CollectionsDec 17, 2021
Piece of the Week: Yeprem’s Leather BraceletEditorsDec 22, 2021
These Are the 5 Essential Jewels to Stock for 2022
They’re on-trend but not trendy, and suitable for all ages.
A variety of stud earrings from designer Mimi So, sold as singles
With the Omicron variant throwing a wrench in January jewelry industry plans, I feel particularly reticent to make any 2022 predictions. I have less of a chance of foretelling how the pandemic will affect the year ahead than I had predicting the recent Amanda Nunes versus Juliana Pena UFC upset—and I didn’t see that coming in the slightest.
The only mindset I can take into the new year is to expect the unexpected. That seems like a cop out, but it’s the best I can come up with.
What I know for sure is that that when I’m stressed I like to shop, and I’m not alone in that behavior, judging by the past two years of booming jewelry sales.
In that vein, one type of prediction very much within my wheelhouse is what jewelry styles people will want to buy in the coming year.
Trends come and go, but there are certain essential jewelry items to have in one’s wardrobe today, regardless of age or gender, that can be selected per an individual’s style and preference.
The following are the must-have categories I’m stocking in my imaginary jewelry store in 2022.
The Mismatched Studs
The only mindset I can take into the new year is to expect the unexpected. That seems like a cop out, but it’s the best I can come up with.
What I know for sure is that that when I’m stressed I like to shop, and I’m not alone in that behavior, judging by the past two years of booming jewelry sales.
In that vein, one type of prediction very much within my wheelhouse is what jewelry styles people will want to buy in the coming year.
Trends come and go, but there are certain essential jewelry items to have in one’s wardrobe today, regardless of age or gender, that can be selected per an individual’s style and preference.
The following are the must-have categories I’m stocking in my imaginary jewelry store in 2022.
The Mismatched Studs
Misahara “Minis” in 14-karat gold, diamonds and an assortment of colored gemstones ($120-$350 per earring)
A selection of Alison Lou studs in 14-karat gold ($140-$180 each)
Mimi So 18-karat yellow gold stud with emerald ($2,325), 18-karat white gold stud with emerald-cut pink sapphire ($635), 18-karat white gold stud with round white diamond ($2,975), 18-karat white gold ruby heart stud ($2,400), and 18-karat white gold emerald-cut blue sapphire stud ($3,375)
One of the smartest pieces of jewelry I saw in 2021 was Misahara’s “Minis.” They capitalize on the multiple piercing trend and make it easy for customers to style themselves.
Sold in packs of four, shoppers can choose from Misahara’s mix of individual earrings—stars, moons, snakes, infinity symbols, birthstones, and other timeless motifs—or if they’re not keen to mix it up too much, they can select two matching pairs.
Either way, the packaging is a clever presentation of a current jewelry trend. It does most of the thinking for the multi-piercing newbie while still allowing the fun of getting to play with different combinations.
Ear “stacking” if you will, has been a major part of the Alison Lou brand since it started, with a plethora of whimsical single earrings to choose from, while Mimi So offers a more elevated take that will appeal to the lover of classic luxury.
Each company sell studs individually for the utmost versatility.
The Personalized Pendant
Sold in packs of four, shoppers can choose from Misahara’s mix of individual earrings—stars, moons, snakes, infinity symbols, birthstones, and other timeless motifs—or if they’re not keen to mix it up too much, they can select two matching pairs.
Either way, the packaging is a clever presentation of a current jewelry trend. It does most of the thinking for the multi-piercing newbie while still allowing the fun of getting to play with different combinations.
Ear “stacking” if you will, has been a major part of the Alison Lou brand since it started, with a plethora of whimsical single earrings to choose from, while Mimi So offers a more elevated take that will appeal to the lover of classic luxury.
Each company sell studs individually for the utmost versatility.
