kristin Griesel

  1. The Best Gifts for New Moms: Ways to Celebrate Her

    Welcoming a new mom into motherhood is a special occasion that deserves an equally special celebration. Whether you’re looking for gift ideas for new moms or a push present, Catbird offers timeless jewelry pieces and thoughtful keepsakes to celebrate her. Here’s our curated guide to finding the best gifts for new moms.

    A Classic, Never-Take-Off Gift

    A piece of hand-crafted jewelry is a meaningful way to celebrate a new mom’s journey. Consider never-take-off rings, like our 14k gold stacking rings, or a personalized locket that she can fill with a photo of her little one.

    Make It Personal

    New mom gift baskets are popular gifting ideas - but at Catbird we gift new moms personalized jewelry! We offer a multitude of personalized necklace options to choose from. We love gifting custom necklaces to new moms because it is a thoughtful way for her to wear meaningful initials or numbers close to her heart. Our charm holders and Personalized Gold Charm Holder Necklace can be customized by holding up to 3 charms, and combine in various ways to all of our signature Catbird chains. We love seeing new moms wear their charm holders with combinations of letters & initial charms symbolizing their new baby or other loved ones. We also offer a whole edit of initial jewelry

    Meaningful Heirlooms

    Looking for a gift for a mom-to-be? Opt for a classic silhouette she can wear forever. The shiniest, the ultimate gift - the one we all want is the iconic & classic tennis bracelet! If you want to treat her to something super special, a tennis bracelet is an excellent choice. A classic for a reason, a tennis bracelet is an heirloom style that can be worn forever & can be meaningfully passed down through generations. Our tennis bracelets are designed to shine like a string of stars - and made to last featuring signature diamond settings & a discrete, diamond-covered clasp.

  2. Mother’s Day Jewelry Gift Ideas - For the Ones You Love

    At Catbird, we celebrate the caregivers and maternal figures in our lives who inspire us always. We believe that gifting jewelry is personal, and allows the recipient to wear your love close. We offer a thoughtfully curated collection of 14k gold jewelry - tokens of love, want, desire, gratitude, achievement, and remembrance. From shining bracelets to meaningful lockets and classic 14k gold rings designed to wear always, there’s something special for every mom.

    Celebrate Her with a Personalized Necklace

    A gold necklace is always a thoughtful choice. We offer a multitude of personalized necklace options to choose from. We love gifting custom necklaces to moms because it is a thoughtful way for her to wear meaningful initials or numbers close to her heart. Our charm holders and Personalized Gold Charm Holder Necklace can be customized by holding up to 3 charms, and works in tandem with all of our signature Catbird chains. We love seeing moms wear their charm holders with combinations of letters & initial charms symbolizing their children or other loved ones. We also offer a whole edit of initial jewelry

    14k Gold Rings: Say it With a Signet

    Signet rings are a classic heirloom ring that will never go out of style that we love gifting to our moms. We offer signet rings in a variety of widths, weights, and styles such as diamond adorned, low profile, and bolder silhouettes. Signet rings can be engraved with meaningful initials and numbers as well. If mom is not a ring-wear, we also offer a wider edit of engraved jewelry so that you can find the ideal style for her.

    A Never-Take-Off Bracelet

    The shiniest, the ultimate gift - the one we all want is the iconic & classic tennis bracelet! If you want to treat mom to something super special, a tennis bracelet is an excellent choice. A classic for a reason, a tennis bracelet is an heirloom style that can be worn forever & can be meaningfully passed down through generations. Our tennis bracelets are designed to shine like a string of stars - and made to last featuring signature diamond settings & a discrete, diamond-covered clasp.

    Lockets: A Nostalgic Classic

    Lockets are a timeless Mother’s Day gift. Our 14k gold and sterling silver lockets are designed to hold up to 2 photos inside. We love gifting lockets to our moms with baby photos inside.

