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Gems for the Go-Getter, Not the Gold Digger

You work hard for the money, so be proud and flaunt it

By Annie Vazquez

| Tuesday, Sep 8, 2009 | Updated 5:45 AM EST

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Gems for the Go-Getter, Not the Gold Digger

Au79

Au79 is jewelry for the go-getter and not the gold digger.

Being a gold digger is so passé.

A real woman, these days, is more of a go-getter, and Brickell resident Lauren Monteagudo is a perfect example of this.

The local 24-year-old designer just launched her own jewelry line called Au79, which she said represents empowerment and strength.

To prove this, many of her designs all come with a tiny shovel.

“It is a symbol for women who work hard and get their own hands dirty… to dig up what they want,” said Monteagudo. “I wanted to design a product that was both meaningful and fabulous,” she added.

Monteagudo’s first collection is called the Opportunist and features 30 different pieces. There are rings, bracelets and necklaces in 14kt white, yellow and rose gold. All come with an Au79 charm.

The line runs from $200 for the Au79 Mini Shovel Bead Bracelet to $2000 for the Au79 Rosary Necklace.

Popular pieces include the Au79 Logo necklace, which Lauren Conrad has been photographed wearing.

The Yellow Gold Double Finger Shovel Ring is also another bestseller.

Aside from creating jewelry, Monteagudo is looking to expand.

“I want to build a brand. I want to be able to provide a lifestyle for all women including t-shirts, bags, shoes… the sky is the limit,” she said.

Au79 is currently sold at Moon Drops boutique in Miami Lakes and online.

Annie Vazquez is a Miami-based journalist and shop-a-holic. Email her with any fashion tips, boutique openings, events, sales and bargains at anniecvazquez@yahoo.com