BY: S.L. STRACHAN • SELECT PHOTOS BY CHERYL GERBER

valentine’s Day

Lay it on thick. With necklaces, that is. These 18-kt. white gold and diamond chains, available in a variety of lengths and diamond carat weights, can be worn long or doubled—or even layered—to create a number of looks. Friend & Co., 7713 Maple St., 866-5433.

A favorite among celebrities, Irene Neuwirth jewelry is known for its sophistication and unique look. These18-kt. gold and pink tourmaline drop earrings are Moroccan in feel and can add a hint of exoticism to any ensemble. Pied Nu, 5521 Magazine St., 899-4118.

Why give one rose, when you can bestow 125 “Cherry Love” roses? These vibrantly hued flowers set in a silver urn will make your intended bloom with adoration and appreciation. Perfect Presentations, 833 Fulton St., 522-7442.

Popping the question the Valentine’s Day? You better have an outstanding ring—like this 2.15 carat Asscher cut diamond framed by 1.16 carat diamonds set in platinum. Boudreaux’s Fine Jewelers, 701 Metairie Rd., Metairie, 831-2772; 4550 Hwy. 22, Mandeville, 985/626-1666.









Toast your love with a pair of hand-etched crystal fleur-de-lis champagne glasses from Mignon Faget. And, don’t forget the champagne! Mignon Faget, 3801 Magazine St., 891-2005; the Shops at Canal Place, 524-2973; Lakeside Shopping Center, 835-2244.















Chocolates are always a good gift year round, but on Valentine’s Day they are even sweeter. Trained by a Belgian chocolate maker, Anna-Kristina Shea makes chocolates that reflect her European training, as well as her art school background—meaning Anna Shea Chocolates not only taste good, they look good. For Valentine’s Day, this assortment is available in 6 or 12 piece boxes. Blue Frog Chocolates, 5707 Magazine St., 269-5707.