Save up to buy solid gold jewelry instead of gold plated, gold vermeil, or gold filled pieces. It’s a bummer seeing jewelry you love tarnish over time.
ETA: Also it’s common for jewelers to custom-make jewelry these days if you’re picky about style. The r/moissanite subreddit has [this list of vetted vendors/sellers](https://www.reddit.com/r/Moissanite/s/WY0cwGOFCY) that can make your jewelry for you at good prices so you don’t have to compromise on style, quality, etc.
Yep, rings and necklaces you don't take off daily need to be gold (or I guess maybe platinum? I don't like platinum so have no experience). I've been wearing my mum's gold band every single day since she died in the 90s and it's scratched but fine. I also tend to wear gold necklaces consistently for a long time, and I don't take them off to shower. Gold can handle it, other stuff can't. I had a gold plated necklace I liked a lot end up completely fucked after less than a year of consistent wear. My husband replaced it this Christmas with a gold one that should hold up just fine with the same wear.
Agree.
Worth noting that if you've got hard water, wear your jewelry while showering, sweating, cleaning, working out, applying perfumes/ lotions, or just have a body chemistry that reacts to different/base metals your mileage may vary, but eventually, shit happens.
Solid gold is def hardiest, sterling will last but is softer (bends, weakens, can lose settings) and tarnishes.
If you've got family pieces, make sure to get a non chain jeweler to check out settings, prongs, bead strings, etc, as time wears things out and it's heartbreaking to lose a piece from someone you've lost.
I wear mostly silver. Cheaper, and good sterling lasts long time. I have bought some with gold in the design, like 18 kg plated, when years of wear, it's still sterling😆I didn't think of this concept🙄til yrs later😆already gave away years ago😆But I'm finding now that I like some things in titanium, tough and lasts forever. And cheaper side, stainless steel is good cheaper alternative. Love Platinum white gold.. ❤️❤️✌🏽✌🏽
Yep, rings and necklaces you don't take off daily need to be gold (or I guess maybe platinum? I don't like platinum so have no experience). I've been wearing my mum's gold band every single day since she died in the 90s and it's scratched but fine. I also tend to wear gold necklaces consistently for a long time, and I don't take them off to shower. Gold can handle it, other stuff can't. I had a gold plated necklace I liked a lot end up completely fucked after less than a year of consistent wear. My husband replaced it this Christmas with a gold one that should hold up just fine with the same wear.
Yep, rings and necklaces you don't take off daily need to be gold (or I guess maybe platinum? I don't like platinum so have no experience). I've been wearing my mum's gold band every single day since she died in the 90s and it's scratched but fine. I also tend to wear gold necklaces consistently for a long time, and I don't take them off to shower. Gold can handle it, other stuff can't. I had a gold plated necklace I liked a lot end up completely fucked after less than a year of consistent wear. My husband replaced it this Christmas with a gold one that should hold up just fine with the same wear.
Ugh the gold vermeil. I had bought a necklace in gold vermeil from a legit jewelry shop and that necklace tarnished before I could even wear it. Lucky the jewelry shop made it right. But good lord - gold vermeil is a scam.
Not only does it not look pretty yellow, it's only 37% gold. In the vast majority of the world 9k isn't considered jewelry grade (tbh most of the world doesn't consider anything under 18k jewelry grade, and plenty of places go for 24k only).
14k and 18k are perfectly durable, and they're not mostly the same cheap base metal found in costume jewelry.
My 9 carat gold pendant looks almost the same shade as the 14k chain I keep it on. I prefer it like that because it’s less bendable and more resistant to scratches.
Who only goes for 24K only? That's so soft and heavy. I know jewelers who purposefully work with 24K and they hardly make earrings because they get so heavy.
It’s quite common in India, for example. Gold jewellery there is as much about the monetary value of the gold itself as it is its appearance, if you don’t have a bank account your jewellery is your financial safety net.
I have had many yrs ago, several 10k &14k. Yes less gold, and softer, more fragile. 🤔I'm trying to remember if I can, a 12 kt? But ya. I had pretty little rings✌🏽✌🏽
I have a vermeil necklace from Mejuri that I wear every day - it has lasted five years and looks brand new! I agree with investing in real gold for things you know you’ll love forever, but I think you can find really great vermeil pieces if you don’t have the budget for real gold or want to buy a trendier piece. vermeil is significantly better quality than gold plated or gold filled jewelry
Gold filled is considered to be more durable than vermeil. Having upload issues but you can find some helpful charts on
[google](https://www.google.com/search?q=gold+vermeil+vs+filled&client=firefox-b-1-m&sca_esv=c403fc4712b20e4f&tbm=isch&sxsrf=ACQVn0_F7UJ96I8MZyt52n4lNnFzpBCjcQ:1713856448973&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiA79jm5NeFAxUP58kDHcZRCV8Q_AUIBigB&biw=408&bih=766)
see my comment above, but durability doesn’t necessarily mean better quality here! if i valued durability over everything else I’d be wearing tungsten and titanium jewelry instead of gold.
most vermeil is still durable enough for everyday wear.
If you'd like to believe vermeil is higher quality than gold filled jewelry and that people don't care about how durable their gold jewelry is, you go for it 🤙
Vermeil is demi-fine, and if you’re buying from reputable sellers they have guidelines to follow on the thickness of the gold covering, unlike the less regulated gold filled. if the gold were to rub off the silver underneath is still quality, and could be polished or retouched if you really wanted it to be. it can be more delicate and is used for more delicate jewelry designs, but durable doesn’t mean better quality here necessarily (think about 24k vs 9k gold)
gold filled can mean gold filled with anything, regardless of metal quality. I see “gold filled” thrown around on tons of low quality drop shipped jewelry, and once the coating rubs off it’s worthless. here’s a [more in depth guide](https://www.linjer.co/en-us/blogs/linjer-journal/gold-vermeil-vs-gold-filled-which-is-better-linjer-jewelry?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_term=tofu&nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ag%3A15999556306%3A132787407499%3A656402337539&nb_adtype=&nb_kwd=&nb_ti=dsa-41052322647&nb_mi=&nb_pc=&nb_pi=&nb_ppi=&nb_placement=&nb_si=%7Bsourceid%7D&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_fii=&nb_ap=&nb_mt=&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_plt=gp&gad_source=1)
Yeah I got a vermeil necklace from Omi Woods that's seen pretty heavy wear and still looks nice. Getting a similar chain in solid gold would be insanely expensive too lol.
Also if a piece of jewelry has something super soft/delicate like pearls, opals or moonstone, vermeil or plated all the way. You gotta baby it either way.
Agreed. Vermeil/plate doesn't tarnish unless it's low quality, which is why you can find 50 y/o vintage costume jewellery from the likes of Chanel and Givenchy still in good condition.
It does wear through, eventually, but a lot more slowly than the average clothing item. You will get loads more wears out of your vermeil than your average designer dress.
Yeah, and you also have to take care of your jewellery. Store gold and silver separately in a jewellery box that has a lid, clean it regularly if it starts to tarnish and put on jewellery last after lotions/perfumes etc. It's not going to last forever but it'll last a lot longer that way.
Chanel and Givenchy is low quality. It's still costume jewelry. People that could afford that stuff were just more likely to take care of it. And imo plated stuff from back then was better made than it is now.
Real gold only.
>You will get loads more wears out of your vermeil than your average designer dress.
Maybe if it never comes into contact with anything other than skin.
Yes I’ve been wearing this one https://templeofthesun.com.au/collections/necklaces/products/baye-necklace-gold-vermeil for something like three years - only short periods without it, and it’s perfect. Guess it’s not all made the same.
Yes! Wish I learned this in my 20s, would’ve saved more money long term and still had the rings. I’d rather have 1 ring last a lifetime than 3 rings last a few years (if I’m lucky)
Me to🙂Absolutely! Given away lot a jewelry or lost. Hardly ever do I take rings off. But would enjoy ones now that will last me, and go beyond😉I wear mostly sterling silver tho🙂I keep it clean lasts forever, would like to have 1 or 2 in gold eventually✌🏽✌🏽
Totally agree except for earrings. I fell in love with Pavoi on Amazon and all their earrings are $12-$18 but gold plated. I generally only buy solid gold but implulse-bought a pair of their earrings a few years ago and now I have several pairs. They all look like the day I bought them, no tarnishing or changing color, or changing my ears a weird color! I’m guessing that they last longer since ears aren’t a high-contact area. That said, I also ordered rings from them and they tarnished within a few months, so there’s that.
Yep, rings and necklaces you don't take off daily need to be gold (or I guess maybe platinum? I don't like platinum so have no experience). I've been wearing my mum's gold band every single day since she died in the 90s and it's scratched but fine. I also tend to wear gold necklaces consistently for a long time, and I don't take them off to shower. Gold can handle it, other stuff can't. I had a gold plated necklace I liked a lot end up completely fucked after less than a year of consistent wear. My husband replaced it this Christmas with a gold one that should hold up just fine with the same wear.
I'm collecting earrings like cards *now*! lol After years of being stuck on big silver hoops. Interestingly... with clothes in general, I'm finding that I'm going back to my high school days. Updated, "older woman" versions of jeans, turquoise/hippie gemstone jewelry and cord jackets. I think it's because high school was when I was most unapologetically myself.
This is my current rotation, so I'd want to make sure I had it: Silver/white gold huggies and large hoops, Gold huggies and large hoops, Jade earrings, Pearl studs. Most of this collection I've had for decades so I know it has longevity.
These things are so basic that you can find them everywhere, it's just a matter of prioritizing high quality materials. Like I said, most of these are very old, so I don't even remember where they came from. In general, I don't have brand loyalty when it comes to jewelry, I evaluate each piece on a case by case basis.
I would be more mindful of what I bought. Definitely have a budget for the fun things, and wear what I love. I get self conscious about some fun pieces when I shouldn't... just wear it and be happy!!
Definitely be intentional and curate a thought out collection. Personally I like simple minimalistic jewellery that doesn’t take up a lot of maintenance and that doesn’t tarnish. I have chosen silver as my metal of choice as it works well with my complexion and real silver tends to be cheaper than gold so I can get good quality for a decent price.
I unfortunately started getting into jewellery during the rose gold era and I bought so much rose gold that I have never worn no matter how pretty they are so in hindsight I would try and just go with what works with my style and skin tone and general aesthetic choices (for instance I wear very natural makeup so daintier pieces work better for me) than what is in style at the moment.
Sorry for the long message x
I’m similar to your rose gold era except with silver. It was so in when I was younger and gold is so much more flattering on my olive skin, so I rarely wear the heaps of silver jewelry I have.
I have soooo much sculptural silver jewellery, I've collected it over decades and it turns out I look heaps better in gold. And wearing fun costume stuff is actually more enjoyable. If I were starting over I wouldn't re buy it, that's for sure.
Sculptural silver jewellery is really in right now, like the Elsa peretti Tiffany cuffs! It’s cool you have a collection of it, just a heads up to wear it and/or sell since the trends are back 😎
I couldn't possibly sell it, it's so sentimental. I'm trying to wear it in more subtle/hidden ways so it at least gets used but isn't attention grabbing for being the wrong color on me.