  3. The Art of Romantic Jewelry Layering for Valentine's Day

    Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to curate a layered jewelry look that reflects your personal style and love story. At Catbird, our collection is thoughtfully crafted using recycled materials and ethically sourced gemstones, ensuring each piece is as meaningful. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or an evening spent quietly, layering jewelry adds depth and intention to your look.

    Start with a Signature Base

    Begin your layered look with a versatile base. Choose from our 14k gold necklaces or sterling silver chains, both of which provide timeless foundations. Add a personal touch with charms, such as heart pendants or initials, to represent your love or meaningful milestones. Our Beloved Heart Spinner Charm is a heart and arrow spinning charm and can be engraved on both sides of the heart. Our Dollhouse Heart Locket  is an instant heirloom, perfectly balanced in size and sentiment; a nostalgic classic that is just sweet enough. Heart charms are always an excellent choice - for Valentine’s Day and year round too.

    Add Layers of Romantic Details

    Enhance your jewelry stack with Valentine-inspired details. Explore stacking rings featuring romantic motifs, such as our Pas de Deux Ring, which is hand-carved and vintage-inspired and features two clasped hands.

    Slip on a bracelet to add extra glimmer and movement to your jewelry stack. Our One O’Clock Diamond Tennis Bracelet is perfect for the occasion, or the occasion of everyday - it’s the gift we all want and can be customized in your choice of four carat weights.

     

    Complete the Look

    Finish your look with a little more barely-there glimmer. Our first knuckle  Mignon Memory Ring is a romantic way to add extra shine to your jewelry stack. The Diamond Kitten Mitten is another Catbird classic from our poetic world that plays nicely with bracelets and rings.

    Celebrate this Valentine’s Day with jewelry that is layered with meaning and made with love in our Brooklyn studio. 

  4. Master the Neck Mess - The Art of Layering Your Necklace

    Master the Neck Mess - The Art of Layering Your Necklace

    Unlock the magic of layering your necklaces with Catbird's wide ranging collection of chains, pendants, charms & clickers, and classic diamond necklaces. Create a look personal to you with contrasting textures, with varying weights and lengths to keep our necklace stack from tangling. 

    Layering Necklaces: An Overview

    Layering necklaces tells a story, it’s about the personal details. Understanding the basics of layered jewelry can help you create a cohesive look. Check out our comprehensive guide below!

    Layered jewelry 101

    The key is to mix and match different lengths, styles, and textures. Start with your most delicate chain and pendant at the very top. We love to add at least 3 or 4 additional necklaces, with at least one charm jumble in the center that uses our signature clickers to connect each piece together. A heavier chain at the bottom, longest length is great for anchoring the entire set together.

     

    Why Layered Necklace Sets Are a Must-Have

    Layered necklace sets are essential for anyone looking to personalize their jewelry. These sets take the pressure out of layering necklaces, offering a perfectly curated collection that effortlessly adds style and sophistication. Designed to complement each other, they provide a harmonious blend of lengths and textures. Benefits of layered necklace sets include:

    • Simplified layering with coordinated pieces
    • Perfect balance of different lengths and styles
    • Versatile options for various outfits

    Embrace the ease and elegance of layered jewelry sets to enhance your everyday stack. 

     

    How to Layer Necklaces: A Beginner’s Guide

    Layering necklaces or chains  is a chic way to elevate your style, and it's easier than you think. Follow this beginner’s guide to master the art. Start with a simple base necklace, then add varying lengths to create depth. Mix different styles and textures for a personal look. Essential tips include:

    • Start with a simple base piece at the top, this should be your lightest chain
    • Add necklaces of different lengths, we suggest starting with at least 3-4.
    • Mix styles and textures by adding charms, engraved pendants, and gemstones (color is always a great detail to keep your stack from feeling too designed)
    • Don’t worry too much about the tangles – part of the aesthetic we personally at Catbird is when chains tangle a bit – like a golden web.

    By following these steps, you'll become a pro at layering necklaces, creating eye-catching and personalized jewelry details effortlessly.

