The Most Classic Jewellery Pieces
Chances are if you look in your jewellery box you will find some of these classic jewellery pieces. These are the items of jewellery that have stood the test of time to become classics. These pieces can be aspirational, the ones that you want to start your “forever” jewellery collection. They can also be no brainer gift ideas.
Classic jewellery pieces such as the pearl necklace, the diamond tennis bracelet, the bangle bracelet, the pendant of religious significance, diamond stud earrings, hoop earrings, the signet ring and the locket pendant have transcended fads to become timeless staples in every wardrobe. Below we’ll explore the history of each piece as well as give some tips on what to prioritize if you’re looking to purchase your own.
Pearl Necklace
From Coco Chanel to Audrey Hepburn, pearl necklaces have long been part of iconic looks. Pearls became especially popular during the Renaissance period and have remained a staple in collections of classic jewellery pieces ever since.
The pearl necklace is seeing a bit of a resurgence these days. There was a period of time in recent years when pearl necklaces were seen as passé or something a grandmother would wear. But now we’re seeing people playing with styling, layering pearl necklaces with other necklaces, contrasting a pearl necklace with a dressed down look or choosing different colours of pearls.
Diamond Tennis Bracelet
The diamond line bracelet has been known as a style since around the 1920’s. But how did it get the name tennis bracelet? Few people know that the term “tennis bracelet” originated during the 1980’s when Chris Evert lost hers during a tennis match. A tennis bracelet is made from connected settings that are set with diamonds giving the impression that the bracelet is constructed of a line of diamonds.
There are different styles of tennis bracelets and the diamonds can be of various size and set in various ways. The classic tennis bracelet has the diamond set in a four prong setting, with diamonds ranging in size from 2 to 3mm.
Two things to consider if you are shopping for a diamond tennis bracelet. First, you’ll want to make sure you get the right size. Just as with fingers, everybody’s wrist size is different too. Second, you’ll want to make sure that it has a good, strong clasp. Tennis bracelets usually have a box clasp which is a very durable clasp. You don’t want to loose it!
Bangle Bracelet
Bangle bracelets have been worn for centuries across various cultures. In Indian tradition, brides often wear ornate, symbolic bangle sets called “chooda”. In Western fashion, bangle bracelets gained popularity during the Art Deco era of the 1920s, utilizing bold geometric shapes, ceramic inlay and intricate metalwork.
In terms of classic jewellery pieces, you can’t go wrong with a gold bangle. If worn on its own, a wider bangle such as the one pictured might be more desirable. But you could also purchase a set or more delicate bangles and stack them. Since a bangle is worn on the wrist it will be subject to daily wear and tear. You will need to be prepared that they may get a bit misshapen over time. But, not to worry, they can easily be hammered round again!
Pendant of Religious Significance
We haven’t included an image here because there are really just so many different pendants with religious significance. Often a pendant such as this will be given as a gift at a milestone moment such as a baptism or marriage.
We’ve had the opportunity to custom create many different pendants from many different faiths. Sometimes created for our client and sometimes created as a gift. Often a pendant of religious significance will be the first piece of precious jewellery a person receives.
Diamond Stud Earrings
Diamond stud earrings are the epitome of understated elegance. Their timeless appeal lies in their simplicity and versatility, making them suitable for any occasion. The quintessential day to night accessory. Diamond studs gained popularity during the Victorian era when diamonds became more accessible to the middle class. Since then, they have remained a classic choice only gaining in popularity through the decades.
When shopping for diamond stud earrings you’ll want to first assess what size of diamond appeals to you. The standard, classic size is 5mm or the equivalent of 1/2 carat in each ear totalling 1 total carat weight. The next thing you’ll want to consider is the metal. A white metal will distract less from the diamond whereas a yellow or rose gold will be more contrasting. Also, be aware that some people have an allergy to the nickel in white gold. If you’re unsure of an allergy, but want a white metal, you could instead opt for platinum.
Hoop Earrings
Hoop earrings have been a staple accessory across cultures for millennia, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Romans. In ancient Egypt, hoop earrings were worn as symbols of status and wealth, while in Rome, they were associated with femininity and fertility.
Today, hoop earrings come in various sizes and designs, from delicate gold hoops to bold statement pieces set with gemstones. Hoop earrings are so versatile and go with everything.
One thing to watch out for, often hoop earrings are hollow. If somehow they receive a ding or a dent, there is no way to remove that blemish. Just something to keep in mind!
Signet Ring
Signet rings originate in ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Initially, these rings were used as practical tools rather than fashion statements. The word “signet” is derived from the Latin word “signum,” meaning sign or seal. Signet rings were used as seals, serving as a personal signature or a mark of authority when pressed onto wax or clay. They played a vital role in official correspondence, legal documents, and the authentication of important messages.
One of the defining features of signet rings is their ability to be customized. The engraving on the bezel is usually very personal, reflecting the wearer’s individuality, heritage, or affiliation with a particular group or organization (for example Mason’s or a school ring). Family crests and coats of arms are also common as well as monograms and initials. These engravings tie generations together and make signet rings meaningful heirlooms that are usually passed down.
We’ve had the opportunity to create many custom signet rings. We find the most popular engraving to be initials but many people also choose to set gemstones as well. Think of the face of signet ring as your canvas to express yourself.
Lockets
Lockets are more than just decorative accessories; they are keepsakes that hold sentimental value and cherished memories. These hinged pendants have been worn for centuries, serving as miniature treasure chests for locks of hair, love notes, or photographs.
Lockets gained popularity during the Victorian era when sentimental jewellery became fashionable. Today, they remain symbols of love, loss, and remembrance, offering wearers a tangible connection to their past.
If you’re shopping for a locket, we recommend gold over silver. Because the function of a locket is to be open and closed somewhat regularly, you want to ensure that the closure is strong. Silver is quite a soft metal and eventually the closure on a silver locket will fail. Although the cost difference is significant, a gold locket will last much longer and be much more durable than a silver locket.
Ready to Start Collecting your Classic Jewellery Pieces?
Whether you are looking to start your forever jewellery collection or looking for an easy gift idea, any of these classic jewellery pieces will be a winner!
Classic jewellery pieces have stood the test of time and will no doubt continue to do so. Whether a fashion statement, a religious emblem, or a cherished heirloom, these timeless pieces endure.
If you’re looking for your first classic jewellery piece but having a hard time finding exactly what you want, we’re here help! Please get in touch with us, we’d love to work with you.
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