The 30 Designer Jewelry Brands That Are Cool-Girl Approved
On the whole, jewelry never goes out of style. No matter the decade or the trend, unique designs of earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings have served as both statement pieces and daily accessories. Whether pearl, gold, silver, rose gold, diamond, or something else entirely, a good jewelry piece can stand alone, completing your outfit and adding the right amount of elegance and sparkle. As much as we love our day-to-day pieces, though, we're always on the hunt for new ones to add to our collections that we will hopefully be able to pass on as family heirlooms. More often than not, we invest in designer jewelry brands to acquire pieces that will outlast trends and generations.
Whether it's a renowned Cartier Love bracelet or a classic Mikimoto pearl necklace, so many designers are elevating jewelry and creating pieces worth every penny. To streamline the best designer jewelry brands in the market for you, we decided to put the 30 best in this article. Make sure you commit them to memory, from the brands whose clothing you love (hi, Hermès and Chanel) to the labels that have been perfecting their craft for years.
1. Tiffany & Co.
Blame it on the classic Audrey Hepburn film Breakfast at Tiffany's, but there's something undeniably timeless about anything from this age-old jewelry designer. Tiffany & Co will always be at the forefront of designer jewelry.
2. Cartier
Another classic jewelry brand is Cartier. Get yourself one of its iconic Love bracelets or something classic, such as a necklace.
3. David Yurman
David Yurman emerged onto the jewelry scene in 1980, but that hasn't stopped the brand from creating pieces destined to be in your jewelry box forever. If you're buying your first piece, go for something that features the brand's signature rope-style twist.
4. Gucci
If there's one thing Gucci knows how to do, it's design really great accessories. It may be known more for bags and shoes, but the selection of understated fine jewelry is not to be missed.
5. Bulgari
If you're looking for something that feels more exotic than your classic gems, Bulgari's pieces feel like those Cleopatra might wear if she were alive today.
6. Harry Winston
Could there be anything more lust-worthy than something from Harry Winston? As the brand is responsible for some of the most famous diamonds to date, there's no doubt any piece from the designer is worth the investment.
7. Foundrae
Foundrae's cigar-band rings, necklaces, and earrings feature iconic spiritual and mystical symbols that "allow the wearer to express something of herself to the world."
8. Hermès
When it comes to luxury, no one does it quite like Hermès. Sure, you know the brand for its signature Birkin Bag, but it also has some amazing jewelry worthy of a spot in your collection.
9. Chopard
Perhaps you've become familiar with Chopard because of its luxury watches, which feature the brand's signature Happy Diamonds. Well, its jewelry is equally as cool. Whether you opt for a piece that features the Happy Diamonds or not, these pieces stand out.
10. Chanel
No matter what you get from Chanel, you know it'll be the epitome of chic. If you're looking for something to wear daily, embrace the famous fashion house with a shiny bauble.
11. Van Cleef & Arpels
French luxury jewelry and watch designer Van Cleef & Arpels has a unique, old-school touch to all its pieces. If you aren't sure where to start, get something that showcases the brand's classic clover motif or a simple bracelet to wear with all your ensembles. There's no going wrong here.
12. Bottega Veneta
When people think of Bottega Veneta, their mind usually goes straight to its timeless collection of handbags and doesn't look much further. Lately, its jewelry has been drawing just as much attention if not more. From the cult-loved drop earrings to the bracelet you didn't know you needed, this is a great place for your search.
13. Mateo
Who knows jewelry better than New Yorkers? Mateo is known for its elegant and minimalistic designs that effortlessly blend classic and modern aesthetics. Founded by Matthew "Mateo" Harris, the brand is celebrated for its use of high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
14. Anita Ko
Anita Ko is well-known in Los Angeles for her edgy yet refined creations that often incorporate elements of punk and glam rock. The brand has gained international acclaim for its meticulous craftsmanship and interesting designs, attracting a celebrity following and establishing a reputation for luxury and innovation.
15. De Beers
De Beers has been around since the late 1800s, making it an iconic brand that has been passed down through many generations. Synonymous with events like Paris Couture Week and royal weddings, the brand is on a first-name basis with the elite.
16. Loewe
We've always known Loewe for its jaw-dropping ready-to-wear and iconic handbags, but when you look a bit below the surface, you can discover that its jewelry is just as exquisite. This brooch is first up on our list.
17. Saint Laurent
Saint Laurent is another designer name that has created an amazing curation of jewelry. Its latest runway show spotlighted the oversize-earring trend of the year, and we're still thinking about it.
18. Graff
If you know diamonds, you know Graff. It sources some of the greatest stones you'll ever see. Our attention is currently on this heart pendant.
19. Sophie Buhai
Sophie Buhai launched in 2015 and caught the eye of the fashion crowd very quickly. Its designers surpass any sort of "trend," with minimalism and surrealism at the forefront.
20. Sophie Bille Brahe
If you like Copenhagen fashion brands, just know there are jewelry ones too. Sophie Bille Brahe is a name to know if you're looking to overhaul your jewelry collection.
21. Chloé
The Chloé label has been synonymous with an elevated bohemian vibe, and its jewelry has the same flair. Whether it's the viral initial necklace or an oversize earring, you'll find a statement-making jewelry piece here.
22. Octavia Elizabeth
Crafted by Octavia Zamagias and rooted in Los Angeles, Octavia Elizabeth's assortments draw inspiration from the grace of everyday life and its indulgences. Dedicated to sustainability, Octavia Elizabeth prioritizes the creation of enduring fine jewelry tailored for contemporary women and men.
23. Arielle Ratner
Arielle Ratner is a skilled jewelry designer with years of experience in both corporate and high-jewelry roles. She crafts each piece with the utmost adherence to high standards, all the while prioritizing budget considerations and aligning with diverse lifestyles.
24. Repossi
Across three generations of Italian designers, Repossi has pursued timeless and avant-garde jewelry, seamlessly blending artistic and architectural inspirations with the exceptional craftsmanship synonymous with Place Vendôme. The brand's visionary approach has revitalized the house, transforming traditional jewelry codes into a fresh incarnation where each piece becomes a second skin.
25. Marie Lichtenberg
Paris-based designer Marie Lichtenberg knows how to make jewelry fun. From unique (and functioning) Magic 8 Ball pendants that can tell your fortune to the perfect ring for a proposal, you're guaranteed to find a piece you'll want to own forever from her collection.
26. Fred Leighton
If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind piece that you can pass down from generation to generation, Fred Leighton is the place to go. From vintage to modern classics, it has it all.
27. Kwiat
Beginning as a family owned business with a boutique on Canal Street, Kwiat has been around for over 100 years at the center of the downtown diamond district. It still creates timeless pieces perfect for any event on your calendar.
28. Lauren Rubinski
Lauren Rubinski makes "bling" for everyone in your life. With big names like Kate Moss and Hailey Bieber wearing her designs, her creations are a must-see.
29. Charlotte Chesnais
Charlotte Chesnais defies the times and trends through her jewelry and sculpture creations that are unique yet classic. From simple swirls to abstract shapes, you're always going to find something different within her collections.
30. Jessica McCormack
Jessica McCormack designs jewelry with the intention of creating future heirlooms that reflect modern styles while speaking to echoes of the past. The antique techniques she uses are a must-see.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, trying the latest fitness craze in New York City, or exploring luxury vintage boutiques.
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