Best Jewelry Investment Pieces

Most people hit a point when they want to transition from purchasing costume jewelry to fine jewelry that reflects their style. They’re after quality instead of quantity. Having fewer pieces in their jewelry chest doesn’t bother them as long as they’re classics that’ll never go out of style. Pieces that they can wear forever with countless outfits.

The problem is that most people aren’t sure how to approach buying these jewelry investment pieces after buying costume pieces for so long. Where should you start? What should you look for? Here’s a complete list of the best investment pieces you should prioritize when building your fine jewelry collection.

1. Diamond Studs 

When it comes to earrings that you must have in your jewelry collection, you can’t go wrong with diamond studs. These earrings are elegant, beautiful, and timeless. Not only can diamond earrings be worn with virtually anything (much like hoop earrings), but they’re also incredibly durable. Diamonds are the strongest gemstones on Earth, which makes them perfect for daily wear. We also love diamonds because they add a bit of sparkle to your outfit. While diamond studs are great for special occasions, they also can be worn daily. What’s not to love about that?

Here are two types of diamond studs that are great options for your staple pair: 2 Carat Diamond Studs and 3 Prong Martini Diamond Studs. Don’t think studs only have to be round-cut diamonds. Emerald, pear, and oval are also great timeless choices! When it comes to diamond studs, we recommend white gold for the most classic look.

 2. Diamond Tennis Bracelet

A traditional tennis bracelet consists of gemstones — most often diamonds — in a single line that circles the wrist. The most popular tennis bracelet style is the four-prong diamond, a single-row bracelet that features round diamonds. Bezel tennis bracelets are super popular right now, but if you’re thinking about staple pieces for the future - you can’t go wrong with a four prong tennis bracelet.

Like many other items on this list, diamond tennis bracelets are versatile enough to be worn with just about anything. Of course, if you’re wearing diamonds daily, you’ll automatically elevate your style. Those jeans and white t-shirt you’re wearing? It may look just so slightly more elegant. Tennis bracelets are the ultimate gold bracelet investment piece.

 3. Station Necklace

Behold another simple and timeless design — the Diamond Station Necklace. Once you know about this design, you’ll wonder if you need anything else. It’s a strikingly beautiful option, but it isn’t overwhelming. It goes with everything in your wardrobe and can be layered with other necklaces as long as you’re not too heavy-handed. Too much layering is a thing, after all! Furthermore, you can pair it with many other items on this list. Its versatility is evident from diamond stud earrings to hoops to rings to chain necklaces.

This is a classic Station Necklace option. You can’t go wrong with this one. Station bracelets, earrings, and rings are also a very classic choices. A station necklace is a great choice if you’re a yellow-gold girl.

 4. Hoop Earrings

No jewelry collection is complete without a pair of hoop earrings. Hoops earrings are exceptionally versatile. You can wear them year-round to practically any event. You can wear a quality pair of hoop earrings to the beach, with jeans and t-shirts, or to an upscale night out. Of course, many people like to have a few different hoop earrings because some fit better in certain situations than others. 

If you want hoop earrings that’ll be your best buy initially, you should purchase mid-sized hoops. Medium hoops are anywhere from 20 to 40 mm. They are the most popular size for both diamond and metal hoops. They’re a highly versatile and flattering option.

Here’s a great pick for 20mm Gold Hoops. They’re simple, and on the smaller end, so they go with just about any outfit. If you’re looking for something with a bit of bling, consider huggies like our Dainty Diamond Hoop Earrings.

 5. Chain Necklaces

Chain necklaces are trendy now, but that doesn’t mean they’ll go out of style. Both thin and thick gold chain necklaces are essential to your jewelry collection. Make sure you purchase these investment pieces. People often purchase gold-plated chains because of the cost difference. However, gold-plated chains will tarnish. When you invest in pure gold, you’re buying jewelry that lasts. We recommend purchasing the thin first if you’re short on cash. It’s a great layering piece, so you’ll probably wear it more often to begin with. It’ll also add a bit of femininity to your outfits. However, don’t discount the thick gold chain. This edgy piece can make a statement when you want it to. 

Consider these two thin gold chains: Dainty Rolo Chain and Singapore Style Chain.

