As we look around us we see the new spring colors emerging in stores, we wonder what jewelry accessories will adorn those outfits. The Jewelry forcast 2004 says that the focus this year will be on the ears. Women will be wearing upswept hairstyles that will show off their flamboyant earrings. Chandelier earrings are going to play a significant part in this years jewelry role. The chandelier earrings that we will see this year are bigger and bolder, created in more colors than the year before. Personally I think that women have began to enjoy adorning themselves in the playful, vivid jewelry that has begun to make it's way into the market. From jeans to an evening gown, women want to feel like they sparkle. "Bling-Bling" comes to mind. When I first heard this term, I had to ask what it meant. According to my sources it means big and sparkly. My kids could not believe that I knew what "Bling-Bling" meant! Hey! I can be hip!

Pink jewelry is a major trend in jewelry. Could it be influenced by Jennifer Lopez's pink diamond engagement ring? Although the wedding is off, the trend still marches on.

Chandelier Earrings are here to stay, for the second year in a row with no signs of stopping. Look around you! TV, movies, news broadcasters, at the mall.......... I see chandelier earrings everywhere! This year, they will be bigger and bolder than the previous year, in many more colors.

Charm bracelets have really become a popular accessory. They are not the typical charm bracelets though. The most popular are the handmade charm bracelets that incorporate gem stone beads with the charms to give a full, decorative look. These bracelets reflect each wearers personality and interests. We have seen the emergence of "mothers bracelets", "daughters bracelets" and "spirit bracelets". These are all fun ways to personalize your jewelry and show your school spirit.

Pendants strung on a leather cord or on a necklace designed with various gemstones are extremely popular. Pendants are beginning to move from dull to unique. Various objects are being used for the pendants. Be creative and show your style!

Chunky Gem Stone Jewelry. Big chunky jewelry! My favorite! We are seeing jewelry designed with several strands of big gem stones and pearls (real or faux). Handmade gem stone jewelry is extremely popular and can be found in many boutiques across the country. Handmade jewelry has become an art rather than just a string of beads.

Sterling Silver has become the standard in jewelry this year. Necklaces designed with chain and a "dangle" are extremely trendy.

Black leather cord jewelry can be seen everywhere. It is so versatile with unlimited options. This type of jewelry can be dressed up to wear with a dress or dressed down to wear with your favorite jeans. It goes great with the current fashions!

Floater necklaces are something that are extremely interesting. They look like gemstones, pearls or beads strung on air. And that is the concept. Actually they are beads randomly strung on a clear or practically invisible line.

Colorful Gemstones, to brighten your wardrobe are in demand. We will see a variety of emeralds, sapphire, citrines, aquamarines, rubies and garnets, just to name a few. The bolder the better.

Coral in many shades from pink to orange are a hot item this year. Throw it in with other gemstones and you will have a definite eye catcher.

Jewelry is a way of expressing yourself, be it sophisticated or fun and funky. Add a little bit of your personality to your attire!

Lisa Jay is a freelance writer and the jewelry designer behind Lantana Designwear.

Copyright © 2004, Lantana Designwear

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