There are thousands of jewelry options available, but some are tried and true essentials. You may be someone who doesn’t have much jewelry and doesn’t know where to start. Or, your collection may be overflowing with pieces, but there are ones you reach for time after time because of their timelessness and universality.
No matter your situation, we’ve compiled the five core basics that can work for nearly every woman’s lifestyle and aesthetic. Together, they serve as a classic foundation for your collection.
Find a great pair of fakes to start and upgrade to the real deal when you achieve life’s milestones.
● Diamond Stud Earrings
Diamonds might harken an essence of being “fancy” - and they can be - but they also are classic, versatile, and inherently simple. They have the remarkable ability to not look out of place anywhere, whether you are attending the opera or hitting the gym. Unlike other pieces, diamond studs can look intentional with jeans or a cocktail dress. They will become your go-to for any event, regardless of how formal, be it a date, a graduation, a funeral, or a wedding.
● A Classic Watch
Apple watches and Fitbits are great for day-to-day life, but they’re not exactly outfit enhancers. It’s worth having an option for when you are attending a nicer event or wearing a more dressed up outfit, when it can double as a beautiful piece of jewelry. Seek out a simple, well-known model with some name recognition, as these have proven their quality over the years and can be a lifetime piece. Just keep in mind you’ll have to count your own steps while you’re wearing it.
Forged rose gold bangle by Designer Keith Field
● Simple Bracelet
Silver or gold, chain link or classic bangle style, the bracelet you choose as a foundation piece should be simple, timeless, and something you love the look of on its own. You can return to it day after day, and as trends change you can mix up the look by adding a charm or stacking it with other bracelets.
● Long Chain Necklace
This look isn’t going anywhere. A long necklace is an ideal staple piece because of its versatility. It can be worn as a long single strand; wrapped as a double strand for a shorter look; or strung with any number of pendants as a statement piece.
If we are married, this is usually our engagement ring. However, this piece could be a family heirloom commemorative gift or even a Hello Kitty pendant. Wave Ring by Keith Field
● Meaningful Piece
We include this on the list of foundational jewelry for your collection because as your jewelry collection grows, it should be the base piece for others to complement. Typically when you think of a “meaningful piece” of jewelry, you immediately envision a family heirloom or a precious gift that someone else has given you. However, consider a self purchase for a meaningful piece that celebrates you. It should serve as a reminder of what’s personally meaningful in your own life, and bring you the same level of excitement to wear it every time you put it on.