I'm in love: Rafael vintage jewellery

I'm pretty happy here. It's spring, it's green, and it's warm.

And I love my new piece of vintage costume jewellery.

This statement piece necklace was given to me by a friend under sad circumstances, so it deserves extra reverence.

It's quite collectible, I think: a 1970s necklace by Canadian jewellery designer Rafael.

I'm wearing it here with a thrifted outfit: a JCrew wool blazer (under $10 at Goodwill or Sally Ann), faux croc sassy shoes made in Spain ($6.99 at Stretch Thrift), and a sexy skirt I recently thrifted at Value Village ($9.99). The cashmere sweater was a gift and the saucy crochet tights are new, natch

The piece is signed, and a fellow collector at the Toronto Vintage Costume Jewellery Club I have recently joined guesses, sight unseen, that it may be worth around $100. Not bad for vintage costume. But I am keeping it.

I love how it just finishes off the outfit. Statement piece necklaces are all the rage now so I'm technically on trend, even though I don't care a whit if I am.

Don't forget: if you're a vintage costume jewellery nut like me and live in the city, the club is having its big spring show & sale this April 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m at the Leaside Memorial Community Gardens.

I may see you there! Look for the gal in the vintage bling and a Grunge Queen 'tude.