A TUFTS COMMUNICATIONS FINE JEWELRY PUBLICATION
MAGAZINE
ROBERTO COIN Designs of an Italian master
STYLE FILES Accessories to express your personality
ROLEX MENTORING TOMORROW’S ARTISTS
AUTUMN/HOLIDAY 2023 • ISSUE 15
SCULPTED CABLE
LOVE IN VERONA
FREDRIC H. RUBEL MAGAZINE
CONTENTS 9 WELCOME From the Rubel family
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12 FREDRIC H. RUBEL 95TH ANNIVERSARY From luxury to legacy 14 OMG — IT’S ELSA! Celebrating an amazing lady
30 METRO-CHIC David Yurman’s new jewelry conveys New York’s artistic energy 32 MAGICAL MADEIRA Voted Europe’s best island destination six years in a row
58 MILLION DOLLAR RAVEN In Canada’s diamond mines, nature comes first 60 SAFE AT HOME Make sure your treasures last to become heirlooms
36 PENNY PREVILLE Show your true colors
62 NEW AND NOTEWORTHY Last but not least...
15 THE GIN & JUBILEE The perfect celebratory sparkling cocktail
40 JERRY’S NEW PORSCHE Comedian Jerry Seinfeld masters his domain 42 A WHOLE WORLD OF COLOR The biggest story in fashion 43 DECK THE NECK Necklaces to adorn your holiday look 48 MONICA RICH KOSANN Stories that last 52 MINE TO SHINE Kwiat creates a new way to buy a diamond 54 STREAMLINED COLLECTION Men’s jewelry from David Yurman 56 WEDDING BELLES Celebrate with this year’s Fredric Rubel couples
16 ROBERTO COIN The designs of an Italian master
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19 STYLE FILES Accessories to express your personal style
Todd Tufts • Publisher/Creative Director Marilynn Lane • Marketing Manager Lori Roberts • Senior Editor Vence Vida • Production Manager/Designer Carol Besler • Editorial Director Stephen Lewis • Assistant Copy Editor
Prices are subject to change. Please contact the store for current pricing and availability. Fredric H. Rubel Magazine is published by Tufts Communications, 10012 Gulf Center Drive, Suite 5150 • Fort Myers, FL 33913 T: 765-819-2500 • E: todd@tuftscom.com © 2023, Tufts Communications. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
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22 MÉMOIRE Diamonds with timeless grace
24 ROLEX 20 years of mentoring artists
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FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS
CELEBRATING 95 YEARS We’re honored to celebrate your milestones as we commemorate ours
Welcome to our 2023 holiday edition of Rubel Jewelers Magazine . As we commemorate our 95 years in business, we remain ever grateful for the wealth of memories and milestones that define our legacy. Driven by our commitment to excellence, we have had the honor of serving your families for generations. The trust you’ve placed in us for nearly a century, whether to celebrate your monumental occasions or to entrust us with your valued heirlooms, holds a special place in our hearts. As we look ahead, we are excited about what the future holds and remain committed to providing the exceptional service and quality craftsmanship you’ve come to expect. Our relentless quest for the world’s finest diamonds,
unparalleled jewelry, and exquisite Swiss timepieces is a testament to not only our passions but our dedication to you. With this at the forefront of our minds, we will continue to curate collections to impress you with the beauty and significance that each piece holds. The Rubel journey has been remarkable, and we are grateful for your continued support, allowing us to deliver pieces that evoke emotion and stand the test of time. Here’s to a year of cherished moments, enduring elegance, and the timeless allure of Rubel Jewelers.
With gratitude, The Rubel Family
Roberto Coin Cento Long Drop Earrings with Rope Bezel and matching Cento Tennis Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold Exclusively made in Vincenza, Italy.
924 THE SHOPS AT MISSION VIEJO • MISSION VIEJO, CA • 949 364 3535 246 FOREST AVENUE • LAGUNA BEACH, CA • 949 494 3513
Your NATURAL DIAMOND helps provide access to education for over half a million children globally. THANK YOU, BY THE WAY
naturaldiamonds.com/thankyou
A STORIED PAST
from LUXURY to Legacy
F or nearly a century, Fredric H. Rubel Jewelers has stood as a symbol of timeless elegance, family tradition, and exquisite craftsmanship. As we celebrate our 95th anniversary, we take a look at our illustrious journey — a journey that began with an unyielding commitment to offering the finest jewelry and timepieces and building a family that extends beyond the name. It all started with a dream in a modest shop in San Bernardino, where Bernard and Rose Rubel laid the foundation of the Rubel legacy — Crescent Jewelers. Within just a few years, their relentless dedication and commitment to quality saw a second outlet opening in 1940. Fredric, Rose and Bernard’s son and our late father and grandfather, inherited more than just the family name; he adopted the very spirit and passion of the business. A zest for jewelry was evident in him, even at a young age. As the years passed, Fred’s life took a beautiful turn as he met and married Joan in 1957. Their combined vision and hard work led to the inception of Rubel’s third store in 1972. Located in a San Bernardino mall, this store wasn’t just a retail outlet but a testament to their love for beauty and architecture.
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Today, the Rubel legacy is carried forward with the same zeal and dedication to quality our customers have come to expect. Fred’s sons Gary and David both play a pivotal role in the operations of our stores, with Gary steering the ship at the Mission Viejo store and David bringing his expertise to the Laguna Beach location. But the family doesn’t just rest on the laurels of a storied past; we’re innovating and embracing the digital age, with Charlotte, Fred’s granddaughter, spearheading our online presence. “It’s bittersweet,” Gary states. “It’s our first milestone celebration without our dad, but it’s so exciting to now have Charlotte, our next generation, active in the business.” While the Rubel name may rest upon the doors, our company’s real heart and soul are carried on by those who entrust us with their livelihoods.
IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT BLOOD RELATIONS — IT’S ABOUT OUR ENTIRE TEAM’S LOYALTY, PASSION, AND DEDICATION.
“Our family extends far past our last name,” express David and Gary with utmost sincerity. “It’s not just about blood relations — it’s about our entire team’s loyalty, passion, and dedication. The Rubel family recognizes and cherishes the fact that our extended family of employees plays an integral role in our longstanding success.” In the grand tapestry of life, jewelry often marks the most cherished moments — love, joy, anniversaries, and accomplishments. For 95 years, Fredric H. Rubel Jewelers has been there to magnify these moments, making life’s milestones even more extraordinary. And as we step into the next chapter, we take along an unmatched legacy, modern innovations, and most importantly, the love and trust of countless customers and dedicated team members. So, here’s to Fredric H. Rubel Jewelers — 95 years of sparkling memories and countless more to come.
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SMALL BUT MIGHTY
OMG
– IT’S ELSA! A s we celebrate our 95th Anniversary at Frederic H. Rubel, we must also acknowledge our long- time wonder woman, Elsa, and celebrate her 55th year with us. Elsa may be small, but she makes a mighty impression on everyone she meets and certainly holds a huge place in our hearts
Elsa…
FUN FACTS ABOUT
• This year marks Elsa’s 55th year at Fredric H. Rubel • Elsa has worked here since she was 18 years old
• Elsa is never seen without “some type of sweet treat” • Elsa’s favorite animal is “the cookie monster” • When Elsa is not working, “she loves to volunteer at the Assistance League, and spend time with her family” • And when we asked Elsa what she loves most about her job, she says “incredible team and our phenomenal and amazing clientele”
• Elsa stands just shy of 5 ft tall, but has a heart as big as Texas • She drives 70 miles to work, each way, and works 4 days a week • She loves “her family”
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THE GIN & JUBILEE COCKTAIL THE PERFECT CELEBRATORY SPARKLING COCKTAIL FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION.
INGREDIENTS
4 leaves Thai Basil, plus more to garnish 1 oz gin 1/2 oz St. Germain 1 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice 2-3 oz Prosecco or other sparkling wine
INSTRUCTIONS Muddle the Thai basil in a cocktail shaker or mason jar. Add the gin, St. Germain, grapefruit juice and lemon juice to the shaker, and fill shaker with ice. Shake hard for 15 to 30 seconds, then strain the cocktail into a champagne flute. Top the drink with Prosecco and serve immediately.
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
BY CAROL BESLER
THE ROMANTIC, TWISTED, COLORFUL DESIGNS OF ITALIAN MASTER ROBERTO COIN
R oberto Coin, the maestro of Italian jewelry design, has a way of putting a new twist on his most beloved collections, with hundreds of new designs every year that complement and build on previous favorites. This year, he adds a literal twist to his Love in Verona collection, with new pieces incorporating a twisted gold motif — perhaps reflecting the twisted fate of the Verona lovers, Romeo and Juliet, who inspired the collection. Roberto has added diamonds to some of the pieces, either in the form of pavé on rings and bangles or lined up riviera-style on classic line or Y necklaces. In some pieces, diamonds form the petals of the signature four- petal flower motif.
Diamante, meaning diamond in Italian, exudes femininity and luxury. Delicate chains and bezel set stones in different shapes and sizes create a fresh and sophisticated look, setting this collection apart from the others. Available in various gold colors and carat weights, this collection is a timeless wardrobe staple.
Top: Diamante Necklace and Earrings in 18K Rose Gold, adorning the earrings are 190 round brilliant cut diamonds, with a total weight of 1.95 carats.
Bottom: Love in Verona Twist Bangle
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Roberto Coin combines his technological prowess with time-honored craftsmanship to create the new Verona collection. The four- petaled floral motif repeats in diamonds and in engraving, even reappearing in the gallery of each piece as a reminder of our inner beauty.
Top: 18K White Gold Love in Verona Circle Pendant and Earrings with Diamonds and Blue Sapphires. Bottom: 18K White Gold Love in Verona Open Frame Pavé Bangle with 3.69 carats of diamonds.
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
The Cialoma collection is also inspired by tragic romance. The name comes from an old Sicilian ballad about a sailor who is torn between his love for a woman and his love of the sea. The collection has a nautical theme, with a sailor’s knot motif running through it. New pieces include open links and open-style cuffs and rings, which can be worn with flattened knots facing in or out. Of course, there are plenty of diamond accents, because what’s a love story without diamonds?
Top: Cialoma Heart and Earrings in 18K Yellow Gold with Diamonds. Oro Oval Link Necklace with Pavé Station.
Left: Cialoma Single Knot Pavé Ring with 1.28 Carats of Diamonds.
Bottom: Small Cialoma Earring in 18K Yellow Gold with Diamonds.
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NOW TRENDING
T here is no greater expression of your personal style than the accessories you choose. Picture this: you pull on an oversized navy sweatshirt and matching yoga pants —don’t judge, it’s chilly out! Go ahead and throw your hair up in a messy bun, too. Got a visual? But before you leave your closet, grab a little choker-length necklace and a yellow gold long-link chain. Then a pair of diamond stud earrings and a big chunky aquamarine ring to wear on your middle finger - now how do those yoga pants look? You have style! And every day, you are empowered to choose it for yourself.
files
oh so fancy!