The Personalized Pendant
Aurelia Demark “Medium Capricorn Pendant” in 18-karat yellow gold with diamond ($1,395)
Marlo Laz “Alphabet Enamel Coin Necklace” in 18-karat gold with enamel ($2,740)
Jemma Wynne “Small Capricorn Necklace” in 18-karat gold ($2,940 for version without diamonds)
Something about a jewel unique to the purchaser—courtesy of initials and zodiacs—tugs the heart strings just a little harder than simply a stylistic favorite.
Retailers should make it clear they offer engraving and custom design options through their designer partners. Personalization transports pieces to the sentimental heirloom category for shoppers and is perfect for gifting.
Aurelia Demark has an elegant collection of zodiac jewels with hand-drawn interpretations of astrological signs that communicate her signature childhood nostalgic aesthetic.
Most of the best contemporary independent brands, Marlo Laz and Jemma Wynne included, have personalized pieces in their oeuvres.
The Perfect Pinky
Retailers should make it clear they offer engraving and custom design options through their designer partners. Personalization transports pieces to the sentimental heirloom category for shoppers and is perfect for gifting.
Aurelia Demark has an elegant collection of zodiac jewels with hand-drawn interpretations of astrological signs that communicate her signature childhood nostalgic aesthetic.
Most of the best contemporary independent brands, Marlo Laz and Jemma Wynne included, have personalized pieces in their oeuvres.
The Perfect Pinky
“Alphabet Diamond Signet Ring” in 18-karat yellow gold with custom-cut diamond ($3,990)
Kamyen 18-karat white gold pinky ring with 1-carat heart-shaped emerald, diamonds, and enamel ($2,600)
“The One Evil Eye Ring” in 18-karat gold with diamonds and enamel by Susanna Martins ($1,737)
For centuries, men claimed the signet ring as one of their signature jewelry pieces, but in recent years, the pinky ring has been trending for women, too. As gender labels in jewelry become less relevant, the pinky remains a mainstay for all jewelry lovers. (It’s personally my favorite piece to wear.)
Lots of brands are doing exciting things with them.
K Kane has been having a love affair with diamonds custom cut in the shape of the alphabet, and its chunky pinky ring edition is the most compelling style yet.
Third-generation Indian brand Kamyen is captivating a new, fashion-forward audience with its delightful pinky rings that feature fun gemstone and enamel color combinations.
Dubai-based Susanna Martins, one of my favorite brands to follow at the moment, makes fabulous modern-feeling rings in a plethora of colors and shapes. Worn, her evil eye makes a huge impact.
The Never-Take-Off Bracelet
Lots of brands are doing exciting things with them.
K Kane has been having a love affair with diamonds custom cut in the shape of the alphabet, and its chunky pinky ring edition is the most compelling style yet.
Third-generation Indian brand Kamyen is captivating a new, fashion-forward audience with its delightful pinky rings that feature fun gemstone and enamel color combinations.
Dubai-based Susanna Martins, one of my favorite brands to follow at the moment, makes fabulous modern-feeling rings in a plethora of colors and shapes. Worn, her evil eye makes a huge impact.
The Never-Take-Off Bracelet
Nouvel Heritage “Picnic in Paris Mood Bangle” in 18-karat gold with diamonds ($5,900)
Sylva & Cie 18-karat gold and diamond bracelet ($13,000)
Yearly Co. 14-karat gold “The Original” bangle ($320)
Much like a pinky ring, there’s something reassuring about a bracelet one hardly removes. My current favorites run the gamut from attainable to ultra-luxurious, but all have an unfussy, go-with-every-outfit feel.
Nouvel Heritage is confident in its recognizable signature design, the Mood Bangle, with its clasp that one can put on and take off oneself. It’s this solution to an oft-overlooked pain point that makes it the most essential bracelet to have in any person’s jewelry arsenal.
Another put-it-on-yourself treasure? (Here’s to making PIOY the new DIY in 2022!) Sylva & Cie’s stretchy bracelets available in various diamond and colored gemstone iterations have the easy feel of a ponytail holder on the wrist, but pack a seriously glamorous punch, embodying today’s low-key approach to luxury.
