Jewelry Sets – The Perfect Way to Elevate an Outfit
Jewelry sets are the perfect way to elevate an outfit. They often include a necklace, earrings and ring. They can be made from a variety of metals and stones.
They have a long history, dating back to the early 1800s. At that time, a set was called a parure and typically included a tiara or crown.
Bracelet Sets
Bracelet sets are a great way to add variety and flair to your jewelry collection. Mix and match bangle bracelets of different colors, shapes, textures and materials to create unique looks. From polished gold bangles to fabric ones like this set of 12 pink woven bangles, the possibilities are endless!
In the 1920s, Art Deco designs had a profound influence on bracelet styles. Bangles were sleek, geometric and bold with a sophisticated feel that made the wearer appear glamorous and modern. Between 1940 through 1949, the designs of Van Cleef Custom fashion accessories & Arpels brought a more delicate look to bracelets with ribbons of hexagon lines running through them and exquisite jewels in the centre. By the 1960s, bracelets became flexible and often had a twisted or woven design.
If you’re looking to give the special man or woman in your life a gift that will last, consider a bracelet or bangle set. Stackable and versatile, these bracelets will let them build upon their collection for years to come. Choose from bracelets with different metals or precious stones to create a personalized piece they will treasure for a long time. For men, consider a cuff bracelet that fuses modern fashion with an antique aesthetic. This William Henry BB9 MT men’s bracelet is hand-strung with wooly mammoth molar beads, and pairs easily with a dark gray blazer and jeans.
Diamond Sets
There are a number of ways a diamond or gemstone can be set in a ring’s precious metal band, each with its own effects on how the jewellery looks and how easy it is to care for. Most notably, diamond settings impact the way the stone sparkles.
For example, a channel set ring sees a row of small gemstones, typically diamonds, set within a groove in the band, eliminating the need for prongs and leaving a clean and uninterrupted look. The channel setting is most often used for a princess-cut diamond, but can be used with any shape.
Another popular option is a halo, where a crown of diamonds surrounds the center stone making it appear half to one carat larger. Halo designs are most often seen in engagement rings, but can be added to all kinds of jewellery.
Other diamond settings include the pave setting, where small diamonds are ‘paved’ in a pattern on the surface of the ring, for a more traditional look. Another option is the tension setting, where a springing effect of the ring’s metal holds a faceted gem in place – this is a relatively new setting and only works with stones of a hardness level of 9 or higher. A variant on this is the Bar setting, where a row of gemstones are first nested in grooves and then overlapped by a hammering tool.
Pearl Sets
Pearls are a timeless symbol of elegance that look amazing with anything from business attire to a chic cocktail dress. A white pearl set is the classic choice, but they also come in a variety of other colors to suit your taste and style.
When choosing pearls, there are several criteria to consider – luster (how shiny they are), shape, size and flaws. In addition, it’s important to know whether the pearls are cultured or natural, and their origin. Natural pearls are extremely rare and expensive, while cultured pearls are readily available and affordable.
If you are buying a strand of pearls for investment purposes, it’s critical to know the quality of your pearls. A high-quality strand of freshwater pearls, called a hanadama, should have a clean surface with few blemishes and be very round. A hanadama with less than a 50% clean surface is low-grade.
Cultured pearl jewelry is very durable and easy to maintain. Keep your pearls in a chamois bag or wrapped in tissue when you are not wearing them, and bring them to a jeweler for restringing every year. This will prevent them from becoming stretched or worn down, and it will protect the silk string that connects the pearls. A good jeweler will sand the ends of the pearls and coat them with a clear lacquer to protect the nacre.
Matching Sets
Whether you’re looking to add some instant chic to your summer wardrobe or simply want an easy way to look put together, matching sets are the perfect fashion trend. Achieving this effortlessly chic style is as simple as slipping into a pair of two-piece pantsuits or a bralette and skirt combo, and it’s no wonder that this closet gold plated ring staple has become a top contender for this year’s ultimate fashion trend (we see you, Instagram influencers).
What makes these coordinating outfits so coveted is their versatility. In fact, they’re one of the most versatile wardrobe pieces you can own, able to create multiple outfits with their individual parts alone. Think about it: a bralette-and-skirt set can double as a swimsuit coverup on the beach, a robe or wrap for your next night out, and more. And that’s just the beginning, as a matching set can also be used as a base to layer in other clothing pieces from your wardrobe like tailored pantsuits, button-down shirts, and blazers.
While it may be tempting to splurge on every cute matching set that you come across, it’s best to remember your lifestyle and clothing needs when deciding which ones to purchase. After all, that ribbed knit matchy-matchy top and shorts combo you’re crushing on may not be weather appropriate in your location or current wardrobe, so choose carefully.
