Blogs

The year was 1994. I was an eager New Host on QVC, doing a Host Training session with the one and only Kathy Levine. This woman was a veritable Wikipedia of jewelry knowledge. Me? Not so much. She soon realized I had no idea the difference between 14 Karat and gemstone Carat, had never uttered the word Peridot in my life, and thought Russian Diopside was the name of an evil character from a James Bond movie. At the end of the training session, Kathy looked at me and said, “Maybe you should stick to selling Bissells, Bissell Boy.” Thanks for the encouraging feedback Kathy.

Thankfully, in the last 20 years, I’ve learned a thing or two. Having had the privilege of traveling the world to see learn jewelry design and manufacturing  (Hello Italy!), attend renowned Jewelry Shows (So that’s what the Swiss Alps look like!), and gotten to know some of the world’s most prestigious designers (names like Judith and Barbara ring a bell?), it’s been a fascinating Journey.

I’ve also learned the strong emotional connection Jewelry plays in our lives. I remember when my late father, before he passed, gave me the Gold watch he received for all his years at  our Hometown’s  Telephone Company. I remember giving Mabe’ Pearl and Gold earrings to my Mom which  she wore the day Amy and I got married.

And, oh yeah, there’s that engagement ring, and the ring on the fourth finger of my left hand! Let’s not forget those! LOL!

When thinking about one's jewelry journey, it all starts with that extremely special and emotional piece. Whether it is something you bought for yourself or maybe it was gift, there is always that one piece in a woman's jewelry box that holds a great deal of significance. One piece that comes to mind when I think about gifting the start to another's jewelry journey comes from a brand called Extraordinary LifeI.  These bangles are unique and carry great meaning. Each amazing choice comes with three Sterling Bangles, Gemstones, and a meaningful Charm.

 All are beautifully boxed with a message that with inspire and bring a smile to the person receiving it.

From the Butterfly “Be Free, Be Yourself”, to the Moon “I Love you to the Moon and Back”, to my favorite, the Compass “It’s about the Journey, not the Destination.” What a wonderful reminder as to why we love giving the gift of jewelry. It’s a piece that truly tells a story about the person receiving it. It’s a reminder to her each day when she looks down at her wrist, that she is special, talented, and most importantly loved.