Magazine Layout

M A G A Z I N E
Time for Ladies
Wearable Art
Uncommonly Beautiful
A Kiss for Chocolate
Exclusive World of Rolex
2 0 11 - 2 0 1 2
ISSUE 2
(From Left to Right): Coleman Clark, President; Jim Clark, Chairman; Mitchell Clark, Executive Vice President
To all of our friends and loyal customers, we present to you the second issue of BC Clark Magazine...
Over the years Oklahoma City has charged forward, evolved and progressed, and we have too. BC Clark Jewelers strives to bring
Oklahoma the most distinguished names in designer jewelry, to stay one step ahead of the latest fashion trends, and to continually
bring you new, cutting-edge designers. As represented in the pages of this magazine, we are proud to offer you the finest selection of
designer jewelry, engagement rings, luxury timepieces, and giftware in Oklahoma.
At each BC Clark Jewelers Oklahoma City location, we are proud of our amazing team of highly trained professionals, our
“BC Clark family,” who are always eager to assist you and dedicated to giving you an experience you will not forget.
As we celebrate our 119th year as Oklahoma’s leading jeweler, we would like to offer our sincere gratitude for your patronage this
year and in years past. We feel truly blessed to have so many loyal friends and customers. Thank you for trusting us to be your jeweler
and allowing us to share the significant moments in your life.
With gratitude,
Coleman, Jim and Mitchell Clark
Northpark
122nd & May • (405) 755-4040
Penn Square
NW Expressway & Penn • (405) 840-1441
www.bcclark.com
Downtown
101 Park Avenue • (405) 232-8806
issue 2
B . C .
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O N
M A G A Z I N E
T H E
C O V E R :
Penny Preville
p26
Big, bold, colorful or classic, the latest watches designed for women will take you anywhere in style
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Welcome from the Clark family
Pray For Rain
A Visit with Roberto Coin in Italy
Exotic Style
Gold, Silver, & Heavy Metal Gifts
Womenswear Top 10
Wearable Art
B.C. Clark Jingle
Igniting a Passion for Gold
Time for Ladies
The Most Expensive Cars
A Taste for Detail
Dazzling Diamonds
New Style Trends for Men
The Exclusive World of Rolex
Whimsical Gifts at B.C. Clark
Bold Bangles & Captivating Cuffs
Express Yourself
A Kiss for Chocolate
Faber-Castell Legacy
Affordable Fashion
Uncommonly Beautiful
Champagne Taste
History: B.C. Clark Gift Store
p14
p18
p32
Todd Tufts • Editor in Chief, Publisher
Carol Besler • Editorial Director
Larry Stuart • Art Director
Vence Vida • Production Manager
B.C. Clark Magazine is published by Tufts Communications,
1201 E. 5th Street, Suite 1009 • Anderson, IN 46012
T: 765-608-3081 • E: [email protected]
© 2011, Tufts Communications. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
All prices subject to change.
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Our visit in Italy with
p6 Roberto Coin
© D. YURMAN 2011
®
Silver Ice Collection
italian adventure
A Visit with Roberto
Coin in Italy
As one of Italian designer Roberto Coin’s largest independent accounts, B.C.
Clark was chosen to participate with a select number of U.S. retailers at the
2011 Roberto Coin Retailer Summit in Italy. Coleman and Melissa Clark attended the fabulous four-day trip to Italy hosted by Roberto Coin.
One of the highlights of the trip was a private tour of Roberto Coin’s
largest factory in Vicenza, Italy, where the Clarks watched the extremely
talented artisans create handcrafted 18k gold jewelry. At the other end of the
spectrum, Roberto and his son also demonstrated some of their state-of-theart proprietary equipment, designed to create an array of their woven chains
for which Roberto Coin has become famous.
Following the tour of the factory, the group had the pleasure of meeting
more of the staff at Roberto Coin’s world headquarters. “I came away so
impressed with all of the people on Roberto Coin’s team,” said Coleman
Clark. “It truly feels like a family business, much like ours, where you can
sense the pride each person has working for Roberto Coin.”
In addition to seeing much of the business side of Roberto Coin, the
Clarks were treated to many of Italy’s sights and pleasures, from a day in
Venice, to a day in Verona, to a private tour of the first villa built by the
famous architect, Palladio, in Vicenza.
Jewelry craftsman applying the final polish
on a bracelet from the CapriPlus collection.
Jewelry craftsman
finishing the final
details before polishing.
A special gold weaving machine developed by Roberto Coin for his
factory in Vicenza, Italy. Here it is weaving a bracelet from the Primavera collection.
Finished bracelets from Roberto Coin's Primavera collection.
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italian adventure
Of course a trip to Italy would not be complete
without amazing food and wine. The group had the
pleasure of dining and participating in a wine tasting
at Villa Marchesi Fumanelli (www.squarano.com). The
Marchesi Fumanelli family have been cultivating
grapes and producing fine wine on the property since
1470. “The setting was amazing, dining on the patio
of the villa built in the 17th century, atop a hillside
surrounded by vineyards overlooking the countryside,” remarked Melissa Clark. “The company was the
best part, however, having the opportunity to visit
with Roberto Coin and Peter Webster, co-owner and
president of Roberto Coin. They are both so fascinating and engaging, and their zest for life and passion for their business is very contagious.”
In October, Roberto Coin made a rare appearance at BC Clark’s Penn Square store for a one day trunk show
where he displayed his latest collections as well as some special
one-of-a-kind pieces. This was a fabulous opportunity for
customers to meet him in person and to experience the passion
behind his designs, first-hand.
Melissa Clark, Roberto Coin, Coleman Clark, and Peter Webster at
Roberto Coin's world headquarters in Vicenza, Italy.
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b y
The John Hardy jewelry collection is unique in several ways, not the
least of which is its origins. While many luxury jewelry brands have
roots in Italy, France or the United States, John Hardy started in Bali, in
1989. “The inspiration behind the brand is diverse,” says the designer
Guy Bedarida. “The rich local culture and impressive techniques of the
local Balinese artisans was instrumental in the conception of John Hardy
Inspired by
the beauty
of Bali and
crafted for
everyday wear,
the John Hardy
collection is an
American favorite
C A R O L
B E S L E R
John Hardy
“Dot Deco”
necklace. $750
Jewelry. The designers, carvers and goldsmiths are all highly talented,
with a long tradition of jewelry making; many of their ancestors designed for Indonesian
royals throughout the past centuries.”
John Hardy continues to use these techniques as well as find inspiration in nuanced
details in the Bali culture and landscape, such as the pebbles found in the river that lines
the brand’s compound, which makes up the Kali collection. This collection was one of the
first the brand ever created, yet it is updated every season with new design elements.
“I like to design beautiful jewelry inspired by what surrounds me,” says Bedarida. “It
can be the nature surrounding me in my atelier in Bali or some extravagant painting
that I see when I travel around Japan. Travels and nature are the most important elements that influence my designs.”
John Hardy jewelry is made by hand from the beginning of the design process to the actual handcrafting in silver or gold. “We like to
John Hardy “Bedeg”
medium kick cuff. $995
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John Hardy "Bedeg"
wide kick cuff. $1,495
“The Palu collection –
which is hammered –
is now half hammered
and half smooth,
creating a contrast
between a very shiny
surface and one that
is uneven.
It was inspired by the
sailboats in Bali.”
John Hardy "Palu
Kapal" station
bracelet. $495
think it is jewelry that has a soul, because no machine is
involved and every person who contributes to its making
John Hardy “Palu
Kapal” small drop
earrings. $995
puts their heart and soul into the work,” says Bedarida.
The latest collection is a variation on the Palu, a favorite
of brand collectors. “The John Hardy customer is a loyal one. A
lot of the customers have responded to the classic John Hardy designs, which I have revisited in my most recent collections, but with a
twist,” says Bedarida. “The Palu collection – which is hammered – is now
half hammered and half smooth, creating a contrast between a very shiny
surface and one that is uneven. It was inspired by the sailboats in Bali.”
Bedarida also recently created the gold Kali collection, which he describes as “sophisticated. This season we have developed and incorporated more gold pieces into the collection, which is very much in
demand anytime there is a financial crisis,” he says.
Another favorite is a one-of-a kind collection called Cinta. The de-
John Hardy “Classic Chain”
large square ring with hematite
and quartz doublet. $1,195
sign is sometimes reminiscent of John Hardy’s core collection, but it can
also be inspired by the stone itself. “Many pieces are designed around
the beauty of the stone,” says Bedarida, who believes that
American jewelry lovers are “looking for bold, unique pieces
that will define or reflect their personality. I think they respond
well to brands that are authentic and have integrity in their
design. Our collections, from one season-to another, are always
new and fresh but still reference the brand DNA.” He says
the five essential pieces for any woman’s jewelry wardrobe
are: a cocktail ring; a pair of hoops; a statement necklace; a
cuff; and an everyday pendant.
