10 timeless and classic pieces of jewelry to add to your jewelry box


When overhauling your entire wardrobe is out of the question, it's still possible to update your look with the help of key accessories. But the pieces you wear needn't be so trendy that they have to be replaced each season, either.

By choosing classic pieces of jewelry, you'll be able to add a touch of glam to your existing wardrobe and can count on them to last you season after season. We checked in with Gino Priolo at Ex Aurum Jewellers, to find out which pieces of jewelry you should consider adding to your collection.


1. Pearls
Pearls are one of the earliest known gems to be coveted by man. From ancient Greece, when brides wore pearls to promote wedded bliss, to royal weddings throughout history, pearls have long been the symbol of accomplishment and status. Soft, sensuous, lustrous and smooth, their beauty embodies the very essence of a woman.

Suitable for women of all ages, pearls are the most sporting of gems and are the easiest to wear. Their versatility is equally as appropriate with blue jeans as with evening gowns. Their luster flatters all skin tones by creating a warm radiance. While color is a matter of personal preference, white pearls tend to look best on fair skin and cream tones are more flattering on darker complexions.

2. A gold chain
A 14 or 18K gold, 18-inch chain is a staple in a classic jewelry wardrobe as it can be worn alone or with a matching gold pendant. It is the perfect accompaniment to minimalist styles and monochromatic outfits, from knits to more tailored, structured styles. Since Roman times, these pieces have been winding their way around necks. Generally speaking, the less cluttered the neckline, the more elaborate the necklace can be.

3. A diamond solitaire pendant
The diamond solitaire pendant is "the little black dress of necklaces," in that it is the most versatile of all necklaces. Sitting in the hollow of the neck, there is nothing prettier. It pairs with anything from a white shirt to a strapless gown.



What about earrings? Bracelets? What kinds of pieces should you look for when you want a timeless look?

1. Pearl studs
The white seven-millimetre pearl stud goes with absolutely everything and is the single most versatile, no-fuss earring for everyday use. It complements every face shape and goes from nine to five and all through to evening.

2. Diamond studs
Equally at home with sportswear as evening dress, diamond stud earrings light up the face and are totally elegant and appropriate in any situation. For everyday use, a half carat is best.

3. Hoops
A silver or gold 14K medium-size hoop earring is a pleasing shape for most faces, and is as perfect with a business suit, as it is with a white shirt, or black turtleneck sweater. It adapts to more casual weekend wear as well.

4. A silver cuff
Elsa Peretti's silver cuff – sleek minimalism at its best – has been a Tiffany's best seller since the bracelet debuted in 1974. It goes anywhere with anything, and looks particularly great with black and grey. It is the perfect accent to unstructured suits and knits.

5. A gold link bracelet
A gold link bracelet is essentially a daytime look that has been around for hundreds of years. It is a great investment because it is always in style, can be worn with business and casual attire and will be worn for decades to come. Yellow gold is great with any color, and white gold is best for women who prefer to wear a lot of black and gray.

6. A tennis bracelet
When Chris Evert dropped her diamond bracelet on the tennis court in 1987, this bracelet (known as "the line bracelet" for 50 years) gained its current classically essential status. Now called the tennis bracelet, it's is as versatile in the daytime as it is elegant in the evening hours.



How do you decide between yellow gold and white gold and sterling silver?

Historically, gold has been associated with things of beauty and wealth. Prized for its rarity, gold is one of the most durable and flattering materials for jewelry, as it brings a warm glow to the skin.

White gold, like moonlight, casts a coolness. Its look is modern and urban, but versatile enough to lend itself to many interpretations.

Silver is considered a little more youthful and therefore may not be as versatile as gold.