As a self-proclaimed crazy-sexy-cool mama (yes… literally a mom), I’m always on the lookout for modern day heirlooms that I can pass on to my seedlings.

New York City real estate is an excellent, albeit expensive option.

But Wendy Brandes jewelry is a less pricey (slightly!) choice. And like my self-proclamation, it too is crazy-sexy-cool.

We’re talking black diamonds, 18K gold, and one-of-a-kind design work fit for a chica who works hard for her money. Go on and splurge. The kids of your kids of your kids will love you for it.

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At the risk of sounding like Simon Cowell of American Idol fame, I’m going to say that jewelry designer Albina Rose “gets it.”

Her entire collection has an old world/French countryside vibe. It’s like she’s channeling a skilled artisan from the days of Marie Antoinette… very articulate.

I especially adore her vintage interpretation of the crocheted cuff. Give me one, the other or both - s’il vous plait.

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I have this awful shopping curse.

Whenever I find a designer that I like, I choose the item that I like the best, then I look at the price tag. Without fail, the item that I like the best is ALWAYS the most expensive. Without fail.

That’s exactly what happened when I met jewelry designer Karen Curtis last December. She creates the most exquisite jewelry from Swarovski crystals. It not only looks good in the photo, it’s GORGEOUS in real life.

She also does colorful chandeliers created from vintage Swarovski crystals and beading. The chandelier that I wanted for my place was $7K. It wasn’t the biggest. But it was the priciest.

I need to be a millionaire to survive through this curse of overly expensive taste.

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I was a shopper, desperate for a unique Christmas gift.

They had a booth set up at Grand Central Station (in New York City) for the holidays.

When we met it was magical. Dare I say… love at first sight.

Satya produces a line of yoga inspired jewelry. Think Buddha and lotus pendants, natural bead work like amethyst and aquamarine, with solid gold and silver overtones. These are truly pieces to be passed along from generation to generation.

Perfect for remembering a peaceful state of mind or for your favorite yogaist.

Ommmm-joy.

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I went clothes browsing over the weekend and noticed that the spring things are already in full bloom.

Spring… ALREADY! Dang. I’m still blogging about hats and scarves and recycled, fingerless arm warmers. (Fortunately winter accessories never go out of style.)

But in keeping with the retail trend, I thought I’d start the week off with some new spring accessories.

Natalie Tischler at Ornamental Things creates vintagey earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets that remind me of a Sunday afternoon. Of poetry and iced tea. Of doors being held open for you - a beautiful lass indeed.

She has a very grown-up collection of resin necklaces. But it’s her hanging earrings that really make me want to shave my legs in anticipation of warmer weather. They are sweet!

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