     

     

    Necklace Lengths: Finding the Right Fit for Your Layers

    Selecting the right necklace lengths is essential for mastering the art of layering necklaces. The key to a stylish stack lies in mixing different lengths to create depth and visual interest. Start with a choker or a short necklace, add a mid-length piece, and finish with a longer chain. Here are some tips:

    • Use a choker or short necklace for the base
    • Add a mid-length necklace for balance – this can be a true focal point with a statement pendant or charm jumble
    • Finish with a longer necklace for depth – if this piece is weightier you can have it sit on top of your other chains to weight the stack down a bit and keep it from tangling too much. 

    By thoughtfully choosing necklace lengths, you can create a perfectly layered look that enhances your style effortlessly.

     

     

     

    How to Keep Necklaces from Tangling

    Properly storing your layered necklaces keeps them from tangling and is essential for maintaining their beauty. Follow these tips to prevent knots and tangles:

     

    • Individual Storage: Store each necklace separately to prevent them from intertwining.
    • Clasp and Hook: Securely fasten the clasps and hooks when storing to avoid loops.
    • Jewelry Trays: Use jewelry trays with dividers to keep necklaces organized and separated.

    By implementing these strategies, you'll ensure your necklaces remain tangle-free and ready to accessorize your outfits effortlessly.

    Layered Necklace Sets: Stylish Combinations to Try

    Explore chains with charms & pendants made to layer.

  5. How to Choose 14k Gold Jewelry

    How to Choose 14k Gold Jewelry 

    Out of the many options available on the jewelry market today, nothing speaks to the timeless like 14k gold jewelry. At Catbird, we believe in a blend of beauty and sustainable sourcing. Dive into our expert guide on how to choose the best 14k gold pieces for your style.

     

    Why Choose 14k Gold Jewelry

    Going with gold means choosing purity and strength. 14k gold contains 58.3% pure gold and offers durability without sacrificing the warm luster that makes the precious metal so desirable. It's the perfect choice for everyday wear, guaranteed to remain beautiful for years to come. From 14k gold rings to 14k gold necklaces, each piece in the Catbird collection has an incomparable shine that is made to last. 

     

    Durability of 14k Gold Jewelry

    14K gold has an inarguably superior durability. As opposed to 18K gold, which is softer due to higher gold content, 14k gold is scratch and bend-resistant and better suited to withstand daily wear. For pieces like 14k gold earrings and 14k gold anklets durability is a priority so you can style stress-free – we believe even the most precious jewelry should be unfussy. Our 14k gold pieces are crafted to endure the rigors of daily wear while maintaining their lasting quality. 

     

    What Does 14k Gold Mean/ What Is 14k Gold Made Of

    14k gold signifies that the metal is 58.3% pure gold, with the remainder being a mix of other metals such as silver, copper, and zinc. 14k gold is composed of 14 parts pure gold and 10 parts alloy metals. This alloying process strengthens the gold, making it suitable for a wide range of jewelry pieces, ranging from a more delicate gold chain or stacking ring to robust gold signet rings.

     

    Is It Better to Buy 14k or 18k Gold

    When deciding between 14k and 18k gold, consider your lifestyle and how you plan to wear your jewelry. 14k gold is generally better for everyday wear due to its hardness and resistance. On the other hand, 18k gold, with its higher gold content, is softer and more prone to scratches but does offer a richer yellow hue. At Catbird, we recommend 14k gold for those who want both durability and beauty, especially for regularly worn pieces like 14k gold earrings and 14k gold rings.

