MOTHERS DAY: TOP 5

Hi Everyone,

Hope you're all having a great Monday.

Everyone always seems to come to me for thoughts on mother's day gifts. I guess it's because I'm in the jewelry industry and jewelry is the BEST gift!! And what better than jewels to honor the most important woman in your life - your MOTHER!!

We are running a fantastic promotion on Fragments.com through Mother's Day - so be sure to check it out. We've got everything from the uber-chic fashionista mom, to the classic grandma and the artsy auntie. Whoever she is - we have something perfect for her.

I was asked to select five peices that I would recommend. It was impossible for me to just choose five, so keep in mind there are many fabulous comparable items. Here we go:

1. Lena Skadegard Pearls - This is a true twist on the classic. A piece for any woman. Magical on it's own and a real statement when accessorized with other layering pieces. It is feminine, chic and absolutely timeless. Available here, Fragments.com.

2. Miguel Ases Earrings - By now, you should all know how we feel about Miguel Ases, especially his earrings. There is such an array of colors, shapes and sizes. They make all women feel beautiful, fresh and fearless. I have so many favorite pairs, but for Mother's Day, I've selected these, for the boho queen, the risk-taker who likes to have fun with her fashion and does it effortlessly.

3. KC Designs necklace - They key to mom's heart, a piece that she will cherish and wear everyday - this is the perfect gift. She can wear this on it's own, or pile on with the rest of her everyday pieces. It's a statement - and special. Unique, and an amazing way to show mom how much she means to you.

4. Chan Luu bracelet - Often referred to as "the essential" - we believe that every woman needs a Chan Luu wrap bracelet in their repetoire. It's beyond cool, totally edgy and complimentary to all other fine and fashion jewelry. It's casual but chic and transitions from day to night without question. I personally adore this one - the colors are are perfect for everyday and any look. BUT - there is an endless array so be sure to pick the perfect one YOUR mom - that represents who she is. I promise there is one for every woman.

5. Azaara ring - For the total glam goddess, the super femme, totally fun mom - I LOVE this ring. It is a statement unto itself and will amp up any look. Take daytime to another level with it and make it the focal point of your nighttime garb - this ring is absolute perfection and mom will certainly agree.

So, there you have it - my top 5 mother's day gifts. But, like I said, I could choose 200. So if there's not one for you on this list, be sure to check out our website for something else.

Thanks so much and a very happy, wonderful mother's day to you and your mom!

With love,
Janet

PS - If you're a mom, tell me what you're dying for for Mother's Day. I'd love to hear! And of course, if you have questions - feel free to ask. I am here to help with all of your jewelry needs.

TAX REFUND: What FRAGMENTS Says You Should Do with Yours

I don't know about all of you, but we here at Fragments love a good tax refund. Nothing like "found money" - right? We've all been having a lot of fun here at the showroom talking about what we would do with our tax refunds, depending on how much - of course.

So, we put together this super fun list of 5 pieces of jewelry - there's something for everyone, and for every kind of refund - a big one down to a non existent one...

Let us know what you think and of course, tell us what you're doing with YOUR tax refund!!

1. For the super high tax refund, you must totally indulge and we've found the perfect piece. Moritz Glik's Cuff with 3.0ct of rose cut and 2.50ct of brilliant cut diamonds enclosed in double white sapphires in 18-k yellow gold and sterling silver. Price upon request, available at FRAGMENTS: 212.334.9588.

2. For the not to shabby tax refund, we are dying over Deanna Hamro - especially swarovski crystal encrusted horn pendant on an oxidized sterling silver chain. Total perfection. $1,290 - Available at Fragments.com.

3. For the mediocre tax refund, Azaara is the way to go. Super cool earrings, rings that are to die for and our absolute favorite - this necklace. $460 - Available at Fragments.com.

4. For a small tax refund, we like to refer to this as THE essential. A piece you shouldn't live with out and you don't have to! It's the starter kit, available in hundreds of colors and stones - the Chan Luu wrap bracelet. Ranging from $170 - $300, they're available on Fragments.com.