 6. Bangle Bracelet

Bangle bracelets are rigid, ring-shaped, and made from metal, wood, glass, or plastic. They are different from traditional bracelets because they have a predefined shape. With bangles, you’re able to slip them over your wrist and let them dangle, or if they have a hinge on them, they will open. While you can wear just one bangle, most people wear them in stacks on their wrists. That’s half the fun of bangles — you can mix and match and find all the different kinds you like. You can't go wrong with a Pave Diamond Bangle Bracelet.

6. Pendant Necklace

Pendant necklaces allow you to add more personality to your jewelry collection. Most people use this as an opportunity to wear something meaningful to them. For instance, they may choose their initials or their children’s initials. Here are a few other ideas if you love wearing a unique pendant necklace checkout this Starburst Pendant Necklace or customize your own. 

 7. Pearl Strand

Pearls will never go out of style. Adding a single strand of pearls to your jewelry collection is a must for anyone who likes classic styles. We recommend sticking to a round pearl shape. These are both classic and valuable because they’re the most difficult shape to culture. Buy pearls once and keep them in your collection for a lifetime!

And if you’re feeling uninspired by pearls because you think they’re a bit grandma-ish, here are the top four reasons you should own pearls:

• They’re suitable for all occasions
• They’re environmentally friendly
• They’re glamorous and elegant
• They’re durable as long as they’re high quality

Classic pearl jewelry is often an heirloom that’s passed down through generations. If you need proof, look at the British Royal Family! Queen Elizabeth II wore the same pearls for years. Don’t overlook a pearl strand in favor of gold and silver. If you have a family pearl necklace, you can repurpose it into a more modern design. It has a place in every jewelry collection. There is no piece more classic than pearl studs. 

8. Rings

In any solid jewelry collection is at least one ring. Some people favor the simplicity of wearing just their wedding or engagement rings once they’re in a long-term relationship. However, even if you’re not in that stage of your life (or you don’t ever plan to be), it doesn’t mean you can’t invest in rings.

Popular options for rings include cocktail rings or stacked rings. Cocktail rings were first popularized during the 1920s when flapper girls would wear them to draw attention to their illicit drinks. When you wear a cocktail ring, you don’t need many layers. You can throw one on for a little pizzazz.

On the contrary, stacked rings are for people who love more minimalistic jewelry or the layering effect. This can be a good option if you love combining different styles.

 9. Colored Stone Accessory

Most of your daily investment pieces will be neutral. This makes sense because you want your details to go with everything. However, a colored stone is an incredible way to add dimension to your outfits with accessories. If your outfit is neutral, you could bring in a pop of color with a sapphire or emerald. You can choose a gemstone that represents your birthday or wedding month.

Plus, some people find that this accentuates their natural features. For instance, redheads may gravitate toward sapphire because it complements their hair. Or people with flecks of green in their eyes may get extra compliments when they wear emeralds.

If you’re looking for a colored stone accessory to add to your jewelry collection, here are some ideas. You can add anything from necklaces and earrings to bracelets and rings. It’s entirely up to you and what you’ll wear the most!

If you're looking for a classic design with a lot of color, check out our Multi-Colored Gemstone Necklace

Final Thoughts

It can be intimidating to start building out your collection, but once you start doing it, you’ll realize that it’s beyond worth it to have quality jewelry. When investing in long-term pieces, we always focus on minimalist designs. Besides just purchasing classic jewelry items that will never go out of style, it is vital to buy pieces that will last. When shopping for a piece of jewelry, always go to a reputable jeweler. Pay close attention to the craftsmanship and quality of materials used, including the gemstones and precious metal karat concentration.

Purchasing fine jewelry that you can use year after year ensures that you save money long-term and always look good. Browse our highlighted pieces at Alexis Jae, and don’t hesitate to reach out for information about customization. We can always help create what you’re looking for — even if you don’t see it on our site.

Our mission at Alexis Jae is to help people skip the middleman and invest in high-quality, ethically sourced jewelry. We are a New York-based jewelry store. We only sell fine jewelry featuring precious or semi-precious stones. Start shopping today and save 50% off traditional retail prices!