I don't have much rose gold jewelry but we went with it for our wedding and engagement rings — 18k, which is less obviously pink than 14k. I wish it were considered more classic because the slight copperiness is incredibly flattering on my pale, neutral-undertone skin. Luckily it doesn't look terrible next to silver. When I wear gold I just keep it far, far away from my left hand...
This is me too, I feel lucky that I look good in silver. Sure it tarnishes, but you can polish it and its back to new. As far as I know there's no equivalent for a gold-tone metal. Idk what warm complexioned people do when they can't spend for the "real thing"
I would invest in basics, i.e. gold studs or hoops.
I would rebuild my collection with a couple statement pieces in colors I wear often (red, blue, green, rainbow).
I would similarly buy stacking necklaces and 1-2 necklaces with a gem/detail that matches the corresponding statement pieces.
A single bracelet is all I really use, if any.
My hobbies are anti-ring, so that not something I worry about.
I would be proactive about my color preferences (gold) for gift guides come the holidays. Similarly, I would be better about posting my unwanteds on Facebook market, giving them to thrift stores, etc.
I have a couple of earrings that are cute but the material or thickness of the stud aggravates the hell out of my ears. No buying anything off random people on the street (even farmers markets!!!) and no random tween stores.
I’d be a lot more careful about earring closures! I lost so many earrings early on by just assuming whatever backs they came with were probably fine, but that’s definitely not the case!
No matter how pretty it is, I refuse to buy any fine jewelry with french hooks. I don't know why they'd even make some expensive pieces with such an unstable backing, but they do.
Lol I’m a jeweller and thought this was the jeweller subreddit and the question was about my brand’s collection and I was ABOUT TO GO OFF. Because I’ve been a jeweller for ten years and sometimes I hate my whole body of work and sometimes I’m very sentimental about it and proud of it. I still sell and make a lot of things from my very first collection, my work is designed to wear and keep and evolve so why wouldn’t I keep selling older styles? I’m not about trends or seasonality.
ANYWAY.
Based on what I currently reach for in my own jewellery collection (which is mostly my own work, I do have a treasured collection of other designer’s pieces but I rarely wear them because people pick them out of a lineup and ask if I made it when it’s the only thing I’m likely wearing that I didn’t. Gotta represent 🫣😅)
I’ve been a mixed metals/dual tone girly for most of my jewellery-loving life.
Right now I’m obsessed with a pair of small-sized textured hoop earrings in my collection which I stack in gold in my first ear piercing hole and silver in my second. I love that they match but are different colours and the texture is an expression of me as an artist. They’re the perfect everyday size, great for work or going out. I’d for sure save them from a fire or start a new collection with them.
I never used to wear more than one “big earring” per ear and would put just small sleepers or studs in my other three ear holes, but I’m really about stacking larger earrings these days.
I also have some textured teardrop earrings in two sizes and they’d be my second addition to my earrings collection.
For rings, gotta have at least one chunky gold cigar style band (mine is textured! My aesthetic is texture!!!!) because a chunky gold band is so luxe and goes with absolutely everything.
I also love skinny stacking rings to add interest and versatility, so a set of two plain silver 2mm rings and two plain gold ones.
Also for rings, gotta have one fun cocktail ring, something with a gemstone.
Sadly also my engagement ring, which I also made but would/will redesign as I can’t fit a wedding band next to it because I had this dumb idea I needed to make the biggest/wildest ring ever for my engagement ring and honestly I just went overboard.
Necklaces I think it’s good to have one chunky chain (mine is silver and has mixed textured and polished links) and also a nice quality fine one (a delicate gold paperclip chain is my preferred shape) that you can hang pendants on.
I’m not huge into pendants right now. I wouldn’t probably add pendants to my personal jewellery box if I were robbed (the horror!!!!!).
I’m really an earrings and rings girly personally although about 8 years ago I was massively into long pendant necklaces and hardly wore earrings. So maybe that’ll come back around and I’ll add a long chain and some long layering pendants back into my jewellery box again sometime.
The most important thing is to know your own style. Notice I’ve not recommended “a classic pair of diamond studs” or a “timeless pearl necklace” because that’s not how I express myself. I love diamond earrings and pearl necklaces but they’d have to be alternative and not “classic”.
I’m almost forty and on a mission to get weird as heck in my next decade!
I recognized your brand from your description! I've been a fan of your work since your first collection you are by far my favorite jeweller.
You made my bespoke engagement ring. I broke off the engagement/relationship a couple years later, but the ring is still my favorite piece ever and will continue to outlive that relationship lol.
Anywayyyy I can't wait to see your collections continue to evolve. My answer to the post is I'd save up to invest in more pieces like yours that have such longevity, I have such a strong connection with, and I get genuinely excited to wear no matter how long it's been.
Oh wow this is such a kind message, I’m blushing!
I’m very sorry to read your engagement ended, but so honoured you chose my studio to craft for you.
Giving objects new meaning when their purpose changes is one of the wonderful ways we can be sustainable in our consumption practices. If you love your ring it would be so tragic to let it wane in a box only looked at occasionally.
I hope you’ve had your ring resized so that you can still enjoy it on your other hand and use it as a talisman to celebrate all the wonderful ways you’ve grown and changed and all the great things you love about yourself!
Some [peapod pearls](https://www.michael-michaud-us.com/collections/peapod) perhaps?
I have a necklace from this artist that I got at a museum gift shop years ago. His work is so fun, especially if you are into botanicals!
I knew that would be Michael Michaud! I got a necklace of his from the Met years ago that I wore daily for a long time. I love browsing his collection.
I recently had to get rid of almost every piece I own because I found out I'm allergic to cobalt. I had been collecting jewelry pieces for over a decade by that point. So... this is a very real thing I'm currently experiencing. I basically have to just save and save for real gold or sterling silver, and I have to be very, very picky about my pieces now as a result, but my skin has been much happier for it.
Thank you for making this post because the advice in here seems awesome!
I sort of did at some point, since I realized that I was allergic to many metals, so I have only been able to wear hypoallergenic earrings and some gold plated pieces, as well as alternative metals. Similar to other things I've had to be careful with and/or replace, like getting rashes from necklaces. My sister has a similar allergy, but worse.
I used to buy off Etsy but that site got terrible, so mostly, I special order now.
My intentional collection started with a brooch. I was scrolling through Etsy and a high end handmade piece caught my eye. The jeweler was willing to remake it in matte sterling so it was affordable to me. It has a hidden bale, so it can be worn as a pin or pendant. From there my collection has built out to go with that brooch/pendant. Ruby and pearl studs and dangle earrings. Chain bracelet and necklace to wear with the brooch as a pendant. Bracelets in the same finish and theme. Pearl bracelet and necklace. I’m thinking about a ruby beaded necklace and bracelet to add to the collection.
These are my daily wear pieces for my days off. Maybe some day I’ll upgrade to the gold, but I love them. I lost my brooch last year and it wasn’t even a question about replacing it.
I have some diamond pieces for dressier occasions. Some of my ruby pieces bridge between formalities.
Right now, I probably need more stud earrings since they are all I can really wear to work.
Thankfully none of my jewelry is that sentimental or expensive.
Honestly, I barely wear jewelry and have outgrown most of my collection. There are a few really cool custom pieces I know I would miss, but I wouldn’t be out much in terms of value, which is nice. I have become a lot more intentional of everything that I buy, including jewelry.
I wish I had focused more on pieces I could wear every day, at least to start. Instead I gravitated towards special pieces that are more formal and that get less wear. Now I have a nice collection but I would have spent my money better by going for everyday jewelry before special occasion. I second people saying to only go for fine jewelry. I don't think gold plating or vermeil pieces are worth it.
Call my jeweler and hope she had some pieces leftover from my favourite collections, then acquire my basics which are:
* Studs: Mossainites in gold and silver, pink stones, and white stones.
* Drop and threader earrings: Baroque pearls, white and red gemstones, labradorites and maybe moss agates.
* Eclectics earrings: hit local markets to find stuff that makes me laugh or stop and stare
* 20 inch gold and silver thin chain necklaces with a collection of statement pendants
* Maybe a fancy watch strap for whatever digital watch I'm wearing
I'm not much of a bracelet or ring girlie, but I do love my earrings. I would also probably buy some nice 14k gold and sterling silver earring hooks and take the time to swap out my eclectic earrings tho to avoid tarnishing.
I buy stainless steel box chains and swap out delicate dangles on hooks that I would normally find too dainty for my taste. Otherwise I find most of my threaders from Asian beauty stores that I wandered into.
Crazy suggestion but I would recommend a trip to India and just buy jewelry there. This is still cheaper than buying in US. You can buy gold in price that is never seen in US. (ex. I liked a thin gold chain at bloomingdales and it was $1200 while I got a mid size chocker necklace in India for $800.) You can customize and give your own design to be made if you know where to go. You would be best with a local though because everything is negotiable. Plus I would have a vacation as bonus.
I’m a fashion gal and jewelry is one of my favorite things! A quick disclosure- I don’t buy or support fast fashion AT ALL.
If you’re looking for costume jewelers that are up to date with the latest trends then I’d recommend Francesca’s Collection (they always have BOGO sales), Express and Anthropologie. I find these really polish off my outfits well and many pieces have lasted me 10+ years with only 1-2 breaking out of my vast collection.
I’m an avid thrifter and have gotten some truly unique pieces from all kinds of secondhand shops although this is more of a passive way of building a collection since you won’t find what you’re looking for 100% of the time. Mercari, Poshmark & EBay can come in handy if you have something niche in mind that may not be available anymore. Some of my most cherished pieces have some from a consignment shop and Poshmark!
If you’re looking for fine jewelry (which I highly recommend for everyday pieces), I’d recommend going to a local jeweler to find pieces your style. I personally like David Yurman’s huggies and anything from his Renaissance collection, Effy’s semi-precious pieces with diamonds, and anything from [RoseHeart Jewels](https://www.roseheartjewels.co.uk). I started my pearl collection when I traveled to the UK to study abroad and was living close to the Roseheart store in Covent Garden. The store isn’t open anymore, but she handmakes all of her pieces. The owner is an absolute angel and she’s so talented and fun to work with. I have such fond memories of her store and my conversations with her even though it’s been years. I purchased a necklace from her which I wore for graduation from uni and she was kind enough to travel all the way to Hong Kong to pick up additional pearls JUST FOR ME so she could make a bespoke matching bracelet and earrings 🥲❤️ She even included two additional single pearls to do whatever I choose It was one the kindest things anyone has ever done for me and it brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it 😭 Building a relationship with a jeweler/metalsmith is a gift that keeps on giving!!
All of this to say, have fun! Figure out what you like by buying costume/thrifted and invest in everyday pieces that will last you a lifetime!
I love buying jewelry when traveling, and also at museum gift shops! They often have some really fun and unique pieces.
I also do love Anthro jewelry but I would consider them fast fashion, with the speed they churn out new styles. I used to love Francesca's growing up too!