Round brilliant diamonds, make way for your fancy cut friends. It’s time to update classic everyday diamond jewelry styles and make them feel all new. Try on an all pear-shaped or baguette-cut tennis bracelet. Pop on a pair of asscher-cut stud earrings. Or try an emerald-cut diamond ring in an east-west setting. Fancy-cut diamonds are no longer reserved just for engagement rings; they’re everywhere! Pear shapes create harmonious silhouettes. Depending on their layout they can create a visually appealing elongated shape, like on these drop earrings. Contrasting Elements: The pointed end of the marquise and the roundness of a pear-shaped diamond adds a unique and unconventional aesthetic to the necklace and earring pair above. Flush set diamonds sit seamlessly with the metal which gives a look of subtle elegance. This setting highlights the unique characteristics and geometry of the diamonds, as seen in this yellow gold ring and rose gold bracelet.
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NOW TRENDING
symbolic
& sweet
Hearts and butterflies — both aflutter and full of whimsical meaning. Hearts = love, of course, so there is no mistaking the aura when you spot the Italian corazone gracefully hanging close to the skin. Butterflies — mesmerizing to watch, lighter than a feather, colorful, and delicately beautiful — are symbolic of new life and rebirth. Both provoke feelings of happiness, and a little happiness can go a long way.
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
BY JENNIFER BRUGH
MÉMOIRE D iamonds and all their sparkle have always been the epitome of timeless elegance in the world of fine jewelry. And in this realm, Mémoire shines brilliantly, crafting pieces that encapsulate a modern flair and a lasting sophistication. A TOUCH OF GRACEFUL GLIMMER Mémoire’s diamond jewelry collections are not just fashion statements but cherished keepsakes. Adorned with meticulously chosen diamonds, they shimmer with quiet confidence, bringing a hint of distinction to everyday moments. Understatedly elegant, even Mémoire is crafted to enhance nearly every outfit in your closet. Take Mémoire’s double hoops, for example – with their undeniable sparkle yet sophisticated design, these hoops gracefully complement your daytime attire or add a glisten to your evening dress. It’s a trend that’s capturing hearts, and with Mémoire’s interpretation, it’s become a timeless classic. Layering necklaces, another chic trend this season, find a perfect partner in Mémoire’s exquisite designs, each strand telling its own tale. From the classic diamond pendant that’s subtly attractive to the diamond strand that adds depth to your ensemble, these pieces are must- haves in any collection. Layer them together for a more textured style, or wear them as statement pieces – you choose the story you tell. DIAMONDS WITH TIMELESS GRACE
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THE ESSENCE OF MÉMOIRE With a Mémoire piece, you never have to question quality. Chosen with discernment, each diamond is micro-graded for unmatched brilliance. Set with a meticulous hand, they come together in harmony, much like notes in a symphony, giving you the most desirable and sensational diamond jewelry collections. For those with an eye for exquisite and timeless beauty, Mémoire promises more than just jewelry — they offer stories, dreams, and moments forever.
Opposite page: Blossom Necklace in 18K White Gold with Diamonds and Odessa V Huggies in 18K Yellow Gold with Diamonds. Above: Heart and Serena Necklaces in 18K Yellow Gold with Diamonds. Pavé Heart, Pavé Silk 2 Row Band, Cadence Bolo Bracelet, in 18K White Gold with Diamonds.
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20 YEARS OF MENTORING THE GREAT ARTISTS OF TOMORROW
Rolex is celebrating 20 years of the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative, part of the brand’s longstanding commitment to global arts and culture.
Khoudia Touré, 2018–2019 protégée in dance, with her mentor, the renowned Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite.
20 YEARS OF MENTORING THE GREAT ARTISTS OF TOMORROW
F or more than half a century, Rolex has partnered with some of the world’s most talented artists and leading cultural institutions to celebrate excellence and contribute to perpetuating artistic heritage, creating a link between the past, present, and future. Through the Rolex Perpetual Arts Initiative, a broad portfolio of arts that extends through music, architecture, cinema, and the Rolex mentoring program, the brand confirms its long-term commitment to global culture.
The mentoring experience can provide the opportunity for a thrilling collaboration.
The mentoring program was launched in 2002, with a noble aim: to ensure that the world’s artistic heritage is passed on from one generation to another in a manner that transcends boundaries of nations, cultures, disciplines, and generations. It revived the traditional idea of mentorship, a natural approach coming from a watchmaking company with a long-established system of apprenticeship. At a key moment in their professional lives, as they stand on the brink of recognition, young artists are invited by Rolex to be mentored by great visionaries in their respective fields — artists they might never have hoped to meet, let alone enjoy their guidance. AHEAD OF ITS TIME Rolex was ahead of its time with its vision of a program that was set up to be inclusive and that brought so many art forms — visual arts, dance, theatre, music, literature, film, and architecture — together under one umbrella. It was unique among corporate arts programs in both scope and scale. Twenty years later, the program demonstrates astonishing impact. How many programs have such a huge community of artists and arts administrators that stretches across the world? Since 2002, 1,350 people from 120 countries have been nominated for the program, and hundreds of major artists or influential figures in the arts have nominated young artists or served as advisors. To date, 63 mentors have chosen 63 protégés from 41 countries. Rolex considers the development of this global creative community to be one of the greatest achievements of the program.
Celebrated director Martin Scorsese, mentor in film in 2008–2009, invited his protégée Celina Murga to visit the set of his film Shutter Island .
