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Chunky and obviously faux rhinestones were all the rage this past winter, and we can't forget that rocking big colored rock knockoffs of celeb engagement rings is still a trend among certain members of the population. But in a culture that is placing increasing value on all things earthy, isn't it about time we forego the faux in favor of going au natural? This summer, sub in rough-cut, natural stone jewelry for the synthetic stuff. Don't you agree that Alexis Bittar's rough-cut amethyst cocktail ring (above right, $375) is so much classier and more artistic than those fakey fake rhinestones? Here are more picks that'll make you feel like a natural woman.
Roundtree & Richardson are all about helping you save a buck by multitasking. Their InterChaingeable Necklace ($154) features rough-hewn chunks of seafoam-hued chalcedony on an ingenious chain that detaches at two clasps to become a bracelet. Two pieces of jewelry in one? That's a style revolution we can get behind.
Mickey Lynn's gorgeous Eternal Flame bangles ($160 apiece) play up the rough-meets-delicate dichotomy perfectly. Jagged bits of labrodorite, green amethyst, peridot, or smoky topaz rest atop clean white bangles and are wrapped in filament-thin gold wire. Pretty and tough at the same time, these bracelets look fantastic alone or in a set.
When you hear jade, you probably think of the milky green version of the stone, but the blood red jade stones that float in Gara Danielle's gem hoops ($115) are equally as exotic—and probably more versatile. Add a punch of color to just about any outfit with these hoops, another piece that uses chunky stones and teeny tiny wire to great effect.
Get the look for less at Old Navy with their rosy multi-stone necklace ($10). The stones aren't real natural gemstones, but the colorful glass beads do a mighty good impersonation. Varying sizes, shapes and tones give this romantic chain a funky and eclectic vibe that can carry a whole outfit.
