Ooh La La: Lust-Worthy Jewelry From 10 Local Gems

A simple piece of jewelry can be many things: an accessory, a mood-booster, a symbol — or even a conversation piece. And like shoes, we can always find one excuse or another to add another set of earrings or a killer bracelet to our collection. But even though we appreciate baubles from any origin — whether it's Forever 21 or Harry Winston — there's something extra-special about pieces that are handcrafted with a little local love.

To prove it, we pulled some dazzling goodies from 10 amazing Chicago designers that are full of creativity, style, and personality. From a super-cool Arc Brass necklace that Wild Belle's Natalie Bergman wore in our R29 Musical Muse feature to a gorgeous, au naturale, Brazilian Oco Geode ring from mineralogy, there is definitely something to suit all tastes — and budgets. And if you think the man in your life is leaning toward jewelry this Valentine's Day, you just might want to point him in the direction of this post. Just sayin'.