Julia Failey

Trunk Show At Elizabeth Blair Fine Pearls

2014-07-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

We're on our way to Harbor Springs for a trunk show at Elizabeth Blair! Come join us at the store at 115 W. Main Street this Saturday, August 2nd, from 10am to 5pm to see the hottest stones of summer. Be sure to follow our instagram @juliafailey for a sneak peak as we unload the trunk!

For more information about the Julia Failey trunk show, please call Elizabeth Blair Fine Pearls at 231-526-7500. This event is free and open to the public. We look forward to seeing you at the trunk show!

Happy Earth Day!

2014-04-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

In honor of Earth Day, we thought we’d offer a few culturally minded ways to celebrate everyone’s favorite Mother Earth.

1. Diamonds are valued not only for their intrinsic beauty, but for the fundamental information locked within them. Research at the Carnegie Institution is illuminating the earth's history through diamonds.

2. Spring has sprung, and green thumbs are getting grounded in sustainable gardens. The goal of sustainable gardening is to create a self-reliant growth system -- a process that is better for your wallet and gentler on the planet. Ready to dig in? Check out Chicago's Sustainable Backyards Program and Windy City Harvest to learn more.

3. Refresh your spring wardrobe with sustainable designer clothing. Shop Lucky Magazine's Best Eco Shops In America, including Chicago-based Frei Designs and Lara Miller.

4. Watch A Fierce Green Fire, the latest installment of PBS’s American Masters series. This one-hour documentary explores 50 years of grassroots and global activism and connects the major causes of environmentalism, from conservation to climate change. Narrated by Robert Redford, Meryl Streep, Ashley Judd, Van Jones and Isabel Allende, the film premiered at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival and has won worldwide acclaim.

5. Kiehl’s Rare Earth Cleansing Masque has long term beauty benefits for you and Mother Earth. In honor of Earth Day, Kiehl's is donating 100 percent of the proceeds of this mask (up to $50,000) to the nonprofit Recycle Across America .

6. Expand your world and travel the earth. Gili Lankanfushi Maldives recently made my travel bucket list. Set on a private island in a clear, turquoise lagoon, this 5-star resort is as serious about luxury as it is about eco-consciousness.

Happy Holidays!

2013-12-25T11:58:00.000-06:00

Wishing you a happy & healthy holiday season and sparking new year.

With love and gratitude from Julia Failey.

Gift Guide: The Perfect Last Minute Gift & Stocking Stuffer

2013-12-21T08:15:00.000-06:00

Still searching for the perfect gift for the girl who has everything? Thoughtful to give and easy to get, Julia Failey Gift Cards can be printed or emailed directly to your gift recipient with the click of a button. AND...for every $100 you spend in gift cards we will give you $25 towards your next purchase on our website! Good things do come in small packages.

Get [Hand] Cuffed For Christmas

2013-12-18T07:30:00.000-06:00

Labradorite Diamond Turquoise Cuff Bracelet $635.00 / Pink Tourmaline Cuff Bracelet $565.00

Gold Drusy Opal Cuff Bracelet $885.00 / Emerald Diamond Spinel Cuff Bracelet $675.00

Gold Drusy Spinel Cuff Bracelet $825.00 / Gold Drusy Diamond Spinel Cuff Bracelet $1425.00

SHOP CUFF BRACELETS ->

Announcing Our Pin To Win Contest Winner!

2013-11-15T16:47:00.003-06:00

Congratulations to Real Virginian of Washington, DC, lucky winner of our Julia Failey Wish List Pin To Win Contest. Contact us to redeem your $300 JF Gift Card.

Thank you to everyone who entered ~ be sure to look for our next event and keep on pinning your Julia Failey faves!

Mustache Cufflinks For No Shave November

2013-11-08T12:21:00.000-06:00

Movember and No-Shave November are movements that encourage men to grow their facial for the 30-days of November. With their new beards and mustaches, participants bring much needed awareness to men’s health issues by prompting conversations wherever they go.

A couple years ago, the TODAY show featured our Mustache Cufflinks {benefiting the Prostate Cancer Foundation on behalf of MANuary} in a segment on gifts that give back. This year, the men of Today joined the movement and are letting it all grow out in support of the cause. Follow their furry faces and share yours using #NoShaveTODAY on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Feeling inspired and ready to grow? Visit the Movember and No-Shave November websites to get involved, and purchase our Silver Mustache Cufflinks to show your support.

Jewelry Trends For The Holidays

2013-11-06T15:03:00.003-06:00

Watch Halstead Bead's video on jewelry trends for the holidays featuring Julia Failey rose gold jewelry.