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At a key moment in their professional lives, as they stand on the brink of recognition, young artists find themselves being mentored by great visionaries in their field. From top: 2006–2007 theatre mentor Julie Taymor and her protégée Selina Cartmell; 2014–2015 architecture protégée Gloria Cabral who was mentored by Peter Zumthor; 2018–2019 music protégé Marcus Gilmore who was mentored by Zakir Hussain; 2016–2017 architecture mentor Sir David Chipperfield and his protégé Simon Kretz.
20 YEARS OF MENTORING THE GREAT ARTISTS OF TOMORROW
REAL IMPACT But numbers and geography do not tell the whole story. The real impact is that many of the Rolex protégés have become artistic leaders in their own right. Tracy K. Smith, for example, who was mentored by German writer Hans Magnus Enzensberger in 2010–2011, received the United States’ greatest honor in poetry — being appointed Poet Laureate two years running. Smith, a writer and academic, has won a host of prizes, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. Lara Foot, a South African multi-award-winning playwright, director, and producer, was mentored in 2004– 2005 by the late theatre, opera and film director Sir Peter Hall. She is CEO and artistic director of Cape Town’s Baxter Theatre, to which she has succeeded in giving an international reputation through its travelling productions. Many cross-disciplinary collaborations have also sprung up among protégés, stimulated and challenged by their peers in different artistic areas. Rolex has created a special collaboration fund to encourage this cross-fertilization among former protégés, now called Rolex Arts Fellows. CALIBRE OF ARTISTS Another striking aspect of the program has been the extraordinary calibre of artists it has attracted to its mission. Brian Eno, Stephen Frears, David Hockney, Zakir Hussain, Robert Lepage, Mario Vargas Llosa, the late Toni Morrison, the late Jessye Norman, Crystal Pite, Julie Taymor, Kazuyo Sejima, and Sir David Chipperfield are just a few of the major artists who have generously given their time to take part. For mentors, the engagement goes further than pure altruism. The experience can provide the opportunity for a thrilling and challenging creative collaboration. For Martin Scorsese, film mentor in 2008–2009, “the mentor gets as much inspiration as the protégé.” David Hockney, who was visual arts mentor in 2004–2005, concurs: “I wouldn’t have considered taking part in the program if I didn’t expect to learn. Good teachers have always learned from their students.” Over 20 years, the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative has achieved respect and legitimacy in artistic circles for its distinctive and unique vision of mentoring — generous and global — that plays a tangible role in promoting excellence and the future of the arts. The program has helped exceptional younger talents reveal their full potential, encouraged dialogue across cultures and disciplines, and built a multigenerational artistic community around the globe.
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
METRO-CHIC DAVID YURMAN’S NEW JEWELRY CONVEYS DOWNTOWN NEW YORK’S LIVELY ARTISTIC ENERGY
D avid Yurman is constantly sketching new jewelry designs, sometimes on a napkin at a café and other times at his desk or the kitchen table. Those drawings were the starting point for the brand’s stylish new Mercer collection, which was inspired by downtown New York’s bustling rhythm and artistic energy and named for the street in SoHo. For the Yurman family, every jewelry collection is a personal expression. The Mercer collection pays homage to David and his wife Sybil’s downtown roots. In SoHo, they began their careers as artists: back in the 1960s and 1970s, they were among the neighborhood’s early residents — David’s first studio was on Sullivan Street and Sybil worked at the Max Hutchinson Gallery on Greene Street. Their son Evan, the company’s president, grew up on the streets of SoHo and along the Tribeca waterfront. “There was something carefree but still endearingly grave about the work that came from there then,” said Evan about the downtown artistic vibe. “The work ignored the old boundaries separating art from dance from music from architecture, and instead found fresh ground in the interstices between art and life.” The neighborhood’s dynamic energy fueled the family’s lasting passion for art, design, and craft, and breaking boundaries.
Evan Yurman
DESIGN IS A FAMILY AFFAIR Each member of the family has creative input on every new collection. That family spirit caught the attention of actress Scarlett Johansson, another native New Yorker and the brand’s ambassador. “What’s really touching about the David Yurman story is this familial love and passion,” said Johansson. Recently, she layered on different jewelry pieces, which Sybil pointed out were each designed by one of the Yurmans. “Sybil was so excited to see the pieces all together,” she said. “The pieces are very much like a family, just this mesh of beautiful things that is different but goes together.” Johansson grew up seeing David Yurman’s advertising campaigns and jewelry around New York City, which shaped her own jewelry style. “You would always see the beautiful black and white photos and it was this effortlessly chic woman whose jewelry was part of her everyday life. She had this glamourous appeal but was never trying.”
Scarlett Johansson
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The Mercer collection is an evolution of that effortlessly elegant Yurman style. It began with David’s drawing of a reimagined oval link in a more sculptural, sensual shape. That link was forged in 18k yellow and rose gold and burnished silver and combined with the company’s iconic Cable motif and diamonds. The lively spirit of downtown New York is expressed in the curated mix of metal, proportion, and shiny and matte finishes. “Over the decades, our linked chains have become iconic, and so emblematic of the brand,” said Evan. “It’s really a part of our foundation as a company, but also
The Mercer’s oval links also reflect David’s roots as a sculptor and bench jeweler. The links were carved in wax by one of the company’s in-house master craftsmen, handmade and hand-finished like a piece of sculpture. “You can feel in the pieces that they are handcrafted and cared about, and it feels very personal,” said Johansson. “It’s not something that’s mass manufactured.” That attention to detail and individualistic quality is embodied in the Mercer Mélange bracelet, which combines 18k rose gold and burnished silver oval links with smaller Cable links, a Cognac diamond link, and toggle closure with white diamond detail. Designs also come in elegant yet bold 18k yellow gold and diamond choker length necklaces, drop earrings, and multi-row rings. It’s instantly recognizable as David Yurman and seamlessly integrates with past collections. “Each piece has real intention to it and spirit about it and is made with a lot of love,” said Johansson. “You feel that from the brand, and it’s really authentic.”
as a family. One of the first things my dad sculpted for my mom was a direct-welded necklace.”
