As the decluttering trend dictates, you should discard everything that doesn’t bring you joy. If you’re paring down your wardrobe and jewelry collections, you want to stick with timeless classic items that will bring you joy forever.
Here is a list of 10 classic jewelry pieces which you should hold onto for years to come. These look great on anyone at any age and may become treasured heirlooms for your family in the future.
Let’s get into it!
1. String of Pearls
Pearls go in and out of fashion, but there are certain outfits and occasions where you can never go wrong with a simple strand of flawless pearls.
Barbara Bush looked great in them. So did Audrey Hepburn. You will too, no matter if you are attending a cocktail party, a funeral, or a formal occasion.
Whether it’s a long string of iridescent beauties or a choker, pearls bring a timeless elegance to any fashion look.
2. Engagement Ring
Your engagement ring makes a statement about your status and commitment: you are officially off the market! But your engagement ring is also intended to withstand the test of time and be worn for as long as you both shall live.
Trends for engagement rings come and go quickly, so you should always select one that appeals to your personal preference. You want to be happy with it for a very long time.
Many people wear other people’s engagement rings. Sometimes, children wear their mother’s or grandmother’s ring.
More and more women are wearing large diamond rings as a sign of commitment to themselves, proving you don’t have to be married or engaged to rock that look.
3. Classic Watch
Some people collect watches, while others prefer one particular brand or item that will last them throughout their lives. With proper care, a luxury watch like a Rolex or Patek Philippe will last for decades.
A special timepiece is another classic jewelry item which can be passed down for generations.
You can always refresh its look with an updated watchband.
4. Famous Brands
Some jewelry brands carry such panache that their logos are an integral part of the design.
For example, Versace’s Medusa heads make a dramatic fashion statement in jewelry. You know immediately who designed that piece and what it stands for.
The interlocking Cs of Chanel is also a distinctive brand. It connotes haute couture and the highest in quality.
If you’re a jeweler yourself, you know the importance of an iconic brand. You can even create your own branded pieces. For more on that option, check it out here.
In case you have a favorite jewelry company, make sure you preserve a few of their pieces that exhibit its logo. They will serve to remind you forever of that particular designer, and they may even increase in value over the years to come.
5. Tennis Bracelet
The timeless tennis bracelet is another piece that looks good on a teenager going to the prom, an entrepreneur accepting an award, or a grandmother at her wedding anniversary.
Sparkling and luxurious, it’s a fun way to wear diamonds without showing off a huge gemstone.
Fun fact: this stunning diamond bracelet got its nickname when Chris Evert lost hers during the US Open and asked the referees to halt the game while she looked for it! No one wants to part with a tennis bracelet, under any circumstances.
6. Statement Piece
Sometimes you just want to stand out, and when you put on a piece of statement jewelry you can do just that. This item is very personal: a statement piece for one person might be considered gaudy or clunky by someone else.
This individualism is why you should always have one piece of statement jewelry in your jewelry box. It could be a large ethnic pendant that you wear on a chain over a little black dress. Or it could be a pair of chandelier earrings.
You need to follow some basic rules on accessorizing when you go with jewelry that makes a statement. It’s not advisable to wear too much when one piece is meant to be the attention getter,
7. Diamond Stud Earrings
For some lucky ladies (and guys), diamond studs are the first earings they ever wore – maybe a gift when they first pierced their ears. These are another timeless classic jewelry piece that everyone needs to have.
Diamond studs can be worn at work or play. They are classy and eye-catching. No matter what your style, they go with everything.
No jewelry collection would be complete without a pair of these sparklers.
8. Antique Brooch
Brooches are a classic piece that is less commonly worn nowadays, but they can add a real shot of elegance and sophistication to a suit jacket, blazer, or scarf.
If you have an antique brooch that belonged to a member of your family, it can become a lovely memento to pass down to later generations.
Every time you wear it, you will remember the relative who also wore it, giving you a strong sense of legacy and family unity.
Because it is now difficult to find the same level of workmanship and detail in brooch design, an antique brooch may also accumulate in value over the years.
9. Gold Hoop Earrings
Hoops are hot! These items go in and out of vogue and now they are extremely popular. They look especially beautiful worn when you wear them with your hair down and flowing.
Gold hoops are available in every manner of size and thickness. Some people like to wear many in one ear, often in descending size. Or you can wear one at a time, like a pirate!
You can also go simple and classic with a small, solid pair of 24K gold circles, which exude grace and style.
10. Gold Wedding Band
One of the most iconic and classic pieces of jewelry that you should never get rid of is the traditional gold wedding band. It may be yours or belong to your parents. Maybe you just wear it so guys won’t hit on you when you go out at night!
This item conveys eternity, loyalty and fidelity. It can be plain or decorated, thick or thin. It can come in many shades of gold.
Your gold band is a priceless legacy you can pass along to your children.
Classic Jewelry Pieces for Every Occasion
If you have limited space, a limited budget, or just want to winnow your belongings down to a manageable amount, these 10 classic jewelry pieces will ensure you are ready for any occasion.
If you have these items to choose from, you can go from the park to the party, or from work to a wedding.
For more style and fashion tips, check out our site!
