Brick-motif bracelet and necklace ($260,000- $350,000), Nicholas Varney. White gold and aqua diamond ring ($23,000), Nina Runsdorf
Aspen locals are mad for clear, icy stones in every shade of blue that can easily transition from a day spent in town to a glittering night out. Contemporary jewelry designers have been reinterpreting classic designs in rare gemstones and with unexpected combinations. Nicholas Varney’s necklace and bracelet marry Penn-shell natural pearls, free-form jelly opals, blue pavé sapphires, tsavorite garnets, and white diamonds. The traditional brick motif recreated with the unique mix of materials makes for one-of-a-kind, standout pieces and is the designer’s specialty. “I wanted to take a very traditional silhouette and deconstruct it,” Varney says. “What is essentially a vintage Cartier bracelet format is made a bit less formal by using organics.” Similarly, designer Nina Runsdorf plays on conventional style in creating a stunning cocktail ring—elevating her jewelry from classically chic to extraordinary. “When designing this piece I used traditionally cut stones, but in a modern and organic setting,” Runsdorf says. “I love how the milky quality of the aquamarine contrasts with the sharp color of the green diamonds. The versatility of this ring—it can be worn with anything from blue jeans to a ball gown—makes it perfect for the Aspen customer.” Brick-motif bracelet and necklace, Nicholas Varney. Caribou Jewels, 431 E. Hopkins Ave., 970-925-1930. White gold and aqua diamond ring, Nina Runsdorf. Meridian Jewelers, 525 E. Cooper Ave., 970-925-3833
