Rio de Janeiro seems like the perfect exotic summer destination spot.
But with these rough economic times, a staycation is a little bit more practical than jet setting to Brazil.
At least Miami-based designer Francisca Bastos’ collection, Reflections of Rio, can keep a girl satisfied.
The collection, which launched this summer, is composed of earrings, necklaces and rings that pay homage to signature sights in the country such as Sugarloaf Mountain, the multicolored butterflies of the Atlantic Forest and the vast diversity of its coconut trees.
Bastos said she spent time in Brazil collecting the pieces for her line.
“The stones used are praziolite, moonstone, aquamarine, diamonds and lots of bossa,” said the Aventura resident. “Green and blue are part of the color palette since they are the most noticeable colors of Rio.”
Each of her pieces is handmade and set in 18 karat yellow gold.
Best sellers at the moment are her statement making rings, which retail for $475.
Bastos says the rings work naturally with a Miami woman’s wardrobe, whether it’s a super casual day at the beach or a fancy night out on the town.
“Both Rio and Miami are cities with very similar luminosity, an outdoor lifestyle, beautiful beaches and lots of blue skies,” said Bastos.
Exclusive to NBC readers is a 30 percent discount on selected jewelry from the collection. The jewelry is also sold at Francisca Bastos’ showroom in Bal Harbour and MocaShop.com.
Annie Vazquez is a Miami-based journalist and shop-a-holic. Email her with any fashion tips, unique boutiques and openings, events, sales and bargains at anniecvazquez@yahoo.com