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TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
BY JANET MYERS
VOTED EUROPE’S BEST ISLAND DESTINATION SIX YEARS IN A ROW
madeira magical MADEIRA IS PART OF AN ARCHIPELAGO OF VOLCANIC ORIGIN IN THE NORTH ATLANTIC. IT IS A LUSH ISLAND WITH A PERMANENT SPRING-LIKE CLIMATE WITH POCKETS OF DIVERSE MICROCLIMATES, THANKS TO ITS MOUNTAINOUS TOPOGRAPHY AND WARM OCEAN CURRENTS. ALTHOUGH PORTUGUESE IN EVERY WAY, IT LIES OVER 1000 MILES FROM PORTUGAL AND JUST 300 MILES FROM MOROCCO. IT HAS RUGGED NATURAL LANDSCAPES, INCLUDING ROCKY COVES, MOUNTAINS, AND PEBBLE BEACHES.
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FUN IN FUNCHAL Funchal cascades down steep hillsides towards the glistening blue sea, and since our arrival a few hours ago, we have already explored some of the narrow steep roads. We lay back as the car propelled us upward and held our breath as we swept downhill — often with stone walls on either side and a hair’s breadth between car and stone. Here and there we found viewpoints where we stopped to admire the vista spread out below. Tropical flowers were still in bloom, and they added splashes of bright color to the scene. Feeling hungry after an early flight, we stopped for refreshment in town at Rei da Poncha. We ordered mammoth hot dogs with the traditional poncha, a strong alcoholic drink made with distilled alcohol derived from sugar cane, honey, and lemon juice. It is always accompanied with peanuts, and here they were served in tubs. One of Madeira’s most famous attractions is the famous wicker sledge ride, which takes tourists at hair-raising speed down narrow streets, from Monte to the city below. The sledges are pushed by two men dressed in traditional white with straw boaters, who use their boots as breaks. Originally, in the 19th century,
the sledges were used to transport locals, but today they transport tourists like us. With the wind in our faces as we compete with crossing cars at intersections, the experience is, at the very least, memorable. A more leisurely ride from the hills above Funchal can be had by cable car. As usual, we had to be unconventional and take the journey in reverse. This meant great sweeping views from our own car on our way up, as well as amazing vistas from the cable car on the way down. Another must-see is the farmers market in the center of town. Here the flower sellers are dressed in the national costume. Their hats resemble a piece of fruit cut in half with a sprig protruding from the top. This market also offers a wide variety of local fruits and vegetables, many unknown to us. There are aromatic herbs and spices, vegetables, meat, wines, and local crafts. In the little bakery I had the best Portuguese tart I have ever tasted. Flaky and warm from the oven.
Northern coastline of Ponta de Sao Lourenco in Madeira, Portugal
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TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
TRAVELING EAST Breakfast this morning was in a little restaurant overlooking the colorful fishing boats in Câmara de Lobos, a village just outside Funchal. A place much favored by Winston Churchill, Câmara de Lobos is where he loved to paint. The picturesque boats and scenery are in direct contrast to the black scabbardfish they catch here at night. Often referred to as “monsters from the deep,” due to their rows of sharp teeth, they are extremely ugly but considered a wonderful fish to eat and are often served with passion fruit and banana sauce. A short journey along the coast leads to a glass walkway at the top of the towering Cabo Girao, allowing visitors to walk out and admire the stunning vistas. At the entrance,
we encountered an oddly dressed man playing bongos and chanting in strange tones. A rainbow formed overhead, so we drove up the nearby hillside to get a better view. There were many eucalyptus trees and the air was heavy with their pungent scent. Further along the coast, we traveled through a rock tunnel, which made its exit onto a road where a waterfall plunged onto the pavement from the lofty rocks above. Many visitors stopped to dance in the cascading water. TRAVELING WEST Eventually, we traveled west from Funchal to Quinta do Lorde. The terrain became frilly, and smooth porous stones of various colors littered
the landscape. A couple of small vans along the way displayed beautiful handmade artwork. We continued to Semana, famous for its historical tiny A-framed houses with straw roofs. I especially enjoyed the woman spinning yarn for her handicrafts in one of the A-frames and the homemade cakes and biscuits in another. The flavor of home baking outstripped the usual tourist offerings. We received some interesting baking instructions using local ingredients, like the syrup from the sugarcane — often referred to as honey cane — and used in the island’s traditional madeira cake. Here too they sold Madeira wine, and we learned that a five-year- aged bottle goes well with savory dishes and a ten-year-old with desserts.
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INTO THE MOUNTAINS The levadas, narrow channels of water which slope from the humid north to the drier south, were first built in the sixteenth century. Energizing walks following the levadas offer magnificent panoramic views and opportunities to enjoy nature at its best. Some of the most interesting viewpoints on these expeditions could be found on Pico Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, two of the area’s highest peaks. The micro climate here places you above the clouds, which was a truly enchanting experience. We returned to Funchal along a route which was, at times, shrouded in mist where temperatures plummeted. We stopped for refreshment at a rustic timber restaurant, a place akin to a ski lodge with blazing log fires. It seemed so bizarre when not far away, down in Funchal, it was warm and sunny. We enjoyed a cheese and sausage platter with all the accompaniments here that was fantastic.