Redesign Heirloom Jewelry

2013-11-04T06:00:00.003-06:00

Marie received a garnet and diamond ring from her grandmother and, as a ER surgeon in a Chicago hospital, the style and setting did not fit her lifestyle. She fell in love with a bespoke mother's ring in our design gallery and requested a similar design in white gold using her grandmother's gems.

Do you have heirloom jewelry that sits in your jewelry box simply because it's not your style? If you are fortunate enough to inherit jewelry that you {unfortunately} don't wear, you might want to give custom re-design a go.

Julia Failey works one on one with our clients to craft unique, one of a kind pieces of bespoke jewelry. Visit our design gallery and see how our customers have honored the memories of loved ones by incorporating family jewels in bespoke engagement rings and wedding bands. Contact us to create a unique piece that tells your family story.

Julia Failey Jewelry On Caratime

2013-11-01T12:05:00.001-05:00

Have you checked out Caratime.com? This one stop online jewelry boutique features a unique curation of jewelry for men & women, and Julia Failey is now featured among their talented designers.

Caratime co-founder, Anne-Sophie Mignaux, feels that jewelry is essential in completing a look. "Precious jewels and their intrinsic value make them a long-term investment. Whether it's a gift from a friend, a lover or a gift that one has to oneself, attention when buying a piece of jewelry is special, always unique." Caratime's stylist experts and sales teams are dedicated to making your online shopping experience enjoyable and are always happy to answer your enquiries.

Shop the Julia Failey collection and Caratime will ship your order worldwide.

Pin To Win A $300 Julia Failey Gift Card!

2013-10-30T16:01:00.000-05:00

To Enter:

Follow Julia Failey on Pinterest
Create a new board and name it Julia Failey Wish List.
Visit www.juliafailey.com and pin your favorite jewels to your Julia Failey Wish List board.
Click here to submit your entry or email us with a link to your Pinterest board.

Contest begins on October 30th, 2013 and ends at 6pm on November 13th, 2013. Items must be pinned from our website or re-pin from our Pinterest boards to qualify. One winner will be selected by a panel of qualified judges based on creativity and brand enthusiasm. Share your board on Twitter and Facebook, and invite your friends, family and Pinterest followers to “follow” your Julia Failey Wish List to increase your chances of winning. The winning Pinner will be selected and notified via e-mail on November 15th, 2013 . We will also announce make announcements on our Facebook Page, Blog and Twitter so be sure to follow us for updates. The contest prize is not exchangeable for cash or another prize. Please email us if you have any trouble entering.

Good luck and happy pinning!

Decorate Your Digits With Stacking Rings

2013-10-16T09:40:00.000-05:00

When it comes to stacking rings, you can't have too many. Whether you like your rings piled high, worn solo or somewhere in between, our new collection offers a variety of ring party pleasers.

In choosing your digit decor, consider metal color {go for the golden trilogy of rose, yellow and white gold or any combination of the three}, unique diamonds, colorful gemstones and contrasting textures. Commemorate birthdays, Christmas, motherhood, anniversaries, and other special occasions with new additions and keep your favorite memories at your fingertips.

How do you stack up? Follow us on Instagram for inspiration and visit our website to create your unique stack.

Join Us At Sparkle in the City

2013-10-11T11:22:00.002-05:00

Please join us for the Women's Jewelry Association's Sparkle In The City

October 17, 2013 from 6pm to 9pm

Marshall Pierce & Company

29 E. Madison Suite 600

Chicago, IL 60602

Preview collections from the Midwest's finest jewelry designers

Ann Alfeld-Flick Design

Anne Van Der Meulen Jeweler FGA

Best Friends Diamonds and Gems

BP Designs

Julia Failey

SC Diamonds

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Inspiring Ways To Organize Your Jewelry

2013-10-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

In a rush to get out the door, you reach into your jewelry box to find a necklace and find a clump of chains that you don’t have time to untangle. Sound familiar?

We created a Pinterest board with inspiring ways to organize your baubles. Not only will you never again struggle to unearth that perfect necklace, you’ll be able to display your favorite pieces beautifully and stylishly.

How do you organize your jewels?

Unique Men's Wedding Bands

2013-10-07T07:30:00.000-05:00

Photo: Pen / Carlson

While your wedding will be a day that lasts forever in your memories, your rings are the symbols of your love and commitment that you will wear every day of your life. For many men, a wedding band is their first {and perhaps only} piece of fine jewelry, and the selection process may feel overwhelming.