5. Last, but certainly not least - for those who got a not-so-fabulous surprise this year - the one's who owe taxes: we highly recommend becoming our FAN on Facebook to enter to win all kinds of amazing FREE fabulous baubles from Fragments. We love all of our fans and want to show you all just how much!

Have a great day, and don't forget to tell us what you're doing with your tax refund - if you aren't coming to Fragments...

xoxo,

Janet

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: Annie Fensterstock

Today I would like to feature one of Fragments' closest friends and beloved designers. Annie Fensterstock is a master of immaculate craftsmanship and impeccable, unique design. Her jewelry is absolutely stunning. We congratulate and honor Annie everyday for her spectacular work and today, more than ever. Annie's jewelry just made it into the esteemed World Gold Council juried collection of new gold jewelry designs, as edited by a Blue Ribbon Panel of industry experts. Congrats Annie, this is so well deserved and we are thrilled for you!

The last time I was with Annie, she took some time to answer all of my fun questions. It is with great pleasure that I share with you her witty personality - a glimpse into her world - and you'll see why we adore her so very much.

1. What is your greatest indulgence? Chocolate and cheese
2. Tell me your biggest fear. freezer with no ice cream
3. Your favorite red carpet moment of all time? i always watch for the jewelry, but i love to see what the pregnant celebs are wearing! angelina jolie once wore an amazing green dress by max azria to cannes
4. Your most treasured piece of jewelry, and why? a gold locket from my grandmother with a picture of my grandparents and my father inside
5. White gold, yellow gold or mix it all up? definitely mix it all up!
6. Who is your favorite fictional character? Mabel Longhetti (A Woman Under the Influence)
7. Your greatest love is...my husband
8. Who is your hero? my grandmother
9. Who is your favorite jewelry designer (other than Annie Fensterstock?) JohnPaul Miller.
10. Who do you most admire, alive or deceased? same as #8- my grandmother, margit beck. she was an amazing painter and teacher, one of my greatest inspirations.
11. Your favorite movie? hedwig and the angry inch
12. Newspapers & magazines: print or online? much prefer print, but only splurge for the sunday times. the rest of the week i do online.
13. Your favorite ice cream flavor? almond gelato from franny's in brooklyn
14. Facebook or Twitter? Facebook
15. Style icon? anyone who's daring
16. If you could design a piece of jewelry right now, based on your current mood and surroundings, what would it be? A big gold locket covered with rose-cut diamonds, containing pictures of my 3 children
17. Black or white? i get everything dirty so black
18. The best part of New York City is...the food!
19. Tell me your greatest asset and your biggest flaw. i'm very/too detail oriented
20. If you could have any piece from Fragments, what would it be? it would take me days to decide!

Aren't her answers fabulous? Now, wait until you see her jewels! Take a look at some of Annie's work on our website. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our store: 212.334.9588.

Have a great day!

xoxo,
Janet

DAILY OBSESSION: Yellow Diamond Hoops

I've been surrounded by colored diamonds for the last couple of days, and it reminded me how much I love them. The rainbow of options is absolutely magnificent and I love playing with different colors.

Right now, I am really into yellow diamonds and yellow sapphires. And my "Daily Obsession" today, are yellow diamond/yellow sapphire hoops. They are an unpredictable touch of sparkle and glamour which are the perfect accent to set off any other gold accessories you are wearing or have. Picture the yellow sapphire hoops with any golden pendant or chains. Sometimes you don't know what to wear with the bracelets or necklaces and the sparkly hoop is the answer. It works with "everything" a very good investment and a perfect way to pull it all together.

Sethi Couture makes a fabulous pair of yellow diamond hoops, pictured below and available at FRAGMENTS (212.334.9588.) The yellow sapphire hoops by Nam Cho are also spectacular, and available at FRAGMENTS, as well.

Happy shopping and have a wonderful day!

xoxo,

Janet

DAILY OBSESSION: Sethi Couture Pendant

Keeping in today's theme of SETHI COUTURE and our love for the designer, Pratima - I figured I would show you one of her most exquisite pieces. To be honest, we are obsessing over every piece in her entire collection - the colored diamonds are magnificent and her design aesthetic is simply perfect.