As we continued toward the capital, small hamlets with terraces of cultivation began to appear, and the verges on either side were edged with hydrangeas for mile after mile. Later, we entered banana-growing country. The giant bunches of fruit looked almost ready to harvest.
to another. They vary in size and depth. There is also a children’s play area, changing rooms and bathrooms with lockers for storing personal items, and a restaurant on site. We spent quite a bit of time here enjoying the unique ambiance. ETERNAL SPRINGTIME One of the greatest things about Madeira is the diversity of experiences available, with colorful tropical vegetation and a wonderful climate year-round. There is also a packed calendar of events, from the flower festival in the summer to the fireworks display at New Year’s, which has been heralded as one of the world’s must-see displays.
THE PICTURESQUE NORTHERN COAST
Traveling on, we encountered several gushing waterfalls en route to the north shores of the island, where great waves of the Atlantic Ocean pounded the coast. We stopped for coffee and encountered strange alien-looking plants hanging in giant loops. Further along the coast, we visited the natural swimming pools at Porto Maniche, which are formed by volcanic lava and filled with crystal-clear sea water from the Atlantic. Paths and walkways connect the pools, so it is possible to swim in one and easily move
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
PENNY PREVILLE SHOW YOUR TRUE COLORS WITH
C olor has its own unique language, with its own vocabulary. And like words, color evokes emotional energy. The meanings of colors vary widely, symbolically and emotionally, from culture to culture and from person to person. The colors we choose to surround ourselves in our environment play a huge role in how we feel. Penny Preville’s newest designs embrace and delight in the passion and power of color in our everyday world. Diamond clusters of all sizes are also gracefully placed, adding unique and enticing texture to some of your favorite pieces. Convertible earrings and pendants give each woman ultimate wearability — allowing her to style any look the way she wants, day or night. Whether it’s grazing the neckline, dangling elegantly from the ear, or completing a wrist stack, Penny’s collections inspire every woman to express her unique style in full color.
Clockwise from left: Rainbow Sapphire Bypass Ring with over 2 Carats of Sapphires Rainbow Sapphire Confetti Necklace in 18K Rose Gold Pink Sapphire Aura Hoops & Ring in 18K with Diamonds Purple Sapphire Ombre Cushion Cut Bangle in 18K Rose Gold
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
In a relentless pursuit of colorful beauty, Penny Preville also has a special adoration for gold — both in radiant yellow and pristine white. The warmth of yellow gold mirrors the golden hues of dawn, evoking feelings of comfort, nostalgia, and an undeniable charm. On the other hand, the cool touch of white gold provides a contrast reminiscent of moonlit nights and the expanse of a wintry landscape. When Penny chooses to meld gemstones with either shade of this precious metal, magic unfolds. Vibrant stones like emeralds and rubies take on a deep, sultry glow against yellow gold, while blue sapphires and diamonds shimmer with an unmatched brilliance when cradled in her white gold designs. A master at creating playful and colorful adornments, Penny Preville showcases her innate understanding of what every woman craves when it comes to harmony, contrast, sparkle, and shine. With each piece, she invites you into a world of sophisticated styles and elegant pieces that spark emotion and speak to your soul.
Clockwise from top left: Aura Rings in Pink Sapphire, Diamond, Emerald, Sapphire and Ruby Emerald Shape Pavè Necklace
Antique Amulet Y Necklace Modern Deco Station Bracelet
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CAR CRAZY
BY GARY WOLLENHAUPT
Jerry ’ s New Porsche
The 1999 Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe Sonderwunsch Factory One-Off underwent a total factory restoration and modification under the direction of the Porsche Club of America. It toured the country for a year before being auctioned at the Porsche 75th Anniversary Auction by Broad Arrow Auctions in June. Seinfeld, who already has one of the most impressive collections of Porsches in private hands, won the bidding at $1.3 million, including the buyer’s premium. The 911 Classic Club Coupe, offered at no reserve, was only available for purchase by PCA members, which Seinfeld has been for more than 30 years.
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T he car represents a singular vision of what a Porsche 911 could be. The 911 Classic Club Coupe is a one-of-one Sonderwunsch (special wishes) project completed by Porsche Classic in collaboration with the Porsche Club of America (PCA). That this is a unique car will not surprise anyone who sees it, but a “No. 001/001” badge on the dashboard underscores its scarcity. A ducktail spoiler reminiscent of the 1972 911 Carrera RS 2.7, a double-bubble roof, 18-inch forged aluminum Fuchs wheels, and unique paint combine to create a striking resemblance to the Type 997 911 Sport Classic. Those looks are only part of the story. It was inspired by the 2010 Porsche 911 Sport Classic and the current 911 Sport Classic and designed by Style Porsche Director of Special Projects, Grant Larson, in collaboration with the Porsche Club of America. The two groups discussed what could have occurred had Porsche’s special manufacturing unit and the PCA worked together in previous decades. They looked back at the 2010 911 Sport Classic, Porsche’s first Exclusive Manufaktur series production model. That inspiration led to a question: What would a prequel to the 2010 911 Sport Classic look like? Larson, designer of the Carrera GT Case Study, the 2012 911 Sport Classic, and the 2023 911 Sport Classic while serving as director of special projects at Style Porsche, involved himself from the beginning. Larson sketched out his vision of a proto-Sport Classic from Style Porsche in Stuttgart. At the same time, PCA Executive Director Vu Nguyen searched for the right donor vehicle. Ultimately, a 1999 Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe was located in Virginia. Shortly thereafter, the 911 Coupe was flown back to Stuttgart- Zuffenhausen to begin the transformation from “just” a classic 911 to a 911 Classic Club Coupe. Revealed in 2022 at PCA’s Werks Reunion gathering on Amelia Island, the 911 Classic Club Coupe toured the country that year, visiting PCA events such as the Porsche Parade in the Poconos, Porsche Sports Car Together Fest at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Werks Reunion Monterey, and ünStock. Based on a 1998 911 Carrera, the chassis, brakes, and engine are taken from the 996.2 911 GT3, the first such model homologated for sale in the U.S. Accordingly, the naturally aspirated 3.6-liter flat-six generates 381 horsepower. The donor car, which PCA Executive Director Vu Nguyen found in a state of neglect in Colombia, Virginia, traveled to the Porsche Classic workshop near the main plant in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, where it was originally built. There, it underwent a complete restoration, including total disassembly and strengthening of the body-in-white using original and newly developed parts. One question in car collecting circles is, how much does celebrity ownership add to the value of a car? Auto auction experts can point to a Jerry Seinfeld effect based on previous sales. When Seinfeld sells cars from his collection, they bring, on average, 47 percent more than the average Porsche of a comparable example. Seinfeld spent several times more on this car than similar cars, but who can put a price on a one-of-a-kind? COMEDIAN JERRY SEINFELD, A NOTED PORSCHE COLLECTOR, MASTERED HIS DOMAIN — AGAIN — WHEN HE WON THE HIGH BID FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY PORSCHE.