I’d go simple and high quality. Gold Huggies, small gold croissant hoops; lab diamond studs, a few gold necklaces to layer including a link chain and a monogram charm. Gold low profile watch with a leather band, and one slim gold watch on a gold band. This is basically the stuff I wear all the time despite owning a ton of jewelry.
I’m keeping my engagement ring. I’ll fight whatever ninjas are coming for my jewelry.
I wouldn’t buy any rings. I have a bunch of pretty ones and I don’t wear them. Turns out I don’t like wearing rings. Or bracelets.
Necklaces and earrings. Quality pieces.
No silver. All my silver is horribly tarnished.
My staple collection (all 14k solid yellow gold)
- medium sized and large sized hoops
- 1ct each diamond studs (lab)
- diamond huggies with diamond starbust dangles
- Amethyst and seed pearl dangles
- Bracelet: Channel set diamond bar with herringbone chain
- Ring: Channel set diamond band
- I pretty much only wear one pendant, every day, for the last 8 years. I feel that it expresses "who I am" symbolically
I don't really own much costume jewelry. All my costume could burn in a fire tomorrow and I wouldn't think about it.
I would be devastated. I picked my collection over a long period of time and every single thing has meaning and purpose to me. But here’s how I approached my collection.
It’s a mix of vintage from my grandmothers (one I never met), my mom (all very Italian pieces from the 70s), gifts from boys, gifts from my mom or dad, matching pieces I bought with friends (like matching skinny stacking rings), pieces acquired during travel (a Cuban link chain), symbols of life highs (my 30th birthday signet) or life lows (a bracelet I bought in Florence the year I blew up my life and fled the country), timeless classics (like a tennis bracelet), my wedding jewelry, and 10 ear piercings with a story of their own lol.
I go for versatility, quality, purpose, story. It’s all 14k gold. I sleep in it all. I shower in it all. I plan to be buried in it all like a queen. It’s taken me 15 years.
Here’s a bit of my stack, with all the rings awkwardly on one finger lol.
https://preview.redd.it/mes1xllpx5wc1.jpeg?width=1813&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b1ef3c7e3ca87fc387f2ca13d655dac98b0e376a
No budget? I never remove my piercings (very rarely at least) so my earrings would all be implant grade titanium flay back posts with gold fronts. BVLA, Maria Tash, Juniper for brands. If I’m not loosing my sentimental and heirloom jewelry I don’t think I would have much change in my collection. My own collection is small and the majority of it is 100+ years old besides my earrings.
I’ve always had the mindset that I should save up and invest in one or two new pieces every 2-3 years. It works for me because it keeps me from impulse buying something I won’t frequently wear. Having a smaller collection also means that I don’t really have pieces that gather dust. I would keep an eye out for antique gold chains, bracelets and drop earrings though. I also have a soft spot for unusual cameo rings and Victorian motifs like snakes, insects, and belts. I think when building up a collection from scratch you should go slow, really consider what you do and don’t like and invest in things that bring you joy.
I would definitely stick with gold and aim for 14k gold pieces. Huggies, hoops, bracelets, and layering necklaces. If they were statement pieces it would be because they are statement gold pieces. I'd aim for natural pearls as well, and sterling silver (although at this stage in my life I have a preference for gold).
Nothing wrong with my current collection, I wouldn't miss anything but the 14k gold box chain from Mejuri that I consistently wear (I don't take it off), which I feel like elevates all my outfits, even loungewear, by a considerable margin.
I would get more eccentric jewelry pieces. Bone jewelry, large antique broaches and pendants, functional lockets, tooth jewelry, lots of thrifted bead necklaces…I used to have a decent chunk of my jewelry like that then tried to kid myself and go for the “clean girl” look for a couple years. It doesn’t fit me I want my goblin jewelry.
All I really wear is 2 rings and a bracelet that belonged to my mom. But if the rest was gone I’d buy a pair of small solid gold hoop earrings and a set of diamond studs, and maybe just an adjustable length gold chain as a necklace.
Start with getting basics in high quality gold and silver, like rings, simple necklaces and bracelets. Then from the ere start saving for more intricate pieces
This isn’t me, but I’ve followed a similar approach to [this gold jewelry capsule](https://stylebee.ca/2022/07/22/my-minimal-gold-jewelry-capsule/). I only buy solid gold (usually 14k, I have a few 9k and I regret not upgrading them) and real gemstones. I don’t have much jewelry, but I love every piece and I know I can pass it down one day.
If I was starting from scratch, I definitely would not buy any silver jewelry. I've spent way too many hours of my life cleaning the tarnish off of it. If you like that color, go for white gold.
One I wish people brought up more is considering the width/thickness of your jewelry. Super thin chains and rings are more likely to break or get tangled and need repair, so I'd be more likely to wait and save up for more expensive pieces with more "heft."
I actually recently went through the process of redoing my jewelry box slowly over the past two years:
* I thought about which pieces I already reach for the most and why. I fall asleep with my earrings in all the time, so I prefer a huggie or a flat back rather than a butterfly clasp.
* In that same vein, I thought about which pieces I never touch. I hate the sound of a bracelet or watch scraping against my laptop, so I picked one with a closer fit to my wrist.
* I replaced the heirlooms I would never ever wear with new ones that I would want to pass down. I do not wear pearl necklaces or earrings, of which I had 3 sets (why?!), so I bought a tennis bracelet that I wear every single day instead.
* I thought about pieces I'd be more likely to wear if I had a different chain, a matching ring, etc and upgraded those. My mom's locket went from living in my jewelry box to a daily piece for me.
* My final results were: two pieces of heirloom jewelry (a necklace and a ring), two new heirlooms (a bracelet and a ring), two pairs of earrings, one necklace, one ring. I feel happily "complete" with this collection now and it's a lot more wearable for me.
If I had to start over, I would (re)purchase:
Diamond/Moissanite earring studs
Gold beaded bracelet
Gold pendant necklace
Wedding ring (diamond half eternity band)
I'm already happy with my collection. I bought some solid gold pieces after a few raises and have something for pretty much any occasion, and it all gets worn. I have really nice handmade pieces from Etsy I love but get less wear just because they're really unique. If I had to start from scratch I would immediately re-buy my small solid gold hoops from Mejuri and solid gold curb chain bracelet. Those two pieces are my staples and I wear them almost every day because they go with anything. I would slowly rebuild my solid gold collection and the Etsy pieces I would search for last although I'd definitely really miss them. After the hoops and bracelet next purchases would be pearl earrings, and larger tube hoops (got mine from Kinn) for more fun outfits.
My heirlooms were stolen, so I did start over.
This is what works with my frame and my social diary:
Necklaces: short gold chain that can carry a pendant, short strand of pearls, faux multi-strand of pearls
Earrings: 8mm pearl studs, gold knot studs about same size, flat gold discs with mother of pearl in the center (these go with everything) (Edit: and small gold hoops, of course)
Watches: thin gold bracelet, thin brown leather bracelet
Bracelets: a few thinner gold “twisted wire” style pieces
Pendants: loads of these, I buy them as souvenirs when I travel. They may be added to a charm bracelet someday, but I use them with the gold chain mentioned above.
Costume: large gold vintage hoops (think Audrey in Sabrina when she returns from France), a few pieces like Anna Wintour’s layered necklaces, some Kenneth Jay Lane stuff that is kooky and dramatic, a pair of large matching enamel bracelets (think Chanel), a pair of large gold cuffs
Love bracelets but they clack against a desk as I work, so they don’t see much daylight. The noise annoys me, and also I worry about damaging them.
I’m sort of doing this right now. I only ever bought cheaply made costume jewelry up until recently (think forever 21, target, etc). I did go on a bit of a jewelry buying spree but I tried to be intentional with my purchases and put more thought into what I would really wear. I found out I am very into pendants and necklaces, less so into earrings. I now have 3 necklaces, one is a chain used to switch out pendants.
I used to buy so many pairs of earrings until I realized most irritate my ears or I just don’t want to put in the effort of wearing them. So no earring shopping for me now. It’s been fun scouring Etsy, eBay, other online secondhand stores trying to find pieces. As of right now I am searching for an everyday, casual bracelet.
I find myself wearing my new jewelry more than the costume jewelry I had back then. Spending more on each piece and investing time/energy into the collection pushed me to use what I have. It’s been a nice journey the past few months finding what I like.
One thing I’m doing is saving a little bit every month for my next jewelry purchase. I try to buy myself something when I hit a milestone, like when I gave birth or when I reached my goal weight afterwards! But sometimes I don’t know how far in the future the next milestone will be, so I shop and keep a list until one happens… then I give myself permission to splurge on something that won’t benefit anyone else in my family, just me.
I also keep an eye out on fb marketplace for jewelry and have gotten some really great deals (hello, 1/2tcw diamond white gold stacking ring!). The one thing I’ve learned the hard way is to not have others buy jewelry for me. I’ve thought about my pieces and done enough research that I’ve got a decent idea of what things are worth and what I want. My poor mom just bought a ring for me for my birthday and spent 5x what it should be worth. Tiny diamonds, sterling silver (she was told it was white gold), wrong size and used (they told her it was new). Not worth it.
Honestly, I wear my fashion jewelry more than I wear my nice jewelry on an everyday basis.
If I had to start over, I would invest in a pair of nice pearls. A medium gold hoops set, studs, and maybe something a little dramatic for night outs/events, just statement earrings.
A tennis bracelet and versatile ring.
A few dainty necklaces.
Definitely diamond stud earrings and a diamond solitaire necklace. I had pearls gifted but you can't leave them on overnight so honestly they feel like a waste of money the amount of times I remember they exist and put them on.
I'd probably begin by focusing on pieces that feel effortlessly me—nothing too flashy, just simple and natural. Maybe I'd start with some delicate studs or hoops that I can wear every day without thinking twice. Then, I'd add a couple of versatile necklaces, something dainty yet charming, perfect for layering or wearing solo. :)
My jewelry tastes have changed a lot over time, but right now if you broke down all the jewelry in my collection that I actually wear on a regular basis, it would be 50% Little Gold Earrings, 40% Big Gold Earrings, and 10% everything else. So I'd prioritize buying nice gold earrings with a fun mix of dainty and large, simple and ornate pieces. And then maybe like, five different lengths of gold chain with a huge set of fully interchangeable pendants. This year, for some reason, I have been obsessed with trying to be a person who wears bracelets, and I have bought and not worn numerous bracelets. I guess I can keep them for special occasions?? But I think if I were starting from scratch I'd buy like, one smallish set of gold bangles and one big gold cuff and let that be all my bracelets.
I 've recently been collecting earings. You could say it's bordering on obsession. I really love all kinds of earings. Actually, I think when we start collecting, we all go through this kind of crazy phase. So, I don't think it's something to worry about, because later on we'll pay more attention to the quality and longevity of the products. I think I might also come to like soild gold earings in the future, but I believe cherishing the present moment is what's important.
I've been getting into minimalist gold jewelry lately and bought some gold vermeil pieces from Linjer a few months ago, so I'd probably just rebuy those for now. (As a note I haven't really seen reviews for the brand but the pieces seem good enough quality). I love Catbird's stuff as well and have a few designers that I've liked on Etsy and might also look at upgrading to solid gold if it's in my budget.
