Look Book

"Women like pieces that have character and uniqueness – that speak to their individuality. Men want to buy diamonds," says Bernstein. These designers cater to the woman who knows what she wants to wear and are delivering the goods that women seek. Yet while they all deliver a unique style that speaks to today's jewelry consumer is responding to, her selection of designers does not overlap. The book has been curated to show vastly different styles and creative identities. In this way, the book is gratifying eye candy! It also happens to be a delightful, and insightful, peek into the lives (and minds) of these rising stars. As a journalist, Bernstein is skilled at drawing people out in interviews, asking striking questions to bring out revealing answers from some of today's greatest designers. jemmawynne.com Working closely with all the designers, Bernstein selected images that portrayed an evolution of the designer's style – past and present alike. This vulnerability, displaying work that is not only current but perhaps a style that the artist has moved beyond, shows the trust that Bernstein has developed with the artists in order to tell their story. Much of this rapport has been earned by her years in the industry involved with a collective of designers. "Who," Bernstein says, "are very supportive of each other in ways that certain brands and renowned houses never were." Frustrated only that she was unable to include many other deserving designers, Bernstein chose to keep the book as intimate and focused as possible. But with so much rich material, and her eye on other designers she's anxious to profile, a sequel or a series is likely in order. armansarkisyan.com 69 W W W.theWeddingringbook.CoM j e w e l r y ' s s h i n i n g s ta r s Pairing these compelling interviews with stunning photos of the designers' jewelry makes for a powerful combination. b o o k re v ie w "I didn't want to only talk about jewelry," says Bernstein. "As a memoir writer myself, I wanted a personal element. Those details make a difference." Bernstein allows the designers to speak in their own voice, revealing more about who they really are. "Secrets and quirks and anecdotes brings out the more human side – the side we can all relate to," says Bernstein. "It offers a universal appeal and connects the designer and the reader."

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