Give the Gift of Jewelry This Holiday Season

Some retail experts believe that the age of the $1,000 handbags will slowly subside to make way for the growing jewelry and accessories market. Most people like jewelry, but are limited to what they see in malls. However, there are tons of designers out there creating very unique pieces that could make great holiday gifts or a little gift for yourself if you're looking for something different.

While this is not meant to be a comprehensive list, here are some unique jewelry brands that can be found in stores and in some cases online (if you do not live in the area).

The Moss Mills brand recently began being offered at Aero & Co. in West Hollywood at 8403 W. Third St. However, if you don't live in the Los Angeles area, the products can be found online at www.mossmills.com

Moss has a bit of a funky, edgy sort of vibe. Take for example their Avery necklace which features a tree charm on an 18-inch chain that comes in silver, gold or gold rose. The tree has a lot of detail and costs $98 for the silver and over $100 for the other two types of metals. Obviously, this is a bit pricey from the typical shopping mall find, but you have to factor in the fact that you are getting something that cannot be found just anywhere.

Generally speaking, Moss Mills carries mainly metal jewelry: chains with funky, edgy charms dangling such as feathers, swans and birds. The retailer also carries rings and apparel.

For a more urban appeal, try Fallon Jewelry by Dana Lorez. The designer has her own web site at www.fallonjewelry.com, but her merchandise can be purchased at www.shopbop.com. A notable piece inclues a bow brass bangle. The brass bangle is adorned with a huge, gold mesh bow. It's striking and stand-out if you are into that type of fashion. It's, again, pricey at $216, but dare to dream.

If rings are more your style, Babakul carries some great cocktail rings called Hera. There are four styles with jewels of violet, white, green or coffee brown set it into each ring. The merchandise can only be purchased in brick-and-mortar stores unfortunately. So, if you are in the Los Angeles area, try Fred Segal in Santa Monica or Beauty Bar in Beverly Hills. Check www.babakul.com for a complete list of stores.

If you are finding yourself a little woozy over some of the high prices, try Erica Weiner. She designs a great selection of necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings that can be found for under $100. She recently featured a $60 necklace with a monogram ring dangling from the chain. She had found a box of plastic rings in a Rhode Island warehouse monogrammed with names such as June and Mary. She turned the rings into necklaces and voila, she had a sold out item. But have no fear, she has plenty of other jewelry choices to sift through on her web site at www.ericaweiner.com such as sea monster and letterpress charm necklaces.

If you want jewelry that doesn't look like what everyone else is wearing, try designers that aren't normally found in most regional malls. You may have to pay a little more, but you will be gettng something truly unique for yourself or whomever you are shopping for.