Is Brown Still the New Black?

Brown isn't the new black, according to Modern Jeweler. Instead, each color is holding its own. "With black and white stronger than ever and the trend for chocolate pearls and diamonds also continuing, it’s not surprising that a combination of the two trends is popular," says the mag. "Black keeps brown sharp and urban. Brown warms up black, making it more flattering on skin. Designs that pair black and brown help marry all the jewelry in the fashionable woman’s wardrobe. And like a black and brown handbag, black and brown pieces will work with both sides of a woman’s closet."

Get the trend: Earrings with champagne diamonds in black rhodium 18k gold and chocolate South Sea cultured pearls from the “Gossamer” collection by Mark Silverstein Imagines, suggested retail $3,700, (800) 993-5900.

Chocolates are yummy...chocolate pearls are better

Thinking about a traditional heart-shaped box of chocolates for your leading lady this Valentine's Day? Bet she'd like chocolate jewelry...

Rare South Sea chocolate pearls, harvested in the waters between the north coast of Australia and the south coast of China, are the latest rage in pearl jewelry. With their unusual copper, bronze or rust color and strong iridescent overtones, they command some of the highest prices of all pearl varieties.

How much? For $38,500, you can charm your darling with a diamond and chocolate South Sea pearl necklace with matching drop earrings. If you are looking for something a little less pricey, diamond and chocolate pearl earrings will cost you $6,500. Contact http://www.ahee.com/.

Chocolate pearls?

Don't lick the walls...they're made out of chocolate. According to the AP, Manhattan's Bryant Park Hotel has an all chocolate room in honor of Valentine's Day. "It's a Valentine's Day twist on the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory competition. The right box of Belgian chocolates wins you a weekend for two in the Godiva Decadence Suite in May."

"It's the perfect bit of sin," said Heroes actor Ali Larter yesterday while admiring the chandelier's chocolate pearls.

Chocoholic lovers will also appreciate dining on a table covered with chocolate truffles under glass. They could also admire multi-coloured chocolate pieces inspired by Gustav Klimt's painting The Kiss. But lighting the fire to add to the romance might be tricky - the logs are made of chocolate too.