We spend a lot of time at PJD discussing the various in’s and out’s when concerned to finding the perfect engagement ring, wedding band, and even fancy watch.
While these pieces are certainly important, what about those pieces of fine fashion jewelry that are a bit more everyday? What about those essential items that will (hopefully) follow you through life, through every dinner party and wedding, and that will be passed on to future generations of fashionistas?
With this in mind, we hear at Premiere Jewelry Design proudly offer this helpful guide for putting together the essentials of your fine jewelry wardrobe.
Essential #1: Diamond Earrings
The epitome of class, sophistication, and effortless elegance, diamond earrings are truly the bedrock of any jewelry collection. Simple and understated, a pair of diamond earrings can any outfit to the next level of fashion, no matter how casual or formal.
We suggest starting with a pair of white gold stud diamond earrings. Basic studs make the ideal complement to basically any combination of necklines and are able to match any necklace, no matter how extravagant or over-the-top. If this seems a bit too “plain” for you, try a pair of diamond stud earrings featuring halo settings, or even try drop type earrings as these can add a little bit of extra diamond flash.
Essential #2: Diamond Bangle or Cuff Style Bracelet
Similar to diamond earrings, a subtle diamond bracelet has the ability to take an ordinary outfit and elevate it to the next level of sartorial excellence. Made to be worn alone, or layered with other bracelets, a diamond bangle or cuff bracelet is a great way to express you individual personality while remaining chic, modern, and fashion-forward.
Much like choker necklaces, bangle and cuff bracelets never to truly go out of style. Additionally, if you stick with pieces that are made with more timeless materials, such as white gold, yellow, gold, or sterling silver, then it is more likely that your bracelets will look fabulous 10, 20, 50 years from now.
Essential #3: Diamond Pendant Necklace
Glamorous yet understated, a diamond pendant necklace is a true must have that can effortlessly make the transition from day to night. Versatile and wonderful, pendant necklaces can easily be found in an immense array of designs and styles, as well as make wonderful gifts do to the variety of styles that include diamond halo pendants, heart shaped pendants, as well as uniquely engraved lockets and more.
If a white diamond necklace seems old-fashioned to you, look for more non-traditional designer designer brands such as Le Vian or Swarovski. These designers are known for featuring a-typically colored diamonds and crystals, especially Le Vian who commonly utilize their trademark “blueberry”, “vanilla”, and “chocolate” diamonds.
Essential #4: Pearl Anything
Whether it be earrings, bracelets, or a timeless necklace, pearl jewelry adds a level of class that other fine jewelry items just can not. If you’re interested in adding the sensuous curves of pearls to your everyday wardrobe it is important to remember pearl jewelry, unlike some of the other pieces on this list, aren’t ideal for all situations. That being said, a simple pair of pearl earrings or pearl bracelets are a great way to show-off a little bit when you’re just picking the kids up from school, out to a movie, or even just picking up your morning latte at ye olde Starbucks.
On the other hand, save your pearl necklace for those truly special of occasions. This is less because of tradition, and more because we suggest that you find a pearl necklace between 16-22 inches in length, and wearing a necklace of this length on the daily raises the risk of breakage and pearl loss significantly. Additionally, if this still seems a little too “old-fashioned” for you, try looking for pearl jewelry that features non-white pearls. Now-a-days it isn’t uncommon to find pieces that feature steely gray, dark blue, black, and even pink-colored pearls.
Essential #5: A Classically Designed Timepiece
More than just for telling time, a well-made watch can easily become a signature piece that you will want to wear every day. Certainly one of our favorite accessories (see most recently our guide to timepiece complications), a classically built and classically designed watch can certainly last for more than a lifetime, and makes a great addition to any outfit without drawing attention away from the rest of your ensemble.
Look for timepieces without a lot of bright colors, instead opting for more white gold, yellow gold, or steel models, as well as pieces that feature dark black or brown leather straps. Additionally, watches that have faces that are without lots of subdials or fancy hands are more likely to age gracefully than those that are covered with an assortment of fancy doodads and complications. One watchmaker that is especially talented at creating long-lasting women’s watches is Bulova who are great at utilizing mother-of-pearl inlays, subtle diamonds, and crystal detailing that is sure to last.
Where to Shop for Fine Fashion Jewelry:
Now that you have an idea of what sort of pieces you should add to your fine jewelry collection, the best place to start looking for these pieces is at a trusted neighborhood fine jewelry retailer. While it may seem tempting to buy these pieces on the internet, online jewelry shopping can be risky. There is no way to know that what you’re buying is truly what you’re going to get. Further, shopping online doesn’t give you the chance to try these items and really experience how they are going to look once you get them home.
Additionally, the staff at these sort of independent retailers, such as Freeport, Illinois’ Frank Jewelers (Go Pretzels!), aren’t usually paid by commission, allowing these fine jewelry experts to really take their time to help you find a piece that you’ll be sure to want to wear over and over.