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John Hardy
“Classic Chain”
medium square ring
with turquoise. $795
great gifts
Michael Wainwright
Truro gold vase, $284
Strada gold divided tray, $120
Santorini gold olive dish, $80
L'Objet gold braided frames
2x3, $60
4x6, $130
5x7, $150
BC Clark baby sterling
Straight cup, $230 • Bubble blower, $118
Bulged cup, $248 Ring handle spoon, $108
Double handle cup, $278
gold
Reed & Barton Burgundy collection
Footed wine cooler, $210
15" tray with handles, $170
Michael Aram Gilded Twig collection
4x6 frame, $119 • 5x7 frame, $149
Cheeseboard & knife, $149
&
a t B. C. C l a r k J e w e l e r s
Annie Glass ruffled cake
pedestal plate, $318
Michael Aram Gooseberry frames
4x6, $79 • 5x7, $99
Elias frames
Florentine Gold 4x6, $98
American Floral 4x6, $134
Lunt sterling silver frames
Python 4x6, $150
Python 5x7, $175
Hammered scroll 4x6, $150
Hammered scroll 5x7, $175
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great gifts
Michael Aram
Wisteria ice bucket $219 Wisteria tongs, $49
Wisteria 18x7" tray, $159
Julia Knight
Pomegranate napkin holder, $55
Toffee note caddy, $75
Snow Stella 11.5" candlestick, $135
Toffee Stella 14.5" candlestick, $175
Julia Knight
Classic 7" pomegranate vase, $85
Classic 10" snow vase, $160
Classic Stella toffee vase, $270
Caviar ice bucket, $199
Beatriz Ball
Organic Pearl 8x10 frame, $149 • Organic Pearl salad bowl, $121
Pearl salad servers, $45 • Organic Pearl Nova pedestal plate, $149
Pearl David long tray, $89
Michael Aram
Hydrangea 4x6 frame, $79
Mantaray 5x7 frame, $99
Beatriz Ball
Antik Camil large bowl, $146
Antik Rita small bowl, $45
Beatriz Ball
Vento Lola round platter, $243
Vento ice bucket, $158 • Vento Lara medium bowl, $68
Mary Jurek
Luna 12" bowl, $168 • Servers, $130
Aurora platter, $110 • Hydra Uplift bowl, $80
Valencia ladle, $24
Julia Knight
Snow Peony gala bowl, $350
Pomegranate Peony ladle, $60
Pomegranate Peony pure 9" vase, $140
Snow Peony pure 12" vase, $235
Mary Jurek
Nordica water pitcher, $176
Sierra tray with wood insert, $190
Fidelia square bowl,$44
Versa heart spoon, $10
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b y
haves
L E S L I E
C .
S M I T H
THIS SEASON’S TOP 10
MUST-HAVES FOR WOMEN,
4 JUST-FOR-FUNS
AND 2 TRENDS TO
KEEP YOUR EYE ON
1
Howdy, Cowboy, No one’s telling you to go too far West this season.
Just give cowboy chic a friendly little nod by getting into a soft
chambray shirt, a pair of rolled-cuff blue jeans, and a blanket coat, denim, or rancher’s shearling jacket.
2
Color Me Camel. This tawny shade not only rules the season, it’s a perennial classic. The best way to work your
camel? In a long, lean, ankle-grazing overcoat set next to an all-black outfit.
3
Polka-dot Syndrome. If you’re seeing spots in front of your eyes, don’t call a doctor. Instead seek immediate
help from your retailer, who is bound to have several fresh fashion cures in stock, from small accessories like a
speckled scarf or dappled wool beret to major pieces like a Swiss-dot chiffon or circlet pailette appliqué dress.
4
Scarlet Fever. Your outfit can be as quiet as a busted cellphone but your lips simply must scream, “Red!”
5
Parka Partay. Isn’t it great when form and function collide? This season, there’s no need to freeze while being
fashionable. Just slip a fur-trimmed parka over whatever you’re wearing to be right where the action is.
Photo Courtesy of ELISA CAVALETTI
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haves
6
Tie Me Up. A bit gladiator, a bit bondage, and, let’s face it, a bit fussy for ordinary winter usage, the lace-up boot is still this season’s favourite footwear,
whether you’re talking ankle-high retro ski boots or to-the-knee warrior
princess looks.
7
Dangerous Skins. Indulge your wild side by slipping on a fox fur wrap, a
leopard print top, and a pair of snakeskin shoes. But give that well-known
designer’s 101 Dalmatians overcoat a miss, unless you enjoy looking like
Cruella de Vil.
8
Lash Me. Makeup (other than striking vermilion lip shades) sticks to the allnatural route, which puts greater emphasis on long-yet-realistic-looking eyelashes.
9
High-Rising Gloves. Gauntlets for the great outdoors; past-the-elbow
lengthes for eveningwear, and the same gloves bunched down to mid-forearm for cocktail parties (feel free to snap a silvered bracelet over top). It’s
all part of our post-ironic early ’60s salute.
10
Tailored Tweed. If you don’t believe a business suit can be sexy and serious
at the same time, then you haven’t seen this season’s crop of tweed suits,
rendered with a determined shoulderline and hourglass shape straight out
of the 1940s.
just-for-funs
1
Sock It to Them. Your shoes and boots, that is. Socks are being used to accessorize all
types of footwear this season, from open-toed wedgies to ankle-high booties.
2
Grab On. To the handle-on-the-body clutch purse, before everybody starts to realize
how impractical they really are.
3
Low Hair. Tightly ponytailed or sculpted to the skull with a deep side part and sweptover bangs.
4
High Hair. Even before Amy Winehouse’s untimely demise, the bouffant hairdo was
rocking the runway. Now it just might live on for another season or two in respectful
remembrance.
1
1940s Tailoring — It’s got legs. And hips and a bustline. Forever stylish, these sharply
tailored ensembles in fine suiting fabrics make a woman look like a Woman.
2
Minimalism — Geometric shapes, counterbalanced volumes, and streamlined detailing
— this is architectural artistry, the very best kind of fashion you can get. We know because Coco told us so, long ago.
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Photo Courtesy of STENSTROMS
WEARABLE
ART
Ippolita lends a sculptor’s touch
to her everyday jewelry
by Carol Besler
Fatto a Mano, Italian for “made by hand” is how Ippolita (who goes by
one name, like Madonna or Cher) describes the signature element of her
jewelry line. “I love the idea that the hand of the craftsman is present in
each piece,” she says. “From my proprietary gold color, which is alloyed
by hand for each piece, to gemstones that are individually cut and set.
This means no two pieces are exactly alike.”
Ippolita, who trained as a sculptor in her native Italy, experimented
gold pieces to Bergdorf Goodman that fall. “When I started out, I was
“Over time, this idea of creating versatile, wearable pieces that would
become a part of a jewelry wardrobe really resonated with women — all
kinds of women.”
While not a family company in the traditional sense, Ippolita says her company “has always had a close-knit, entrepreneurial
vibe and many of my employees have been with me since the very beginning.” Of the loyal customers she has gained over the
years, she says, “they are my inspiration.”
What also inspires her is basic, good design. Ippolita’s design credo is to “embrace simplicity,” which is not as easy as it
sounds. “Simplicity is a discipline in that it forces you to exercise considerable artistic restraint,” she says. Her approach to
designing new collections involves maintaining a sense of the broader world of jewelry and fashion and synthesizing that according
and emotions into next season’s collection. Over time, I have developed a vocabulary of shapes, which I enjoy using in multiple
fabrications. In the long run, these shapes act as building blocks, indicating a design direction season after season.”
Her latest collection is called Ippolita Wicked, so named because it incorporates an edgy new metal — black rhodium — which
is mixed with colorful gemstones. Another new collection, Wisteria, is anchored by a brilliant bronze amethyst double-faceted
squiggle bangle — is not only still in the line, but remains one of our best sellers and is the perfect way to start building a stack,”
she says.
responds heartily with a top six! “I am so glad you asked that question,” she says. “We are actually launching a new program for
fall called the Essential 6 — the 6 pieces every woman needs in order to build a jewelry wardrobe: a stack of bangles, a layering
necklace, a statement ring, everyday earrings, party earrings and anything with COLOR! These pieces are all any woman needs.”
jingle history
55years
of the
BC Clark Jingle
In 1956, B.C. Clark Jr. paid a local ad agency $300 to create a jingle. Five
years later he thought the catchy jingle had lost its impact and aired a new
one. A barrage of complaints during the 1961 Christmas season quickly persuaded him to put the original back on the air. In just a few years it had become part of Oklahoma City’s Christmas tradition.
