Lady LUX

Judith Ripka’s classic jewelry may be making its way to a city near you. Fans of the fine jewelry collection as well as newcomers can delight in Ripka’s traveling sample show held from Nov. 3 to 13 in locations throughout Southern California. Major bargains will abound, with pieces from both her 18K Couture Collection and Sterling Silver Collection available for 50 to 70 percent off. For those outside the Golden State, be sure to check Ripka’s website to discover the elegant wearability and versatility that defines her collections.

“I hope that women around the country who do not live near one of my stores have the opportunity to enjoying shopping for my jewelry in person. My greatest hope always is that women everywhere have fun with my jewelry,” said Ripka.
Both collections feature Ripka’s timeless signature style: classic with a modern twist. Whether paired with casual jeans or dressed up for a cocktail party, Ripka’s designs feature an incredible flexibility that makes them luxurious yet all-purpose.

Above all, the designer wants her collections to be worn.

“I design and create wearable jewelry; understated, yet elegant …. I want women to enjoy my jewelry and not consign it to the back of the drawer or safe, only to be trotted out on special occasions,” she said.

Her goal in designing is to create pieces that endure, that have that special something that electrify the item even 20 years later.

“For me, wearing jewelry makes me feel as if I am wrapped in one of life’s greatest luxuries,” Ripka said. “Wearing jewelry makes me happy. It is as if I am admitting that I am entitled to look good and feel great. You have to wear clothing. You want to wear jewelry. When I put on my jewelry in the morning, I put on what feels good. I share that philosophy with the women I design for, as well.”

Her inspiration comes from a simple source: everywhere. From nature to architecture, each day is a new chance to get stimulated. She also finds inspiration from her customers. Even after designing for years, she still gets a thrill when she sees a woman wearing her pieces.

“As I proceed through each day, I am always attuned to shapes, contours, colors and textures, which provide an ample palette from which I draw inspiration,” Ripka said.

With Ripka’s passion for unusual gemstones, the materials can sometimes take center stage. She stays true to her roots of 18k celadon gold with diamonds, which she believes makes her jewelry stand out from the crowd.

“In addition to my distinctive design elements and signature style distinguishing my jewelry, the celadon gold I use in my jewelry is proprietary and combined with the matte finish, which I championed because its understated elegance gives my jewelry a distinctive and recognizable look,” she said.

As the holiday season comes upon us and our shopping lists lengthen, it is interesting to note what others are giving. This year, Ripka says her “it” gift is a framed family photo.

“We took a series of family portraits, and I think my sons and their families will love seeing the photos framed to enjoy in their homes,” she said. “And, of course, my daughter-in-laws and granddaughters always love receiving jewelry!”

One of the designer’s latest projects is a coffee table book, “Judith by Judith Ripka,” available on her website. Next, she plans to launch a complete lifestyle brand that will include a range of products from handbags to scarves and sunglasses.

The sample sales also will benefit a range of charities that vary by location. Nonprofits receiving funds include The Arts Fund, The Marine and Mammal Center, Jr. League Los Angeles, Step Up Women’s Network, Make a Wish Foundation and Susan G. Komen Foundation, among others.

For more details about the jewelry or the sample sales, visit www.judithripka.com.

Southern California Sample Sales Dates and Times

November 3: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Canary Hotel
31 W. Carrillo Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

November 4: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Four Seasons Westlake Village
Two Dole Drive
Westlake Village, CA 91362

November 5: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Judith Ripka
234 North Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210

November 6: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Hyatt Century Plaza
2025 Avenue of the Stars
Los Angeles, CA 90067

November 7: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Belamar Hotel
3501 Sepulveda Blvd
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

November 9: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Marriott Mission Valley (San Diego)
8757 Rio San Diego Dr.
San Diego, CA 92108

November 10: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Grand Colonial La Jolla
910 Prospect Street
La Jolla, CA 92037

November 11: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Laguna Beach/ St. Regis Monarch Beach
One Monarch Beach Resort
Dana Point, California 92629

November 12: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The Island Hotel Newport Beach
690 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660

November 13: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Island Hotel Newport Beach
690 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660

All sales final. Credit cards and cash accepted.

Tagged in: lux exclusives, jewelry, sample sale, fine jewelry, judith ripka,

Fashion / Features