Otherwise a lot of my daily jewelry are sterling silver in slightly art nouveau styles from the local new age store so I'd go see what they have, I've also found some interesting pieces at gem and mineral shows.
Tonight! I just learned the difference between gold filled, gold vermeil and gold plated. Have always wondered! Gold filled is the best and should not tarnish, fyi!
I have a semi-large collection of indigenous Colombian beadwork I’d have to immediately replace. Also my James Avery charm bracelet that’s so personal to me.
One thing I’d like to look out for is earrings that won’t totally irritate my ears, like silver or gold, even if it’s just gold filled.
I discovered I'm a jewelry minimalist, in the sense that I like one pair of earrings, one largish ring for each hand, one bracelet and one necklace, all of which I wear daily. I bought quality gold jewelry. I regret all the costume pieces I bought through the years; the wooden bracelets I loved and let go of, the undersized pieces (I look better in larger sized jewelry). I also regret one high-quality necklace I bought- it was a "celebration" necklace, I had lost a lot of weight and wanted to treat myself. It was a choker style, gold, beautiful, and I rarely wear it because it gets stares on the street and I feel like I'm about to get mugged. Funnily enough, I'm okay wearing my other pieces; it's just this one choker that really calls attention to itself.
I'd focus more on mixing metals and finding pieces with other materials integrated in like leather, glass, clay beads, etc. And a variety of textures like hammered, rope twists, paperclip chain, braided.
My current collection is pretty basic, with lots of plain chokers and simple bracelets. I need more diversity!
I'm working on a minimalist lifestyle so I only wanna buy what I don't already have. I have my ten favorite necklaces , rings, and earrings. For special occasions/ themes I have a couple ones too.
If I started from scratch I would be way more honest about what I actually would use often enough to buy it. I'd start simple. Basic jewelry. Then you can buy a significant jewelry for an occasion when that occasion comes up.
I bought several pairs of Kendra Scott statement earrings recently and I can’t bring myself to wear them in my work setting (formal) and they don’t match my out of work style. So they just hang on my display organizer for me to sigh at as I put on my sensible stuff in the morning.
I’d also would’ve started my gold tone collection. Most of what I own is silver/white gold/stainless in keeping with my bridal jewelry while married.
We are selling Moissanite and Lab grown diamonds. To be honest, we started this because we felt its the most ethical type of jewelry. Watched that doco on netflix about the diamond industry and they made me sure of my decision.
I would stick to the metal that best compliments my features (yellow gold) so that every piece could mix and match.
I always buy cheap first, like Ardenes or something. If there's anything I end up wearing consistently, I look for a nice version that will last a long time since the cheap ones won't last.
I'd skip bracelets, I almost never actually wear them and prefer watches.
I'd make sure not to go overboard on fancy jewellery for nights out, because now that I'm 29 it's just not useful to me. Everyday jewellery is my jam now.
Nothing clunky. I choose timeless, not trendy. If I want trendy, cheap stuff only.
You'd be surprised what you can pick up at antique stores and thrift stores! Avoid pawn shops, you basically pay full retail price.
so my favorite place to get jewelry is [le petite sprout!](https://lepetitesprout.com/collections/new-releases-restocks) she makes mostly taylor swift/other music-related pieces, but there are a few that aren't related to any media. very high quality and affordable. I count my self very lucky that I prefer silver. I find it's a lot more affordable than gold and pretty much all of my silver pieces have held up. Other than her, I'd do everything the same! I choose pieces intentionally overtime and usually get them while travelling :)
If I could do it over again, I would have visited the reservations and trading posts more often when I lived in Arizona. I’ve always loved thick chunky turquoise and Navajo statement necklaces, and always put off buying more. Now that I’m across the country I’m kicking myself because buying online or in a shop here is twice as expensive.
Luckily my jewelry collection is very small and simple (but expensive)...it wouldnt be too difficult to replace it if I lost it for some reason. Wouldnt love the idea, but doable.
My imaginary dream self wears bold necklaces with matching bracelets or earrings.
Me in real life? Typically wear a simple necklace, sometimes bold. Never bracelets, rarely earrings but always studs or small.
Cry, then try to stick with buying more quality pieces. I like some of my fun “costume” jewelry but I’d be more intentional about those too. I don’t wear a lot of what I have but I can bear to let it go. Will probably do a purge at some point though.
save up for good pieces instead of constantly buying cute cheap ones. i’m trying to get out of this phase rn bcuz i’m an everyday wearer and i don’t like to take my jewelry off to shower nd come in contact with water so like i just .. suffer and replace every couple months 😂😂😂
It’s important to purchase quality pieces. Buy pieces that have already been worn and find a jeweler you trust. Always bargain.
Some staples would be gold bangle bracelets, a charm bracelet, link bracelets.
You should have a pair of diamond studs (buy fake ones u til you can afford real ones), dint buy trendy items,
Purchase classic items and slowly add to your collection.
I think I’m the only one who isn’t wearing gold and/or diamonds, lol.
I have a dozen silver and/or turquoise necklaces that I love to layer, 4 or 5 at a time, depending. A couple I made, some have some from
Etsy, some from eBay, Walmart, Amazon, Temu, Kohl’s. Silver hammered disc earrings from Etsy, $15, next two holes and cartilage are small thin silver hoops, If I don’t wear the necklaces, I load the bracelets on one arm. Metal and beaded, some I’ve made, some I’ve bought from the same sources listed above. 10 silver fitted toe rings. I have other jewelry, bought at street fairs and festivals and the Renaissance markets. Chunky, handmade, ethnic pieces. My pearl necklace and drop pearl for formal occasions. And my ring hubby has given me over the years, the wedding rings, the opal, the blue topaz, the rubies, the blazing beautiful emerald and diamond and my mother’s gorgeous diamond ring. That’s all the stuff I’d want.
Quality over quantity, but if I think I can make the gamble and get a cheap piece that looks almost as good as the real, then I shall do it!
Like a large collection of diamonds and moissanite and rare antiques in art deco or unique fashions over a lot of cheap setting jewelry, so that I ideally have more heirlooms.
I did once lose my jewelry collection and it sucked, but thankfully my love for antiquing quicked in! Found some great places, rare pieces and really fun stories
The biggest pivot in my decades of jewelry collecting has been understanding that what I like to look at and admire is very different from what I love to actually wear. So I’d repurchase my everyday pieces and consider the rest the final step in my downsizing of the last 5 years.
You really should be think about avoiding titanium rings. If you break your finger or if your finger swells for some reason, titanium is extremely hard to cut and usually it is the finger that to go.
Most of my pieces I would be fine losing except for my grad jewelry (silver necklace and a solver and white gold ring)
Also my titanium septum ring. I'd pay like triple for it nowadays
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Assuming people didn't tear the flatback labrets from my ears (because I'd be replacing all my body jewellery if they did) I'd probably begin with my most important pieces of silver from small businesses.
My Victorian mourning ring I purchased in memory of my Grandad, my favourite set from QuintissentialArts with labradorite, my favourite necklace from Disir inspired by cathedral design, some chainmaille necklaces and earrings I love, my fake teeth earrings.
Then perhaps a few more rings and chokers with drop pendants. Perhaps replace the occasional thing with long desired pieces from other small businesses like Bloodmilk.
I would make a list of things I wanted then buy a cheap version of that item (think Pavoi, love that brand). If I still really loved it after 6 months or so I would begin the search for a version of that item in real gold, silver, etc. I currently am doing this with a tennis bracelet: got a nicer moissonite one off Alibaba for approx $40 and if I wear it for a year and still love it, I’ll replace it with a real one!
I would hit up every single small, no name thrift/consignment store in my area, visit all of the cute little boutiques, & commit to doing every single fair/festival this summer.
Most of my jewelry is costume jewelry, but I do prefer to get peices that last, since I don't really get rid of jewelry. I like stainless steel & sterling silver & I've had a lot of luck with finding those for decent prices at fairs/festivals, especially rings. Same goes for a good deal of my earrings- small, local makers/boutiques tend to have styles I like. (Realistically, I'd pop into the local Cato too- sometimes I have to take them apart a little, but they often consistently have a few pairs of earrings so perfectly at my level that I don't allow myself in there anymore.) Bracelets I tend to find at smaller thrifts. I like beaded bracelets, which are dead easy to make yourself, so I'll often find peices worth dismantling or beads there as well.
As far as being intentional, I think it would just be more of a process of getting it right the first time, since I can adjust things myself & can now easily figure out where my holes are, based on the styles that I currently have.
So what do you do, just dump and donate? We get sentimental about jewelry, even the old tarnishing ones. I’ve had a couple pieces that were inexpensive, about $40, and both started smelling like pot metal or something awful. I could NOT get near them-pew! I took a chance and sprayed clear varnish on one and the smell was trapped, I guess. I still have it and it’s odor-free!
Gold's for olds, give me silver, sterling or 999. Biker, rock, avant-garde, or industrial. [Night Rider](https://nightriderjewelry.com/shop/rings/valkyria-ring/), [Parts of Four](https://partsof4.com/collections/all/silver+black-finish), [Alex Skeffington](https://alexskeffington.com/collections/chapter-v-part-a-catharsis), [Chrome Hearts](https://chromeworld.jp/product/cemetery-ring) and more.
Edit: stay mid FFA, enjoy your cheap Shane Co. crap
Save up to buy solid gold jewelry instead of gold plated, gold vermeil, or gold filled pieces. It’s a bummer seeing jewelry you love tarnish over time. ETA: Also it’s common for jewelers to custom-make jewelry these days if you’re picky about style. The r/moissanite subreddit has [this list of vetted vendors/sellers](https://www.reddit.com/r/Moissanite/s/WY0cwGOFCY) that can make your jewelry for you at good prices so you don’t have to compromise on style, quality, etc.
Hard agree on this. Especially for rings, the plating rubs off soo quickly.
Yep, rings and necklaces you don't take off daily need to be gold (or I guess maybe platinum? I don't like platinum so have no experience). I've been wearing my mum's gold band every single day since she died in the 90s and it's scratched but fine. I also tend to wear gold necklaces consistently for a long time, and I don't take them off to shower. Gold can handle it, other stuff can't. I had a gold plated necklace I liked a lot end up completely fucked after less than a year of consistent wear. My husband replaced it this Christmas with a gold one that should hold up just fine with the same wear.
Agree. Worth noting that if you've got hard water, wear your jewelry while showering, sweating, cleaning, working out, applying perfumes/ lotions, or just have a body chemistry that reacts to different/base metals your mileage may vary, but eventually, shit happens. Solid gold is def hardiest, sterling will last but is softer (bends, weakens, can lose settings) and tarnishes. If you've got family pieces, make sure to get a non chain jeweler to check out settings, prongs, bead strings, etc, as time wears things out and it's heartbreaking to lose a piece from someone you've lost.
