A deep dive into my jewelry collection
My most-worn and adored pieces.
Not a week goes by without an inquiry about my jewelry and I’ve compiled a mental list of the most frequently-asked questions over the past few years. I’m hoping today I can address most of these in a fairly (ha) efficient manner for you. Shall we hold hands? I mean, gold prices these days are enough to make your butt cheeks clench so we might need a support group or something.
Grab a snack because this is gonna be long. (You know I love details!)
How did you start your collection?
I started getting serious about my 14k gold jewelry collection in my early 40s, so I have about a decade under my belt at this point. I wanted to invest in heirloom-type pieces that I could pass down to my daughter and gold has always been a favorite in the James family growing up. (Fun fact: The Candyman’s second favorite thing in life behind candy is gold. He is extremely knowledgeable in gold as a commodity, and if you haven’t noticed, the price of gold has been on a massive upswing for decades with no signs of slowing down. Another thing to consider…gold jewelry is going to continue rising in price so now’s not a bad time to pull the trigger.)
A necklace purchase that has stood the test of time is the Bead Party Diamond Rager necklace by Adina Reyter. Simple and beautiful, it’s a piece that I wear day in and day out and rarely take off.
Isn’t she so chic? It doesn’t compete with other jewelry, yet shines on its own.
One of the most wonderful things about the entire Adina Reyter situation (and why I’m a mega fan who continues to accrue pieces) is the ability to transform necklaces with the addition of beads and charms, so it wasn’t long before I added this mini dice bead to the original necklace.
Then I added the diamond celestial bead and the mini solid bead…
And then! As of yesterday, I added the brand new mini initial charms, which is a burgeoning obsession.
Speaking of mini beads, my daughter has her own special AR necklace.
These mini bead necklaces are so great for special birthdays, graduations, etc. I love that my daughter never takes it off and she’ll be able to add to it as the years pass.
I think now’s a good time to remind you that although I’m an Adina Reyter paying customer, I am also gifted some items as well. This is all part of the gig - being able to show you how makeup/clothes/jewelry look on a real person in real time, but I can understand how my jewelry collection might seem, um, robust.
I have a wide range of folks who subscribe to this newsletter - some won’t even bat an eye at the cost of this jewelry while it’s the opposite for others. All in all, I think it’s fair to say that as an influencer, I realize my collection isn’t the norm and shouldn’t be considered as such. Onward!
What about statement necklaces?
Well, I think the smallest necklace can make the biggest statement, but in terms of size, big beads and charms can’t be beat. These are the big-mama attention grabbers that once again can be mixed and matched and worn on different chains.
This is when you can really play around with what themes and imagery speak to you - choose items that you feel connected to - it makes it all the more special!
What about chains? Which is the most versatile?
If I had to pick one chain, it would be the 18” 4mm Italian chain. Here’s why - although the Italian chain is offered in 4mm, 5.3mm, and 7mm, and they are all gorgeous, the big beads will only fit on the 4mm.
So if you want more bang for your buck, you can wear charms and the big beads on the 4mm. I also have the 5.3mm and while it’s a bit heftier and eye-catching, the big beads won’t fit. It’s only for charms.
In terms of versatility, go with the 4mm. #inwhoorlwetrust
However, if you are only interested in charms, the 5.3mm is quite lovely.
Finally, for the most eye-catching of all charms, Adina has diamond hinged charms for big beads. Here’s a video showing how I assemble my Diamond Arrow Hinged Charm.
What about diamond tennis necklaces? I see them everywhere!
I have two lab-grown diamond tennis necklaces by Dorsey - the Kate and the James Bezel. I don’t wear them on a daily basis, but they sure pack a punch for a night out or when I’m in need of some extra sparkle.
We get it, you like necklaces. What about other jewelry?
This is where I don’t switch things up. I wear the same rings and bracelets almost every damn day.
Left hand - Tiffany wedding bands, Foundrae Snake Bookend Band, AR Scorpio Signet Ring
Left wrist: My Yearly Co bangles! I’ve been collecting these for a decade - usually gifts from my husband and children.
Right Hand: AR Good Luck Barrel Ring or a vintage turquoise ring, Ariel Gordon Moniker Pinky Ring
Right wrist: Cartier Panthère (my 50th birthday present from my parents and husband - Nov 6th, coming up!), Yearly Co Half Birthday Bracelet, Yearly Co Square Chain Link Bracelet
Earrings! I basically rotate 3 pairs - the Yearly Co Medium Diamond Hoops, the AR Diamond Wide Huggie Hoops, and these gorgeous diamond studs.
Solid 14k gold isn’t in the budget. Do you have recs for less expensive brands?
I have always been pleased with my purchases from Aurate. This Infinity Heart Ring, Evil Eye Necklace, Baguette Hoop Earrings, and Tennis Bracelet are all great picks. Looks like everything is 30% off right now too!
And if gold isn’t your thing, Adina has a fantastic sterling silver line.
Hello? Hello? Is anyone still here? here here echo echo echo
You know what makes me thrilled? That I’m finished typing. I hope this was helpful for you in terms of considering your next jewelry purchase.
xxSJ
Candy AND gold? Are you sure your dad isn't a character in a fairy tale?!
Love this! Thank you. What drew you to the Cartier watch— that particular style, mixed metals etc?