Mastering the Art of Curating an Amazing Jewelry Collection

“Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” sang Marilyn, yet if Harry Styles, Jake Gyllenhaal, or Gucci Mane are indicative of the state of men’s fashion, then jewelry is every much as appealing to modern-day men as well. Indeed, many would argue that regardless of sex, gender, age, and specific styles, most human beings are drawn to the symbolism, sparkle, or appealing design of specific jewelry pieces and gemstone cuts. If you are keen on building a collection that fits in line with your style while also holding deep significance, the following tips may help.

A fine jewelry collection should ideally have a few iconic pieces that stand the test of time and grow in value over the years. Building a collection of fashion/costume jewelry pieces is fun and affordable. However, once in a while, investing in a special piece (think a Love ring by Cartier, a four-leaf clover pendant necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels, or a pair of Chanel pearl earrings) will ensure you have timeless pieces in your collection. Loose stones are another (more affordable) option. Currently, Tanzanite is one of the wisest gemstones to invest in. This deep blue/purple stone is obtained from a small mine in Tanzania. The mine is expected to be completely depleted within the next 20 years, which is why the stone’s value is predicted to rise significantly over the next few decades.

Jewelry can be simply beautiful to behold, but it can also have strong ties to important memories, such as those you make when traveling the world. To collect key jewelry pieces while traveling, find out more about traditional jewelry in the places you will be visiting. Try to take back pieces with rich historical and cultural meaning, such as Celtic knot jewelry from Ireland, gold bangles from India, or beaded jewelry from the Maasai in Kenya. When you arrive at your chosen destination, ask about current local and national designers as well. Just a few international items capturing the eye of fervent fashionistas are Italian jeweler, Bea Bongiasca’s crystal and enamel pieces, unisex jewelry by Brooklyn-based designer Martine Ali, and sentimental heirloom jewelry by French designer, Marie Lichtenberg.

Statement pieces such as extra-large dangling earrings, crystal and ceramic rings, and intricate brooches are often staples of trending fashion jewelry collections. Loud, colorful, and real showstoppers, they add a pop to even the simplest outfit and they are particularly fun and favored during the Spring and Summer seasons. Some demi-fine pieces made with materials like 9k gold and resin are a little pricier than everyday fashion pieces,  but they are worth shopping for at least a couple of seasons a year if their style or the designer who makes them, has slowly but surely achieved iconic status.

When it comes to curating the perfect jewelry collection, striking the right balance between fashion and tradition is key. A few pieces never go out of style and they make great investments when you are in the mood for purchasing fine pieces. If you are a true fashion lover, however, then staying on-trend appeals, and fashion jewelry is perfect for creating seasonal looks that can easily be replaced when new jewelry styles arrive on the market.

4. Incorporate Something Vintage

Incorporating vintage jewelry into your jewelry collection can be a great way to add character and depth. Vintage rings are not only unique, but they also have a story to tell. Each piece carries a sense of history and heritage and often showcases exquisite craftsmanship.

Investing in vintage jewelry, such as rings, can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only do they add a touch of history to your collection, but they also make for great conversation pieces. Whether you’re a vintage fashion fan or simply looking for a way to add some character when curating your collection, vintage jewelry is a great option.