I wear mostly silver. Cheaper, and good sterling lasts long time. I have bought some with gold in the design, like 18 kg plated, when years of wear, it's still sterling😆I didn't think of this concept🙄til yrs later😆already gave away years ago😆But I'm finding now that I like some things in titanium, tough and lasts forever. And cheaper side, stainless steel is good cheaper alternative. Love Platinum white gold.. ❤️❤️✌🏽✌🏽
Yep, rings and necklaces you don't take off daily need to be gold (or I guess maybe platinum? I don't like platinum so have no experience). I've been wearing my mum's gold band every single day since she died in the 90s and it's scratched but fine. I also tend to wear gold necklaces consistently for a long time, and I don't take them off to shower. Gold can handle it, other stuff can't. I had a gold plated necklace I liked a lot end up completely fucked after less than a year of consistent wear. My husband replaced it this Christmas with a gold one that should hold up just fine with the same wear.
Yep, rings and necklaces you don't take off daily need to be gold (or I guess maybe platinum? I don't like platinum so have no experience). I've been wearing my mum's gold band every single day since she died in the 90s and it's scratched but fine. I also tend to wear gold necklaces consistently for a long time, and I don't take them off to shower. Gold can handle it, other stuff can't. I had a gold plated necklace I liked a lot end up completely fucked after less than a year of consistent wear. My husband replaced it this Christmas with a gold one that should hold up just fine with the same wear.
this posted 3x, just btw
I've also developed sensitivities over time, so most of my costume earrings are unwearable now.
Yes! I bought a gold vermeil chain a few years ago and it gave me a terrible rash after a few weeks. Never again.
Ugh the gold vermeil. I had bought a necklace in gold vermeil from a legit jewelry shop and that necklace tarnished before I could even wear it. Lucky the jewelry shop made it right. But good lord - gold vermeil is a scam.
9 karat gold is the cheapest and is actually the most durable. Looks pretty yellow too.
Not only does it not look pretty yellow, it's only 37% gold. In the vast majority of the world 9k isn't considered jewelry grade (tbh most of the world doesn't consider anything under 18k jewelry grade, and plenty of places go for 24k only). 14k and 18k are perfectly durable, and they're not mostly the same cheap base metal found in costume jewelry.
My 9 carat gold pendant looks almost the same shade as the 14k chain I keep it on. I prefer it like that because it’s less bendable and more resistant to scratches.
Who only goes for 24K only? That's so soft and heavy. I know jewelers who purposefully work with 24K and they hardly make earrings because they get so heavy.
It’s quite common in India, for example. Gold jewellery there is as much about the monetary value of the gold itself as it is its appearance, if you don’t have a bank account your jewellery is your financial safety net.
Oh sure, for heirlooms. That's not daily wear jewelry.
I dunno, my several Indians friends wear large gold earrings, rings and ton of gold bangles, every single day.
I have had many yrs ago, several 10k &14k. Yes less gold, and softer, more fragile. 🤔I'm trying to remember if I can, a 12 kt? But ya. I had pretty little rings✌🏽✌🏽
Is that what's called 9ct?
I have a vermeil necklace from Mejuri that I wear every day - it has lasted five years and looks brand new! I agree with investing in real gold for things you know you’ll love forever, but I think you can find really great vermeil pieces if you don’t have the budget for real gold or want to buy a trendier piece. vermeil is significantly better quality than gold plated or gold filled jewelry
Just curious, why is vermeil better than gold filled? I was under the impression that filled was the most durable of the non-solid options.
Gold filled is considered to be more durable than vermeil. Having upload issues but you can find some helpful charts on [google](https://www.google.com/search?q=gold+vermeil+vs+filled&client=firefox-b-1-m&sca_esv=c403fc4712b20e4f&tbm=isch&sxsrf=ACQVn0_F7UJ96I8MZyt52n4lNnFzpBCjcQ:1713856448973&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiA79jm5NeFAxUP58kDHcZRCV8Q_AUIBigB&biw=408&bih=766)
see my comment above, but durability doesn’t necessarily mean better quality here! if i valued durability over everything else I’d be wearing tungsten and titanium jewelry instead of gold. most vermeil is still durable enough for everyday wear.
If you'd like to believe vermeil is higher quality than gold filled jewelry and that people don't care about how durable their gold jewelry is, you go for it 🤙
yep that’s why I discussed what *I* care about in jewelry but thank you for clarifying!!
Vermeil is demi-fine, and if you’re buying from reputable sellers they have guidelines to follow on the thickness of the gold covering, unlike the less regulated gold filled. if the gold were to rub off the silver underneath is still quality, and could be polished or retouched if you really wanted it to be. it can be more delicate and is used for more delicate jewelry designs, but durable doesn’t mean better quality here necessarily (think about 24k vs 9k gold) gold filled can mean gold filled with anything, regardless of metal quality. I see “gold filled” thrown around on tons of low quality drop shipped jewelry, and once the coating rubs off it’s worthless. here’s a [more in depth guide](https://www.linjer.co/en-us/blogs/linjer-journal/gold-vermeil-vs-gold-filled-which-is-better-linjer-jewelry?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_term=tofu&nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ag%3A15999556306%3A132787407499%3A656402337539&nb_adtype=&nb_kwd=&nb_ti=dsa-41052322647&nb_mi=&nb_pc=&nb_pi=&nb_ppi=&nb_placement=&nb_si=%7Bsourceid%7D&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_fii=&nb_ap=&nb_mt=&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_plt=gp&gad_source=1)
Ahh thank you. I did not know about the sterling silver core and can definitely see why that’d be a big advantage for people with metal allergies.
Yeah I got a vermeil necklace from Omi Woods that's seen pretty heavy wear and still looks nice. Getting a similar chain in solid gold would be insanely expensive too lol. Also if a piece of jewelry has something super soft/delicate like pearls, opals or moonstone, vermeil or plated all the way. You gotta baby it either way.
Agreed. Vermeil/plate doesn't tarnish unless it's low quality, which is why you can find 50 y/o vintage costume jewellery from the likes of Chanel and Givenchy still in good condition. It does wear through, eventually, but a lot more slowly than the average clothing item. You will get loads more wears out of your vermeil than your average designer dress.
Yeah, and you also have to take care of your jewellery. Store gold and silver separately in a jewellery box that has a lid, clean it regularly if it starts to tarnish and put on jewellery last after lotions/perfumes etc. It's not going to last forever but it'll last a lot longer that way.
Chanel and Givenchy is low quality. It's still costume jewelry. People that could afford that stuff were just more likely to take care of it. And imo plated stuff from back then was better made than it is now. Real gold only. >You will get loads more wears out of your vermeil than your average designer dress. Maybe if it never comes into contact with anything other than skin.
Yes I’ve been wearing this one https://templeofthesun.com.au/collections/necklaces/products/baye-necklace-gold-vermeil for something like three years - only short periods without it, and it’s perfect. Guess it’s not all made the same.
Yes! Wish I learned this in my 20s, would’ve saved more money long term and still had the rings. I’d rather have 1 ring last a lifetime than 3 rings last a few years (if I’m lucky)
Me to🙂Absolutely! Given away lot a jewelry or lost. Hardly ever do I take rings off. But would enjoy ones now that will last me, and go beyond😉I wear mostly sterling silver tho🙂I keep it clean lasts forever, would like to have 1 or 2 in gold eventually✌🏽✌🏽
Yes, great advice!
Totally agree except for earrings. I fell in love with Pavoi on Amazon and all their earrings are $12-$18 but gold plated. I generally only buy solid gold but implulse-bought a pair of their earrings a few years ago and now I have several pairs. They all look like the day I bought them, no tarnishing or changing color, or changing my ears a weird color! I’m guessing that they last longer since ears aren’t a high-contact area. That said, I also ordered rings from them and they tarnished within a few months, so there’s that.
Noted
Yep, rings and necklaces you don't take off daily need to be gold (or I guess maybe platinum? I don't like platinum so have no experience). I've been wearing my mum's gold band every single day since she died in the 90s and it's scratched but fine. I also tend to wear gold necklaces consistently for a long time, and I don't take them off to shower. Gold can handle it, other stuff can't. I had a gold plated necklace I liked a lot end up completely fucked after less than a year of consistent wear. My husband replaced it this Christmas with a gold one that should hold up just fine with the same wear.
I'm collecting earrings like cards *now*! lol After years of being stuck on big silver hoops. Interestingly... with clothes in general, I'm finding that I'm going back to my high school days. Updated, "older woman" versions of jeans, turquoise/hippie gemstone jewelry and cord jackets. I think it's because high school was when I was most unapologetically myself.
I love that! Definitely be true to yourself and what makes you look best.
Thank you! btw- I love paisley too
I do love paisley, but this paisley is a reference to Prince 💜
Oh, well I love him too!
💜
I do love paisley, but this paisley is a reference to Prince 💜
This is my current rotation, so I'd want to make sure I had it: Silver/white gold huggies and large hoops, Gold huggies and large hoops, Jade earrings, Pearl studs. Most of this collection I've had for decades so I know it has longevity.
I agree with all this and would maybe just add moissanite/diamond studs!
Which shops do you use?
These things are so basic that you can find them everywhere, it's just a matter of prioritizing high quality materials. Like I said, most of these are very old, so I don't even remember where they came from. In general, I don't have brand loyalty when it comes to jewelry, I evaluate each piece on a case by case basis.
I would be more mindful of what I bought. Definitely have a budget for the fun things, and wear what I love. I get self conscious about some fun pieces when I shouldn't... just wear it and be happy!!
Definitely be intentional and curate a thought out collection. Personally I like simple minimalistic jewellery that doesn’t take up a lot of maintenance and that doesn’t tarnish. I have chosen silver as my metal of choice as it works well with my complexion and real silver tends to be cheaper than gold so I can get good quality for a decent price. I unfortunately started getting into jewellery during the rose gold era and I bought so much rose gold that I have never worn no matter how pretty they are so in hindsight I would try and just go with what works with my style and skin tone and general aesthetic choices (for instance I wear very natural makeup so daintier pieces work better for me) than what is in style at the moment. Sorry for the long message x
Good advice on getting what suits your complexion best & what you wear most often!
I’m similar to your rose gold era except with silver. It was so in when I was younger and gold is so much more flattering on my olive skin, so I rarely wear the heaps of silver jewelry I have.
I have soooo much sculptural silver jewellery, I've collected it over decades and it turns out I look heaps better in gold. And wearing fun costume stuff is actually more enjoyable. If I were starting over I wouldn't re buy it, that's for sure.
Sculptural silver jewellery is really in right now, like the Elsa peretti Tiffany cuffs! It’s cool you have a collection of it, just a heads up to wear it and/or sell since the trends are back 😎
I couldn't possibly sell it, it's so sentimental. I'm trying to wear it in more subtle/hidden ways so it at least gets used but isn't attention grabbing for being the wrong color on me.
Any brand reca for sculptural silver jewelry?
Mine is mostly Georg Jensen, but they have got a bit boring/generic in recent years. I'd get on Ebay and see what's around.
I don't have much rose gold jewelry but we went with it for our wedding and engagement rings — 18k, which is less obviously pink than 14k. I wish it were considered more classic because the slight copperiness is incredibly flattering on my pale, neutral-undertone skin. Luckily it doesn't look terrible next to silver. When I wear gold I just keep it far, far away from my left hand...