Now in its 55th year, the jingle is so engrained in the city’s holiday rituals that residents
can sing it from memory. It has even become a sort of “code” for displaced Oklahomans to prove that they are
really from Oklahoma.
During the holidays in central Oklahoma the jingle is as common as “Jingle Bells.” It’s sung in school Christmas programs, church
pageants, even by neighborhood carolers. Many people have sung or performed the jingle for large audiences, including local hockey
players and choirs, chorales and orchestras of all sizes, and national celebrities. Actress Megan Mullally, originally from Oklahoma City, sang the jingle during a January 2001 appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and again in 2006
on her own syndicated talk show, The Megan Mullally Show. Most recently, another Oklahoma native and
country music superstar, Blake Shelton, sang a portion of the jingle on his website video blog.
The original TV ads with a cartoon Santa gliding over snowdrifts in his sleigh or the followthe-bouncing-ball commercials are part of the jingle’s nostalgic grip on the local market.
In 1983 B.C. Clark started its popular man-on-the-street TV campaign which is still
used today. Announcements before Thanksgiving Day weekend have become
casting calls that bring in singing talents at assigned locations in the city
such as shopping malls and local landmarks for filming. With hundreds of people showing up for the chance to appear in the holiday
ad, the interactive component of the Christmas campaign made it an
ideal segue to going viral on the internet.
The classic Santa animation TV ad has received over 40,000 unique
views in the three years it has been on YouTube. Nearly three decades
worth of man-on-the-street campaigns also can be viewed on YouTube (as
well as the jingle’s dedicated website). Oklahoma City residents have produced their own videos singing and performing the jingle, which fill several
search results pages on YouTube.
Of all the social media websites, Facebook has been the most successful in
taking the jingle viral. The jingle’s Facebook page has nearly 10,400 “likes.” Many
of these are people who have moved out of state and are looking for something to
remind them of home. The most common phrase seen on the jingle’s Facebook
wall.…“it’s not Christmas without the B.C. Clark jingle.”
When the jingle turned 50 in 2006, its dedicated website (www.bcclarkjingle.com)
helped it go from viral to an online pandemic. The site has many interactive features
including ring-tone download for cell phones and smart phones, a page to read and submit personal stories regarding the jingle, and video and audio downloads of the jingle. The
popular sheet music is also available for download.
It seems the jingle is now bigger than life. No matter what the future holds for B.C.
Clark Jewelers, the jingle is poised to live on forever.
This is a condensed version of a news feature story that
ran in the April 2010 issue of JCK Magazine.
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I M AG I N E T H E P L AC E S
THEY WILL GO.
T H E O R I G I N ATO R O F C U LT U R E D P E A R L S . S I N C E 1 8 9 3 .
dreams
b y
H E D D A
S C H U PA K
Roberto Coin Cento Collection
large "O" pendant. $11,425
The story of gold
is almost as old as the story of
mankind – whether used for adornment, gifting or worship, it has always
been highly valued. Today’s trends
give us even more cause to adore
this precious metal.
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dreams
Gold jewelry trends today
range from the avant-garde to bohemian and romantic. Even as
runway fashion veers from bold eighties-style color to flowing, feminine, nouveau-hippie dresses to fall’s decidedly grown-up, ladylike restraint, the trends for gold are equally diverse.
According to the World Gold Council, the following seven categories, as chosen by top fashion editors, represent the jewelry trends
for this fall:
Roberto Coin
“Bollicine” ring
with diamonds.
$1,520
1. Architectural
influences:
These are highly structured pieces, with geometric shapes,
angles and sculptural designs. They exude a look of being
highly tailored and are perfect to pair with a skirt and jacket
or a sophisticated sheath dress. This look is driven by the
look of grown-up elegance that infuses fall fashions.
Roberto Coin
“Martellato” ring
with diamonds.
$3,540
Roberto Coin “Bollicine”
cuff bracelet with
diamonds. $4,700
2. Organic:
3. Bold cuffs and
rings:
This look is at the other end of the spectrum from
The cuff and the cocktail ring have been prominent
the architectural style, including pieces with soft,
jewelry staples for a few seasons, and are becoming in-
fluid lines. These pieces are uncontrived and often
creasingly more elaborate. These chunky, eye-catching
nature-inspired, just right for channeling your inner
pieces demand attention and are good accompani-
flower child in a flowing maxi dress or piling on with
ments to simple, structured silhouettes like a pencil
fall’s new flared jeans. They tie into the “Boho Chic”
skirt or sheath dress, yet they’re strong enough to
trend in fashion.
stand up to a more dramatic jacket or sleeve.
4. Statement
earrings:
These stand-alone pieces are designed for maximum
Marco Bicego “Jaipur” link
necklace. $9,740
impact, keeping the focus on the face. No necklace
needed – simply don a pair of drop earrings and get
on with your busy day!
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dreams
5. Symbolic:
Gold has symbolized the secrets of civilizations over the centuries, and today’s designs are no different. Meaningful and representative designs may bear hidden messages, secret meanings, or talismans – or even just a simple “with all my love” engraved inside a wedding band.
Religious symbols, initials, family crests, or even a name necklace fit this trend as well.
6. Small and delicate:
The dainty design is the perfect finishing touch for more elaborate or ornate fashion outfits. Smaller pieces are
also an excellent proportion for petite women who might feel overpowered by bolder designs.. Lastly, It’s a
budget-friendly way to stay on trend.
Marco Bicego “Jaipur” link ring. $1,780
Ippolita oval cascade
earrings. $2,250
7. Tri-colored gold:
Long a favorite of the Italian goldsmiths, the combination of yellow, pink
and white gold in single pieces is making a strong comeback. The great
advantage of tri-colored gold pieces is that they are always guaranteed
to match the single-colored gold pieces in your jewelry wardrobe. It’s
a classic way to add a unifying element to mix and match jewelry.
(Gold naturally is a rich deep yellow, but alloying it with white metals such as silver, palladium, manganese, or nickel produces white
gold. Alloying it with copper produces rose gold.)
Within these seven
categories
are sub-trends, that include textured surfaces and airy, cut-out designs and blackened gold (oxidizing it produces a matte gray or
portant as what is. This trend is expressed in cutout motifs, lace-like
blackened surface).
details, and other open, airy creations. Another way is through the
If bright and shiny isn’t your style, textured gold keeps the look
use of technology such as electroforming to keep big and bold pieces
understated. Hammered finishes add a touch of rugged or ancient
light and comfortable. Electroforming is like the precious metal
inspiration, while soft satin or brushed finishes are the ultimate in
equivalent of a papier-mache mask: instead of paper strips on a bal-
quiet classic.
loon, a mandrel in the shape of the finished jewelry piece is formed
Rose gold, meanwhile, has enjoyed a tremendous surge in popularity in recent seasons, even for non-precious fashion jewelry and
watches. It’s especially striking when combined with colored gems
or accents of white gold or diamond.
Finally, the rising price of gold has driven designers to find new
ways to create quality jewelry using less metal. One is through the
from wax and dipped into a gold electrolyte bath. The inner form
is then melted away, leaving only the outer gold shell.
Throughout the centuries, gold has been fought over, celebrated, and worshipped. Its price per ounce may be approaching a
record high, but man’s – and woman’s – desire to own it has not diminished by a single ounce.
use of negative space in design, where what isn’t there is just as im-
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girl time
b y
C A R O L
B E S L E R
Big, bold, colorful or classic,
the latest watches designed
for women will take you anywhere in style
Women now consider the wristwatch an important
especially when combined with today’s colorful options,
part of their wardrobes, whether for work, evening or out-
including straps, dials, bezels and elements such as ceramic
door functions, and watch brands have responded by com-
and gemstones. Ladies watches are taking their place
pletely transforming the ladies’ timepiece category over the
alongside big, chunky bangles as this year’s most important
past decade. It wasn’t long ago that women’s watches were
accessory. Michele and Victorinox Swiss Army are among
simply scaled-down versions of men’s watches. Today, vir-
the many brands offering colorful options and accents in
tually every brand creates full collections dedicated exclu-
their collections this year. Black and white, together or
sively to women — and they are anything but smaller than
alone, are also important colors this season.
men’s: the trend in ladies’ watches, is BIG! The look is bold,
The Ref. 7059
is Patek Philippe’s
first ladies’
split-seconds
chronograph.
