Jewelry

[LuckyPeach]

How can it be March already? We are sopping wet here in SoCal and on top of that I'm dealing with serious jet lag after an overseas adventure that had been planned for a year. Can you believe I am just now opening the last JR TSV? Anyway, hope everyone out in Ripkanista-land is doing OK.

Here's the drill for this thread: REVIEW after REVIEW after REVIEW. And EVERYTHING RIPKA COUNTS, not just JRQ designs. If you already have a thread discussing a single item, please copy your single review post below.

So, following is a run-down of places for JR. First, of course, is the Q: brand-new JRQ, clearance, Lunchtime Specials, Insider, Limited Quantity, TSVs, OTOs, older designs, While Supplies Last, "As Is" and Last Clicks. Then there's Judith's boutiques, JudithRipka dot com, and her outlet store in Florida, Sawgrass. If you cannot get to Sawgrass, everything can be done via email with photos and friendly SAs. Also elite department stores and their websites. Plus Sam's Club, Gilt, Sweepstreet and RuLaLa, Last Call. Then there's independent jewelers and their websites. Majorly, there's Over There (largest auction site) and finally, Ripkanista-to-Ripkanista trading. If anything was forgotten, please add a post below letting us all know.

If reviewing a JRQ item, please add the J-number. With nearly 1,300 JRQ J-numbers, it has become too hard from a description to be absolutely positive what you are reviewing, plus it helps for us to open a second window to the product page for more info.

Photos are welcome! Now let's get reviewing... Thanks so much! ~Peach

[LuckyPeach]

Apologies for letting this thread lay fallow--health issues again after an overseas trip.

REVIEW: J290468 Ripka white near-round Pearl system in gold cladding; J290953 clad status link inserts for system; J290959 Green Chalcedony bead inserts in gold cladding.

Grades:

J290468 - A (system)

J290953 - A (link inserts)

J290959 - A (bead inserts)

Yea: nearly endless variations of Judith's stellar system.

Boo: price points are very high, especially for Lapis inserts (not reviewed here).

Value (1=low; 10=high): 7.5.

It seems fitting that Judith's initial invention which served to set her jewelry designing career on a path to success be my return to actually writing reviews instead of just requesting them after a long bout with illness and other "stuff."

A happy day it is to talk about this wondrous system, which takes the basic Pearl necklace and turns it into a system of pieces which can be mixed, matched and personalized to make your own trademark look. The initial pieces are two 12 3/4" inch (product page says 12 1/4") length of near-round white Pearls 8.5mm-9.5mm (mine are 8.5mm), caps them on both sides with Berge slant-carved caps attached to 3/4" by 1/2" twisted rope oval links made special with center shiny "V" motif. These oval links which have ingenious inward-opening hinges, are the key to the entire system, allowing maximum length and play-with variations. So, it you see the "V" motif on the oval link, then you know you have a hidden hinge. This is helpful because believe me, it is tough to tell visually where the hinges are! The links are that perfect!

Also included are a 3" seven-link piece of chain, two Berge Marquis ovals, 3/4" by 1/2", two smaller basic Berge oval links, 3/8" by 1/4" and a center round twisted rope with a half inch diameter. While this centerpiece has two hinges, it can serve as a necklace front holding an enhancer, lengthen a chain or Pearl necklace or be added to make a bracelet longer. Also keep in mind that the two end oval "V" links can be removed completely to change lengths or be added to others (pearls or other inserts to give that bit of extra length you might need).

Finally, are two sets of links for the toggle and circle closures: 2 1/2" inches for the seven-link toggle piece and 3" for the seven-link circle closure, repeating Judith's distinctive large oval twisted rope with the "V" center (hinged), smaller twisted rope with twisted beading design and smaller plain oval sleek Berge links. Endcaps on the toggle are soft blue Sapphire cabochons.

Here's some ideas for the possibilities: one Pearl length (has two "V" links to attach) equals one 14" choker; two Pearl length (four "V" links to attach) equals a 28" length; add the 2 1/4" five-link to one Pearl length (two "V" links) and you have a 16 1/4" length; or the five-link to two Pearl lengths and you have 30 1/4". All this and we haven't even gotten into adding the seven-link toggle and seven-link circle closures! Add those and my necklace is showing a maximum of 36 1/2" inches. I'm thinking this could vary a bit due to the natural Pearls being different sizes.

