ring in the new year

I’ve always loved the term “cocktail ring.” Conjures up a sort of glamorous, Gatsby-esque image…which makes sense, since I read today that these oversized, right-hand baubles first became popular during Prohibition, when they were worn by women at illegal drinking parties as a sort of visual “Screw you—I’m boozing it up, anyway” statement.

I caught the bug (ladybug, to be precise) a few years ago when Juicy Couture came out with this yummy flower-garden ring….

Then I bought the Tink treasure-chest ring from Disney Couture–a line of jewelry that can only be described as Mickey-and-friends for grownups. This ring actually opens to reveal little multi-colored gemstones…which makes it fun to fiddle with at a cocktail party. (Even more so if you’re bored.)

My daughter finds this ring utterly charming, and has borrowed it. Permanently.

You’ll notice that most of these ginormous rings have always been designed with semi-precious (or not-at-all-precious) stones; that’s because no one—save for, say, Liz Taylor—could afford an actual diamond in cocktail-ring-size.

But here’s my thinking: Why would anyone WANT to sink thousands of dollars into what is, essentially, a party ring? The diamond you wear every day…sure. But the whimsical jewelry you bring out for fun evenings needn’t be a pricey undertaking.  I’ve even seen high- and low-end versions of the same ring. To wit:

And a cheaper cut…

More finger food…

As I see it, there’s only one issue to be dealt with: The rings and the cocktails are sold separately.

Do you own/wear cocktail rings? And do you have a favorite? I really, really want to hear about those pieces that make a splash on YOUR hand! Comment away, please….

PS: A special hello to my reader in the University of Michigan freshman English class. Thrilled to hear you’re a fan!