More and more men are opting for wedding bands specifically designed to fit their lifestyle and personality. Just like the classic two-button black suit, a simple band isn't for every man. That's why bespoke custom wedding bands have become sought after choices for many men.

Here are some ways to make your wedding band uniquely yours.

The warm, soft hue of rose gold is a flattering match with a variety of skin tones. A rose gold wedding band offers a distinctive twist on a classic style, perfect for the man seeking a vintage feel.

Photo: Pen / Carlson

An unconventional finish may be the ideal way to accomplish the look you have in mind. A matte finish provides a sleek, modern look, while a hammered finish can add interesting texture.

A custom designed wedding band is the ultimate reflection of your individuality. If you can dream it, we can create it. Regardless of your style and budget, we would love to help you create an unforgettably unique wedding band. Contact us with your idea!

Friday I'm In Love

2013-10-04T12:31:00.000-05:00

I hope you have a wonderful weekend ~ here are some interesting links that I enjoyed this week. Enjoy...

Check It out. {amazon.com}

Isabel Marant For H&M. Start making your wish list now. {vogue.com}

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps. They're what's bakin'. {smittenkitchen.com}

Obamacare explained {nbc.com}

Art history illustrated in one of our favorite fashion mediums: shoes. {buzzfeed.com}

A poison ring fit for Game of Thrones. {discovery.com}

Engagement ring inspiration. {vogue.co.uk}

Bigger can be better. {nytimes.com}

October Opals

2013-10-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

"Made up of the glories of the most precious gems, to describe them is a matter of inexpressible difficulty. For there is amongst them the gentle fire of the ruby, there is the rich purple of amethyst, there is the sea green of the emerald, and all shining together in an indescribable union. Others, by an excessive heightening of their hues equal all the colours of the painter, others the flame of burning brimstone, or of a fire quickened by oil." - Pliny the Elder on Opals

The ancient Romans believed a person who wore the opal was protected from disease, and opals were often set into the crowns and necklaces of rulers who believed its healing powers would ward off evil. Today, the gift of opal conveys a message of faithfulness, protection and loyalty.

Opal is October's birthstone and the traditional gem for the 14th wedding anniversaries, but we don't need a special occasion to celebrate these unique gems.

Gold Opal Twist Ring Opal Diamond Thorn Ring

Bespoke Sapphire, Emerald And Diamond Engagement Ring

2013-09-25T10:08:00.000-05:00

Sapphires have been revered for centuries for their mythical properties and symbolism. Sapphire jewelry given as a gift represents trust, honesty and loyalty. The color blue is said to signify loyalty and fidelity. The combined symbolism and intrinsic beauty of the gemstone make blue sapphires an appropriate choice for engagement rings.

I recently had the pleasure of working with Stephen on this beautiful bespoke sapphire and emerald engagement ring for his {now} fiancé Elisabeth. Stephen had been attentive to Elisabeth's cues, and he thoughtfully considered her likes/dislikes, Pinterest board, and {subtle} hints in the design process. He concluded that the following features were important to her aesthetic:

Platinum

Sapphire and/or Emerald

Nothing that goes "up" like the cartoon version of a diamond ring.

Radial symmetry

...and she said "julie will know what to do with that." {no pressure}

The central blue sapphire and the diamond accents were taken from heirloom pieces contributed by family members. The emeralds were hand selected and custom cut to fit the Platinum setting.

The result: a happy engagement in Glacier National Park

Check out my design gallery for more custom jewelry, and send me an email if you are interested in having a piece of fine jewelry designed for your {or someone else}.

Talk to me. Leave your thoughts in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you!

Friday I'm In Love

2013-05-10T12:36:00.000-05:00

What are your plans for this weekend? I'm headed to Indy for a gala honoring my mom for her success in raising funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on Saturday, and I'll celebrate Mother's Day with her on Sunday. I hope you have a wonderful weekend, and here are some interesting links to break your routine...

Real life fairy tales

Robin Williams vs. Kim Kardashian. Who wore it better?

I can't wait to taste these brunch recipes

...and work it off with this 7-minute workout

California dreamin'

What they wore to the Met ball.

Who's going?

Say it with cake

Lessons learned from fashionable moms

Happy Mother's Day to mothers everywhere! xo

Great Gatsby Inspired Style

2013-05-08T13:25:00.000-05:00

We've been anxiously awaiting director Baz Luhrmann’s vision of The Great Gatsby for months, and the film finally hits theaters this Friday. In honor of the upcoming premiere, we are shining the spotlight on opulent jewels and decadent style inspired by the Daisy Buchanans of the Roaring Twenties.

