Chopard may have been the most ubiquitous jeweler at this year’s Cannes International Film Festival, but, as with most things in life, it’s about quality–not quantity. To wit, of all the baubles to grace the red carpet at the seemingly endless premieres, yacht parties and club bashes, it was Giovanna Battaglia’s de Grisogono necklace that, simply put, blew me away (naturally, it was a stylist’s eye, and not that of a celebrity, that I was drawn to). Battaglia arrived on the arm of her beau, Vladimir Restoin Roitfeld (mother: Carine, sister: Julia), at the annual amfAR black-tie gala–but it was neither her beau nor her dress (Armani Privé) that caught my eye. THAT NECKLACE! I did a little research and called up the good folks at de Grisogono (owner and founder Fawaz Gruosi, in the times I’ve met him has always been quite the charmer) who told me that Giovanna’s necklace is comprised of white diamonds with tsavorites (a gorgeous green garnet stone) punctuated with two gigantic cultured pearls, all set in pink gold. I love Giovanna layered it on top of a dress that a) didn’t have an exposed neckline and b) one wouldn’t think to wear a necklace with. It is just such a gorgeous statement piece! Not only do I love the soothing green hues, but it reminds me of a calm walk through the forest–or a deep sea dive into crystal clear waters. In short, it’s such a breath of fresh air…and a exquisite alternative to the staple diamond necklace.
$276,000, available by special order at de Grisogono