The rose gold
Classic from
David Yurman,
with diamond
bezel and motherof-pearl dial.
The Breitling Galactic,
in two-tone rose gold
and steel. It is also
available in steel only.
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girl time
Of course, not every occasion calls for a big or a colorful
watch, and many brands this year have also introduced or
reintroduced classic timepieces. The classic watch is very
simple, usually with a bracelet or a black strap and Roman
numerals. It exudes an aura of authenticity, elegance and purity of design, which makes it appropriate for daytime or
day-to-evening. David Yurman introduced classic watches
this year.
Aesthetically, there has been a resurgence in the interest of two-tone watches, a look that works well with the return to the classic design ethic. Rose gold is currently very
In fact, quality
standards for
ladies’ watches
have increased
tremendously
over the past
decade.
Michele Jetway Ceramic watch with rose
gold and diamond bezel
28
]
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
popular in all-gold watches, and some of the latest two-tone
watches combine rose gold with steel. However, the convention has always been to combine steel with yellow gold
in a two-tone watch, and this tradition is still strong. David
Yurman, Breitling, Rolex and Omega, to name a few, all
offer new two-tone models this year. It is a versatile look, as
it will match both yellow and white gold jewelry, or rose
gold jewelry, as the case may be.
Complications are another growing category in ladies’
watches, as more and more women become connoisseurs of
the intricacies of the mechanical watch. Most brands make
automatic watches now for women, even though quartz is
still popular. Many go one step further, ensuring that the
world’s most important and authentic complications are
represented in ladies’ watches. Leading this category is Patek
Tag Heuer 33mm
Link Chronograph
with diamond
mother-of-pearl dial
and diamond bezel
Michele Deco Day watch
with mother-of-pearl dial,
diamond bezel, and interchangeable straps
URBAN MINI DIAMOND, DIAMOND DIAL
girl time
Philippe, 50% of whose introductions this year are ladies’
mechanical watches. Notable is the Ref. 7059, Patek’s first
ladies’ split-seconds chronograph, containing the world’s
thinnest column-wheel split-seconds chronograph movement.
There have always been makers of high jewelry watches
for women, but even the concept of the diamond watch has
become far more accessible. Diamonds are now offered as
accents in most collections, either on the bezel or as diamond markers on the dial. Ladies’ watches are in fact emerging as the ideal venue for showcasing the watch industry’s
growing mastery of the metier d’art, the crafts involved in
the finishing of watch dials and cases, particularly gemsetting
and enameling. From mother-of-pearl dials, some of which
are engraved, to marquetry or special finishes, such as
Rolex’s shimmering “gold crystal” dials on its new Ladies’
Datejust collection, the craftsmanship involved in producing
Omega Constellation
35mm watch with
diamond dial and
white alligator strap
30
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a ladies’ timepiece now equals or surpasses the techniques
used in crafting fine jewelry.
In fact, quality standards for ladies’ watches have increased tremendously over the past decade. Brands that were
once considered “low-end” or “fashion” have improved manufacturing techniques, materials and movements so much
that they have forced the luxury brands to take their game
up a notch and add value in other ways, often through gemsetting with high-quality diamonds, dials that are finished
by master craftsmen or with complicated movements. This
raising of the bar has also resulted in watches that are more
ergonomically designed for a woman’s wrist. Wearability,
functionality and craftsmanship are now the key elements
of any ladies’ wristwatch.
Rolex’s new ladies’ Datejust
collection is outstanding for
its shimmering “gold
crystal” dial, created using
a proprietary technique in
which a gold dial is
chemically treated to
reveal its natural crystal
structure.
b y
extravagance
The Most Expensive Cars
in the World
What’s the most expensive car in the world? I had reason to
think about this while writing about the Porsche 918 Spyder,
which is a plug-in hybrid with 16 miles of all-electric range.
But it’s also a fire-breathing supercar that can reach 60 mph
in 3.1 seconds and top 199 mph. The bottom line? A mere
$845,000. Wow, that’s a lotta loot.
But it’s not the most expensive car you can buy right now. I
thought the top spot was held by the 1,001-horsepower
Bugatti Veyron 16.4, which I seemed to recall costs a million
dollars. It turns out the price is actually way more than that
— the bottom line is well over $2 million if you opt for the
Grand Sport version. Which, of course, you’re going to do, because who'd want to pay that much for a car knowing there
was a more exclusive version out there?
And it turns out there are really, really expensive cars on the
market that are so exclusive I’ve never even heard of them.
Here are a few:
32
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B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
J I M
M O TAVA L L I
automobile extravagance
The Pagani Zonda Cinque Coupe. This Italian
supercar is a mere $1.738 million and is built in
an edition of only five. Exclusiveness outweighs
the fact that it’s kind of ugly. The prettier Zonda
F Roadster is a mere $1.44 million. But you’ll
want the Cinque, because its 678-horsepower
V12 takes it to 217 mph and because you're not
going to see another one in the Wal-Mart parking lot. They made only one of the Absolute variant and shipped it to Hong Kong. I couldn't find
a fuel economy rating, but it isn't going to compete with a Prius.
Koenigsegg CCXR: This oddly named entity offers a stunning 806 horsepower
from a twin-supercharged V8. You pay
for engines like that, in this case $1.2
million. The car delivers just 11 mpg, but
it can run on E85 ethanol!
34
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Maybach Laundaulet. This is one of the few cars here built for parades, not the race track — though it’s fast, too. A proud descendant
of the Mercedes 600 Pullman, which was mostly bought by African dictators, the Maybach Laundaulet allows its potentate owner to
enjoy al fresco waving to his subjects, and for just $1.38 million. The Maybach, a Daimler product, gets 10 mph in town and an amazingly good 16 on the highway. If you don’t need the parade roof (or if the population is restive), go for the enclosed Maybach 62 Zeppelin, which is less than half the price and still plenty exclusive. It comes with champagne flutes.
Spyker C8 Aerilon Spyder. This is the supercar company that bought Saab. I interviewed CEO Victor Muller and found him
refreshingly candid, very in touch with
American slang although he’s Dutch. The
mid-engined C8, with a 40-valve V8, tops
out at 187 mph. Since that’s well short of
200 mph, the price is a mere $219,190.
Muller is making Saabs now, but Spyker survives to bedazzle other kazillionaires. Expect just 13 mpg.
The millionaire playboy market can't be huge, but there's a lot of competition. In addition to the above, there are such cars as the Leblanc
Mirabeau ($861,798), the Lamborhini Reventon ($1.45 million) and the SSC Ultimate Aero ($740,000). If you have an open shirt, medallions and millions of dollars burning a hole in your pocket, there are plenty of people willing to take your unearned money.
Jim Motavalli is an online contributor to the New York Times, CBS Interactive, Hearst and the Mother Nature Network, as well as author of six
books including Forward Drive: The Race to Build Clean Cars for the Future.
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
[ 35
spotlight
b y
C A R O L
B E S L E R
First inspired by the sparkling treasures in her grandmother’s jewelry
box, Penny Preville studied art and design, and has emerged as one of
America’s favorite, award-winning jewelry designers. Here, she tells us what
inspires her.
What year did you begin your business? What was the inspiration behind
the brand?
In 1978 I won the “New Designer of the Year” award at the Jewelers of
America jewelry show in New York City. I would say this award was the
turning point for my business. I’ve always found inspiration in a woman’s
lifestyle. I thrive on designing pieces that can be worn every day, from day
to night, as well as pieces that express a woman’s individuality.
What is your signature design feature?
My collections are known for their delicate, intricate detail work. Among
these details are the use of hand engraving, millegrain and an overall feminine and romantic styling.
PENNY PREVILLE
Penny Preville 34"
signature chain
with diamonds.
$5,380
How would you describe your design philosophy? What
inspires you?
My designs are classic and timeless; feminine and romantic. I design for all facets of a woman’s lifestyle. My
pieces are modern-day heirlooms that can be passed from
one generation to the next.
My inspirations are constantly changing. I have studied
jewelry designs and cultures from all over the world. I am
inspired by travel, architecture and art, as well as different
eras in history. The influences on my collections span from
Imperial Russia to Byzantine, Indian Raj to Art Deco.
Penny Preville diamond
bangle bracelet. $9,035
36
]
B . C .
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M AG A Z I N E
spotlight
Tell us something about your latest collection.