     

    Best Selling 14k Gold Jewelry

    For some 14k gold inspiration, check out these charming and high-quality bestsellers of Catbird’s 14k gold jewelry collection:

    • Sweet Nothing Gold Chain Bracelet: Crafted from 100% recycled solid 14k yellow gold, this delicate chain bracelet is both sustainable and stylish, the perfect starter for any 14k jewelry stack.
    • One O’Clock Diamond Tennis Bracelet: Choose between 100% recycled solid 14k yellow or white gold for this tennis bracelet. Featuring a stunning row of diamonds in our signature setting, it’s an ideal touch of glamor for any outfit.
    • Sweet Nothing Gold Choker: This subtle choker, also made from 100% recycled solid 14k yellow gold, offers a minimalist yet luxurious look both layered or dazzling on its own.

     

    At Catbird, each piece of 14k gold jewelry is crafted with care, ensuring that every ring, earring, anklet, necklace, and bracelet is a testament to our commitment to quality and sustainability. Explore our collection today and find your new favorite piece to last a lifetime. 

  6. Summer Jewelry Trends

    Summer Jewelry Trends 

    Step into the world of Summer Jewelry Trends with Catbird, where lab-grown diamond rings, signet rings, lab-grown diamond earrings, and personalized necklaces move from day to night. There is a blend of fine craftsmanship and beauty in Catbird's curated collection. Each fine jewelry piece can be worn with ease, capturing the true essence of summer. 

     

    What Jewelry to Wear in Summer?

    This summer, it's essential to wear jewelry that suits the season's vibes. Below, we have a selection of ethical jewelry to elevate your look. 

    • Gold Anklets: Ethically sourced, these anklets add a subtle shimmer, ideal for complementing sandals or barefoot beach days.
    • Pearl Earrings: Embrace the classic charm of pearls with ethically sourced pearl earrings, perfect for adding a touch of the classic to your summer look, whether you're lounging by the pool or attending a garden party.
    • Hoop Earrings: Capture the carefree spirit of summer with hoop earrings, versatile and stylish additions to any wardrobe, whether you're exploring the city streets or dancing under the stars.
    • Tennis Bracelets: Complete your summer ensemble with the timeless allure of tennis bracelets, featuring ethically sourced stones that sparkle in the sunlight, adding a touch of understated glamour to your wrist.

    Summer Necklace Jewelry

    For summer necklace jewelry, it's crucial to choose pieces that capture the essence of the season. Below, we present a curated selection of ethical necklaces that perfectly complement vibrant days of summer.
     
    • Pearl Necklaces: With their timeless nature and ethically sourced origins, pearl necklaces effortlessly dress up any summer outfit, from breezy sundresses to chic evening ensembles.
    • Gemstone Necklaces: Adorn yourself with the natural beauty of gemstone necklaces, perfect for adding a pop of color and vibrancy to your summer wardrobe. 
    • Personalized Necklaces: Make a statement with personalized necklaces, to capture  your style and tell your story. An engraved pendant or charm bundle on a signature Catbird chain is the ideal choice for dressing up a summer t-shirt or tank.
    • Emerald Necklaces: Green against a summer tan is one of our favorite gemstone looks for the season, popping against summer whites and prints alike. 

    Summer Beaded Bracelets

    For your summer wristwear, opt for the playful charm or our signature Candy Chain bracelets for a pop of color, styling these signature pieces with classic gold chains for a layered look. 

     

     

    Anklets for Summer

    Anklets for summer are the ultimate accessory, effortlessly capturing the carefree spirit and sunny vibes of the season. Whether adorned with delicate charms or shimmering gemstones, anklets add a touch of the playful to any summer ensemble. These versatile adornments are a must-have for every summer wardrobe. Whether you're lounging poolside or dancing under the stars, anklets are the perfect way to elevate your summer style with a hint of effortlessness.

    Should I Wear Gold or Silver Jewelry in Summer?

    In summer, the choice between gold and silver jewelry boils down to personal style.

    Gold exudes warmth and luxury, ideal for adding a radiant glow to your look, while silver offers a cooler, sleeker aesthetic. 

    Ultimately, it's about what feels most comfortable and reflects your unique personality. Mix and match or stick to your favorite metal – each is made for summer days turned into nights. 