I became aware of Yearly Co. this year via GemGossip while perusing Instagram. The young Nashville-based brand was born from a family tradition of wearing a gold bangle to mark each year of marriage. When they couldn’t procure the third-generation family accessory, they began making them in-house.
It’s the simplest design concept with such a touching story. I immediately messaged the company’s Instagram posts to my husband so he could belatedly snap up two for our two years of marriage. While I’m an ardent self-purchaser, this romantic tradition was one that resonated with me.
The Pop of Color
Melissa Kaye 18 karat yellow gold “Remi Huggie Hoops” with neon yellow enamel and diamonds ($5,250)
Nadine Aysoy “Catena Ring” in 18-karat yellow gold with 3.12-carat blue topaz ($4,440)
Gigi Clozeau short neon orange resin beaded necklace in 18-karat yellow gold ($350)
Perhaps there’s an inverse mood between the state of the world and fine jewelry: the more tumultuous the headlines the more ebullient the jewels.
Lots of joyful color is what makes jewelry feel like an antidote to the world’s doom and gloom and I’m loving all of it, whether achieved through colored gemstones, bright enamel, or a combination of both.
Melissa Kaye’s elegant pieces are decidedly non-traditional with her pioneering enamel shades. She’s proved how much color resonates with consumers, from neons to pastels. Kaye does the experimenting and a plethora of designers follow in her wake.
A fantastic, gemmy cocktail ring from Nadine Aysoy speaks to jewelry’s maximalist mood, while more demure gold and resin layering pieces from Gigi Clozeau feel like a second skin, perfect for layering in a #neckmess.
I’ve got a Gigi Clozeau purchased from fabulous Kansas City, Kansas store Pendleton Jewelry under my Christmas tree right now, though alas it’s not for me.
They say it’s better to give than to receive but I’ll blame Omicron if I’m sporting a matching version in early 2022.
Happy Holidays!
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
More on Editors
The Latest
AuctionsNov 02, 2026
197-Carat ‘Romanov Sapphire’ Heads to Sotheby’s GenevaThe rare jewel, which has links to Russia’s Romanov dynasty, is estimated to fetch up to $2 million.
CrimeNov 02, 2026
Customs Seizes More Than 400 Fake Audemars Piguet WatchesIt is one of several seizures of counterfeit jewelry and watches by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials in Louisville this year.
MajorsNov 02, 2026
Lawrence Bock, Caryl Capeci, Amanda Coleman-Phelps Join JA Board Jewelers of America announced the additions to its board of directors following its annual general meeting, held last week.
Brought to you by
How Overnight Mountings’ Bridal Builder Makes Custom Engagement Ring Design Easier to SellWith customization becoming more expected in engagement ring shopping, the Bridal Builder makes the process tangible.
CollectionsNov 02, 2026
Olympian Kristi Yamaguchi, Heller Jewelers Expand ‘Always Dream’ CollectionThe jewelry collection supports Yamaguchi’s Always Dream foundation, which provides reading and educational resources to families in need.
Weekly QuizOct 29, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Events & AwardsOct 30, 2026
Illuminating Carved Paraiba Pendant, Suite of Moonstones Wow at Spectrum AwardsSpectrum’s “Best of Show” honors went to a 101-carat Paraiba carved to look like Medusa that has a magnet-activated LED light.
TrendsOct 30, 2026
Edina Kiss’ Pendants Say ‘Eye’m Watching You’Our Halloween Pieces of the Week are four “Eye” pendants, each set with colorful gemstones.
Brought to you by
A Diamond Is Forever Launches 2026 Holiday Campaign Championing Natural DiamondsA Diamond Is Forever's holiday campaign reimagines natural diamond icons for a new generation celebrating individuality.