The Byzantine collection debuted at the 2011 Couture show in Las
Vegas. This collection is one of my favorites, as it showcases the brilliant
use of color. The jewelry, set in 18k gold, is set with opaque,
rose-cut pink and blue sapphires, as well as moonstones and
Labradorites. For this collection, I was inspired by both the
color and meaning of the stones themselves. I love the color
blue and the allure of sapphires. Moonstones are a talisman
of good fortune. Labradorite is a power stone, and is said to
strengthen your intuition.
What do you think jewelry lovers are looking for right now?
I think they are looking for jewelry that fits their lifestyles.
A woman will not purchase a piece that she won’t wear. Jewelry is extra special when it has a sentimental value and
longevity, a piece that the purchaser will pass on.
What is distinctive about your brand?
The detail work in my jewelry definitely distinguishes me
from other designers. My collections are also interchangeable.
Jewelry is
extra special
when it has a
sentimental
value and
longevity, a
piece that the
purchaser will
pass on.
Penny Preville
moonstone and
diamond necklace.
$2,555
What does it take to be a top jewelry brand today?
I am not a behind the scenes designer. I am very much the
face of this company, visiting the stores and meeting my customers. It is important to remain involved and stay tuned to what women are looking for.
Celebrity placement is one part of our approach. It helps to strengthen our
brand. When celebrities like Sofia Vergara, Sandra Bullock and Jennifer
Lopez wear Penny Preville jewelry, it makes us more visible.
What are the top five essential pieces for any woman’s jewelry wardrobe?
1. Diamond inside-out hoops: never leave the house without them.
2. A long diamond chain: perfect to wear with any outfit; a great
piece for layering.
3. A diamond bangle: wear it with a watch or on its own.
4. A right hand ring: perfect for every occasion
5. Personalized, engraved charm necklaces: for the sentimental
woman in all of us.
Penny Preville
moonstone and diamond earrings.
$4,360
Penny Preville Labradorite
and diamond ring. $4,700
38
]
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
shop online at www.bcclark.com/hearts-fire
be dazzled
Make a Statement with
from B.C. Clark Jewelers
40
]
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
b y
haves
L E S L I E
C .
THIS SEASON’S
TOP 10 MUST-HAVES,
3 JUST-FOR-FUNS,
AND 2 TRENDS TO
KEEP YOUR EYE ON
1
A tweed sportscoat or suit. This is a classic fabric, and one that heralds fall more than any other.
2
The club-collar shirt. A small classic in its own right, the club’s reappearance after so many years signals
a new/old approach to neckwear. Try one on (unless your face is too wide to suit its rounded points, in
which case substitute another old favorite, the standard point collar).
3
A camel topcoat or duffel coat. Distinguished and traditional, either one of these makes a nice,
light counterpoint to today’s mainly all-black and all-gray ensembles.
4
One strongly colored “furnishing” touch. For occasional use, at least one piece of casualwear — say, a shirt
or a sweater — and at least one dress accessory, a shirt or a tie, that offers a touch of relief to
this season’s otherwise somber shadings.
5
A chambray shirt or jeans jacket. Why not celebrate the cowboy spirit — after all, those
guys were the original boys in blue.
42
] B.C.
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
S M I T H
Fascination in detail
Platinum-plated writing implements with
barrels made of matt black ebony segments, separated
by gleaming platinum-plated rings. Also available with
a barrel made of ivory-coloured precious resin
segments, polished to a high-gloss.
18-carat gold nib ‘run in’ by hand.
haves
6
A fedora hat. Another manly blast from the past — even
though it was first named for the title female character (played
by Sarah Bernhardt) in an 1882 Victorien Sardou play.
7
The turtleneck sweater. No fuss, no muss, no bother, and warm
to boot, turtlenecks are the Special Ops of menswear — capable of slipping efficiently and effectively into almost any outfit
situation.
8
The horizontally striped sweater. A great way to balance the
tall, slim silhouette — as well as flaunt your manhood, since
most women’s wardrobes avoid this look like the plague.
9
A pair of round tortoiseshell glasses or sunglasses. You just
knew the moment everyone had purchased rectangular eyewear with thin-to-no rims that the tide would turn, as indeed
it has. Now, everybody is supposed to resemble a Johnny Depp
clone — not such a bad thing, really, considering the source
model is so stylish.
10
One burnished copper silk pocket puff. This season’s favorite
hue, in a furnishing small enough that it can be pocketed for a
song, will give your tailoredwear an instant update.
Photo Courtesy of BRAX
1
The tie slide. An accoutrement from menswear’s mid-20th-century heyday, the
slide (also known as a tie bar) keeps your neckwear from flopping about,
especially after you’ve removed your coat to get down to brass tacks, Jack.
2
A plain leather belt with a matte plaque buckle. This belt’s metalled plaque closure
is enough to boost it from a bland strip of leather to a cutting-edge accessory.
3
The double-handled weekender bag. Despite its name, try using one every day
as a handy repository for various electronic gadgets that you don’t want
cluttering up your suit and ruining its line.
(which may, or may not, pan out)
1
Wide-legged pants. Successful on the women’s side, some designers are now trying these out on men. The look actually does work with today’s tighter upper
torsos, in a Charlie Chaplin-esque sort of way.
2
Three-button jackets. Yes, we know you’ve been firmly told to expunge these
from your closet but…
44
] B.C.
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spotlight
b y
C A R O L
B E S L E R
The Rolex Submariner Oyster Perpetual is arguably the most
trôle Officiel Suisse des Chronometres (COSC), which tests
iconic watch in the world, but this should not lead anyone to
each watch and movement for water-resistance, durability and
believe that Rolex is all about style and status without sub-
accuracy.
stance. Although the brand’s watches are widely imitated, they
Another recent introduction, the Oyster Perpetual Cos-
are rarely measured up to. Take the new Oyster Perpetual Big
mograph Daytona, created a stir among collectors when it was
Date, newly released in the a long-awaited stainless steel ver-
released. The Cosmo Daytona was originally introduced in
sion. It is made not just of any kind of steel but tough, 904L
There is plenty
of substance
behind the
flash of the
world’s most
recognizable
watch brand
steel. How tough? You could be frozen, beaten, submerged in
1,000 feet of seawater, incinerated or shot at, and your watch
would survive, even if you didn’t. The bezel is Cerachrom, a
patented high-tech ceramic that is developed in-house by
Rolex from a single block of corrosion-resistant ceramic. In
fact, Rolex manufactures all of the materials in this watch at
its facility in Switzerland, where it also alloys and refines its
own gold — called Rolesor — and manufactures its own dials
and movements. All Rolex watches are certified by the Con-
1963 and has not been updated
since 2000, when it received a
new, column-wheel movement.
New in the latest model, sure to
become a collector’s item, is a
proprietary cerachrom bezel and
a high-tech parachrom hairspring, allowing elapsed time to
be measured to 1/8th of a second.
The exclusive world of
Lady Datejust in white
gold, with appliqued
floral motif.
The new
Oyster
Perpetual
Cosmograph
Daytona.
46
]
B . C .
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spotlight
The visibility of Rolex as the world’s most recognizable status watch for men
should not overshadow the brand’s recent innovations in the ladies’ segment. Rolex’s
new Datejust collection is a perfect example of how the brand has both remained on
the forefront of innovation and yet retained its iconic look – including signature elements of the line such as logo crown, Cyclops date window with magnifying lens and
distinctive case and bracelet design. All of these elements can be found on the new
Ladies’ Datejust. New, ultra-feminine elements include applied floral motifs, gypsyset diamonds on the bezels and color options that include purple or green dials. In
short, this year Rolex has introduced one of the most decorative ladies’ collections
on the market.
The applied floral motifs on the dials are produced using an electroforming technique involving a deposition of either rhodium, yellow gold or pink gold over a pattern created from a metal plate. The flowers, aside from identifying the watch
unquestionably as a ladies’ style, add dimension and volume to the dial. The PVD
The iconic
Rolex
Submariner
Oyster Perpetual.
technique used to color the flowers as well as the purple dial (available on rose or
white gold models) and the olive green dial (available on the yellow gold model) are
exclusive to Rolex and patented.
The brand’s gem setting is also performed in-house. The bezels on the new Datejust are set with 24 diamonds that are gypsy-set or 46 diamonds in a single row, and
the Roman numeral at 6 o’clock are also diamond set. All setting takes place at Rolex’s
Chêne-Bourg site, located in the eastern part of the canton of Geneva – one of four
Rolex manufacturing sites in Switzerland. This facility is home to the
brand’s in-house gemology department and houses all
Rolex activities linked to dial creation and
manufacture, including jewelry and
gem setting.
The Rolex
Yachtmaster II.
Lady Datejust in steel and
Everose Rolesor, with gypsy set
diamonds on the bezel.
