Dannijo Jewelry Spring 2011 Collection Preview

I have a jewelry crush on Dannijo.  Recently I met dynamic design duo Danielle and Jodie Snyder during a preview of their spring 2011 collection.  At their light-filled Meatpacking District showroom, the girls told me how they got their start making jewelry from their father's medical supplies.

Dannijo sisters Jodie and Danielle.

Although they initially pursued other careers, their fascination with making wearable art stayed with the sisters, who launched their first boutique in their hometown of Jacksonville, FL while they were still in high school.  

Jodie, 28, graduated from the University of Florida in 2004 and moved to New York City to pursue a career in fashion, and Danielle, 25, joined her big sis in the Big Apple after she graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2007.  They started designing jewelry together again in 2007 with a capsule collection benefiting a non-profit organization where Jodie worked. Dannijo officially launched in 2008.

The eye-catching Bellatrix line debuted during London Fashion Week and is named after one of the brightest stars in the Orion galaxy, home to "the female warrior." 

This battle-worthy collection has an Native American influence and includes silver and golden brass accessories adorned tastefully with rich gem tones, crystalized Swarovski elements, and bold geometric shapes. Prices range from $112 to $795.   The line also includes funky print iPhone and IPad case holders, reasonably priced from $95 to $150.

Photos by Tracy E. Hopkins

Dannijo makes jewelry for today's independent, modern woman, and is a favorite with celebs including Beyonce, Kelly Rowland, and socialite Olivia Palermo.  The designers often make custom pieces, including one-of-a-kind jewelry they've fashioned for actress Natalie Portman from her flea markets finds.

This post originally appeared on Fashion Week Examiner.