Fashion moves at a dizzying pace. One season it is chunky gold chains, the next it is delicate layered pendants, and before long everyone is wearing oversized hoops again. Trend-driven jewellery can be fun, but it rarely survives more than a year or two before ending up at the back of a drawer.
Then there are the pieces that never go out of style. The ones that work with jeans and a white shirt as easily as with an evening gown. A well-chosen pair of diamond earrings, a strand of pearls, a classic watch: these are the foundations of a jewellery collection that will serve you for decades and may even be passed down to the next generation.
Diamond studs
If you could only own one pair of fine earrings, diamond studs would be a strong contender. They are subtle enough for the office, elegant enough for formal events and comfortable enough to wear every day.
Round brilliant cuts are the most classic, offering maximum sparkle. Princess and cushion cuts provide a slightly more modern look. When choosing, consider the setting as well as the stone. Four-prong settings show off more of the diamond, while bezel settings offer a sleeker, more protective option.
Size is personal. Smaller studs are understated and versatile, while larger stones make more of a statement. It is also worth checking the backs. Screw-back fittings offer extra security for valuable stones, which matters if you plan to wear them daily and would hate to lose one down a drain.
A pearl necklace or pearl studs
Pearls have been prized for centuries and remain one of the most elegant choices in jewellery. Modern designers have also found ways to make them feel fresh, pairing them with gold chains, mixing sizes or using baroque pearls with irregular shapes.
A single strand of pearls is the classic option, but a simple pearl pendant or a pair of pearl studs can be just as versatile. South Sea pearls, known for their size and lustre, are particularly sought after.
Simple gold or white gold hoops
Hoops are one of the most adaptable earring styles. Small, slim hoops work for everyday wear, while slightly larger ones add a touch of drama without overwhelming an outfit.
Choose a metal colour that suits your skin tone and the rest of your jewellery. Yellow gold has a warm, classic look, white gold and platinum feel crisp and modern, and rose gold adds a soft, romantic touch.
A delicate chain necklace
A fine chain, worn alone or with a small pendant, is a quiet workhorse in any collection. It sits beautifully at the collarbone, layers easily with other necklaces and complements most necklines.
Consider a chain that can be worn with different pendants, giving you the flexibility to change the look depending on the occasion.
A tennis bracelet
The tennis bracelet earned its name after a famous player reportedly lost hers during a match at the US Open in the late 1970s, but its appeal goes far beyond the court. A line of evenly spaced stones creates a continuous sparkle that elevates both casual and formal outfits.
Diamonds are traditional, but tennis bracelets also come in sapphires, emeralds and other coloured stones for those who prefer a pop of colour.
A meaningful ring
Beyond engagement and wedding rings, many people treasure a signature ring that reflects their personality. It might be a family heirloom, a birthstone, a signet ring engraved with initials or a cocktail ring with a striking gemstone.
The most timeless rings are often those with personal significance rather than ones chosen to follow a trend.
A classic watch
Even in an age of smartphones and smartwatches, a classic timepiece remains a powerful accessory. A simple, well-made watch with a leather or metal band can be worn every day and passed down for generations.
Caring for your pieces
Timeless jewellery deserves proper care. Store pieces separately to prevent scratching, remove jewellery before swimming, exercising or applying creams and perfumes, and have fine jewellery professionally cleaned and checked periodically. Pearls in particular benefit from gentle handling and occasional restringing.
Build slowly and thoughtfully
A timeless collection does not need to be built all at once. Many people add one significant piece every few years, often to mark milestones such as graduations, promotions or anniversaries. Over time, these pieces become more than accessories. They become part of your story.