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
[ 47
Edgar Berebi
Thames tall jet stem with
red wine bowl, $289
Rosa box, $265
Black pearl box, $225
great gifts
Golden Rabbit children's collection
Leeping set of 3, $40
Golden Rabbit children's collection
Fluttering set of 3. $40
From Classic Elegance to a Touch of Whimsy
Great Gifts at B.C. Clark Jewelers
Herend
Frog prince, $310 • Baby whale, $250 • Pair of owls on book, $275
Blenko Glass: Water bottles, $44 to $60
Baccarat
Lucky Butterflies, $100 each
Romanov Collection
Karin stemware gift set (4), $395
Michael Aram
Cat & mouse cheeseboard, $119
Mouse & cheese knife, $75
48
]
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
Michael Aram
Dog bone 3x3 frame, $59
Heart 4x6 frame, $79
Fringe Studio: Yours Truly vase, $47
Olivia Riegel
Crystal pave 4x4 frame, $125
Windsor 5x7 frame, $134
Windsor round box, $78
Swarovski Crystal
Black crystal
ballpoint pen, $30
Amethyst crystal
lady pen, $30
Swarovski Crystal
Scottie, $110 • Coco, $60 • Sunflower, $60 • Sea Goldies sculpture, $910
Swarovski Crystal
Waterford
Lismore ship's
decanter, $395
Lagoon crystal
necklace, $140
Lagoon crystal
earrings, $100
Hinged crystal
bangle
bracelet,
$130
Waterford
Molly 12" vase, $925
Rock Flower Paper • Poppies tray, $69
Reed & Barton
Soho square decanter, $100
Regal covered box, $100
Soho rose bowl, $80
Waterford
Evolution red &
amber ginger jar,
$225
Olivia Riegel
bottle stoppers
Golf clubs, $67
Pig butler, $100
Fleur-de-lis, $80
Stopper holders, $10 each
Goody Goody
Wilder jewel case, $44
Wilder jelly roll, $39
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
[ 49
accesories
Marco Bicego
“Jaipur” multi-stone
cuff bracelet.
$4,870
Ippolita 18k bangles in motherof-pearl, turquoise, diamonds,
or without stones.
$995 to $7000 each.
Roberto Coin "Martellato"
8-piece bangle set.
$2,300
50
]
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accesories
John Hardy “Bedeg” wide
cuff bracelet. $1,495
David Yurman multi-stone mosaic cuff bracelet. $4,100
David Yurman woven cable diamond cuff bracelet. $3,500
David Yurman wide crossover cuff bracelet. $1,100
Ippolita sterling
silver bangles
in mother-ofpearl, black
onyx, clear
quartz, or
without stones.
$250 to $995
each.
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
[ 51
b y
J E F F
P R I N E
Jewelry has
become an essential part of a man’s
wardrobe and a means of expressing his unique personality
As more men wear jewelry, they develop
wardrobes consisting of pieces that can be
worn when they want to look polished and
professional (cufflinks, for instance), casual
and chic (a dog tag pendant or bracelet) or
silicone bracelets, they soon graduate to
for spiritual or sentimental reasons (a cross,
more durable and precious materials, such
Star of David or initial signet ring). Or sim-
as 18k gold, sterling silver, titanium, cobalt,
ply because they want to feel hip.
stainless steel, high-tech ceramic, rubber,
Jewelry makes an ideal gift for a man
carbon fiber and enamel. Black diamonds,
and has a significance that just can’t be ac-
black sapphires, cognac diamonds and
complished with a necktie – and there’s no
other colored diamonds are now an ac-
need to worry about waist size or cuff
cepted and popular staple in men’s jewelry.
lengths, when selecting bracelets or pen-
But also look for more varied and interest-
dants. One of the most popular styles for
ing colored gemstones and minerals, in-
fall is bead bracelets, which can be worn
cluding fossils.
David Yurman
crosses for
men. Starting
at $375.
ing to incorporate more jewelry into their
“Our spiritual bead bracelets have
wardrobes," The most important character-
While many young men’s first experi-
been a huge success for us,” says Evan Yur-
istic, however, remains something that men
ence with jewelry involves wearing colorful
man of David Yurman. “They are easy to
today have in common with those of the
wear, especially for men who are just start-
Stone Age: whether it’s a gift or a self pur-
singly or stacked with other bracelets.
chase, jewelry is an expression of self.
The following list of trends and options in men’s jewelry should give you
some ideas for building your accessories
wardrobe:
+ Blackened metals, including oxidized sterling silver, ruthenium silver, black rhodiumplated gold, black titanium and black PVD
plating.
John Hardy
"Kali" ring with
black sapphires.
$750
52
]
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
David Yurman
dinosaur bone
ring. $775
David Yurman black onyx
bracelet. $425
David Yurman tiger's eye
bead bracelet. $400
David Yurman black onyx and
tiger's eye bead bracelet. $395
+ Pavé-set black diamonds, black sapphire or
cognac or brown diamond details on all categories of men’s jewelry.
+ Exotic beaded bracelets, often with spiritual, religious or symbolic medallions or
charms.
+ Leathers, from woven to wrapped looks,
make a masculine and comfortable state-
ment, especially in bracelets.
+ Updated dog tags remain an important
textures on chains, links and decorative
look in pendants. Look for more cylindri-
points, North star, mariner links.
pieces: sailor’s knots, anchors, compass
cal, bullet-like shaped pendants.
+ Emergence of Western spiritual symbols as de-
David Yurman “Armory” cuff links. $350
sign motifs, in addition to the already popular
symbols from Eastern philosophies.
+ Nautical or yachting inspired motifs and
David Yurman
“Sea Urchin”
cuff links. $495
The Millennial
generation is getting hooked
on jewelry’s most “traditional”piece of jewelry: cufflinks
Besides a fine wristwatch, the first fine jewelry purchase
elements,” says Evan Yurman,
or gift for men is a pair of cufflinks. Today, elegant finish-
creative director for David Yur-
ing touches like a great pair of cufflinks, a tie bar or
man men’s jewelry. “The star emblem
pocket square are being sported off-field by the likes of
in our North Star collection cushion cuf-
David Beckham, Lebron James and Derek Jeter. Stars like
flinks and metal braiding in our Maritime cufflinks cre-
Ryan Seacrest, Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert and Conan
ates an edgier option for younger customers looking to try
O’Brien wear cufflinks as part of their on-screen perform-
something new."
ances. Cufflinks — along with neckties — are a means for
has helped to democratize this accessory. A great pair of
designers have responded to this renewed appreciation for
cufflinks is equally suited to a fine bespoke Egyptian cot-
cuff links by offering a wider range of design choices, from
ton shirt as it is to a sports shirt. These days, it’s perfectly
rock n’ roll and tattoo inspirations to whimsical depictions
appropriate — even dashing – to wear cufflinks sans ties
of occupations and pastimes.
and jacket.
have modernized them this season by adding dimensional
]
The popularity of cufflinks among young men
well-dressed men to express their sense of style. Jewelry
“While cufflinks can often be very traditional, we
54
David Yurman
“Waves” ball
cuff links. $350
B . C .
C L A R K
M AG A Z I N E
DESIGNED FOR LIFE. CRAFTED FOR A LIFETIME.
TM
healthy
b y
M O N I C A
R E I N AG E L .
M.S. L.D./N.
a kiss for
More than one hundred and fifty years ago, some clever chocolatier
Montezuma’s Secret
came up with the idea of packing chocolates in heart-shaped boxes
Chocolate also helps reduce inflammation, which helps prevent all
for Valentine’s Day. The idea caught on and February 14th has been
kinds of diseases and just generally slows down the aging process.
associated with chocolate ever since. And now scientists are telling
Not for nothing did Montezuma drink a dozen cups of cocoa to bol-
us that chocolate may be as good for your heart health as it is for
ster his stamina before visiting his harem!
your love life.
I even came across some research showing that eating chocolate on
What do spinach, sardines, oat bran, and dark chocolate have in
a regular basis can improve the texture and structure of your skin!
common? They’re all touted as ways to make your heart healthier.
And if all of that weren’t enough, chocolate contains compounds
Funny how most people find it easier to eat more chocolate than to
that make you feel happier, but you didn’t need researchers to tell
eat more sardines.
you that, did you?
Well, we do what we can. And, the truth is, chocolate really does
Most of the health benefits of chocolate are provided by compounds
have some good stuff in it. Studies have found that eating chocolate
called flavanols, which are found in the nonfat cocoa solids — that’s
can lower your blood pressure and your cholesterol, which of course
the part of the bean left over when you take out all the cocoa butter.
is good for your heart health. But that’s not all.
