it online  at alittleeyecandy.com.  I  have some of the other pieces that complement my bracelet as well.

— Susan

My favorite jewelry is one that I made early this year. The 14K rose gold and diamond angel wings pendant is hanging on a multicolored sapphire strand. I wear it everyday.

— Hydee Ursolino-Abrahan

My favorite item of jewelry is one I designed personally. This pendant reminds me of my life in the islands. The original design was made using fan coral from the Atlantic, and the anchors are an exact replica of an anchor used on a very dear friend's fishing boat. When I designed this piece, I made sure it was an authentic tribute to a place and time in my life that I never want to forget.

— Gina Nigrelli, Designer of Jules Smith

One of my most favorite pieces is this silver bracelet with multicolor gem stones such as lemon quartz, garnet, aquamarine, amethyst, peridot and citrine. I can wear it with all my clothes and highly admire it. It is from the exclusive jewelry webpage www.alina-gordon.ch

— Caroline Wick