My bracelet, made of the one five-link (remove the two hinged "V" links) and two seven-links equals a very average 7 1/2" and without the five-link a tiny 5 1/2". Adding back the two large "V" links will save the day, taking you to 8 1/2" or just one and you're midway between the two lengths. Suffice it to say, Ripkanistas should be able to find the correct length for themselves.

J290953 - Clad inserts

This set of two 5 3/8" by nearly 1/2" inserts includes a matching 12-link with no hinged links for attachment and a second insert of 12-links and again no hinged links for attachment. Add one to the toggle and circle links and you have a 10 1/2" ankle bracelet. Or put them all together and you have an 18 1/2" clad link necklace. Add to the Pearl necklace lengths and you can go approximately 33" or approximately 47" with the second Pearl necklace length.

As written above, the wild cards will be those two hinged "V" links from the original system which are totally removable, thus adding amazing versatility.

J290959 - Green Chalcedony clad inserts

Upping the change-ability even further are the green Chalcedony clad bead inserts, a set of two. The bright rich 10mm beads have a length of 13 3/4" by 3/8" wide with the hinged "V" oval links attached on each end. Wear one as a choker--again, those two totally removable hinged "V" links from the original system can be your savior, adding a smidge of length for fuller necks, or even the two inch five-link for those who need more room. Link both Chalcedony inserts together for about 28" in length or add the "V" link removables, five-link or go all out adding the toggle and circle closures for a completely different look. What is not to love?

Summary

For those of us who love to play with our jewels, Judith's classic system is a dream come true. The quality is there, though the price is on the high side, especially for the inserts and add-ons. Having so many white Pearls for me, it was a no-brainer to go for the clad option. I wish there had been a grey Pearl option which would've been my preference. Cladding is uniform and my pieces all look somewhere between 14K and 18K. Pearl quality is decent, though one of my pearls has a slight blemish where it looks like it was touched up with nail polish--do you know that look? Does anyone know how that works? I think for the investment they should be perfect. Gram weight is satisfactory. I'm hoping we are seeing a trend back to Judith's more hefty pieces, now that silver has dropped. Design in general is stellar, which has always been JR's strong point and the reason we collect and love her.

One thing worth noting is the need for more reasonably-priced add-ons/inserts. Grey Pearls, Onyx, White Agate for starters. It would be nice to have a little package of link add-ons including the hinged "V" links and original system center five-link. I'd love a lobster claw closure set, too.

It sure would've been nice to have a booklet, especially for the cost. I think it would've paid for itself, if all the add-ons had been listed, providing Ripkanistas a wishlist of sorts to dream over. To be honest, it took me awhile to catch on to the removable links and photos would've been helpful. But we have seen this before with the Q unfortunately, telling us to print out certificates of authenticity, etc. Being cheap is not cool when you ask your clients to make a healthy investment.

But no booklet is a small quibble when it comes to enjoying this wondrous set of well-made fabulously-designed treasures from our Queen. I've already worn Judith's system several different ways and will continue "breaking it in" for some time to come. A "must have" that should always remain in the JRQ collection! ~Peach

[LuckyPeach]

Ripkanistas! We need reviews... thanks~Peach

PS~I'll be back with one later for Judith's amazing Buddha charm/enhancer.

[donnaluby]

Hi Peach - hope you are recuperating from your health issues as well as jet lag. Sounds like your new pearl necklace with the inserts is perfect for you. Enjoy these in good health.

I received LTS J282745-JR sterling criss cross enhancer in Blue Topaz -- it is just beautiful and the color of the stones are sparkly and I love the berge texture. This enhancer is a good size and looks nice on almost any chain. Got it at a great price of $76.20.

[oceanviewTL]

Hi, Peach - I bought and LOVED the blue sapphire Monaco ring - even more gorgeous than on the screen. As the owner of many (can one have too many?) Monaco rings, I was very pleased.

Also received, but returned, the ruby version. The ruby doublet was a beautiful color, but I didn't care for the blood-red Diamonique stones on the side. It is not my taste, but is still a beautiful ring and may be just right for another Ripkanista.

