Jewelry Essentials: 6 Must-Have Pieces

Building a collection of jewelry essentials is much like cultivating a capsule wardrobe – adaptable to ever-changing trends and timeless. Jewelry essentials fall under a basic framework, but there is plenty of room to choose essentials that suit your personal style. Whether you like to keep things simple or are a high jewelry fanatic, these pieces are absolute must-haves.

Every jewelry lover needs a solid foundation on which to build their collection. These six pieces have the versatility to suit any occasion and are timeless treasures you will wear your entire life!

South Sea Pearl Necklace with Diamond Clasp

Gold South Sea Pearl Necklace

Pearl Necklace

A simple strand of pearls lends an elegant touch to any classic piece or style of jewelry. Whether the star of the ensemble or one piece among many accessories, pearls have a classic appeal and never look out of place.

Picking your perfect strand of pearls is no easy task. There are a variety of factors to consider, including color, size, luster, quality, and the overall design of the piece. Whether you prefer a perfectly-matched strand of South Sea pearls or baroque shapes, a pearl necklace is a key component of any jewelry collection. For a more delicate look, pearl pendants convey the elegance of the organic gemstone without the commitment of a full strand.

Read about the different types of pearls and find the perfect pearl jewelry item.

Stud Earrings

Asscher-Cut Diamond Earrings

You can never go wrong with a pair of diamond studs. Whether you have one ear piercing or several, studs always dress up the ear. Studs are special because they can be an understated dot of your favorite gemstone or incredibly elaborate. Studs are naturally minimalist and help you achieve the “less is more” effect, making them the perfect everyday jewelry accessory.

From work wear to gym wear, studs go with practically any occasion and add sparkle to any style. Stud earrings are perhaps the most essential jewelry piece and often our first foray into jewelry, making them a great gift as well.

Cocktail Ring

Tanzanite and Pink Sapphire Cocktail Ring

South Sea Pearl and Sapphire Ring

Amethyst Ring

What is a cocktail ring? In short, this type of jewelry is the perfect way to make a confident statement. Women started wearing cocktail rings during the Prohibition age to draw attention to their illegal drinks in hand, meaning they carry historical symbolism and remain a sign of independence. These pieces are wonderful additions to your jewelry box because one cocktail ring can take the place of multiple other accessories.

Traditionally, cocktail rings are eye-catching and include a large gem with accent stones. A woman typically wears them on her right hand to proclaim their confidence and command an envious level of attention. Cocktail rings celebrate womanly power and are just as iconic when worn casually. This essential jewelry piece provides ample room for personal style, so take some time to consider the wide range of gemstone colors and which will suit you best!

A Timeless Watch

Cartier Art Deco Diamond & Onyx Clip Watch

Watches are not only functional but also add sophistication to any look. Watches embody the high level of craftsmanship that goes into clock making and echos a simpler time before telling time was instantaneous. Watches are unique in that you can see the intricacies of a master artisan’s work. More so than any other essential jewelry item, a watch conveys the dependable and hardworking nature of its wearer.

Although watches have evolved over time, the timelessness of Patek Phillipe or Cartier never goes out of style. Watches come in an array of styles and materials, but the most classic watches are understated and of the utmost quality.

Read our Antique Diamond Watch Collector’s Guide.

Birthstone Jewelry

Ceylon Sapphire Earrings by Oscar Heyman, 10.60 Carats

Emerald-Cut Emerald Earrings, 3.77 Carats

Birthstones correspond with one’s birth month and are often said to be gems for good luck. Folklore across eras and continents suggests that birthstones enhance our individual zodiac signs. From January’s garnet to September’s sapphire, birthstones are believed to have specific healing and protective powers for their wearers.

Birthstones allow jewelry to feel personal, like a monogram, and speak to centuries of tradition. Often, creating a capsule jewelry collection can feel formulaic, and birthstones help to add character to classic pieces.

Birthstones are versatile and can be incorporated into practically any fine jewelry piece, from necklaces to brooches. The nature of birthstones and their magical properties make them integral to any person’s essential jewelry collection and can make the perfect birthday present.

Tennis Bracelet

Emerald-Cut Diamond Line Bracelet, 15.06 Carats

Popularized by tennis superstar Chris Evret, this delicate string of diamonds has graced the wrists of the most fashionable women since the early 20th century. Evret became a worldwide sensation when her bracelet snapped during a ruthless Grand Slam match in the late 1980s.

Diamond tennis bracelets remain simple yet decadent jewelry essential. Tennis bracelets celebrate the glitz of pure diamonds and allow the stone to be the star of the show. Tennis bracelets today come in an array of colors, settings and shapes, and they suit any jewelry collection. Learn more about the history of bracelets.

Jewelry essentials should stand the test of time and last a lifetime. Curating a jewelry collection including any of these six pieces elevates the quality and direction of your personal style and allows you to explore a world of other wardrobe essentials. Shop M.S. Rau's selection of everyday jewelry on our website. And once you’ve got your favorite pieces, learn more about how to store jewelry to keep them in top condition.

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