Holiday gift guide: VND jewelry

When I met Valerie Nahmani Gitelson of Valerie Nahmani Designs (VND) a few weeks ago for coffee, a couple of people had already stopped at her table to ask her where she got her rings. And her bracelets. The answer was easy. She made them herself.

The gorgeous druzy pieces definitely merit a double take. I found them both unique and affordable and wanted just about everything she had. (I only like to blog about things I actually genuinely like and the jewelry from VND definitely makes the cut.) While I love all things druzy, what I loved about these pieces were the unique takes: the "dagger" necklace (above and below) ($220 at Bloomingdale's Chevy Chase).

I also loved the rings.


Most pieces are 24k gold-plated or filled and crafted from semi-precious stones like labradorite (one of my favorite stones) and jade. She also incorporates polished lapis, onyx and turquoise in her pieces. Because the pieces are all different and one-of-a-kind ), Valerie suggests if you see one you like, get it. Because once it's gone, it's gone. Find them locally at B Scene at Cabin John mall and every weekend through Christmas at Bloomingdale's Chevy Chase. She also donates a portion of the proceeds to The Children's Inn at NIH and Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. You're welcome.

 

Valerie displaying her jewelry at the Bethesda Quartermaine where we met for coffee.

Weekend Update

Give it up for some good causes this weekend.

Eat, drink, discuss and shop: Sylene Lingerie Boutique in Chevy Chase holds another installment in their Bras and Brunch series this Sunday to benefit the Humane Society. A $15 donation gets you a $20 Sylene gift card and helps a furry friend in need. DC style expert Lauren Rothman of Styleauteur will discuss spring fashion trends and must-have pieces while you enjoy mimosas and a light brunch. 10:30-noon. 4407 South Park Ave., Chevy Chase. RSVP required: http://sylene.eventbrite.com or call 301-654-4200.

Donate and shop: B Scene boutique in Cabin John Shopping Center is holding a spring clothing drive as it celebrates the launch of One Life One Legacy (OLOL) philanthropic T-shirt company on Sunday. One Life One Legacy is a unique company that sells T-shirts honoring everyday heroes and donates one tee to a child in need for every shirt sold. Bring in used clothing from 12-3 to get a 10% discount on all B Scene merchandise. Proceeds go to the Interfaith Clothing Center of Montgomery County.

Vote: One Life One Legacy (OLOL) has been chosen to compete in the Pepsi Refresh Project to Change the World. If OLOL gets enough votes to make it into the top ten, the company receives a $25,000 grant. To vote, go to www.refresheverything.com/onelifeonelegacy. Voting continues through April 30.

Watch: New Galaxy Theatre Company holds a benefit show for Haiti at the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in Georgetown Sunday at 2 and 6. 100% of the proceeds benefit Haiti. Click here for details and ticket info.