[Macallanmom]

Hi all, from Easy Does It Day, I received J288804 Oval Opal Triplet 2.05 cttw DMQ ring $149 and it is absolutely stunning !! Each of the Dmq stones are small and shine like no bodies business. There are 5 Dmq stones in graduating sizes going down the shank on either side and amazingly beautiful piercing on the gallery. I could not be more thrilled with this purchase ! It is large (lengthwise), as I have very small hands - covers my entire first joint, but still extremely comfortable. Probably will be an every day ring on the right hand - I wear her sterling Estate ring every day on my left hand.

Also received J290955 10mm Adventurine Inserts $156 (for pearl TSV system) and they are such a beautiful very saturated medium green - very substantial feeling also ! My business is closed this week for spring break, so I have not worn them yet. Will definitely wear them Monday - can't imagine a classier way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day Hopefully this will make up for a few of those "not so classy" ways I celebrated the holiday while in college !

I chose to have these 2 items on expedited shipping as I am really into immediate gratification. I will review the other pieces as they arrive by snail mail. Looking forward to hearing about all of y'alls new beauties !

[LuckyPeach]

REVIEW: J284981 Buddha enhancer

Grade: A+

Yea: unique, heavy gram weight, detailed.

Boo: nada!

Value (1=low; 10=high): 9

Judith gives us the ultimate Buddha enhancer...

With its satin/shiny finish, refined detailing on every area except the bottom, this regal interpretation of Buddha in enhancer form, is all about beauty and serenity. I recently bought this enhancer for a trip to Asia, garnering many compliments each time I wore it from both males and females. The Buddha looked great on Judith's original black leather magnetic necklace and would definitely work on her newer fixed leather necklaces as well as nearly any chain, thanks to the generous 3/8" by 1/4" bale opening.

With a length of 1 1/2" by 3/4" at the base, this Buddha is not the jolly, portly version we often see but the eyes closed in meditation, kneeling version, hands in an open restful pose. The well-balanced figure is draped in sensuous robes with Judith's subtle carving accenting every curve. Hair is in the traditional Buddha curls, long lucky earlobes and bottom half in an alternating shiny and slant satin Berge chevron which continues to the back. Satin Berge makes up the bale in this stone-free design. Bottom of the heavy gram weight piece is backed with open swirls, providing an opening for the somewhat hollow casting. This is not a flaw and is finished nicely, allowing the figure to sit solidly upright on any surface.

What a masterpiece and I didn't even mind paying full price, which is saying something! Major love! If you are a Buddha fan and get this one, it may just become your favorite.. ~Peach

PS~ I'm not sure why the Q is listing it as a bracelet charm which *could* be quite clunky--cannot imagine knocking dear Buddha around!

[LuckyPeach]

Bargains to go with your Judith Ripka - Micro Mini Reviews

J274562 - Naomi Pevsner oval simulated Turquoise with Crystal Quartz doublets and Diamond surrounds on stations/loop station toggle bracelet. Grade: A-; Value: 9. At 1/4 of the QVC listed price, this pretty bracelet is on the delicate side at 1/4" wide with sparkly Diamonds throughout. Stations are backed and will match JR's Turquoise doublet pieces. Only caveat is that the chain connecting loop & toggle is kind of delicate (might think of replacing with something stronger and/or to lengthen).

J275126 - Elizabeth Rand round sterling Rosemary pendant 2" x 2" swirl pendant on 18 1/2" black cord. Grade: A-; Value: 9. This heavy gram weight pendant is very organic, dimensional, well made and at about 1/5 the original price. Cord is nice, too, with sterling tips and an extender. While the pendant is permanently attached, it might be worthwhile opening the connector ring and freeing the pendant so an enhancer bale could be attached for more options (like wearing on JR's many chains).

J283893 - Stephen Dweck, Dweck Diamonds clad Fortuna hinged 1/2" wide cuff with 30 pts. of Diamonds. Grade: A+; Value: 10. Imagine four twigs with shiny and Diamond-encrusted buds interwoven for the ultimate earthy glamour...that's this wonderful cuff which has a hinge and is less than half price. Inside diameter is 2 1/2" across and 2 1/4" deep to the open part of the cuff. With the measuring tape wrapped around, the figure is 8 5/8". Now imagine mixing this with all of your JR clad necklaces and earrings..major score here!