Daisy Buchanan ~ A Beautiful Little Fool by jfailey

Charlotte Olympia Handbag
modaoperandi.com

Cartier Watch
cartier.us

Gold Art Deco Flower Ring
juliafailey.com

Pearl Tassel Earrings
juliafailey.com

Dress
pinterest.com

Cameo Pendant Necklace No.1
pinterest.com

In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars ~ F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

Friday I'm In Love

2013-05-03T13:41:00.000-05:00

This afternoon I'm embarking on a road trip up north. I've successfully procrastinated packing {among other things} so my time is short. Before I go, I wanted to share a few irresistible links from around the web. I hope you have a great weekend! Enjoy...

A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous ~ inspiring quotes from a fabulous woman

Customize this classic shoe, just for you.

Who What Wear brings it home with their new site Domaine Home.

Sip these margaritas and take a swing at this yummy piñata cake on Cinco de Mayo.

Kentucky Derby hats & ginger-mint juleps, perfect for a day at the races.

This Fast Company article just confirms that Jenna Lyons is a fashion force.

Get the skinny on the latest news & jumpstart any cocktail convo.

Legend of the Kross.

Friday I'm In Love

2013-04-26T11:02:00.000-05:00

Friday is finally here, and I'm looking forward to a {relatively}mellow weekend. I've been working on sketches for fall collections, and I'm excited to see the new jewelry come into fruition. I hope you have a great weekend ~ if you're in a blog-reading mood, here are a few fun links from around the web...

These thoughts on friendship are a reminder of what matters most.

He's too sexy for his country.

Find some beautiful place to get lost.

This is what a $100,000 iPhone case looks like.

Join this race to help those who were injured in the devastating bombings at this year's Boston marathon.

Harness your habits.

Chicago's Green City Market is named one of the 10 best farmer's markets in the U.S.

I loved watching this illustrated life.

These beauty secrets may surprise you.

Groomsmen Gift Ideas That Keep It Classy

2013-04-22T07:30:00.000-05:00

Your groomsmen are your bros ~ they've been there for you through thick & thin, and they'll stand by you on the most important day of your life. Groomsman gifts are a great way to show your gratitude and appreciation for their friendship on your wedding day.

Selecting the perfect gift {that they will actually like & use} can be challenging. Here's a snapshot of ten sterling silver Monogrammed Money Clips I created for a custom client to give as groomsmen gifts.

If your boys already have their clips, have no fear. Below are six more classy, cool gifts that you’ll be proud to give to your groomsmen.

You don't know how much you need a Valet Tray until you have one.

A Pocket Watch is well suited for a sharp dressed man.

A necessary travel accessory, a Dopp Kit will go the distance.

Monogrammed Cuff Links. A classic choice.

A Monogrammed Key Ring adds a personal touch to a functional gift.

Poker Set. Little box, lots of fun.

Friday I'm In Love

2013-04-19T07:30:00.000-05:00

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Stay strong, Boston

When it rains, it pours {at least that's been the case in Chicago over the past few days}. But there's light at the end of the tunnel ~ this weekend's weather looks more promising, and I'm looking forward to taking it as it comes. Have a wonderful weekend, and here are a few fun posts from around the web...

Mother's Day is May 11th. Do you have a gift for your mama, or your baby mama?

Life is full of questions. Choose your own adventure.

Harper's Bazaar makes food fashionable in Cherry Bombe

Sign me up for these cosmic kicks

Put a little bling into baking

You are more beautiful than you know.

These wedding shoes will put pep in your step

I never heard about a budget at Chanel ~ Karl Lager in Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s

Three Ways to Wear Rings

2013-04-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

You don't have to have a major rock to indulge in an eye-catching ring. From classic gold bands to exotic stones, there are styles to suit all tastes and budgets.

Petite White Sapphire Rings • Gold Monogram Signet Ring • Silver Art Deco Filigree Ring

Stacking 'Em On
“I am wholly standing behind the finger party though I’d rather call it a digital rager, puns et al,” says Leandra Medine, founder of The Man Repeller. Pick your number. The more, the merrier! Layer multiple fingers with numerous rings for a maximum layering effect.

Personalize Your Digits
There are some things that never go out of style, and the Signet Ring is one of them. Aristocrats have long worn their nobility on their pinkie finger, now you can too.

Statement Rings

If you only wear one piece of jewelry, make it a statement ring. Our vintage inspired rings combine classic with cool.