This spring is all about excess. After a long, drab winter, it’s time to break out the biggest and the best jewels. Clusters of colorful gems, chains by the foot, and an abundance of sparkle the likes of which hasn’t seen since the glittering Jazz Era. If you’re not rocking at least ¾ of the rainbow, you’re doing it wrong. Check out some of the brightest baubles here:
Bijoux Heart Sucre Gold-Plated, Swarovski Crystal and Chrysolite Necklace: A garden of colored chrysolite and Swarovski crystals flowers on this thick gold chain necklace. Exclusively on NET-A-PORTER for $1,560.
Erikson Beamon Bosa Nova Pink Bracelet: These vivid hues would stun if worn with a basic white sheath. And since “bossa nova” means new trend in Portuguese, need I even say more? On Charm & Chain for $514 (from $642).
Shourouk Arlequin Silver-Plated Swarovski Crystal Ring: Yes, bright stones always garner attention, but that neon glow isn’t what is so special about this. These three rings sit staggered along your finger, creating a unique look that no one else will have. Exclusively on NET-A-PORTER for $655.
One Off Fancy Gears Necklace: This one-of-a-kind necklace looks like it was made with the inner workings of a clock. It was inspired by Steampunk, a sci-fi genre featuring steam-powered machines. On Luisa via Roma for $1,128.
Les Néréides Champêtre Enamel Necklace: As you plant spring flowers in your window box, don’t forget to plant a few in your jewelry box, too! On Luisa via Roma for $423.
I met Kendall Conrad on one of my recent trips to LA. The fifth generation Californian has an empire that includes everything from bags to shoes to jewels. I love it all, but the clean lines of her brass and leather jewelry line are impeccable. Their distinctive curves were inspired by the work of architects such as the great Frank Gehry and artists like her father (whose second career as a bullfighter influenced her Lusitano collection – look for the bull and matador jacket charms!). With its modern bohemian style, the jewelry begs to be heaped on without abandon. And at such great prices, you can buy up as many thin stacking rings ($36 each) as your fingers can fit! Same goes for bangles, although the shapes of the leather cuffs ($215) have me even more transfixed. While there are classic designs like hammered hoops ($160) and a pretty shell pendant necklace ($500), Kendall’s more unusual pieces are the ones that set her apart. Shopping for the girlfriend who has everything? A brass hair hook ($100) won’t fail to impress. Available on Kendall Conrad.
Jewelers are always trying to sell you diamonds with the best of the four C’s, but there’s something almost more beautiful about a rough diamond. While it may not be as precisely cut as others, its surface is polished to bring out sparkle (left unpolished, there would be no shine at all). A rough diamond has a sense of hope bubbling just under the surface, so that each escaping twinkle feels special. This is especially true when you have a whopper like this vivid yellow “Dieu de Soleil” solitaire ring (on Diamond in the Rough for $275,000). At 12.41 carats, this stone doesn’t need a flawless cut to grab attention. Yellow is the most rare type of diamond in the world, so why waste one just because it’s not completely “perfect?” This is a one-of-a-kind wonder, just like the Champagne Bubbles Wreath necklace (on Diamond in the Rough for $295,000). The name says it all – wreath? You’re getting 100 diamonds, a.k.a. 106.88 carats! For something more attainable, try the De Deers Talisman yellow gold hoops (at De Beers for $9,500) or Diamond in the Rough’s dark cognac ring (at Neiman Marcus for $8,880).
I just bought a multi-layered necklace and absolutely love it! The profusion of chains makes you feel untouchable and abundant à la Marie Antoinette, but you don’t need to be in a ball gown to rock the look. I stack bracelets all the time, so this is just the next step in my obsession. What about you? When it comes to jewelry, what’s your lucky number? Here are some options with anywhere from one to eight chains that you can mix and match:
Chan Luu Set of Two Beaded Charm Necklaces: This is probably my favorite since you can control the lengths of the necklaces. Double one up or wear both long. On NET-A-PORTER for $85.
Ben-Amun Layered Pendant Necklace: From the mix of chain links to the huge centerpiece, this piece is unapologetically in your face. On Shopbop for $182.
Lulu Frost Immortality Tassel Necklace: A chain fringe tassel cleverly adds length to the third tier of this necklace, while the green stone provides a fresh pop of color. On Shopbop for $288.
Wouters & Hendrix 8 Strand Gold Chain Layered Necklace: This is another fun one – with eight different chains you can create whatever look suits your fancy, be it minimal or plentiful. On Shopbop for $626.
By Malene Birger Lutan Necklace: But maybe plain metal alone is not enough for you. Neon nylon gives this simple silver necklace bold style for summer. On Shopbop for $95.
People have been crafting turquoise imitation stones since the time of the Ancient Egyptians, so there’s no shame in that game. There are even benefits to it – just look at this Kenneth Jay Lane ring (on The Outnet for $40). Finding turquoise this perfect is basically impossible. It’s a mineral, so there are many “imperfections.” If you prefer a burst of solid color, then this turquoise resin might actually be better. Check out more after the jump, including a couple of authentic gemstones –
Earth Month is a nice reminder to appreciate all things natural, but the look never goes out of style. While often you see jewels modeled after woodsy elements like leaves or flowers, it’s better to just go for the actual organic materials. Horn and wood give you that relaxed feel that’s perfect for summer (especially in rich, neutral tones), so answer nature’s call with these woodsy favorites!
Nest Set of Five Horn Bangles: Stack these natural African horn bangles or wear them out solo. With their distinctive edge, you don’t need many to get noticed. At Neiman Marcus for $250.
Ashley Pittman Pande Zote Hoop Earrings: You could also go for polished horn. With the hand-inlaid gold studs, these hoops are best for the Snobs who need just a touch of metallic in their jewels. At Neiman Marcus for $265.
Nest Wooden Bangle: Nest is all about repurposing, yet when you look at this gorgeous wooden cuff, it seems brand new. At Neiman Marcus for $95.
Lela Rose Wooden Chain Necklace: Chain links this big might have looked tacky in metal, but wood cleverly gets the job done. Wear this chunky statement chain with a sleek mini for serious contrast. Pre-order at Neiman Marcus for $295.
Marc by Marc Jacobs Blixen Wood and Cubic Zirconia Necklace: Only Marc could mix metal with wood this flawlessly. The bold juxtaposition deserves an equally bold color pairing, so go all in. On NET-A-PORTER for $158.
