Who runs the world? Ask Candy Udell, president of London Jewelers, and she doesn’t hesitate.
“Moms do,” she says. “They wear so many hats, and they’re the women who make us who we are. That’s why Mother’s Day has always been incredibly special to me — as a daughter, mother and grandmother. I truly want all mothers to feel loved and appreciated for all they do.”
To help with that effort, she’s stocked the venerable retailer’s flagship in Manhasset, LI, and its six other emporiums with an endless array of fabulous gifts to suit all tastes — and all kinds of moms. As for where to start? Udell recalls her own mother’s advice: “You can never have too many diamonds.” She points to surefire hits like glistening tennis bracelets and necklaces, explaining that they’re “the core of every jewelry collection.”
To add a bit of drama to the classics, she suggests incorporating black diamonds, such as the noir sparklers from A Link. Aside from those icy fundamentals, “I’ve always loved colored stones for spring,” notes Udell. “It’s sort of a reawakening and so happy.”
Emeralds, she tells Alexa, are having a moment. “Green is very ‘in’ this year. It’s a sophisticated look and a little exotic, too, especially when the stones are set in yellow gold.” Her other colorful picks include pink sapphires along with brilliant multicolored gemstones worked into eye-catching earrings, bracelets and necklaces from the London brand. Next, she points to the serious petal power in floral designs by Pasquale Bruni and Buccellati, peppered with precious stones and set in both gold and silver, “They’re incredible works of art — so exquisite and so feminine.”
Udell says “bold gold” is also trending in a big way. Of note? Strong, sculptural pieces from Vhernier, which she says “are a very unique look for the confident woman who knows what she likes and will take a chance on showing her individuality.”
London Jewelers is so enchanted with the Milan-based jewelry brand that it’s partnering with Vhernier on two of its newer boutiques: on Madison Avenue in NYC and at the Bal Harbour Shops in Miami.
Also falling into the golden category are chunky chain-link bracelets (some dotted with diamonds), long chain neck laces (“great for layering”) and hoop earrings (“wear-able for every day”), Udell says. Gift givers can’t go wrong with Chanel’s Coco Crush selections (featuring a quilted effect that resembles Chanel bags) and Cartier’s Trinity collection.
Recently, she’s also seen a run on zodiac symbols, especially imaginative charms that can be attached to bracelets and necklaces and are available from several companies, including Van Cleef & Arpels. “They’re a really nice, very personal gift, and such a fun way of saying ‘this is me,’ ” Udell explains.
London Jewelers will also launch offerings from much-lauded American fine-jewelry brand Verdura at its flagship around Mother’s Day. “We’re so excited to be working together,” Udell says, noting that the opulent collection boasts modern pieces as well as legendary vintage creations, including Coco Chanel’s signature Maltese Cross cuff. (Coveted by the likes of famed socialites such as Babe Paley and Slim Keith, Verdura’s jewels played a role in FX’s recent series “Feud: Capote vs. The Swans.”)
A few weeks ago, the retailer was named winner of the prestigious Diamonds Do Good Community Impact Award for its “unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community betterment while also being a beacon of trust and integrity for over nine decades. “It feels great to be recognized, because we not only strive to offer the best of the best when it comes to jewelry, but also to play an integral part in the support of our community charities,” says Udell.
And she wishes moms the best of the best this Mother’s Day. Over two weekends (beginning May 4), Udell will offer luscious refreshments at the Manhasset flagship, along with free tulip bouquets and a variety of trunk shows.
“I think moms are precious and they should be adorned with precious jewels,” she says, noting that while dazzling treasures evoke immediate delight, their true value lies in their emotional significance across generations. “There’s a real legacy there. Knowing that it can be passed down to daughters and granddaughters makes jewelry an extra-special gift.”
London Jewelers’ flagship is located in Manhasset, with additional stores in Southampton, East Hampton, Glen Cove, and Wheatley Plaza in Greenvale, LI, as well as downtown Manhattan and the Mall at Short Hills in New Jersey.
All available at London Jewelers, 2046 Northern Blvd., Manhasset, LI
Beyond all the spectacular gems at London Jewelers, you’ll find a gallery stocked with gorgeous gifts
If you can tear yourself away from the enormous display of jewels and watches at London Jewelers’ Manhasset flagship and glide up the dramatic staircase, you’ll find (surprise!) an overstocked gift gallery.
It’s here that President Candy Udell has curated a wide selection of presents for virtually every occasion and price point. “It’s a wonderland of beautiful objects from all around the world,” she says.