MajorsOct 30, 2026
The RealReal Hires Former eBay Exec as New Chief Merchandising OfficerAlexis Hoopes expanded eBay’s “Authenticity Guarantee” program during her tenure.
WatchesOct 29, 2026
Bucherer Opens Rolex Boutique in Washington StateThe Rolex-owned retailer’s new 4,700-square-foot store’s façade honors the Pacific Northwest’s evergreen forests.
TrendsOct 29, 2026
Amanda's Style File: All Treats, No Tricks Get into the Halloween spirit with this roundup of 13 spooky jewels.
MajorsOct 29, 2026
Gesswein Hires Longtime Bench Jeweler, Educator Ann CahoonCahoon was appointed strategic account and educational program manager at Gesswein, which recently joined Continental Buying Group.
MajorsOct 29, 2026
Amanda Seyfried Stars In Tiffany & Co.’s Holiday CampaignTiffany & Co.’s latest ambassador makes her debut in its “Love Is a Gift” holiday campaign.
CrimeOct 28, 2026
Man In Florida Who Swallowed Tiffany & Co. Earrings ConvictedJaythan Gilder was found guilty of robbery and grand theft after stealing and then ingesting nearly $800,000 worth of Tiffany & Co. jewelry.
SurveysOct 28, 2026
Consumer Confidence Up in October as Gas Prices EaseConsumer confidence remains on the long-term downward trend that’s persisted over the past few years, said a Conference Board economist.
MajorsOct 28, 2026
Stuller’s Holiday Campaign Lets the ‘Magic of the Moment’ ShineThe holiday campaign includes key jewelry trends, a curated holiday gift guide, and resources to help jewelers prepare for holiday shoppers.
SourcingOct 27, 2026
De Beers Celebrates the Holidays With New ‘Desert Diamonds’ CampaignThe “Icons” holiday campaign spotlights four classic diamond jewelry styles reimagined in “Desert Diamond” tones.
IndependentsOct 27, 2026
Solomon Brothers Acquires Mervis Diamond ImportersSolomon Brothers, which has three stores in the Metro Atlanta area, said it may continue to acquire other independent jewelers.
IndependentsOct 27, 2026
Gabriel & Co. Supports Charity Partner DKMS With Gala, New JewelsThe fine jewelry brand raised $2.3 million at its annual gala that supports the nonprofit’s fight against blood cancer and blood disorders.
Events & AwardsOct 27, 2026
JFC Announces 2027 ‘Facets’ HonoreesThe annual fundraising event is slated for June 6, 2027, at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas.
CollectionsOct 26, 2026
Bliss Lau’s ‘Vantage’ Point Is the Hawaiian HorizonIn her “Vantage” collection, Lau explores heritage, identity, and inner strength through designs featuring blue-green Guatemalan jade.
MajorsOct 26, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Takes Consumers Behind the ScenesThe jeweler gave the public backstage tours of its flagship store and its design and innovation workshop as part of LVMH’s open house.
Events & AwardsOct 26, 2026
Support JFC’s ‘Monster Mash Challenge,’ If You DareVote for which jewelry professional should dress up as a monster to support Jewelers for Children’s annual Halloween fundraiser.
MajorsOct 23, 2026
PGI USA Set to Close at Year’s EndThe closure is part of a global restructuring that also includes PGI winding down its operations in Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong.
SourcingOct 23, 2026
Rachel Chalchinsky’s ‘Survivor Tribute’ RingThe ring, our Piece of the Week, was designed by eight-year breast cancer survivor Rachel Chalchinsky of Color Source Gems.
TechnologyOct 23, 2026
JA Unveils New Website, LogoThe website offers enhanced member benefit access, industry directories, educational resources, a job board, and access to the MJSA Journal.
FinancialsOct 23, 2026
Kering’s Jewelry Sales Up Double Digits in Q3Boucheron and Pomellato had a strong third quarter, with Kering looking at jewelry as an increasingly important part of its portfolio.