J281810 - David Segal 18" open twist lightweight ovals chain (5/16" to 5/8") with 2" by 7/8" heavy oval faceted Onyx enhancer. Grade: A-. Value: 9.5. First, I suggest taking the enhancer off the JR Jubilee-like chain and wearing them separately. The twisted, shiny chain is just too delicate for the enhancer. It is cute on its own or with one of JR's smaller charms with the flip-open bale. The best part of this duo is the substantial piece of light-reflecting Onyx positioned at the 3, 6, 9 and 12 'o clock markers with squared off open-animal print prongs and securely held in the underside with sterling open-work Zebra/Tiger stripes. Bale is small, strong and does the job. I wore this last week on Judith's black leather cord and complemented it with her newer knuckle-to-knuckle faceted Onyx/DMQ ring, J286910 (not yet reviewed here). Again, the price is less than half of the original and I think this set meshes well with everything JR, especially Onyx and Black Spinel. Only one or two of these left! ~Peach

[floss 84]

Hi lucky peach, hope you are feeling better and all rested up from your trip. Isn't that Buddha charm the best. I have a thing for Buddha so when it first came out I went on speed dial mode.Lol!!! I usually wear the Buddha on a ripka 36" chain and I order awhile ago the mini evil eye Jr2 charm and wear them both together.the mini ee charm is just like the JR2 we necklace. I was lucky to see it online and Fran from Madison ave store tracked one done. It us so so cute.

A review of the ss rolo bracelet very very light weight, tinny and hollow feeling and a little hard to clasp. In saying that I like the bracelet. Great layering piece and ideal for the summer. If anyone orders it just don't expect a lot out of this little work horse.

The citrine ring with the black color ss. I love it. The color and the clarity if the stone is stunning. The setting is wonderful . I do agree with some of the reviews that the color can be mistaking for tarnish. But I love the color reminds me of judith' s gothic line. So for me I love it.

The green tourmaline emerald cut ring. Love love love. Yes the setting is on the thin side not the weight but the shank. The stone is a stunning rich green color,and the two dmq baguette stones are clear . Stunning. And can be worn as an engagement ring also.

[kaplan206]

Hiya Peachy! I hope you and your family are well.

Here's my first from the anniversary visit:

CUFF

You know, by now I should know enough to ignore people who respond to threads with negative remarks. But somehow, the several negative remarks on the "Holy Cow" thread hurt my feelings. I was in an obvious place of joy and happiness so why would someone feel it necessary to rain on my parade, so to speak. Yes, to those people, I know it's expensive of which you do not need to remind me; I will pay for it, so its cost does not escape me. Please try to be more sensitive if you are ever tempted to post a negative comment during someone's moment of happiness. Thank you.

REVIEW:

Spectacular, and I am not even a huge fan of black spinel.

I have a small for my 6" wrist and it actually has some wiggle room, which is unusual and not a complaint.

The cuff is weighty, but in a good way.The non gem area, of which it is small, has a unique carved, criss cross pattern. It is carved deeply enough to be able to feel it with your fingers. It is really quite lovely.

The top of the cuff is encrusted with the tiniest BS, kissing and hugging each other. Perched on the top of the cuff are several large gem cabochons in deep saturated color, with the center BT being the largest, and each one having a double different bezel around it. On either side of the tope cabs are six cabs on each side of the cuff, almost to the outer edge, and they have double bezels too. The gems included are BT, citrine, peridot, rhodolite which are repeated throughout.

As previously stated by me, and others, it is an expensive piece of jewelry. Fortunately it was on EP. For the past several years Miss Judie has come out with a new "Aurora" cuff around the time of her anniversary. No "Aurora" was presented this time. I think this might be in place of it, although the BM emerald would stand nicely in its place too.

At any rate, with all my basic JR jewelry purchased, I am always on the lookout for the unique creation by Miss Judie; I think this may be one of them.

I really love the Confetti Cuff; it has exceeded my expectations.