Feature Friday Q&A with Paula Dolubizno from Pink With Diamonds

Classics are considered "classic" for a reason.  But what makes certain pieces "classic?"  Most notably, they have some common characteristics including: impeccable craftsmanship; beautiful lines and fabulous details.  All three of the criteria are most certainly met by today's Feature Friday artist - Paula Dolubizno from Pink With Diamonds!  

Paula's work is both a timeless classic and yet perfect for everyday layering.  You're going to love her opal necklaces, initial necklaces and (my personal favorite) the trapezoid necklace!  

So enjoy today's Feature Friday Q&A with Paula Dolubizno from Pink With Diamonds!  

Pink With Diamonds

1.  What prompted your passion for jewelry and jewelry design?

I have always loved fashion, but I wanted to create pieces that would be timeless and one-of-a-kind.  Clothes can last you a few years, (if you invest in a good piece) but jewelry is forever.

2.  What is your favorite piece or collection?

I absolutely adore anything Fred Leighton.  As for my pieces… I would have to say the golden bark opal pendant.  I love the organic, tree-like feeling of the setting.  And that boulder opal has vibrant color at every angle.

Golden Bark & Opal - Featuring a bar shaped Boulder Opal that is set in an organically finished
14k yellow gold setting, $880.   Yes, please!  Add this to my Wish List!

3.  What would your perfect “jewelry day” involve / be like?

I would love to be able to visit London, Paris and Australia (Maybe not in one day, haha!). And, go to as many hidden gem stores and spend all day looking at jewelry, buying and becoming inspired. 

4.  Thus far, what would you say is your proudest jewelry moment or memory?

I would have to say when I started the company.  I had worked for many people for over ten years, (retail and wholesale) so when I decided to branch off on my own I was scared shitless (is that allowed?).  Once I launched the company/website, the amount of love and support I received, not only from family and friends, but strangers, was unbelievable.  It made me realize that this is what I was meant to do.

Looking Glass Layering Diamond Necklace - The perfect combination of Princess Cut Diamonds & Round
Brilliant Cut diamonds.  Approximately 0.80 carats total, F in color & VS2-SI1 in clarity, $1,400.

5.  Where do you find your greatest inspiration?

I LOVE flowers and nature.  I find the stones I use in my pieces first and then create the settings around them.  I try to keep the designs simple, because if you have a beautiful stone, why take away from it?  I see a setting as a stage for a stone.  Just like with nature, most gems shouldn’t be messed with.  Keep it simple and showcase the beauty. 

Diamond Trapezoid Pendants - Each necklace is made of solid 14k yellow or white gold with
approximately 0.50 carats each. Diamonds are F color & VS1 clarity, $845.  These necklaces are my
favorites!  I love how the cut of stone provides a modern edge to a classic design!

6.  In your personal wardrobe, do you find that you gravitate to one particular jewelry accessory (rings vs. necklace vs. bracelets vs. watches, etc.) more often than others?

I love wearing rings, but I tend to run out of finger space.  I try to layer opal pendants and simple classic diamond necklaces.  I try not to wear earrings unless they’re studs because I always lose one from the pair! 

Layered Opal Necklaces & (MY Personal Favorite) the Trapezoid Necklace - I just adore how these look
together with the wide variety of opals & the trapezoid diamond necklace.  Really, really lovely!

7.  When putting together an outfit, how do you feel about mixing metals, designs and even new with vintage pieces?

I like to mix rose, white and yellow.  I usually wear my pink tourmaline ring, rose gold diamond bands and my yellow gold vintage diamond cluster ring from Under the Crown.  And, my Navette ring from The Eden Collective.  Those two have some of the best vintage rings. (And they’re very affordable too!) 

The Gladiolus - Available in rose, yellow & white gold with a total of 1.85 carats of diamonds
each, $2,500 each. Love these mixed together of with the Endless Rope Band.  Perfection!

8.  Layering seems to be a trend that is here to stay, for now. What are your feelings on the layered look?  How do you like layered necklaces with layered bracelets plus layered rings? 

I’m all for layering.  I am very active and clumsy so I try to take my rings off as often as I can, unless I’m going out and leaving the house.  I think you should wear pieces - layered or not - that have a story behind them.  They’re conversation starters no matter where you go. 

Paula's pieces are made for layering like her Looking Glass Necklace & Paisley Opal Necklace (shown here).
It doesn't matter how or which pieces you pick; they all look fabulous together!

9.  What advice would you give to budding jewelry designers? To budding fine jewelry collectors?

Jewelry designers should stay true to themselves.  I’ve witnessed a few designers that try to cater to the public so much that they lose their spark.  Jewelry collectors need to make sure they are investing in pieces that they will treasure for years to come.  Sometimes you find the best pieces when you least expect it.  I love driving to Galena, IL and going through all the vintage shops and their jewelry selections. 

Flash Question - Dream trip destination?

Carmel, California

Diamond & Opal Earrings

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