Sparkling crystal brands such as Lalique and William Yeoward abound in the emporium, and a stunning new collection of Baccarat pieces includes barware, vases and the brand’s iconic butterfly objets in many colors.
Flower lovers will find an array of delightful, long-lasting Venus et Fleur rose arrangements, which can be personalized.
They’re intermixed with MacKenzie- Childs tea sets, plates and dishes; loads of fragrant candles; photo frames in dozens of styles, including beautiful handmade silver varieties from Buccellati as well
as sculptural serving pieces and home decor accessories from Michael Aram, Jay Strongwater and Georg Jensen. New to the tasteful lineup? Unique and artful vases from Rosenthal.
And yes, there’s even a little costume jewelry tucked away, including handsome men’s cuff links and rare vintage Chanel pieces.
In the something-for-everybody category, discover stacks of handsome Assouline books on a variety of subjects. Those shopping for babies (or their proud parents) will go gaga for an adorable array of blankets, clothes and toys, which can be assembled in bountiful gift baskets.
Udell, a consummate animal lover, couldn’t resist adding a bit of canine cachet as well. She’s curated pet treats, accessories and a line of duds from Doodle Couture, including doggy denim vests. “It’s really cute stuff,” she says.
The jewelry maven describes the airy, second-floor space as elegant. “There are
so many fresh ideas when it comes to gifts here,” she says. “We do things in an Old World way and that includes lovely gift-wrapping and store shoppers who will go above and beyond to find just the right present for the right person.”
London Jewelers’ VP Randi Udell Alper selects nature-inspired baubles
Come-hither slither
“This piece is probably on everybody’s wish list. The Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas watch is iconic — and with the diamonds, it’s a real showstopper. This is the only snake I’d love to have coiling up my arm.”
Fabulous fronds
“This ring by Anita Ko is totally chic. The baguette-cut diamonds are handset into the shape of a palm leaf, and though it’s luxurious, there’s a real sense of fun to it. Wear it with jeans or out to your next black-tie event.”
Shapely studs
“The London Collection mosaic diamond studs are such a cool alternative to the classic single diamond stud. The bezel setting is a new look, and they are a standout layered into an ear party.”
Power flowers
“Vhernier is so bold and modern, and the Calla necklaces, inspired by the conical shape of a lily, are so interesting and eye- catching. It’s fresh in gold and white for spring and summer, and will definitely start conversations at all those Hamptons parties.”
London Jewelers’ VP Scott Udell salutes mom with treasures — from classic glam to easygoing edge
Casual cool
“I really love these London Collection stone inlay pieces featuring turquoise, malachite, lapis and coral set in yellow gold and turned out in bars, stars and other shapes. They’re so fun, perfect for layering and very affordable.”
Eternal love
“What’s old is new again — eternity bands are trending, some with bezels and different diamond shapes. They come at so many different price points and can go from everyday to really dressy.”
Tennis, anyone?
“Tennis bracelets are back in a big way, and now a must in every woman’s jewelry collection. Heart-shaped diamonds set in yellow gold look fresh and new, but white gold is also popular.”
Get personal
“These great gold cuffs can be immediately personalized in store with significant birthdates, kids’ initials or names, and can be worn alone or stacked. New moms will absolutely love them, but they’re definitely ‘mom-universal.’”
London Jewelers’ VP Zach Udell on watches with distinctive silhouettes and dazzling colors for dreamy Mother’s Day gifts
For bold babes
“What a wow piece — and it’s such a statement from this brand. The shape of the case mimics a porthole, but it’s the lacquered purple dial in a wave pattern that’s so striking. And the matching composite strap adds a bit of fun. It’s a knockout.”
For chic sophisticates
“This is the perfect pick for someone who wants the dazzle of jewelry and the practicality of a timepiece. Its case and crown are set with brilliant diamonds, but it’s the unusually elongated profile, which happens to sit beautifully on a smaller wrist, that’s the real eye-catcher. Paired with the taupe alligator leather strap, the whole look is so chic.”
For queen bees
“There’s such a rich history here. Throughout the ages, royalty have been drawn to Breguet, one of the oldest brands still in existence. This piece is beyond feminine with its unique egg-shaped case, easy-to-read elongated numerals and the prettiest pale-pink satin strap. Pure elegance.”
For soccer moms
“If you’re looking for subtle luxe that’s also sporty, this is a great choice. The Oysterflex bracelet is probably one of the most comfortable around, but the hefty gold case gives it definite gravitas.”
