Duchess of Windsor's Jewels

Jewelry formerly owned by Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor - the American socialite whom Edward VIII famously gave up the throne of England to marry in 1937 - will be auctioned by Sotheby's in London on Nov. 30. Twenty pieces from the Duchess of Windsor’s lavish jewelry collection will be auctioned, including two massive diamond rings and the very first Cartier panther bracelet.  In this portrait by Cecil Beaton, Wallis wears on her left arm one of the pieces that will go on the block, a cross bracelet by Cartier.  My favorite piece, however, is the gold evening case that was a 10th wedding anniversary gift from the Duke of Windsor to his Duchess.  There are photographs of the Duchess holding the bag at a reception she and the Duke attended at the White House invitation of President Nixon in 1970.  Wouldn't it be amazing to own a piece from what some call the greatest love story of the 20th century?

Loving Hanna Bernhard

I just stumbled across these beautiful pieces by Paris-based jewelry designer Hanna Bernhard and I am absolutely smitten!  It's hard to find words to describe their jewelry and why I love it so much but I think it's the large scale that really makes it amazing!  While these works of art are considered jewelry, I think the monkey or snake would make quite the conversation piece perched on top of a coffee table.  The fact that their jewelry is not sold in Chicago is a pity because I would love to see it in person.  Until then, one will have to be satisfied with the images of the many nature-inspired pieces visible on Hanna Bernhard's website.

(Images by Sea of Shoes)