     


     

  7. How to Match & Layer Gold & Silver Necklaces

    How to Match & Layer Gold & Silver Necklaces

    Indulge in the art of pairing silver and gold necklaces with finesse. At Catbird, is the home of fine craftsmanship, timeless beauty and ethical jewelry, we guide you on seamlessly blending gold and silver necklaces. Discover the magic of layering, transforming your style into an enchanting tapestry. Elevate your look with Catbird's curated fine necklace collection.

     

    Can You Mix Silver & Gold Jewelry?

    Short answer: YES! Layer cool, clean silver necklaces with sustainable 14k solid gold chains for modern elegance and the art of contrast. Might we suggest adding in one of our statement chokers. Please note, our statements tend to the delicate. It’s the Catbird way!

     

    How to Layer Silver Necklaces

    Layering silver necklaces is the ultimate in louche appeal. Punctuate your silver with varying lengths of solid gold chains and chic chokers for an element of unexpected surprise.

    How to Layer Gold Necklaces

    Create a layer with diamond pendants, chokers, and custom name necklaces. Our sustainable 14k solid gold chains, pendants, lockets, and charms all pair effortlessly, and delicate ropes of gold necklaces are like garlands, that shine day and night.
  8. How to Choose Jewelry Gifts

    How to Choose Jewelry Gifts

    Choosing the right jewelry for a gift is an artful endeavor, requiring thoughtful selection. Delight your dear recipient with jewelry that is just right for them, chosen with your love and care. From shining diamond necklaces and classic, wear-forever gold chains to rainbow-colored gemstone bracelets, our jewel box shop is full of possibility. Oh, and we mustn't forget a very special gift! Consider our engagement rings, which we also like to call celebration rings, or milestone rings. 

     

    Understand Style Preferences & What Do They Wear

    • Take note of the jewelry they currently wear. Do they prefer bold statement pieces or delicate, understated designs?
    • Consider the overall style aesthetic. Are they drawn to classic elegance, modern minimalism, a more romantic look? Pay attention to any specific themes or motifs they gravitate towards, such as celestial motifs, or vintage pieces.

    Identify Preferred Metals and Gemstones

    Keep an eye out for a metal preference (yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, silver?) in the jewelry they already wear, or admire. Additionally, consider that Catbird offers all its metals ethically sourced (over 95% recycled 14k gold!), ensuring your gift is made well. Similarly consider favorite gemstones, or if there are any specific stones they dislike. Favorite colors can be a good clue for this, too.

    Ask Friends (and the internet)

    Discreetly enlist the help of close friends or family members who may have valuable insights into the jewelry preferences of your loved ones. Also keep an eye out on any clues that social media follows or Pinterest boards might provide!

    Know The Right Size and Consider the Details

    If you're purchasing a ring, bracelet, or necklace, it's essential to know the size accurately. Consider borrowing a piece of jewelry to determine the appropriate size.

    • Pay attention to any specific details they may have mentioned or admired in jewelry, such as a particular setting or design feature.
    • Consider engraving the jewelry to add a personal touch, or selecting a design that reflects a shared memory or inside joke.

    Our helpful size guide for rings, ensures a perfect fit for your gift.

  9. How to Care for Gold Jewelry

    How to Take Care of Gold Jewelry

    Gold jewelry is timeless elegant. We like to say “put it on, never take it off” - it’s jewelry that moves with you. Whether it's 14k gold rings or gold bands that adds shine to your everyday, taking care of your gold jewelry is easy and almost effortless. In this guide, we'll explore the best practices for keeping your gold rings, gold earrings & jewelry looking its best, from storage tips to cleaning methods, and everything in between.

    How do you keep gold jewelry shiny?

    Gold jewelry, regardless of its karat or plating, can dull in its shine over time due to exposure to elements like sweat, perfume, and chemicals. To keep your gold jewelry tip top, regularly clean with a soft cloth and mild soap solution, avoiding harsh chemicals. Store it in a dry, airtight container away from moisture and direct sunlight to prevent tarnishing. For more specific instructions on how to care for your gold jewelry follow the below steps. 

