Dallas - May 23, 2007

A Manning Around the House

Melissa Joy Manning’s Precious Jewelry

Replacing the brake pads in your car. Carrying the heavy stuff. Smashing a few bugs. Sure, the benefits of having a man around are myriad.

Unless, of course, you’re a woman who can do perfectly well for herself. Much like jewelry designer Melissa Joy Manning. Her new collection of 18-karat gold necklaces, earrings, and rings full of precious jewels is an ideal gift — for yourself.

For starters, the unique baubles don’t follow any of the usual rules. Each of the stones is cut wide at different points, so no two are exactly alike. And because they’re gently placed in an elegant setting, they’re a downright spectacular way to tell the world how much you’re valued by you.

Because boys might be nice to have around sometimes.

But diamonds are a girl’s best friend.

Available at Forty Five Ten, 4510 McKinney Avenue, Knox/Henderson (214-559-4510).