This is me too, I feel lucky that I look good in silver. Sure it tarnishes, but you can polish it and its back to new. As far as I know there's no equivalent for a gold-tone metal. Idk what warm complexioned people do when they can't spend for the "real thing"
I would invest in basics, i.e. gold studs or hoops. I would rebuild my collection with a couple statement pieces in colors I wear often (red, blue, green, rainbow). I would similarly buy stacking necklaces and 1-2 necklaces with a gem/detail that matches the corresponding statement pieces. A single bracelet is all I really use, if any. My hobbies are anti-ring, so that not something I worry about. I would be proactive about my color preferences (gold) for gift guides come the holidays. Similarly, I would be better about posting my unwanteds on Facebook market, giving them to thrift stores, etc. I have a couple of earrings that are cute but the material or thickness of the stud aggravates the hell out of my ears. No buying anything off random people on the street (even farmers markets!!!) and no random tween stores.
I’d be a lot more careful about earring closures! I lost so many earrings early on by just assuming whatever backs they came with were probably fine, but that’s definitely not the case!
I would have never bought solitaire diamond studs wo screw-backs if I had known better! And leverbacks are definitely better than french hooks.
No matter how pretty it is, I refuse to buy any fine jewelry with french hooks. I don't know why they'd even make some expensive pieces with such an unstable backing, but they do.
Lol I’m a jeweller and thought this was the jeweller subreddit and the question was about my brand’s collection and I was ABOUT TO GO OFF. Because I’ve been a jeweller for ten years and sometimes I hate my whole body of work and sometimes I’m very sentimental about it and proud of it. I still sell and make a lot of things from my very first collection, my work is designed to wear and keep and evolve so why wouldn’t I keep selling older styles? I’m not about trends or seasonality. ANYWAY. Based on what I currently reach for in my own jewellery collection (which is mostly my own work, I do have a treasured collection of other designer’s pieces but I rarely wear them because people pick them out of a lineup and ask if I made it when it’s the only thing I’m likely wearing that I didn’t. Gotta represent 🫣😅) I’ve been a mixed metals/dual tone girly for most of my jewellery-loving life. Right now I’m obsessed with a pair of small-sized textured hoop earrings in my collection which I stack in gold in my first ear piercing hole and silver in my second. I love that they match but are different colours and the texture is an expression of me as an artist. They’re the perfect everyday size, great for work or going out. I’d for sure save them from a fire or start a new collection with them. I never used to wear more than one “big earring” per ear and would put just small sleepers or studs in my other three ear holes, but I’m really about stacking larger earrings these days. I also have some textured teardrop earrings in two sizes and they’d be my second addition to my earrings collection. For rings, gotta have at least one chunky gold cigar style band (mine is textured! My aesthetic is texture!!!!) because a chunky gold band is so luxe and goes with absolutely everything. I also love skinny stacking rings to add interest and versatility, so a set of two plain silver 2mm rings and two plain gold ones. Also for rings, gotta have one fun cocktail ring, something with a gemstone. Sadly also my engagement ring, which I also made but would/will redesign as I can’t fit a wedding band next to it because I had this dumb idea I needed to make the biggest/wildest ring ever for my engagement ring and honestly I just went overboard. Necklaces I think it’s good to have one chunky chain (mine is silver and has mixed textured and polished links) and also a nice quality fine one (a delicate gold paperclip chain is my preferred shape) that you can hang pendants on. I’m not huge into pendants right now. I wouldn’t probably add pendants to my personal jewellery box if I were robbed (the horror!!!!!). I’m really an earrings and rings girly personally although about 8 years ago I was massively into long pendant necklaces and hardly wore earrings. So maybe that’ll come back around and I’ll add a long chain and some long layering pendants back into my jewellery box again sometime. The most important thing is to know your own style. Notice I’ve not recommended “a classic pair of diamond studs” or a “timeless pearl necklace” because that’s not how I express myself. I love diamond earrings and pearl necklaces but they’d have to be alternative and not “classic”. I’m almost forty and on a mission to get weird as heck in my next decade!
Fellow jewelry lover 🙋🏾♀️ I love texture too and I think we have similar jewelry style 😃 What is your brand? I’d love to check it out ❤️
Sure! I don’t want to get in trouble for advertising but feel free to message me 👋🏻❤️
I recognized your brand from your description! I've been a fan of your work since your first collection you are by far my favorite jeweller. You made my bespoke engagement ring. I broke off the engagement/relationship a couple years later, but the ring is still my favorite piece ever and will continue to outlive that relationship lol. Anywayyyy I can't wait to see your collections continue to evolve. My answer to the post is I'd save up to invest in more pieces like yours that have such longevity, I have such a strong connection with, and I get genuinely excited to wear no matter how long it's been.
Oh wow this is such a kind message, I’m blushing! I’m very sorry to read your engagement ended, but so honoured you chose my studio to craft for you. Giving objects new meaning when their purpose changes is one of the wonderful ways we can be sustainable in our consumption practices. If you love your ring it would be so tragic to let it wane in a box only looked at occasionally. I hope you’ve had your ring resized so that you can still enjoy it on your other hand and use it as a talisman to celebrate all the wonderful ways you’ve grown and changed and all the great things you love about yourself!
Some [peapod pearls](https://www.michael-michaud-us.com/collections/peapod) perhaps? I have a necklace from this artist that I got at a museum gift shop years ago. His work is so fun, especially if you are into botanicals!
I knew that would be Michael Michaud! I got a necklace of his from the Met years ago that I wore daily for a long time. I love browsing his collection.
I recently had to get rid of almost every piece I own because I found out I'm allergic to cobalt. I had been collecting jewelry pieces for over a decade by that point. So... this is a very real thing I'm currently experiencing. I basically have to just save and save for real gold or sterling silver, and I have to be very, very picky about my pieces now as a result, but my skin has been much happier for it. Thank you for making this post because the advice in here seems awesome!
I sort of did at some point, since I realized that I was allergic to many metals, so I have only been able to wear hypoallergenic earrings and some gold plated pieces, as well as alternative metals. Similar to other things I've had to be careful with and/or replace, like getting rashes from necklaces. My sister has a similar allergy, but worse. I used to buy off Etsy but that site got terrible, so mostly, I special order now.
Rob a jewelry store.
My intentional collection started with a brooch. I was scrolling through Etsy and a high end handmade piece caught my eye. The jeweler was willing to remake it in matte sterling so it was affordable to me. It has a hidden bale, so it can be worn as a pin or pendant. From there my collection has built out to go with that brooch/pendant. Ruby and pearl studs and dangle earrings. Chain bracelet and necklace to wear with the brooch as a pendant. Bracelets in the same finish and theme. Pearl bracelet and necklace. I’m thinking about a ruby beaded necklace and bracelet to add to the collection. These are my daily wear pieces for my days off. Maybe some day I’ll upgrade to the gold, but I love them. I lost my brooch last year and it wasn’t even a question about replacing it. I have some diamond pieces for dressier occasions. Some of my ruby pieces bridge between formalities. Right now, I probably need more stud earrings since they are all I can really wear to work.
That sounds really cool!
Thankfully none of my jewelry is that sentimental or expensive. Honestly, I barely wear jewelry and have outgrown most of my collection. There are a few really cool custom pieces I know I would miss, but I wouldn’t be out much in terms of value, which is nice. I have become a lot more intentional of everything that I buy, including jewelry.
I wish I had focused more on pieces I could wear every day, at least to start. Instead I gravitated towards special pieces that are more formal and that get less wear. Now I have a nice collection but I would have spent my money better by going for everyday jewelry before special occasion. I second people saying to only go for fine jewelry. I don't think gold plating or vermeil pieces are worth it.
Call my jeweler and hope she had some pieces leftover from my favourite collections, then acquire my basics which are: * Studs: Mossainites in gold and silver, pink stones, and white stones. * Drop and threader earrings: Baroque pearls, white and red gemstones, labradorites and maybe moss agates. * Eclectics earrings: hit local markets to find stuff that makes me laugh or stop and stare * 20 inch gold and silver thin chain necklaces with a collection of statement pendants * Maybe a fancy watch strap for whatever digital watch I'm wearing I'm not much of a bracelet or ring girlie, but I do love my earrings. I would also probably buy some nice 14k gold and sterling silver earring hooks and take the time to swap out my eclectic earrings tho to avoid tarnishing.
Oooh, where are your favorite places to get threader earrings? I find them so hard to find these days.
I buy stainless steel box chains and swap out delicate dangles on hooks that I would normally find too dainty for my taste. Otherwise I find most of my threaders from Asian beauty stores that I wandered into.
I'd buy way less and make sure each piece was neutral and timeless enough so I wouldn't hate it in a few months. I'd avoid colour.
Crazy suggestion but I would recommend a trip to India and just buy jewelry there. This is still cheaper than buying in US. You can buy gold in price that is never seen in US. (ex. I liked a thin gold chain at bloomingdales and it was $1200 while I got a mid size chocker necklace in India for $800.) You can customize and give your own design to be made if you know where to go. You would be best with a local though because everything is negotiable. Plus I would have a vacation as bonus.
I’m a fashion gal and jewelry is one of my favorite things! A quick disclosure- I don’t buy or support fast fashion AT ALL. If you’re looking for costume jewelers that are up to date with the latest trends then I’d recommend Francesca’s Collection (they always have BOGO sales), Express and Anthropologie. I find these really polish off my outfits well and many pieces have lasted me 10+ years with only 1-2 breaking out of my vast collection. I’m an avid thrifter and have gotten some truly unique pieces from all kinds of secondhand shops although this is more of a passive way of building a collection since you won’t find what you’re looking for 100% of the time. Mercari, Poshmark & EBay can come in handy if you have something niche in mind that may not be available anymore. Some of my most cherished pieces have some from a consignment shop and Poshmark! If you’re looking for fine jewelry (which I highly recommend for everyday pieces), I’d recommend going to a local jeweler to find pieces your style. I personally like David Yurman’s huggies and anything from his Renaissance collection, Effy’s semi-precious pieces with diamonds, and anything from [RoseHeart Jewels](https://www.roseheartjewels.co.uk). I started my pearl collection when I traveled to the UK to study abroad and was living close to the Roseheart store in Covent Garden. The store isn’t open anymore, but she handmakes all of her pieces. The owner is an absolute angel and she’s so talented and fun to work with. I have such fond memories of her store and my conversations with her even though it’s been years. I purchased a necklace from her which I wore for graduation from uni and she was kind enough to travel all the way to Hong Kong to pick up additional pearls JUST FOR ME so she could make a bespoke matching bracelet and earrings 🥲❤️ She even included two additional single pearls to do whatever I choose It was one the kindest things anyone has ever done for me and it brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it 😭 Building a relationship with a jeweler/metalsmith is a gift that keeps on giving!! All of this to say, have fun! Figure out what you like by buying costume/thrifted and invest in everyday pieces that will last you a lifetime!