Since I have to select only one piece for my "Daily Obsession," I am sharing this stunning pendant with you. Available by special order at Fragments (price upon request: 212.334.9588,) - this is a spectacular statement piece. A piece to be worn on it's own - with a neckline that will show it off in a most deserving way.

Please share your thoughts with me. As you can see, I am in love with it.

xoxo,
Janet

FRAGMENTS in the PRESS

Hi All! I hope you had a fabulous weekend.

I wanted to share two great press clips with all of you.

Real Simple's May 2010 issue featured two Fragment's designers, Mary Louise Designs & Agrigento, as part of their Mothers Day gift guide.

Both clips are shown below. We are super excited about both peices. If you are interested in either, feel free to contact Fragments.com 866.966.4688 to order.

Thanks so much, Real Simple - we love you!

xoxo,
Janet

Special Edition DAILY OBSESSION: Miguel Ases Earrings

FRAGMENTS is in serious countdown mode and we invite each and every one of you to join us. When we first launched our Facebook page, we announced that we would give away these fabulous Miguel Ases earrings once we reach 1,000 fans. As of this moment, we are at 943 with 57 left to go. Everyone is starting to get super excited about the giveaway and it is no surprise that today, we're all obsessing over these earrings.

The colors are spectacular and they will take you right into spring/summer seamlessly! Please continue spreading the word to your friends and family to become our fan on Facebook - the sooner we reach 1,000 - the sooner we can draw a WINNER!

And, the fun won't stop there - Fragments will be doing periodic giveaways and promtions so make sure to stay tuned!

Have a fabulous weekend.

xoxo,


Janet

DAILY OBSESSION: Adriana Carador Earrings

Everyone always asks me what piece of jewelry is a must-have for their "red carpet moment" - that super special occasion where you want to shine and your jewels shine even brighter. While I have an endless list of special ocassion must-haves, I will share one of my absolute favorites with you today.

They also happen to be an obsession of Eva Longoria's - who wore them on her episode of Jerry Seinfeld's show, The Marriage Ref. I always knew she had great taste!

Today's "Daily Obsession" is this pair of absolutely beautiful Adriana Carador 18k gold and citrine chandelier earrings. Beyond chic, definitely for the glam goddess - these earrings are perfection for your moment. Available now by special order at FRAGMENTS: 212.334.9588.

xoxo,

Janet

DAILY OBSESSION: Isharya Cuff

Since our office is in the Isharya spirit today, I figured I would coordinate today's "Daily Obsession" with our showroom-wide infatuation with all that is Isharya! Before I get into it, did you all see the amazing photos that we took today of Isharya jewels at the Henri Bendel 5th Avenue Street of Shops? We put them on our Facebook page and if you haven't already - you've got to check them out right here!

Every woman needs a collection of statement cuffs to play around with. You can never have too many, but you certainly need at least one. I really believe that they amp up any look - always promising to take your style to the next level. With a statement cuff, it is so simple to acheive head-to-toe chic. Who better than Isharya (they practically invented statement jewelry) - to launch your cuff collection?

This triple druzy ebony cuff will turn heads just about anywhere. It will take your denim from day to night instantly. It is available now, right here on our webiste.

What do you think of this cuff? How would you wear it? Tell me about your collection.

xoxo,

Janet

DAILY OBSESSION: Dana Kellin Necklace

Layered chains are a trend that have evolved into a total wardrobe staple - a necessity that will never die. There are a million ways to wear them - mix metals, play with textures, lengths, sizes and colors. They're great for daytime chic and really amp up your style for nighttime glam. My thoughts are that you can never have too many.

For those of you who are just starting your collection of layered chains, I've selected the perfect "starter piece" for today's "Daily Obsession." This sterling silver Dana Kellin necklace accomplishes everything we need in one fabulous necklace.

Layers of chain with swarovski crystal links, this necklace measures approximately 18" long. A girl should not live without her layered chains, and as I said - this is a perfect place to start. Available now right here on Fragments.com.

xoxo,
Janet

Million Dollar Quartet

I had an absolutely wonderful weekend - the weather in New York City was perfect, and we kept busy all weekend long.

