Local designer can create ideal necklace for you

By Paula Rath
Advertiser Fashion Writer

Meet Designer Lynda Caris of Muse IX 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday; 6-8 p.m. Oct. 3; 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Oct. 4- 5 Macy's Ala Moana, Jewelry, Level 2 Information: 945-5894

Now there's a local jewelry designer, Lynda Caris of Muse IX Designs, who will craft a custom necklace to flatter a woman's features. She can also match a favorite outfit, create a necklace to go with a special gown or make necklaces for brides and bridesmaids.

For women who have Tutu's crystals, Mother's pearls or Auntie's jade beads languishing in a drawer because, although they are beautiful, they simply don't suit her style, these can be woven into a necklace more to her liking.

Honolulu realtor Chris Friese asked Caris to design a necklace for her and was delighted with the results.

"She looked at my eyes and hair color and asked me what colors I wear. She came up with a really bold piece in greens, ambers and golds which suits me perfectly," Friese said. "Lynda reads her client well, and she's got the guts to be bold and outrageous."

Michelle St. John, of Mo'ili'ili, another custom client, asked Caris to create a necklace she could wear with clothing styles from casual to career. The result? A necklace with aquamarines, green-black pearls and gold that complements her eyes (blue/green) and hair (blonde). "It's an awesome piece," St. John said. "I love it and can wear it with everything I have."

Caris is introducing her custom line at Macy's Ala Moana. During the coming weeks, she will have trunk shows and special appearances at the store. Her current collections are inspired by Greek myths (her heritage is Greek) and Hawaiian folklore. There are romantic, ocean-inspired pieces weaving blue topaz, lavender jade, freshwater pearls and aquamarines, as well as strong metallic, earthy looks featuring citrines, garnets, topaz and carnelians. She also works with beads she discovered in Greece that are chunky terracotta coated with silver or gold.

Prices for Muse IX Designs necklaces range from $180 to $210 and there is no extra charge for custom work. Earrings are $63, but during her appearance, Caris will offer a free pair of earrings with every necklace purchased.

Those who miss Caris at Macy's can contact her at 554-8866 or muse-IX-designs@webtv.net.