Dark chocolate generally contains a lot more cocoa solids than milk
chocolate, which is why — as a general rule — dark chocolate is
Compounds in chocolate can increase your insulin sensitivity, which
considered to be healthier: you’re getting a more concentrated dose
improves your body’s ability to regulate your blood sugar and can
of flavanols. I say “as a general rule” because the amount of cocoa
help prevent Type 2 diabetes. They also improve blood flow to the
solids isn’t a perfect way to judge the flavanol content. Processing
brain, which can make you smarter, or at least helps you hang onto
can destroy flavanols, and the type of cocoa bean and the region in
the smarts you have, as you get older.
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deliciously healthy
which it was grown also make a difference. Still, most dark chocolate
to eat an ounce of chocolate every day (for medicinal purposes only,
will have a decent amount of these beneficial compounds.
of course), you'll want to cut something else out, such as that second
glass of wine with dinner or the scoop of frozen yogurt afterward.
However, this is not license to start eating a pound of dark chocolate
After all, gaining 10 pounds will quickly undo any health benefits
a day. In addition to all those healthy flavanols, chocolate also gen-
you might be getting from chocolate.
erally contains a good amount of sugar, fat, and calories. For all its
benefits, chocolate — even dark chocolate — is a healthy food that
Monica Reinagel is creator of the Nutrition Diva podcast and a frequent
you need to enjoy in moderation.
contributor to leading health and lifestyle websites and magazines. Her books
Researchers estimate that eating just an ounce of dark chocolate
Life Extension Revolution: The New Science of Growing Older without Aging
every day is enough to get some positive benefit. That much dark
(with Philip Miller, M.D.).
include Amazon bestseller The Inflammation Free Diet Plan, as well as The
chocolate will run you somewhere around 200 calories. If you simply add an extra 200 calories a day to your diet, you'll end up gaining weight at the rate of about two pounds a month! So, if you want
Chocolate
Not Just for Dessert
Rather than breaking out a chocolate bar, dig out
that can of unsweetened cocoa powder in the
back of the cupboard instead. Cocoa powder is
low in calories, contains no sugar, and is virtually
fat-free. Because it is close to 100% cacao solids,
it’s jam packed with flavanols. Try blending a tablespoon of cocoa powder with some soymilk
and a frozen banana for a healthy smoothie.
You can also use cocoa powder in savory dishes!
Although it might seem strange if you've never
had it before, chocolate and chili peppers are a
classic combination in Mexican cuisine. Add a
few tablespoons of cocoa powder to a batch of
chili and you’ll see why. Cocoa powder mixed
with ground chilis and other spices makes a fabulous dry rub for steak or pork chops. Just be
sure to avoid “dutched” or alkalized cocoa powder, which has less than half the flavanol content
of regular cocoa powder.
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spotlight
b y
C A R O L
B E S L E R
FABER-CASTELL
The Jade 2011
Pen of the Year
Limited Edition.
helm of the family business,
successively. Through expansion, branding and ever-improving production techniques, the
company
known
gradually
for
its
became
innovation.
Lothar Faber positioned the
line as the first branded pencil,
and invented the first hexagonal shape pencil to prevent it
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There are very few luxury brands today that can claim
from rolling. He also invented a system to designate the
to have been in business for 250 years, continuously.
hardness of lead. Eventually other manufacturers in the
Faber-Castell is the real deal. The company has been pro-
industry adopted this system. The company began ex-
ducing fine writing instruments since 1761, which makes
porting its pencils to the U.S. in 1843, where it opened
it the oldest writing instrument company in the world.
its first subsidiary office – in New York City. Soon there
The company’s history is one of constant growth
were also offices in Paris, London, Vienna and St. Peters-
and achievement. It was founded in Stein, near Nurem-
burg. In the 1860s, Faber began to manufacture in the
berg, Germany by cabinet-maker Caspar Faber, as a man-
U.S. Part of the demand for pencils was the result of the
ufacturer of wood-cased pencils. His son Anton,
civil war – soldiers needed pencils to use for writing let-
grandson Georg and great grandson Lothar all took the
ters home!
M AG A Z I N E
spotlight
In 1896, the company was christened Faber-Castell
niversary. Eight segments of jade symbolize the eight gen-
when taken over by Lothar’s granddaughter, Otilie von
erations that have made their mark on the family firm to
Faber, and her husband, Count Alexander Castell-Ruden-
date. In reference to the year when the company was
hausen. Today, Faber-Castell is one of the largest manufac-
founded, this exclusive edition is limited to 1,761 pens.
turers of fine writing instruments and accessories, as well as
Art and Graphic supplies in North America. In 1999, the
company acquired Creativity for
Kids, the leading maker of creative
activity products for children. A year
later, the company introduced the
Playing & Learning line of art supplies for children in the U.S. Today,
Faber-Castell USA is headquarted in
Cleveland, Ohio, and is part of a
global network of companies operating in countries as far-flung as Australia, Brazil and Malaysia.
The Graf Von Faber-Castell Perfect Pencil.
One of its most important latest collections is the Jade 2011 Pen
of the Year Limited Edition, marking
the brand’s 250th anniversary.
Bringer of luck, symbol of power,
elixir of immortality, jade has always
been surrounded by a special aura.
From the earliest times, advanced
cultures created jade objects of fascinating variety. The great jewelers
of the Art Deco period discovered
jade for their luxurious creations.
Before then, the Russian goldsmith
Fabergé – famous for his opulent
jewelry – had already created artistic
desk utensils from jade. That unique
symbolic and creative energy gives
the green gemstone a special role in
celebrating Faber-Castell’s 250th an-
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Hearts
On Fire
diamond
heart
necklace.
$795
Carelle
birthstone
collection.
Starting at
$695.
John Hardy “Bamboo”
rings with swiss blue
topaz or honey citrine.
$495 each.
Marco Bicego “Jaipur”
multi-stone earrings.
$900
Ippolita teardrop
earrings with
diamonds. $395
John Hardy bracelet
with heart and hematite
charms. $395
David Yurman classic cable bracelet
with blue topaz and diamonds.
$575
Swiss Army “Chrono
Classic XLS” watch.
$775
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David Yurman “Noblesse”
prasiolite and diamond cable
bracelet. $750
David Yurman classic cable
bracelet with citrine
and diamonds.
$575
David Yurman small
diamond “Infinity”
necklace.
$525
Roberto Coin “Tiny
Treasures” diamond
peace sign pendant.
$780
Roberto Coin “Tiny
Treasures” diamond
sliver cross pendant.
$660
Ippolita
teardrop
necklace with
black onyx.
$325
Roberto Coin
“Tiny Treasures”
diamond palm
tree pendant.
$840
Carelle 18k white gold ring
with blue topaz. $865
Carelle 18k yellow gold ring
with citrine. $835
Pandora bracelet.
$445 as pictured.
William Henry
knife with box
elder burl inlay.
$250
Marco Bicego
"Jaipur"
multi-stone
ring. $660
Mikimoto cultured pearl stud earrings.
Starting at $210
David Yurman sculpted
cable cuff bracelet.
$1,100
M. Clip money clip
with zebra wood.
$295
Michele "Tahitian Jelly Bean" watch. $295
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options
Rutilated quartz
and mother-of-pearl
diamond earrings.
$3,465
Rutilated quartz and
rhodonite diamond
necklace. $3,375
b y
L O R R A I N E
D E
PAS Q U E
commonly beautiful
If unusual, collectible jewelry is what you’re
looking for, this season’s newest collections are
sure to make your head turn. Innovative designers have decided to incorporate exquisite and
out-of-the-ordinary gems into their work. Typically, they are exceptional in at least one of
three ways: either by their cut (slices, vintage cuts), or by how
one of a number of gems that, of late, are in a revival period. Chal-
they’re not cut (left rough and raw) or by their very variety (in-
cedony: Translucent chalcedony, in blue pink and green – three top
cluding uncommon gems such as rhodonite and amazonite).
fashion shades of the moment – is being featured by some of the
Many gems that haven’t been used in awhile are making a renewed
best brands. Big smooth cabochons are particularly popular.
appearance, including spinel, aquamarine, chalcedony, carnelian
Carnelian, a pale-orange to reddish-brown gem looks great in
rose and yellow gold pieces for a tone-on-tone look. Quartz, an-
and quartz.
