Blue has long been my favorite color because it complements my coloring. So I was delighted when Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, announced that Pantone’s spring 2013 colors include a range of blues and greens—from Monaco Blue to Emerald (Pantone’s color of the year). ■ The magnificent jewelry portfolio featuring blue diamonds and other precious stones in “Up In Smoke” (pages 40–47) was shot by Claire Ingram, who burned incense to capture the smoke curls in the photographs. The effect is truly dazzling. And Faye Kim of Westport created the ring on our cover just in time for our feature. ■ Our readers appreciate the finest quality craftsmanship and design in all aspects of their lives—in their homes, clothes and jewelry. With an average household income of more than $800,000, it is no surprise that a recent study of Cottages & Gardens’ readership revealed that 60,000 of our readers planned to spend $15,000 or more on jewelry purchases in the following 12 months. ■ If February is feeling a little dull right now, take some time to browse in our area’s jewelry and accessory shops, have fun and treat yourself or a loved one to a dazzling piece of beautifully designed jewelry and brighten up your day!