Photos courtesy of Broad Arrow Auctions
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TIME ZONE
ENERGIZE YOUR MOOD WITH A GORGEOUS POP OF COLOR.
COLOR A WHOLE WORLD OF Color is the biggest story in fashion, and big, vibrant colorful gemstones are some of the season’s most sought after pieces. Like a kid in a candy store, you can gaze through all of the different colors and interesting shapes we have in stock. Some gems, like birthstones, can hold very special defined meanings, while others, like a blue sapphire, or geen emerald may spark a memory of the crystal waters of the Caribbean.
Rolex has pulled out all the creative stops in its 2023 collection, including this joyful take on the traditional Oyster Perpetual. The dial is lacquered with 51 bubbles in bright colors: turquoise blue, candy pink, yellow, coral, red, and green. Each color is applied and fired separately, followed by the application of black lacquer borders on each bubble. Sizes begin small, at 31 mm, and there are also 36 mm and 41 mm sizes. All cases are steel, and movements are automatic.
Top: Rainbow Bypass Sapphire Spring Bracelet and Ring, Rainbow Sapphire Choker.
Bottom: Kwiat Diamond and Calibre Cut Emerald RIng and Earrings.
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Legacy Round Diamond Mesh Necklace in 18K White Gold with 13.51 carats; Lyric Stackable Bangle, Stackable Bangle and Sunburst Multi- Shape Diamond Bracelet in 18K White Gold; Lyric Five Row Crossover Ring in 18K White Gold, Lyric Five Row Diamond Cocktail Ring with 4.49 carats; Five Row Ear Cuff in 18K White Gold.
DECK the NECK
Christmas Necklaces to Adorn Your Holiday Look
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Diamond Strings Round Diamond Bezel Necklace in 18K Yellow Gold, Zodiac Libra Pendant, Starry Night Smile Chain Necklace in 18K with Diamonds; Starry Night Bracelet with Diamonds in 18K Yellow Gold, Duet Pear Shape Open Bangle in 18K Yellow with Diamonds, Portofino Confetti Diamond Bangle, Bangle with Mixed Shape Diamonds; 1” Hoop Earrings with .25 Diamonds in 18K Yellow Gold; Ashoka East/West Shared Prong Eternity Band, Kwiat Cushion Compass Orientation Floating Solitaire.
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Sunburst Graduated Line Necklace with Emerald Cut Diamonds in 18K Yellow Gold; Bracelets: Stackable Bangle with Fancy Shape Diamonds, Stackable Bangle with Diamonds, ASHOKA Bezel Set Twin Bangle Set East/West, “Love” Bangle, ASHOKA East/West Bracelet; Sunburst Drop Earrings with Diamonds in 18K Yellow Gold; ASHOKA East/West 18K Yellow Gold Shared Prong Eternity Ring, Kwiat Cushion Compass Orientation Floating Solitaire.
& glisten
gleam
’tis the season for holiday bling!
Zen Diamond Necklace Pavé set with 3 carats of Diamonds, Zen Diamond Bangle in 18K Yellow Gold, Moonlight 3-Row Medium Bangle with Pavé Diamonds, Cobblestone Crossover Diamond Bangle; Moonlight 3-Row Crossover Ring with Pavé Diamonds.
American Beauty Round and Marquise Diamond Garland Necklace in Platinum with 19 Carats of Diamonds; Large American Beauty Swirl Earrings in Platinum with over 6 Carats; American Beauty Diamond Bracelet with 6 and a Half Carats of Diamonds; Round and Marquise Diamond Band in 18K White and Yellow Gold with Diamonds.
DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
BY JENNIFER BRUGH
monica rich kosann STORIES THAT LAST
M onica Rich Kosann is not just a designer; she’s a storyteller, translating whispers of personal journeys into timeless yet modern jewelry. With a background in portrait photography, Monica finds her muse in art and European landscapes, designing jewelry that doesn’t just adorn but empowers and encourages the modern woman. There is a sophisticated subtlety in Monica Rich Kosann’s work. Each
piece is crafted to be timeless — to be as relevant in 50 years as it is today. However, the designs do not shy away from modernity. They are stylish and contemporary, exuding a sense of boldness without overwhelming the aesthetics. This duality ensures that each piece can be versatile, worn in a corporate boardroom or an intimate dinner, yet always adding something unique to a woman’s style.
