Dear Readers,
I'm pleased to introduce a new feature: a monthly exploration of birthstones. We begin with diamonds - an iconic stone to be sure. Next month, emeralds.
Enjoy,
Amy
*****
There is no stone more revered or more controversial than the diamond.
I wear a diamond ring on each hand. The first was presented by my husband shortly after our engagement, the second on our fifth anniversary when I was so round with my first pregnancy it barely fit on my finger. My engagement ring sparkles like a chunk of ice melting in the sunshine when it’s clean. The design is uncomplicated and elegant, a modest center diamond flanked by two smaller stones set in a thin band of white gold. My anniversary ring is even simpler: seven tiny diamonds in a row nestled in a slender white gold setting.
These unassuming rings are perfect for me. I’d rather hear a few heartfelt words, steadily spoken than see an airplane banner reading Marry Me, Amy flying overhead; I prefer my partner to demonstrate his love and commitment to me through honest daily actions rather than by placing a huge rock on my finger.
Besides my two rings, I have little use for diamonds. In addition to their expense, I feel they are the height of clever marketing. We are told we must have them to announce our status to the world and our loved ones feel obliged to spend considerable income in order to prove something to the world. I understand that diamond rings are the classic Western symbol of engagements, marriage, all that good stuff. Instead of spending two months’ salary on a ring, why not turn the whole concept upside down with something considerably more subtle, or subversive. I love the tiny diamond rings in the fine gold setting by Me & Ro (found at Twist).

Melissa Joy Manning’s raw diamond ring is a superb study in contrasts and turns the notion of a perfect stone upside down. Clarity? Color? Cut? What?

Audrey Hepburn is a true style icon, and she summarized my sentiments concerning diamonds perfectly in her seminal role as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s:
Paul Varjak: The lady feels that diamonds are…tacky for her.
Holly Golightly: Oh, I think they’re divine on older women, but I don’t think they’re right for me, you do understand.

If you need something glittering for a special occasion – in addition to your smile and personality – there is a simple and affordable solution. Don’t fear costume jewelry. Wear it with confidence and pride and no one will question your taste. One of my favorite moments at my previous job was when a woman wearing a gorgeous necklace encrusted with diamonds and sapphires (which she bought for herself) complimented my Grandma Maude’s rhinestone bracelet. Proof positive that style is found in the person, not the pocketbook.