8 Pieces of Jewelry You Should Own by the Time You’re 40
Including tips from jewelry designers
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With age comes wisdom…and a *really* good jewelry collection hopefully. As you enter a new decade, there are a few literal gems you may want to consider adding to the reserve. Whether you’re the type of shopper who enjoys keeping up with the latest jewelry trends, sticks to tried-and-true classics, scouts out vintage heirlooms, saves on affordable jewelry or splurges on luxury brands, don’t fret because there’s something for everyone. Ahead, I laid out the eight pieces of jewelry you should own by the time you enter your 40s, from signet rings to statement earrings that’ll last for years (and hopefully decades) to come.
Meet the Experts
- Jenny Bird is the founder and creative director of jewelry and lifestyle brand, Jenny Bird. Self-taught, she began creating bold and modern jewelry in 2010, and her designs have been worn by Michelle Obama, Selena Gomez and Hailey Bieber, to name a few.
- Maya Brenner is the owner and designer of Los Angeles-based jewelry line Maya Brenner. Since launching in 2001, the brand quickly gained popularity for their signature pieces like the Asymmetrical Letter necklace and State necklace. The brand’s pieces have been worn by many celebrities, including Halle Berry and Meghan Markle.
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What Should You Consider When Buying Jewelry?
So, you have your eye on a few pieces of fine jewelry that you’re totally in love with. Great! But make sure you consider these factors, below, before purchasing.
- Double-check the jewelry’s quality: Brenner warns, “Don't let a tempting bargain price sway you without checking the fine print. It's a common practice for jewelry companies to label something as ‘gold,’ but a closer look at the fine print may reveal that it's just gold-plated.” If you want jewelry that’s worth your while, Brenner suggests buying solid 14k gold or platinum. Though they’re pricier, they’ll last a lifetime and can be passed down to a daughter, granddaughter or sister.
- Budget: Make an effort to determine a realistic budget that you’re comfortable spending. Fine jewelry can be gorgeous, yes, but the expense isn’t worth it if it’ll cause an unnecessary financial strain when all is said and done. And there are plenty of affordable jewelry options online that are well made, good quality and stunning.
As Bird advises: “Don’t overthink it. It just has to speak to you. You know it’s a piece for you if it pulls at you to be part of your life.” Noted.
What Types of Jewelry Are Best to Invest in If You’re Going to Splurge?
“Consider choosing pieces that are timeless, durable and unique,” encourages Brenner. If you’re the type of person who gravitates towards dainty, delicate accessories, I suggest opting for minimalist jewelry for its enduring quality. Treasures like the Diamond Bar bracelet ($348) from Ring Concierge and the Tory Burch Eleanor watch ($328) can make for classy additions to your collection. Remember, “these pieces will not only hold their value but also tell your story, making them an instant heirloom,” adds Brenner. Don’t be afraid to invest in loud luxury, too. Bold, chunky, colorful and statement-making jewelry, such as the Solanales crystal cuff bracelet ($295) from Alexis Bittar, makes for an eye-catching look and is a great way to add texture, depth and color to any outfit.
Bird “prefers personalized pieces when splurging: the letters of my kids, my birthstone, a locket I can put a picture in. [They are] things that are more meaningful than just being bling.” Plus, they become significant keepsakes as time passes, eventually making for great trinkets to pass down to a loved one. But Bird suggests “Responsibly produced fine jewelry is number one.
How Should You Properly Care for Your Investment Pieces?
Taking care of your jewelry collection can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time. Good news: There are a few simple steps you can follow to keep your new jewels shining as bright as the first day you received them.
- Avoid lotions and perfumes: Take caution and avoid applying lotion or perfumes when you’re wearing jewelry. That sweet-smelling mixture can contain substances that can affect your new bracelet’s brilliance or luster.
- Clean weekly with soap and water: “It's a good practice to clean [jewelry] on a weekly basis,” Brenner advises, especially for pieces you wear often as dead skin and dirt are likely to build up on it. “If your jewelry features set stones or intricate details, a soft-bristled brush can be your best friend in removing any stubborn debris.” Otherwise, a bit of mild soap, warm water and a gentle polishing cloth is enough to get the job done. I also reviewed and ranked the best jewelry cleaners, if you prefer to use a kit, like the Oprah-approved jewelry handwash that our Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth tested and loved.
- Store them properly: “When it comes to storing your jewelry, it's essential to prevent scratches and tangling. To achieve this, store each piece separately. Additionally, some gemstones like emerald or tanzanite can be sensitive to heat, humidity, and sunlight. To protect your jewelry from these elements, [you’ll want to] store them in a cool, dark place,” says Brenner.
- Enjoy your pieces: “Caring for them is wearing them,” Bird reminds. “We often save our good pieces [for special occasions], but we should just wear them. We don't want to be precious about our precious jewelry. Wear them in your daily life to make your daily life so much more beautiful.” You heard the woman.
Dena Silver
Fashion Editor
From 2019-2021 Dena Silver held the role of Fashion Editor covering product recommendations, trends, and what you should be shopping this season.
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