THROUGH ALL, PERSEVERE No matter the struggle, perseverance always prevails. The Perseverance collection’s delicate enchantments remind us that fish always swim forward despite the obstacles, and we can do the same. These pieces are poignant emblems of progress and enduring spirit. The Perseverance Fish was inspired by Les Craquelins , a type of sculptural French pottery that Monica discovered during her visits to the Paris flea markets. Elegant and simple, the Perseverance collection is far from ordinary — a reminder that we should continue striving towards our goals and that all difficulties are temporary.
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YOUR COMPASS POINTS NORTH As we gaze toward the horizon, the question always lingers: what adventures await us? Enter the Points North collection, a line that embodies the spirit of discovery, guiding us toward new and exciting journeys. Drawing deeply from the symbolism embedded in compass iconography, this collection serves as both a physical and metaphorical compass, pointing us toward directions filled with untapped potential and promise. With the Points North collection, we’re reminded of Monica Rich Kosann’s unyielding commitment to quality and of our own limitless possibilities when we dare to venture beyond the horizon.
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FALL IN LOVE WITH LOCKETS Simultaneously classic and modern, lockets are the new wardrobe essential that allows a woman to capture and carry her most meaningful personal stories. Regardless of their age, women are choosing lockets because they offer a contemporary, yet timeless sensibility coupled with their inherent mystery, intrigue, and — once the wearer makes them her own by choosing what to put in her locket — unrivaled exclusivity. Much like a watch, lockets are a new wardrobe basic. They are an everyday complement to casual or business attire, but the range of extraordinary styles available allows lockets to accent even the most beautiful designer gowns.
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Design Your Own Necklace
DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
BY CAROL BESLER
shine mine to KWIAT CREATES A NEW WAY TO BUY A DIAMOND
T here are so many options when it comes to buying a diamond: size, shape, color, and, increasingly, country of origin. What if you could have everything you wanted in one diamond, just by ordering it that way, rather than waiting until you sift through the endless options? The Kwiat Mine to Shine program is the first retail offering that allows a customer to follow a singular rough diamond, ethically mined from a known origin, through the process of cutting and setting to create a one-of-a-kind ring. It’s a concept set to revolutionize the way we buy diamonds. Kwiat has been a diamond jeweler since 1907, and over the past century, it has established a network of relationships across the supply chain that gives it a rare advantage. It can choose rough diamonds, each tracked to its country of origin, that will yield finished diamonds with specific qualities. Now Kwiat is passing that advantage on to its customers.
Kwiat records a diamond’s provenance and then follows each stone through cutting, polishing, and then crafting the setting and mounting the diamond, eliminating middlemen along the process. By ethically sourcing diamonds from known origins, Kwiat is supporting the economies of mining regions, which benefits schools, hospitals, and other community resources. With each purchase, Kwiat makes a donation to charity:water, the nonprofit organization that provides a family with clean drinking water.
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Concurrent with the Mine to Shine program, Kwiat debuts its Tiara Diamonds collection of seven iconic shapes, all cut to the highest standards. The shapes include Kwiat Round, Kwiat Emerald Cut, Kwiat Cushion, Kwiat Radiant, Kwiat Oval, ASHOKA, and Fred Leighton Round. Each is perfectly cut and consistent every time, designed to optimize brilliance, fire, and scintillation. “Natural diamonds sourced from reputable locales, such as Botswana, Canada, Namibia, and South Africa, have a tremendous positive impact on local communities and citizens,” says Greg Kwiat, the company’s CEO. “We expect that in the years to come, other brands will follow our lead and adopt a more transparent and engaging approach.”
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
David Yurman’s sleek
STREAMLINED COLLECTION
is every man’s jewelry
N o longer an afterthought, fine jewelry is now part of every man’s signature style. And if you don’t already know it, American jeweler David Yurman is the go-to brand for masculine, sleek, comfortable men’s jewelry. His signature pieces are often referred to as “live in” pieces, because they never come off. “It feels easy and effortless,” says singer Shawn Mendes, the company’s new brand ambassador, when talking about what attracted him to David Yurman’s designs. “I’ve always worn these jewelry pieces because they are special but also subtle enough for me to feel comfortable in my own skin.” Take the new Streamlined collection, which expresses a masculine yet polished style with minimalist 18k gold and silver pieces that elevate any look, from a suit to jeans and T-shirt. The essentials include a smooth 18k yellow gold ID bracelet, a sculpted silver chain-link necklace, and a sleek
gold amulet pendant outlined with a thin line of diamonds. Proportion, balance, and
craftsmanship reign in every David Yurman piece, and these qualities are expressed in the company’s prolific range of chains, which are meticulously crafted and engineered, and every single link is hand-finished. In fact, chains were among David Yurman’s earliest sculptural, direct-welded pieces of jewelry. Today, there is a distinctive chain — in 18k gold or silver; smooth or with Cable details; sparkling with white diamond or dark diamond accents — to satisfy every man’s style. One key accessory this season is the classic cigar band ring, which, like the signet ring, becomes a man’s signature piece. New gold styles feature lapis lazuli, onyx, and tiger’s eye, or it comes in smooth, clean, all gold. The bonus? They are made with Yurman’s comfort fit, so you never need to take them off.
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www.christianbauer.us
HAPPILY EVER AFTER
At Fredric H. Rubel Jewelers, we feel it is our privilege to have played a part in your life’s biggest and most precious moments since 1928. WEDDING BELLES
Olivia and David
Sarah and Trent
Domonique & Randy
Chloe and Josh
Lucy and Cole
Marika and Phoenix
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