Lariats are my signature pieces, designed with pearls and other gemstones. The lariat is an American jewelry invention. It is a long, usually single strand necklace that doesn't have a clasp. Popular in the late 19th century during the Art Nouveau period, they reached their zenith in the Roaring 20s. It was said that Zelda Fitzgerald had a pearl lariat that was one hundred feet long. Anything worth doing was worth overdoing, right? They fell out of favor because of the Great Depression. However, I believe that in moderation they are the most versatile piece of jewelry a woman can possess.

If the length of the lariat equals the height of the wearer, it is the perfect length to be worn a variety of ways around the neck as well as the waist. Depending upon how it is wrapped around the neck, a lariat can look casual, business-like or dressy. You can wear your lariat from work to a cocktail party, and be perfectly attired!

Halve it, slip the ends through the loop, then let them dangle to the right or the left, and get a sporty, casual look. Wrapped twice around the neck and knotted in the middle is more formal and sophisticated. Untied and worn under the collar of a jacket makes a powerful statement. Draped around the neck, and tied loosely below the bust, lends a dazzling appearance to an evening gown. Equally effective is to drape it so that the ends fall down the back, an alluring look with backless gowns and cocktail dresses. Tied like a belt around the waist looks elegant with a sweater dress. Tied loosely and draped over the hips, it's downright sexy. You'll look great!

Wear your beads in good fortune!