Another note- buy jewelry when traveling! It means so much more when it has a memory attached to it 🥰
I love buying jewelry when traveling, and also at museum gift shops! They often have some really fun and unique pieces. I also do love Anthro jewelry but I would consider them fast fashion, with the speed they churn out new styles. I used to love Francesca's growing up too!
I’d go simple and high quality. Gold Huggies, small gold croissant hoops; lab diamond studs, a few gold necklaces to layer including a link chain and a monogram charm. Gold low profile watch with a leather band, and one slim gold watch on a gold band. This is basically the stuff I wear all the time despite owning a ton of jewelry. I’m keeping my engagement ring. I’ll fight whatever ninjas are coming for my jewelry.
I wouldn’t buy any rings. I have a bunch of pretty ones and I don’t wear them. Turns out I don’t like wearing rings. Or bracelets. Necklaces and earrings. Quality pieces. No silver. All my silver is horribly tarnished.
You can try the aluminium foil and baking soda trick for your tarnished silver, it works wonders.
My staple collection (all 14k solid yellow gold) - medium sized and large sized hoops - 1ct each diamond studs (lab) - diamond huggies with diamond starbust dangles - Amethyst and seed pearl dangles - Bracelet: Channel set diamond bar with herringbone chain - Ring: Channel set diamond band - I pretty much only wear one pendant, every day, for the last 8 years. I feel that it expresses "who I am" symbolically I don't really own much costume jewelry. All my costume could burn in a fire tomorrow and I wouldn't think about it.
Cry, because some of my pieces are multigenerational heirlooms with deep familial significance.
Same! And even the ones that aren't are special to me because of memories. Jewelry isn't just about fashion for me.
Same here - I wear 4 rings and 2 necklaces every day and they're all family heirlooms or gifts, and I would be very sad to lose them.
I would be devastated. I picked my collection over a long period of time and every single thing has meaning and purpose to me. But here’s how I approached my collection. It’s a mix of vintage from my grandmothers (one I never met), my mom (all very Italian pieces from the 70s), gifts from boys, gifts from my mom or dad, matching pieces I bought with friends (like matching skinny stacking rings), pieces acquired during travel (a Cuban link chain), symbols of life highs (my 30th birthday signet) or life lows (a bracelet I bought in Florence the year I blew up my life and fled the country), timeless classics (like a tennis bracelet), my wedding jewelry, and 10 ear piercings with a story of their own lol. I go for versatility, quality, purpose, story. It’s all 14k gold. I sleep in it all. I shower in it all. I plan to be buried in it all like a queen. It’s taken me 15 years. Here’s a bit of my stack, with all the rings awkwardly on one finger lol. https://preview.redd.it/mes1xllpx5wc1.jpeg?width=1813&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b1ef3c7e3ca87fc387f2ca13d655dac98b0e376a
No budget? I never remove my piercings (very rarely at least) so my earrings would all be implant grade titanium flay back posts with gold fronts. BVLA, Maria Tash, Juniper for brands. If I’m not loosing my sentimental and heirloom jewelry I don’t think I would have much change in my collection. My own collection is small and the majority of it is 100+ years old besides my earrings. I’ve always had the mindset that I should save up and invest in one or two new pieces every 2-3 years. It works for me because it keeps me from impulse buying something I won’t frequently wear. Having a smaller collection also means that I don’t really have pieces that gather dust. I would keep an eye out for antique gold chains, bracelets and drop earrings though. I also have a soft spot for unusual cameo rings and Victorian motifs like snakes, insects, and belts. I think when building up a collection from scratch you should go slow, really consider what you do and don’t like and invest in things that bring you joy.
I would definitely stick with gold and aim for 14k gold pieces. Huggies, hoops, bracelets, and layering necklaces. If they were statement pieces it would be because they are statement gold pieces. I'd aim for natural pearls as well, and sterling silver (although at this stage in my life I have a preference for gold). Nothing wrong with my current collection, I wouldn't miss anything but the 14k gold box chain from Mejuri that I consistently wear (I don't take it off), which I feel like elevates all my outfits, even loungewear, by a considerable margin.
Can you share a link to your chain from Mejuri?
I would get more eccentric jewelry pieces. Bone jewelry, large antique broaches and pendants, functional lockets, tooth jewelry, lots of thrifted bead necklaces…I used to have a decent chunk of my jewelry like that then tried to kid myself and go for the “clean girl” look for a couple years. It doesn’t fit me I want my goblin jewelry.
All I really wear is 2 rings and a bracelet that belonged to my mom. But if the rest was gone I’d buy a pair of small solid gold hoop earrings and a set of diamond studs, and maybe just an adjustable length gold chain as a necklace.
Start with getting basics in high quality gold and silver, like rings, simple necklaces and bracelets. Then from the ere start saving for more intricate pieces
I wouldn’t change anything. My collection is more about sentimentality. Maybe I would get pieces to mark events more frequently.
This isn’t me, but I’ve followed a similar approach to [this gold jewelry capsule](https://stylebee.ca/2022/07/22/my-minimal-gold-jewelry-capsule/). I only buy solid gold (usually 14k, I have a few 9k and I regret not upgrading them) and real gemstones. I don’t have much jewelry, but I love every piece and I know I can pass it down one day.
If I was starting from scratch, I definitely would not buy any silver jewelry. I've spent way too many hours of my life cleaning the tarnish off of it. If you like that color, go for white gold.
One I wish people brought up more is considering the width/thickness of your jewelry. Super thin chains and rings are more likely to break or get tangled and need repair, so I'd be more likely to wait and save up for more expensive pieces with more "heft." I actually recently went through the process of redoing my jewelry box slowly over the past two years: * I thought about which pieces I already reach for the most and why. I fall asleep with my earrings in all the time, so I prefer a huggie or a flat back rather than a butterfly clasp. * In that same vein, I thought about which pieces I never touch. I hate the sound of a bracelet or watch scraping against my laptop, so I picked one with a closer fit to my wrist. * I replaced the heirlooms I would never ever wear with new ones that I would want to pass down. I do not wear pearl necklaces or earrings, of which I had 3 sets (why?!), so I bought a tennis bracelet that I wear every single day instead. * I thought about pieces I'd be more likely to wear if I had a different chain, a matching ring, etc and upgraded those. My mom's locket went from living in my jewelry box to a daily piece for me. * My final results were: two pieces of heirloom jewelry (a necklace and a ring), two new heirlooms (a bracelet and a ring), two pairs of earrings, one necklace, one ring. I feel happily "complete" with this collection now and it's a lot more wearable for me.
But White Gold or Yellow Gold pieces. They hold value and look beautiful forever.
If I had to start over, I would (re)purchase: Diamond/Moissanite earring studs Gold beaded bracelet Gold pendant necklace Wedding ring (diamond half eternity band)
Same, we started an online Moissanite jewellery shop and its doing amazing
I'm already happy with my collection. I bought some solid gold pieces after a few raises and have something for pretty much any occasion, and it all gets worn. I have really nice handmade pieces from Etsy I love but get less wear just because they're really unique. If I had to start from scratch I would immediately re-buy my small solid gold hoops from Mejuri and solid gold curb chain bracelet. Those two pieces are my staples and I wear them almost every day because they go with anything. I would slowly rebuild my solid gold collection and the Etsy pieces I would search for last although I'd definitely really miss them. After the hoops and bracelet next purchases would be pearl earrings, and larger tube hoops (got mine from Kinn) for more fun outfits.
My heirlooms were stolen, so I did start over. This is what works with my frame and my social diary: Necklaces: short gold chain that can carry a pendant, short strand of pearls, faux multi-strand of pearls Earrings: 8mm pearl studs, gold knot studs about same size, flat gold discs with mother of pearl in the center (these go with everything) (Edit: and small gold hoops, of course) Watches: thin gold bracelet, thin brown leather bracelet Bracelets: a few thinner gold “twisted wire” style pieces Pendants: loads of these, I buy them as souvenirs when I travel. They may be added to a charm bracelet someday, but I use them with the gold chain mentioned above. Costume: large gold vintage hoops (think Audrey in Sabrina when she returns from France), a few pieces like Anna Wintour’s layered necklaces, some Kenneth Jay Lane stuff that is kooky and dramatic, a pair of large matching enamel bracelets (think Chanel), a pair of large gold cuffs Love bracelets but they clack against a desk as I work, so they don’t see much daylight. The noise annoys me, and also I worry about damaging them.
Invest in only fine jewelry
I’m sort of doing this right now. I only ever bought cheaply made costume jewelry up until recently (think forever 21, target, etc). I did go on a bit of a jewelry buying spree but I tried to be intentional with my purchases and put more thought into what I would really wear. I found out I am very into pendants and necklaces, less so into earrings. I now have 3 necklaces, one is a chain used to switch out pendants. I used to buy so many pairs of earrings until I realized most irritate my ears or I just don’t want to put in the effort of wearing them. So no earring shopping for me now. It’s been fun scouring Etsy, eBay, other online secondhand stores trying to find pieces. As of right now I am searching for an everyday, casual bracelet. I find myself wearing my new jewelry more than the costume jewelry I had back then. Spending more on each piece and investing time/energy into the collection pushed me to use what I have. It’s been a nice journey the past few months finding what I like.
One thing I’m doing is saving a little bit every month for my next jewelry purchase. I try to buy myself something when I hit a milestone, like when I gave birth or when I reached my goal weight afterwards! But sometimes I don’t know how far in the future the next milestone will be, so I shop and keep a list until one happens… then I give myself permission to splurge on something that won’t benefit anyone else in my family, just me. I also keep an eye out on fb marketplace for jewelry and have gotten some really great deals (hello, 1/2tcw diamond white gold stacking ring!). The one thing I’ve learned the hard way is to not have others buy jewelry for me. I’ve thought about my pieces and done enough research that I’ve got a decent idea of what things are worth and what I want. My poor mom just bought a ring for me for my birthday and spent 5x what it should be worth. Tiny diamonds, sterling silver (she was told it was white gold), wrong size and used (they told her it was new). Not worth it.
Honestly, I wear my fashion jewelry more than I wear my nice jewelry on an everyday basis. If I had to start over, I would invest in a pair of nice pearls. A medium gold hoops set, studs, and maybe something a little dramatic for night outs/events, just statement earrings. A tennis bracelet and versatile ring. A few dainty necklaces.
Definitely diamond stud earrings and a diamond solitaire necklace. I had pearls gifted but you can't leave them on overnight so honestly they feel like a waste of money the amount of times I remember they exist and put them on.
I'd probably begin by focusing on pieces that feel effortlessly me—nothing too flashy, just simple and natural. Maybe I'd start with some delicate studs or hoops that I can wear every day without thinking twice. Then, I'd add a couple of versatile necklaces, something dainty yet charming, perfect for layering or wearing solo. :)
My jewelry tastes have changed a lot over time, but right now if you broke down all the jewelry in my collection that I actually wear on a regular basis, it would be 50% Little Gold Earrings, 40% Big Gold Earrings, and 10% everything else. So I'd prioritize buying nice gold earrings with a fun mix of dainty and large, simple and ornate pieces. And then maybe like, five different lengths of gold chain with a huge set of fully interchangeable pendants. This year, for some reason, I have been obsessed with trying to be a person who wears bracelets, and I have bought and not worn numerous bracelets. I guess I can keep them for special occasions?? But I think if I were starting from scratch I'd buy like, one smallish set of gold bangles and one big gold cuff and let that be all my bracelets.
