ICE REDEFINED

Shari Mizrahi-Graham wants to bridge the jewelry gap in Las Vegas. We have the red carpet jewelers covered and more Zales stores than we know what to do with, but what about the area in between? "I'm bringing something I don't think Vegas has," Mizrahi-Graham said. "It's a fusion of art and fashion that anyone can buy."

It's called Ice Jewelry and you can find it at the Shoppes at the Palazzo. Mizrahi-Graham, who also owns a clothing store at the Forum Shops at Caesars called Michal Negrin, carefully selects each piece according to its individualality, color incorporation and customer appeal. Every item could easily fit in with a wrist full of John Hardy or a necklace draped in David Yurman, Mizrahi-Graham says, but without the eye-popping price tags.

Designs by Meira T, who was voted best jeweler under $1,000 by JCK magazine, boasts a combination of silver and gold on thin bracelets, earrings and chain necklaces. Hidalgo, a designer who hails from Miami, offers an array of interchangeable bands ranging from $475 to $1,545. Alwand Vahan's bracelets, which run around $1,200, all fasten with a hinge instead of a lock.

Some of the more trendy pieces include cuff links from King Baby and necklaces from Hello Kitty by Kimora Lee Simmons. The most requested designer, however, is Pandora, who creates an assortment of bracelet charms. Prices are modest and buyers like the nostalgia of sporting and/or giving a birthday cake or heart charm. Bracelets start at $50 and charms cost $25; both come in sterling silver.

With the exception of the Hello Kitty items, you won't find much that exemplifies the "bling" trend at Ice. "It was all about the bling when we were rolling in money," Mizrahi-Graham said. "With the way the economy is now, it's not about having the biggest shiniest ring anymore."

Rather, the jewelry industry is seeing an influx of spiritual themes. Whether it's Mother Mary, the ohm symbol, the hamsa hand of God, Buddha, rosaries or yin and yang, jewelry designers are getting in touch with their spiritual sides right now and shoppers are responding. It started with simple necklace charms and has reached all the way to belts and handbags.

Regardless of the economy's dismal state, Mizrahi-Graham is confident Ice will prosper. Not only is she in the heart of a shopping center that caters to tourists, who usually have a disposable income, but people still recognize the symbolism and intimacy associated with personal jewelry. "What you buy today is tomorrow's heirloom," she said.

Contact fashion reporter Xazmin Garza at xgarza@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0477.