DANIELLA KRONFLE

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Summer is almost over, so I wanted to do a post on one of the great gemstones of summer: Coral.

Even though it's not really a gemstone (chemically it is similar to the pearl), coral is the "stone" of the sea. It is also one of the most ancient gems, having been used since prehistoric times. Coral ornaments have been unearthed in tombs dating from 500BC. Ancient Chinese cultures used them to signify wealth and power, and oftentimes the emperors wore red coral in their belts and headdresses. In Ancient Rome, it was a custom to hang red coral from the necks of children to protect them from harm. This is how we get to the coral jewelry we wear today.
Coral comes in a ranges of colors, with red and pink being some of the most popular for jewelry designs. The two pieces I'm showing today illustrate this last point. The earrings are very much pink while the ring is very much orange. It is usually cut into bead or cabochons for use in the jewelry design trade, and its organic characteristics inspire what some call a natural or even summery look.

Although coral has been historically used by many cultures for it's healing properties, it is still used today for the same purposes. It is said to help keep harmony, relieve tension and reduce fear. These are all very good reasons to wear coral jewelry year round, but I love coral because it has, from a design viewpoint, a lot of versatility. Coral can appear, depending on the design of the piece, exotic, elegant, natural, earthy classic or ethnic. In the earrings below, you can clearly see that this is an elegant and timeless piece, with the coral adding a splash of modern color and texture.

If you prefer smaller pieces or are still afraid to wear a lot of color, the ring below is an option so you can at least have some coral in your jewelry box. The coral ties in perfectly with the theme, looking very natural and earthy, without loosing that touch of femininity. The diamonds take this piece from day to night in a flash, making this a very versatile ring.

Coral is much softer than other gemstones, so you do have to treat it with extreme care. Be careful around hot water, perfumes and chemicals, as coral is porous and may change in texture or color. Coral should always be stored properly, and protected from scratches or blows. Cleaning it is very simple, just wipe with a clean damp cloth, dry and store to keep its unique qualities.

Hope you are enjoying your summer. Here in Miami it seems to last forever, so don't forget to keep cool and hydrated.

Love Always

Dani K

I recently celebrated my wedding in Tuscany where I was fortunate enough to get married, among my closest family and friends, in the most beautiful church at la Certosa di Fireze, the Basilica di San Lorenzo

Also known as the Certosa del Galuzzo, the charterhouse, or Carthusian monastery, is located in the Florence suburb of Galluzzo, in central Italy. The building is a walled complex located on Monte Acuto, between the Ema and Greve rivers. Founded in 1341 by the Florentine noble Niccolò Acciaioli, Grand Seneschal of the Kingdom of Naples, the Certosa is so beautiful and magnificent that it even inspired famed modernist architect Le Corbusier in his urban projects.

Built in 1341 not only as a religious centre but also for the education of the young, the Certosa has always held a special place in history for many reasons. The Acciaiuoli (Acciaioli) Palace where the youth of Florence were taught towers upwards alongside the religious buildings of the monastery. Galluzzo was one of the most influential monasteries in Europe and was immensely wealthy, with a population of hundreds of monks and, until the Napoleonic depredations, large numbers of works of art.

The Basilica di San Lorenzo, or Church of Saint Lawrence is Mannerist in architectural style and filled with frescoes and pictures, a sumptuous marble altar of the 16 century and a crypt containing many tombs, mainly of the Acciaioli family. The church gives access to the beautiful Renaissance cloister with its large terracotta well by Andrea and Giovanni della Robbia. Here are some shots of the interior of the church, overlooking the main entrance.

And here is the altar of the Basilica di San Lorenzo, and some of the famous painted frescoes and wonderful architectural details. The interior of the church is so breathtaking one could actually be moved to tears just by being there, let alone get married!

Firenze and the surrounding areas is known for its artisans and old world traditions and craftsmanship. This beautiful little church on top of a hill is definitely proof of that. Here is the woodwork on the benches that surround the Basilica.

The Basilica di San Lorenzo, with 14th-century origins, has a Renaissance exterior. To one side of it is the Colloquio, a narrow hall with benches. Here the Carthusian monks were permitted to break their vow of silence once a week (they got a second chance on Mondays when they were allowed to leave the monastery grounds for a gentle stroll).

Ever since I studied in Florence, I have been fascinated by Tuscany and all of its unique beauty. When it came to choosing a place for our wedding my handsome groom and I were immediately on board with the idea of Tuscany for our special day. After we visited Italy and la Certosa, we were blown away by how beautiful a setting it would be. Not only is the church in an idyllic spot overlooking a gorgeous and green landscape, it is also an architectural treasure. Here are some pictures of us and our friends and family on this special day.

And in case you were wondering my jewels are Daniella Kronfle, and I wore a ruby and diamond chocker worn as a crown around my chignon, and diamond solitaire earrings.

To all of my friends and family who came to my wedding thank you very much. It means so much to us that you celebrated in Florence with us. Stay tuned for more of our Tuscan wedding in the coming weeks and for more pictures follow me on instagram @daniellakronfle.

Love Always

Dani K

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All About Coral

La Certosa di Firenze

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