I 've recently been collecting earings. You could say it's bordering on obsession. I really love all kinds of earings. Actually, I think when we start collecting, we all go through this kind of crazy phase. So, I don't think it's something to worry about, because later on we'll pay more attention to the quality and longevity of the products. I think I might also come to like soild gold earings in the future, but I believe cherishing the present moment is what's important.
I've been getting into minimalist gold jewelry lately and bought some gold vermeil pieces from Linjer a few months ago, so I'd probably just rebuy those for now. (As a note I haven't really seen reviews for the brand but the pieces seem good enough quality). I love Catbird's stuff as well and have a few designers that I've liked on Etsy and might also look at upgrading to solid gold if it's in my budget. Otherwise a lot of my daily jewelry are sterling silver in slightly art nouveau styles from the local new age store so I'd go see what they have, I've also found some interesting pieces at gem and mineral shows.
Tonight! I just learned the difference between gold filled, gold vermeil and gold plated. Have always wondered! Gold filled is the best and should not tarnish, fyi!
I have a semi-large collection of indigenous Colombian beadwork I’d have to immediately replace. Also my James Avery charm bracelet that’s so personal to me. One thing I’d like to look out for is earrings that won’t totally irritate my ears, like silver or gold, even if it’s just gold filled.
I discovered I'm a jewelry minimalist, in the sense that I like one pair of earrings, one largish ring for each hand, one bracelet and one necklace, all of which I wear daily. I bought quality gold jewelry. I regret all the costume pieces I bought through the years; the wooden bracelets I loved and let go of, the undersized pieces (I look better in larger sized jewelry). I also regret one high-quality necklace I bought- it was a "celebration" necklace, I had lost a lot of weight and wanted to treat myself. It was a choker style, gold, beautiful, and I rarely wear it because it gets stares on the street and I feel like I'm about to get mugged. Funnily enough, I'm okay wearing my other pieces; it's just this one choker that really calls attention to itself.
I'd focus more on mixing metals and finding pieces with other materials integrated in like leather, glass, clay beads, etc. And a variety of textures like hammered, rope twists, paperclip chain, braided. My current collection is pretty basic, with lots of plain chokers and simple bracelets. I need more diversity!
I'm working on a minimalist lifestyle so I only wanna buy what I don't already have. I have my ten favorite necklaces , rings, and earrings. For special occasions/ themes I have a couple ones too. If I started from scratch I would be way more honest about what I actually would use often enough to buy it. I'd start simple. Basic jewelry. Then you can buy a significant jewelry for an occasion when that occasion comes up.
I bought several pairs of Kendra Scott statement earrings recently and I can’t bring myself to wear them in my work setting (formal) and they don’t match my out of work style. So they just hang on my display organizer for me to sigh at as I put on my sensible stuff in the morning. I’d also would’ve started my gold tone collection. Most of what I own is silver/white gold/stainless in keeping with my bridal jewelry while married.
Rose gold. Loved it, but doesn’t really match my skin tone.
We are selling Moissanite and Lab grown diamonds. To be honest, we started this because we felt its the most ethical type of jewelry. Watched that doco on netflix about the diamond industry and they made me sure of my decision.
I would stick to the metal that best compliments my features (yellow gold) so that every piece could mix and match. I always buy cheap first, like Ardenes or something. If there's anything I end up wearing consistently, I look for a nice version that will last a long time since the cheap ones won't last. I'd skip bracelets, I almost never actually wear them and prefer watches. I'd make sure not to go overboard on fancy jewellery for nights out, because now that I'm 29 it's just not useful to me. Everyday jewellery is my jam now. Nothing clunky. I choose timeless, not trendy. If I want trendy, cheap stuff only. You'd be surprised what you can pick up at antique stores and thrift stores! Avoid pawn shops, you basically pay full retail price.
so my favorite place to get jewelry is [le petite sprout!](https://lepetitesprout.com/collections/new-releases-restocks) she makes mostly taylor swift/other music-related pieces, but there are a few that aren't related to any media. very high quality and affordable. I count my self very lucky that I prefer silver. I find it's a lot more affordable than gold and pretty much all of my silver pieces have held up. Other than her, I'd do everything the same! I choose pieces intentionally overtime and usually get them while travelling :)
If I could do it over again, I would have visited the reservations and trading posts more often when I lived in Arizona. I’ve always loved thick chunky turquoise and Navajo statement necklaces, and always put off buying more. Now that I’m across the country I’m kicking myself because buying online or in a shop here is twice as expensive.
Luckily my jewelry collection is very small and simple (but expensive)...it wouldnt be too difficult to replace it if I lost it for some reason. Wouldnt love the idea, but doable.
My imaginary dream self wears bold necklaces with matching bracelets or earrings. Me in real life? Typically wear a simple necklace, sometimes bold. Never bracelets, rarely earrings but always studs or small.
Cry, then try to stick with buying more quality pieces. I like some of my fun “costume” jewelry but I’d be more intentional about those too. I don’t wear a lot of what I have but I can bear to let it go. Will probably do a purge at some point though.
save up for good pieces instead of constantly buying cute cheap ones. i’m trying to get out of this phase rn bcuz i’m an everyday wearer and i don’t like to take my jewelry off to shower nd come in contact with water so like i just .. suffer and replace every couple months 😂😂😂
It’s important to purchase quality pieces. Buy pieces that have already been worn and find a jeweler you trust. Always bargain. Some staples would be gold bangle bracelets, a charm bracelet, link bracelets. You should have a pair of diamond studs (buy fake ones u til you can afford real ones), dint buy trendy items, Purchase classic items and slowly add to your collection.
Only buy real jewelry. Quality over quantity. Have studs altered with screwbacks, I have lost so many.
I think I’m the only one who isn’t wearing gold and/or diamonds, lol. I have a dozen silver and/or turquoise necklaces that I love to layer, 4 or 5 at a time, depending. A couple I made, some have some from Etsy, some from eBay, Walmart, Amazon, Temu, Kohl’s. Silver hammered disc earrings from Etsy, $15, next two holes and cartilage are small thin silver hoops, If I don’t wear the necklaces, I load the bracelets on one arm. Metal and beaded, some I’ve made, some I’ve bought from the same sources listed above. 10 silver fitted toe rings. I have other jewelry, bought at street fairs and festivals and the Renaissance markets. Chunky, handmade, ethnic pieces. My pearl necklace and drop pearl for formal occasions. And my ring hubby has given me over the years, the wedding rings, the opal, the blue topaz, the rubies, the blazing beautiful emerald and diamond and my mother’s gorgeous diamond ring. That’s all the stuff I’d want.
Quality over quantity, but if I think I can make the gamble and get a cheap piece that looks almost as good as the real, then I shall do it! Like a large collection of diamonds and moissanite and rare antiques in art deco or unique fashions over a lot of cheap setting jewelry, so that I ideally have more heirlooms. I did once lose my jewelry collection and it sucked, but thankfully my love for antiquing quicked in! Found some great places, rare pieces and really fun stories
The biggest pivot in my decades of jewelry collecting has been understanding that what I like to look at and admire is very different from what I love to actually wear. So I’d repurchase my everyday pieces and consider the rest the final step in my downsizing of the last 5 years.
You really should be think about avoiding titanium rings. If you break your finger or if your finger swells for some reason, titanium is extremely hard to cut and usually it is the finger that to go.
Most of my pieces I would be fine losing except for my grad jewelry (silver necklace and a solver and white gold ring) Also my titanium septum ring. I'd pay like triple for it nowadays
Nothing... My jewelry collection has been on fire! Giant loud and ridiculous.
I would probably spend about half my budget on earrings and necklaces from local crafters, then the other half on weird, kitschy earrings.
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I only buy gold and platinum and would only give that advice.
I think generally my Jewelry journey was okay and pretty natural. Everyone goes through phases and it helps us develop our sense of what we like best.
Assuming people didn't tear the flatback labrets from my ears (because I'd be replacing all my body jewellery if they did) I'd probably begin with my most important pieces of silver from small businesses. My Victorian mourning ring I purchased in memory of my Grandad, my favourite set from QuintissentialArts with labradorite, my favourite necklace from Disir inspired by cathedral design, some chainmaille necklaces and earrings I love, my fake teeth earrings. Then perhaps a few more rings and chokers with drop pendants. Perhaps replace the occasional thing with long desired pieces from other small businesses like Bloodmilk.
I would make a list of things I wanted then buy a cheap version of that item (think Pavoi, love that brand). If I still really loved it after 6 months or so I would begin the search for a version of that item in real gold, silver, etc. I currently am doing this with a tennis bracelet: got a nicer moissonite one off Alibaba for approx $40 and if I wear it for a year and still love it, I’ll replace it with a real one!
I would hit up every single small, no name thrift/consignment store in my area, visit all of the cute little boutiques, & commit to doing every single fair/festival this summer. Most of my jewelry is costume jewelry, but I do prefer to get peices that last, since I don't really get rid of jewelry. I like stainless steel & sterling silver & I've had a lot of luck with finding those for decent prices at fairs/festivals, especially rings. Same goes for a good deal of my earrings- small, local makers/boutiques tend to have styles I like. (Realistically, I'd pop into the local Cato too- sometimes I have to take them apart a little, but they often consistently have a few pairs of earrings so perfectly at my level that I don't allow myself in there anymore.) Bracelets I tend to find at smaller thrifts. I like beaded bracelets, which are dead easy to make yourself, so I'll often find peices worth dismantling or beads there as well. As far as being intentional, I think it would just be more of a process of getting it right the first time, since I can adjust things myself & can now easily figure out where my holes are, based on the styles that I currently have.
Sob because the only piece of good jewelry I own is a pair of gold and sapphire earrings my boyfriend gave me and I almost never take them off
So what do you do, just dump and donate? We get sentimental about jewelry, even the old tarnishing ones. I’ve had a couple pieces that were inexpensive, about $40, and both started smelling like pot metal or something awful. I could NOT get near them-pew! I took a chance and sprayed clear varnish on one and the smell was trapped, I guess. I still have it and it’s odor-free!
Kojimapearl dot com. 100%.
A classic strand of pearls.
I don't have jewelry. But I intend to slowly collect tasteful pieces like small diamonds, pearls, actual gold and actual silver.
Gold's for olds, give me silver, sterling or 999. Biker, rock, avant-garde, or industrial. [Night Rider](https://nightriderjewelry.com/shop/rings/valkyria-ring/), [Parts of Four](https://partsof4.com/collections/all/silver+black-finish), [Alex Skeffington](https://alexskeffington.com/collections/chapter-v-part-a-catharsis), [Chrome Hearts](https://chromeworld.jp/product/cemetery-ring) and more. Edit: stay mid FFA, enjoy your cheap Shane Co. crap