Boston Common - Niche Media - A side of Boston that's anything but common.
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/259813
C atheline van den Branden—the relentlessly chic pres ident of Boston's French Cultural Center—relies on timeless statement jewelry that complements her wardrobe and can take her from meetings to community events, and finally to a glass of wine in the evening with her husband and friends. One of her favorite jewelry design- ers is Israeli-born, New York City – based Alexandra Mor, whose limited-edition pieces are sold in Boston exclusively at Dorfman Jewelers. Right now, van den Branden has her eye on the designer's sensational, one-of-a-kind 26.16-carat sugarloaf emerald cabochon ring set in platinum with 18k yellow gold. "It's bright, bold, and exquisitely mounted," says van den Branden, who adores Mor's designs for their "luxurious, yet whimsical quality." She discovered Mor's work when her husband gave her a pair of the jeweler's black dia- mond briolette hoop earrings set in platinum and 18k yellow gold, which make a statement while being discreet enough to wear every day. Mor launched her collection four years ago with Phillips de Pury in New York and has become known for her double-split prong setting, delicate knife- edge detailing, and the concealed 18k gold lining. "It's impossible to imagine myself creating seasonal collections because my inspiration cannot be forced or scheduled," says Mor. "I believe the best pieces, like art, are created from authentic inspira- tion." Dorfman Jewelers, 24 Newbury St., 617-536-2022; alexandramor.com BC Green with Envy WHAT DOES CATHELINE VAN DEN BRANDEN OF THE FRENCH CULTURAL CENTER COVET THIS SPRING? ALEXANDRA MOR'S DAZZLING EMERALD RING. BY JESSICA LANIEWSKI 26.16-carat sugarloaf emerald cabochon ring, Alexandra Mor (price on request). Trendsetter Ted Mogtader has opened a new outpost of Lunette Optic in Lynnfield. Check out the new line of high-tech sunglasses from designer and architect Philippe Starck, Starck Eyes, created in collaboration with Alain Mikli and fashioned in aluminum, titanium, and acetate. 1225 Market St., Lynnfield, 781-334-6800; lunetteoptic.com Cheeky designer Jonathan Adler is opening a new store this March at The Street in Chestnut Hill. Expect a larger space than the Newbury Street boutique (which will remain open), showcasing Adler's rugs, furniture, and home accessories. The Street, 55 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill; jonathanadler.com The new South End boutique December Thieves highlights owner Lana Barakat's jewelry line, Lazuli, as well as unique items such as Lurdes Bergada apparel and Numero 3 jewelry from Barcelona, vases from France, and pocket scarves from the Oregon– based company Kiriko. 524 Harrison Ave., 617-375-7879; decemberthieves.com TO-DO List WISH LIST " It's bright, bold, and exquisitely mounted." CATHELINE VAN DEN BRANDEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA RICHOV/ELEVIN STUDIOS (VAN DEN BRANDEN) 80 BOSTONCOMMON-MAGAZINE.COM WISH LIST 080_BC_SS_WishList_Spring14.indd 80 2/6/14 4:34 PM