    How to store gold jewelry

    Proper storage is helpful for maintaining the condition of your gold jewelry. Follow these tips to keep your pieces safe and secure:

    • Store each piece separately to prevent scratching and tangling.
    • Use a jewelry box with compartments or individual pouches to keep pieces organized and protected from dust and moisture.

    How to clean gold jewelry

    Regular cleaning helps remove dirt, oils, and tarnish, keeping your gold jewelry looking radiant. Here's how to clean your gold jewelry safely:

    • Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
    • Soak your gold jewelry in the soapy water for a few minutes to loosen dirt and debris.
    • Gently scrub the jewelry with a soft-bristled toothbrush or cloth to remove any remaining residue.
    • Rinse thoroughly under lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean, soft cloth. 

    Does Gold Tarnish?

    Pure gold is resistant to tarnishing, but alloys used in gold jewelry can tarnish over time due to exposure to air, moisture, and chemicals. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent tarnishing and keep your gold jewelry looking its best.

    Is it OK to shower with gold jewelry?

    While some may say showering with gold jewelry is safe, it's technically best to remove your jewelry before bathing. Soap, shampoo, and other shower products can leave residues on the metal, dulling its shine and potentially causing damage over time.

    Differences between 14k Vs 18k Gold Jewelry

    14k Gold Jewelry:

    • Contains 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% alloy.
    • Known for its durability and affordability.
    • Ideal for everyday wear due to its strength and resilience.

    18k Gold Jewelry:

    • Contains 75% pure gold and 25% alloy.
    • Offers a richer, deeper color and higher gold content.
    • Slightly softer than 14k gold, making it more prone to scratches but still suitable for everyday wear.

    Gold jewelry is made to last! It’s easy and low fuss to care for, and adds maximum joy to the everyday. Explore our14k gold ring and gold earring collections, as well as our gold signet rings. This is jewelry as poetry.

  10. How to Care for Silver Jewelry: Essential Care Tips for Silver Rings & Jewelry

    Silver jewelry adds a touch of cool to any outfit. Whether it's a sterling silver necklace, bold silver rings, or discreet silver bracelets, proper care will help to maintain its luster and beauty over time. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best practices for caring for your silver jewelry, from cleaning methods to storage tips.

    How to Care for Silver Jewelry

    To keep sterling silver jewelry shiny, regularly polish it with a soft cloth and mild silver cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals. For more details, read the following care tips and learn from our experts how to care for your silver jewelry.

    How to Care for Sterling Silver Jewelry

    Sterling silver jewelry is made from an alloy containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. While more durable than pure silver, the following will help to keep it looking top top and tarnish-free. 

    • Regularly polish with a soft cloth to remove tarnish.

    • Store in a dry, airtight container to prevent oxidation.

    • Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.

    How to Clean Silver Jewelry at Home

    You can easily clean silver jewelry at home using household items. Here's a simple DIY cleaning solution:

    • Mix equal parts water and mild dish soap in a bowl.
    • Soak the silver jewelry in the soapy water for a few minutes to loosen dirt and debris.
    • Gently scrub the jewelry with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any remaining residue.
    • Rinse the jewelry thoroughly under lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean, soft cloth.

    How to Store Sterling Silver Jewelry

    Proper storage is essential for preserving the condition of your sterling silver jewelry. Follow these tips:

    • Store sterling silver jewelry in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.
    • Keep each piece separate to prevent scratching and tangling.
    • Consider storing your silver jewelry in anti-tarnish bags or pouches to minimize tarnishing.

    Catbird Sterling Silver Jewelry

    Caring for your silver jewelry requires small acts of diligence and attention to detail. By following these tips for cleaning, storage, and maintenance, you can ensure that your silver remain shining for years to come. Put a record on, throw open the windows, light a candle, and start polishing!

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