Barbara Wheat, executive director of the International Colored
other growing favorite, is most
Gemstone Association, says spinel is commanding a lot more at-
unique in the form of prasio-
tention these days. “It has a long history, the red variety often being
lite (green quartz) and
mistaken for ruby in some very old pieces of jewelry, including the
rutilated quartz (with
Crown Jewels of England. It comes in a variety of colors besides
its striking needle-like
the vivid reds, so if you want to be at the height of fashion this sea-
golden, red, or silver
son, you may want to look at some in its kaleidoscopic palette.”
crystal
Black spinel is another especially strong color this season.
naturally growing in-
“Also consider aquamarine,” suggests Wheat. “It’s a very hot stone
inclusions
side).
right now, especially in large sizes with good color saturation. It is
Rutilated quartz and
amazonite diamond
ring. $4,500
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BIRTHSTONE COLLECTION
© 2011 Carelle All Rights Reserved
NEW YORK
carelle
Diamond slice
necklace. $4,125
David Yurman chalcedony
bead necklace. $750
There is also a new gem on the market that designers are excited
says Helena Krodel, director of media and special events for Jew-
about this year: zultanite. With its natural color-change properties,
elers of America. “Jewelry featuring raw or rough gems is some of
this transparent diaspore, found only in Turkey, turns from kiwi
the sexiest jewelry we’ve seen in years. It is also a way to wear gem-
greens to champagne browns to raspberry pinks, depending on the
stone jewelry in a very understated and cool way,” she says. Much
light, making it a great conversation piece as well as a fashionable
of the appeal of the non-uniform cuts is that they look imperfect
choice.
as well as organic. Irregularly-shaped raw stones have a natural
To wear uncommon gems takes confidence, but to wear gemstones that aren’t perfectly and symmetrically cut takes even more
beauty, and each gemstone is therefore one-of-a-kind. They are
sculptural, never flat and, for the most part, three-dimensional.
confidence, but the rewards are so great because not only are they
The same non-traditional, artisanal aesthetic is at the core of
special and beautiful but because it really shows your zest for style,”
sliced gemstones, another important choice of fashion-forward
brands. But, while rough stones are generally 3-D in form, the slices
are typically 2-D, with smooth sides and a flat bottom. The flatness
allows light to pass through the gem, much in the same way natural
light shines through a stained-glass window. Sometimes the sliced
Diamond slice
ring. $4,875
gemstone is polished on both sides, but the designer’s individual
vision determines that. Krodel recommends buying a pair of gemstone slice earrings “because they bring color near the face and
allow for lightweight styles.”
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b y TAY L O R
food & drink
E AS O N
Champagne
Taste,
Tiny bubbles titillate. There's something mesmerizing about
watching liquid confetti flood a tall fluted glass. It's hard to describe,
but sensual comes close. Inexpensive sparklers double the effect, with
the added rush of bargainship completing the moment. And now,
thanks to the growing popularity of bubblies in other countries and
the recession, deals on quality juice are more prevalent. Even French
champagne prices have dipped to relatively affordable levels but fierce
competition from Spainish, Italian U.S. and French non-champagnes
has arisen. So perhaps it's difficult to argue that the real French thing is
the best for the money.
The main difference between some sparkling wines and champagne
begins with how the carbon dioxide bubbles are birthed. All fizzy wines experience two fermentations: one to ferment the grapes to produce wine and
another to create the fun badabing. Besides the cost of the fruit, the price of bubbly often hinges on the second fermentation: Méthode Champenoise or not? By law,
all French Champagnes and Spanish Cavas are required to travel this avenue. Méthode
Champenoise (“made in the method of Champagne”) involves pouring regular “still” wine
into the heavier, Champagne-style bottle and then adding yeast and sugar to create carbon dioxide
for the bubbles. The whole process occurs in the same bottle that ends up on your table. Time-consuming
and expensive, these wines will be slightly pricier. The label will read Méthode Champenoise or “Fermented
in the Bottle” if the winemaker used this traditional process.
The other second fermentation approach, called “Charmat” — or a decidedly unromantic moniker, “tank
method” — involves adding yeast and sugar to a vat of wine and covering it tightly, thus mimicking the traditional environment for the second fermentation. Italy’s Prosecco is made in this fashion, creating a fruitier,
softer sparkling wine with fewer bubbles. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t delicious. They’ve come a long way
with Prosecco in the past several years, and the Italians might have even shucked their woeful Asti Spumante
reputation.
Prosecco is both the name of a perfumey grape as well as the sparkling wine. Shopping by producer
name, DOC or DOCG status (listed on the label), or specific region is imperative. The best Prosecco grapes
grow in the Veneto in northeastern Italy, in a designated region called Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, but
there are millions of questionable quality bottles bearing the Prosecco name. Look for that region and you'll
be golden.
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food & drink
Cava, named after the caves in which this sparkling wine is stored, is Spain's thankfully inexpensive solution to champagne. Cava’s
flavor can be earthier and a bit stronger, because they use indigenous Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarello grapes and on occasion the traditional
French grapes, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Tightly regulated under Spanish wine laws, Cava is principally produced in the Penedés region
in northeast Spain.
Legend says a French monk named Dom Perignon discovered the champagne process hundreds of years ago, and France has been controlling the name ever since. The designation champagne can only grace wine hailing from its namesake region, although plenty of U.S.
wineries have hijacked the term, Korbel Chardonnay Champagne being one of them. And the French are not only territorial with other
countries using their name — outside this region, the French must call sparkling wines crémant. To be fair, genericizing the term champagne
— á la kleenex — is commonplace, but the Champenoise do merit bragging rights; their bubbly possesses a distinct, minerally flavor profile
unattainable from other regions. If you can afford it, go for it.
A few pointers for your sparkling wine enjoyment: (1) American and French labels list the sweetness levels of their juice (from driest
to sweetest: Brut, Extra Dry or Demi Sec). (2) Non-Vintage (NV) indicates that a blend of juice from two or more years was used, a very
common practice in sparkling wines. Winemakers sometimes “declare a vintage” when they feel the wine is exceptional. But beware: it
frequently adds mucho dollars to the cost, but not necessarily enjoyment. (3) The best way to chill sparkling wine is to place the bottle in
a bucket filled with half-water, half-ice, and a handful of salt. It only takes about 20 minutes. (4) A higher quality sparkling wine will have
smaller bubbles that flow up from the bottom of the glass. (5) In the unlikely event that you have leftover bubbly, you don’t have to own
a fancy pressurized stopper. Storing the bottle upright in your refrigerator will help preserve the beloved fizz.
Taylor Eason, the former wine critic at the Creative Loafing newspapers, blogs about all things alcohol at tayloreason.com.
Under $20
Segura Viudas Aria Extra Brut
Poema Prosecco
Martini Prosecco
Llopart Cava Rose
Zonin Prosecco
Domaine Ste Michelle Blanc de Blanc Brut
Batasiolo Moscato d’Asti
Korbel Chardonnay Champagne
Mionetto Prosecco
Nino Franco Rustico Prosecco
Ca' Montini Prosecco
$20 – $30
Domaine Carneros 2006 Brut
Gruet Brut Rose
Nicolas Feuillatte Brut
Roederer Estate Brut
Mumm Napa Brut Prestige
Lucien Albrecht Cremant d’Alsace
J Vineyards Brut Rose
Domaine Chandon California Rosé
$30 – $60
Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs 2007 Brut
Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs 2007 Brut
Taittinger Prestige Rose Champagne
Duval Leroy Rose Champagne
Paul Goerg Tradition Champagne
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[ 69
gift giving
Oklahoma’s Premier Fine Gift Store for Over a Century
A look at the transition from yesterda y to toda y
Over the 119 year history of BC
Clark Jewelers, the Clark family has
strived to not only provide the
finest jewelry to their customers
but also conveniences appropriate
to the times. In the early 1900's,
in addition to fine jewelry and
watches, customers could also
shop for eyeglasses, phonographs, musical instruments, refrigerators and sewing machine
supplies at BC Clark Jewelers. As time passed through
many decades, the appliance and accessories department began to transform,
becoming more focused on fine home furnishings and table accessories for entertaining.
After moving to Oklahoma City from Purcell, BC Clark became a premier bridal registry store. The department, often referred to as "tabletop"
or "the silver department," offered customers an abundance of fine china,
crystal, silver flatware and hollowware. Today, BC Clark is not only known
as a bridal registry and tabletop store, it is also known for its fine collectibles,
home decor, and gifts for every occasion. From well known traditional companies such as Waterford Crystal, Herend China, Swarovski and Baccarat, to
trendy lines of today, such as Beatriz Ball and Michael Aram, and with representation of over 100 vendor lines, BC Clark Jewelers continues to offer something to fit every customer's taste and pocketbook.
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