On Friday night, my husband and I went to see Million Dollar Quartet at the Nederlander Theatre on Broadway. Guys, this show is sensational and we loved every minute of it. It transports you into another time zone - the 1950's - and we got right into it. I am so happy we got to see it early (it is still in previews.) It is all about the early days and the music of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and the one & only - Jerry Lee Lewis. Each of these stars got their start at the same time in the same place.

This was another winning musical experience where the audience ended the show on their feet with a well-deserved standing ovation.

I highly recommend seeing this show with friends, family, a significant other - whoever you would like - I promise it will be an experience you won't ever forget.

You can read more about the show and purchase tickets right here.

xoxo,


Janet

DAILY OBSESSION: Miguel Ases earrings

I've said it before and I will say it again - a girl can NEVER have too many pair of Miguel Ases earrings. This is the kind of overdose that I approve of and strongly encourage. His earrings are simply spectacular - available in an array of sizes, colors and shapes - there are MULTIPLE pairs for every occasion.

Today's "Daily Obsession" is one of Miguel's more "classic" looks - a pair of earrings that I believe are an essential for all wardrobes - gold chandelier earrings. These are the perfect hint of sparkle and glam for every woman - daytime chic, nighttime shine. I am so into them and if you don't already have a pair, you need these!

These earrings are available right here on Fragments.com - don't be the last one to snag a pair!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

xoxo,

Janet

DAILY OBSESSION: Anton Heunis Necklace

This season is all about tribal glam. Heavy jewels. Bold colors. Big stones. And when I think of the most fabulous peice of tribal jewelry, this Anton Heunis necklace is exactly what comes to mind. The detail is incredible and it is so versatile. Super cool with jeans and a worn-in white tee-shirt and seriously glam with a strapless black gown.

We love jewels that work for multiple occasions, don't you?

This peice is available on Fragments.com.

What do you think of this necklace? How would you wear it? I would love to hear your thoughts!

xoxo,

Janet

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: Lena Skadegard

Since so many of you have inquired about the Lena Skadegard pearls that I posted as my Daily Obsession on Monday, I figured I would feature her on our blog today. Lena is one of Fragments' favorite designers - she creates absolutely beautiful jewelry. Her inspiration comes from her greatest indulgence - travel. She has traveled the world and back, and returns everytime with incredible gems, stones, fossils and shells. Lena works with magnificent color - no two peices in her collection are the same. Her jewelry is addictive - you just want to layer on peice after peice. And it all seems to work together seamlessly.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Lena and ask her my favorite questions. Here are her answers:

1. What is your greatest indulgence? Travel

2. Tell me your biggest fear. Not travelling

3. Your favorite red carpet moment of all time? Carpet shopping in Kashmir

4. Your most treasured piece of jewelry, and why? Gifts from my fathers travels

5. White gold, yellow gold or mix it all up? Yellow

6. Who is your favorite fictional character? Chance the Gardener in Being There

7. Your greatest love is…my current one

8. Who is your hero? Anyone who evolves in one lifetime.

9. Who is your favorite jewelry designer? There are many!

10. Who do you most admire, alive or deceased? Gandhi

11. Your favorite movie? Anchorman

12. Newspapers & magazines: print or online? Newspapers in Print

13. Your favorite ice cream flavor? Coffee Almond Fudge

14. Facebook or Twitter? Facebook

15. Style icon? ANYONE with style.

16. If you could design a piece of jewelry right now, based on your current mood and surroundings, what would it be? AQUAMARINE from SRI LANKA, pinky ring

17. Black or white? Gray

18. The best part of New York City is...the whole damn thing - one of the best places to visit.

19. Tell me your greatest asset and your biggest flaw. patience and impatience.

20. If you could have any piece from Fragments, what would it be (other than your own jewelry?)anything Lene Vibes!

Lena's jewelry is available on our website, as well as in our store: 212.334.9588. Please call us if you have any questions or are interested in anything specific.

I would love to hear your thoughts on Lena's jewels. How would you wear her jewelry? What inspires you? What are your favorite stones?

xoxo,
Janet