Drew Barrymore sported a beaded choker in “Ever After.” Kate Winslett coddled a blue diamond necklace in “Titanic,” and if you pick up the latest My Size Barbie doll, she’ll be embellished with faux jewelry that little ones can wear.
Jewelry is hot right now, which makes it a great holiday gift. From diamonds and pearls to beads and charms, the selection seems endless. To help narrow the search, we’ve selected a few “hot” pieces to satisfy even the most hard-to-shop-for person on your list.
– Silver charms are the perfect gift solution for girls and boys. A Lucy Ann sterling silver chain adorned with building blocks, pets and playful kids is a very popular gift for children ages 4 and older. The chains come in a variety of lengths and because each charm is sold separately, each necklace can be customized. Parents can purchase a toggle bracelet accented with charms, each featuring a family insignia.
The entire Lucy Ann Collection is available at All Our Children, 2217 N. Halsted St. The silver chains are priced from $7 to $24, depending on the chain length. Charms, which come in small, medium and large sizes, cost between $18 and $22. The toggle bracelet is $50. There is a 50-cent-per-letter engraving fee. Personalized orders are placed through a catalog at the store or by telephone (773-327-1868) and are shipped to the store for pick up.
According to Dorothy Phelan, manager of All Our Children, shoppers should allow at least four weeks to have their order processed. Those ordering Christmas gifts should do so by Wednesday to ensure on-time arrival.
– Present your teen a beaded present and you’ll be adored “Ever After.” Beaded chokers are all the rave among teen girls. Parents can score major points by adding an Austrian Crystal hair barrette. The beaded choker is available for $7 and the hair barrette for $4 at Claire’s Accessories stores.
Gold chains remain popular among teen boys. A diamond-cut solid rope chain accented with a 14-karat gold NFL helmet charm will knock him off his feet. The 20-inch chain (item No. JP 433-4892) is available for $220 through the J.C. Penney Christmas Catalog through Dec. 29. NFL helmet charms (item No. JP 157-3468 FB) are $60 each; choose from the Cowboys, Packers, 49ers, Steelers or Dolphins. Call 800-222-6161 to order.
– Diamonds might be Mom’s best friend, but she’ll fall in love with a white gold Tronchetto ring from Bulgari. The classic ring includes a cabochon stone nestled in a white gold setting. The ring is available at the Bulgari store, 909 N. Michigan Ave. Prices start at $980.
– Don’t get tied up trying to find another necktie for Dad’s holiday stocking. Give him the gift of gold with a 14-karat gold Figuero heavy link bracelet ($250 to $300) from the Jewelry Exchange, 133 N. York Rd., Elmhurst. Dad also can feel special because the store’s jewelry is manufactured on site so pieces are unique. Purchasers at the Exchange must be at least 18 years old because the store gives exchanges only.
If you just want to see a variety of jewelry in a variety of price ranges, cruise the hallways of the Jeweler’s Center at the Mallers Building, 5 S. Wabash St. The center features more than 130 stores and 13 floors of independent jewelers.
