GWYNETH PALTROW - PALTROW'S DAUGHTER SPARKS JEWELLERY CRAZE

The birth of GWYNETH PALTROW's and CHRIS MARTIN's daughter APPLE has proved profitable for an American designer, whose fruit-inspired brooch has become a fashion hit.

The ALEX AND ANI APPLE necklace, made with emerald and aqua coloured Swarovski rhinestones, was sent to Paltrow by jewellery line owner CAROLYN RAFAELIAN after she gave birth on 14 May (04), and immediately became one of the actress' favourite baby gifts.

In a handwritten note on personalised APPLE BLYTHE ALISON MARTIN stationary, Paltrow thanked Rafaelian for the "beautiful" necklace, adding, "It was very sweet of you to think of us."

Rhode Island-based Rafaelian first created her Alex and Ani jewellery line - named after her two eldest daughters - eight years ago. She launched her Apple collection in early May (04).

She says, "And then Apple was born, and it took on a life of its own. It just sells out."

Rafaelian was so touched by the note sent to her by Paltrow, she's sending an emerald and aqua Apple pin to the actress' mother BLYTHE DANNER. The brooch necklace retails at $68 (GBP37).