Majors

Zales’ New Collection Is a Tribute to Marilyn Monroe

MajorsSep 17, 2019

Zales’ New Collection Is a Tribute to Marilyn Monroe

Channeling the iconic actress’ independent spirit, the collection became available online this week and will hit stores in October.

20190917_Monroe-header.jpg
Diamond and 14-karat gold styles from Zales’ new Marilyn Monroe collection

New York—Zales’ newest fine jewelry collection encourages consumers to “be their own muse,” enlisting one icon as the ultimate example.

The Marilyn Monroe collection comprises 65 pieces of sterling silver, 10-karat and 14-karat gold jewelry with diamonds, in motifs channeling the actress’ career, from lips to the white dress Monroe wore—and famously lost control of—in 1955’s “The Seven Year Itch.”

A bezel-set diamond stands in for Monroe’s signature beauty mark and tributes are paid to other motifs synonymous with the star—lipstick, high heels, stars and even the dog Frank Sinatra gave her, named “Maf,” short for “Mafia.”


Motifs representing Marilyn Monroe available in Zales’ new jewelry collection

In a less literal tribute to Monroe, styles like chandelier earrings with baguette-cut diamonds and graduated diamond-drop pendants and earrings reference the classic styles of the 1950s, the actress’ most prominent creative era.

While the references might be decades old, Zales is spinning the story with a modern twist, courtesy of the collection’s accompanying digital campaign that reads, “I am my own muse. I am a diamond,” which, alongside imagery of the jewelry and Monroe, shows a contemporary woman.

In a manifesto accompanying the campaign imagery, Zales explains that it represents a woman who is unique, unmistakable and strong, forging her own path.


Glamorous, timeless styles from the new Monroe-inspired assortment

The collection also encompasses intricate bridal styles, inspired by Monroe’s famous quote to “love bravely.”

The assortment hit Zales.com on Sept. 15 and will be available in its stores on Oct. 7.

A sterling silver and diamond pendant depicting Monroe’s dress sells for $100 while a 1.5-carat pear-shaped diamond engagement ring in 14-karat white gold sells for $5,800.
Ashley Davisis the senior editor, fashion at National Jeweler, covering all things related to design, style and trends.

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