The Ten Essential Pieces of Jewelry that Everyone Should Own

The capsule wardrobe for your jewelry.

The Ten Essential Pieces of Jewelry that Everyone Should Own

The idea of a capsule wardrobe is nothing new—the best jeans, sweater, t-shirt, jacket, etc. Narrow enough to keep dressing streamlined and easy, while always keeping you looking top notch. The same goes for jewelry. There are certain classic and timeless jewelry essentials that every jewelry box should have, but still leave room for those special purchases that give your look personality (similar to a fashion “statement piece”).

The perfect diamond studs and chain necklace are just as big of a fashion crutch as blue jeans and a white t-shirt. In fact, they’re far more versatile and can be worn for a work zoom call just as well as for cocktails when the world reopens again. Below is our guide to the ten pieces of classic, timeless jewelry that will never lead you astray.

Stud Earrings

There’s a reason the stud is your first earring. Besides the whole piercing process, it simply goes with everything. They add an easy touch of sparkle that can be worn no matter the occasion—gym and pool included. 

Mizuki 14-karat gold, pearl, and diamond earrings

Tiffany Elsa Peretti Diamonds by the Yard earrings

Hoop Earrings

It’s a classic style that delivers subtle attitude. Big or small, hoop earrings make a statement without being over the top.

Jennifer Fisher mini Jamma gold-plated hoop earrings

Mejuri sculptural hoops

Bangle Bracelet

Adorn your arms with a single bangle bracelet or stack them up—the latter will create the most delightful jingling sound. They pair well with just about everything, from a cable knit sweater to a breezy sundress.

Harwell Godfrey knife-edge diamond & 18kt gold bracelet

Sophie Buhai classic circle bangle

Pendant Necklace

A pendant is an easy way to wear something meaningful (your initials, your zodiac sign) close to your heart. Best of all, there’s no need to wear just one. 

Foundrae 26" small mixed Belcher Dream necklace

Sewit Sium large cosmos 18k gold-plated sapphire necklace

Gold Chain Necklace

Thick or thin, gold chain necklaces are an essential. A more chunky style will add an edge to your ensemble (perfect for power dressing) while a wispy chain adds a bit of femininity. You'll likely need one of each. 

Laura Lombardi Calle gold-plated necklace

Auvere long link chain

Pearl Strand

Pearl necklaces are passed down for a reason—they will absolutely never go out of style. We love a double strand with various sized pearls but you can’t go wrong with the classic single stand either.

Sophie Bille Brahe Peggy deux freshwater pearl and 14kt gold necklace

Mejuri essential pearl necklace

Signet Ring

Stamped with your initials, glittering with diamonds, or shiny and bare, a signet is the perfect ring for your pinkie. No other ring on your hand is necessary—but, of course, welcome.

Retrouvai Love diamond & 14kt gold signet ring

J.Hannah rectangle inlay signet (mother-of-pearl)

Stacking Ring

Wearing more than one ring on a finger can take some strategy. Do they fit snuggly on top of each other?  Do they add too much bulk to your digit? A simple gold band is a great starting point but better yet, opt for an already stacked multi-ring style that will do all the work for you.

Prounis duo band

Spinelli Kilcollin Sonny set of three 18-karat gold diamond rings

Colorful Stone

Playing with the gold and silver hues in jewelry is fun but so is the blue of a sapphire or the deep red of a garnet. A colored stone accessory is the easiest way to add a bit of dimension to your all-neutral ensemble or bring out the flecks of green in your eyes. 

Mateo 14k blue topaz Point of Focus ring

Agmes small Lena earrings

Steel Watch

A steel watch is the easiest (least costly) way into the world of luxury watches—especially for those more aspirational brands. These two options will work for every situation, from a casual coffee to a job interview.

Cartier Tank Solo watch

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34

This story originally appeared on: Vogue - Author:Daisy Shaw-Ellis