Putting a New Spin on “Bling Bling” Written by Janet Perisa Photographed by Ramon Estavanell July 9, 2005

Who can forget the way silver screen goddess Marilyn Monroe captivated her audience with her dulcet voice (and other…assets) as she sang the lyrics to what would become the national anthem for women, “Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend”? Thanks to Marilyn and an incessant marketing campaign, the diamond industry has set the standard for high-fashion jewelry, and, in their appeal to vanity, has created a sort of omnipotent image of what is modernly referred to as “bling bling”.

On Saturday, July 9th, Krista Claudene, the designer and mastermind behind k*claudene jewelry, held a jewelry showcase at her showroom in SoHo. The former Vice President of one of the nation’s most prestigious diamond manufacturing and distribution companies, Krista became distraught over the cruelty and unsuitable conditions under which many of the African diamond miners were working, “… once you see the blood, you realize how brutal this business can be…” confirms Krista. After a trip to Senegal in 2001, Krista began to tap into her creativity and love for West African dance and culture. And with the support and love of her Senegalese godmother, she decided to embark on a new journey and career, designing jewelry for the people she values most—women. As stated by Krista, “My goal is to inform the public that bling bling is not limited to diamonds”.

While browsing her collection, I could not help but feel inspired by both her poise and creativity. Each one-of-a-kind piece is hand crafted by Krista from choice, selected, and precious gems that achieve a look which is as unique and captivating as their creator. Strands of spectacular gems cascaded throughout the showroom in a vibrant spectrum of color and grandeur. Her innate ability to capture the essence of her clients, and then to create pieces that mirror their distinctive energies is what propelled Krista’s collection into the realm of haute couture, making her a sensation amongst the fashionably elite. And, echoing Krista’s spirit of sisterhood, her fellow designers, Carmen and Carmia (Sistahs of Harlem Apparel), attended the showcase and graciously modeled a few of the jewelry pieces for us

The premise behind k*claudene jewelry is to pay homage to the divine beauty and strength of women. Each piece is intended to enhance and invigorate both the internal and external beauty of the wearer. “When [a woman] adorns her outside, she is celebrating what lies within” states Krista. This collection of fine jewelry is priced from $35-$3000, and can be viewed online www.kclaudene.com or at the showroom .The showroom is located at 580 Broadway, Suite 403 and is open to the public every Friday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.