Sure, everyone knows the traditional pieces of jewelry: wedding rings, chain necklaces, stud earrings, and so on. But beyond the basics, there’s a sparkling, twinkling, dazzling world of jewelry, with names like “Bajoran," "festoon," and "bolo," representing pieces as beautiful, unique, and intriguing as their names. Get ready to take your jewelry knowledge from amateur to aficionado as you learn about the following 37 types of jewelry.
Necklaces
Necklaces come in varying sizes, typically between 14" chokers and 60" sautoir (fancy gold and bejeweled) necklaces. Among these varying lengths, many different necklace styles exist. Here are some of the most common:
- Chain necklaces: Made from interlocking metal links of varying shapes and sizes, chain necklace styles include curb chain (flat oval links), box chain (square links) and rope chain (twisted strands), ranging from thin and delicate to chunky and bold.
- Pendant necklaces: These necklaces feature a single decorative object hanging from a chain. Pendants come in many shapes, sizes and materials, including metal, gemstones, glass and wood.
- Pearl necklaces: Considered a classic, pearl necklaces are made of a string of pearls, which can vary in color depending on the pearl type used, threaded together on a string traditionally made of silk or nylon.
- Station necklaces: Station necklaces feature multiple decorative elements, such as beads, pearls or gemstones, spaced evenly along a chain.
- Lariat necklaces: Featuring a long chain with one or both ends adorned with pendants, tassels or loops, lariat necklaces (also called “Y necklaces”) don’t have a traditional clasp. Instead, one end feeds through a loop on the other end, or both ends may drape down the wearer’s front or back (which, by the way, is an exquisite look when wearing a backless dress!).
- Tennis necklaces: A single strand of diamonds or gemstones, uniform in size and cut, are linked to create a continuous loop around the neck. The ability to play tennis is not required to wear this jewelry!
- Charm necklaces: With a chain base, these necklaces feature dangling trinkets that are sentimental, customizable, and, yes, charming. The charms, made from materials like metal, glass or gemstones, often hold personal significance to the wearer, representing hobbies, memories or beliefs.
- Festoon necklaces: These necklaces feature flowing, draped chains or beads that hang dramatically from a central collar or choker often resembling garland or a series of swags.
Rings
Many rings look similar at first glance, but some carry extra meaning. From champions and graduates to the soon-to-be-wedded and newlyweds, there just might be more types of rings than you realize.
- Eternity rings: There are two types of eternity rings: full eternity (gemstones set in a continuous line around the entire band) and half eternity (gemstones set in a continuous line halfway around the band, like a crescent moon of gems). These rings are typically gifted for anniversaries or to mark other milestones in life.
- Cocktail rings: Known for being oversized, bold and glamorous, cocktail rings are statement pieces that typically feature a large, colorful gemstone, sometimes surrounded by smaller gems or a cluster of gemstones.
- Engagement rings: Engagement rings often feature a solitaire diamond, though some include several diamonds, accenting gemstones or a solitaire gemstone of other varieties, such as rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Typically worn on the left ring finger, engagement rings symbolize a promise of marriage.
- Wedding rings: Traditionally exchanged during a marriage ceremony, wedding rings represent a lifelong commitment. Many wedding rings are simple bands made of gold, silver or platinum. However, other materials such as tungsten, wood, and even silicone have gained popularity.
- Signet rings: Signet rings have a flat surface with an engraving, such as a family crest, initials, or a symbol. Historically, these rings were used to seal letters by pressing the engraved surface into soft wax or clay, serving as a personal signature to verify the sender's identity and authenticity.
- Championship rings: Given to the victors of a sporting competition, championship rings may feature details like the name of the sports league, the championship year or a symbol representing the specific sport. Other engravings may include the winning team’s logo or the player’s name or jersey number.
- Class rings: Used to commemorate a graduating class, often from high school or college, class rings may feature a gemstone, symbols representing academic achievements or extracurricular activities, the school’s name or mascot, Greek letters representing a fraternity or sorority, the year of graduation or the graduate’s name.
Promise rings: Promise rings symbolize a commitment, whether for an upcoming engagement, love, fidelity, lifelong friendship or a fresh start after a rough patch. Typically simple in design, promise rings are often seen as a stepping stone to engagement rings.
Bracelets
From bangles and bolos to Cuban links and cuffs, it's time to explore the diverse world of bracelets.
- Tennis bracelets: The shorter sibling to the tennis necklace, tennis bracelets feature a row of gemstones with the same weight, size, color and shape. While diamond tennis bracelets are the most popular, they can also be made with gemstones of many shapes and colors.
- Bangle bracelets: Typically made from precious or semi-precious metals, bangle bracelets have a fixed, rigid shape and come without a clasp (they slide over your wrist). Some may be decorative, but most bangle bracelets don’t include gemstones and can be worn alone or stacked.
- Bolo bracelets: Also called slider bracelets, bolo bracelets feature an adjustable clasp that adjusts the size to fit your wrist. Named after the Western-style bolo tie, these versatile bracelets can be made with gemstones, charms or even a subtle braided material.
- Cuban link bracelets: Hefty, wide and chunky, Cuban link bracelets are made from an interlocking link pattern and are known for their girth and weight. Link styles may vary, from interlocking baguettes to beveled or flattened varieties.
- Charm bracelets: It's time for more charm—this time, in bracelet form! Including a base bracelet with links for personalized charms, these bracelets are quite possibly the most personalizable piece of jewelry.
- Pearl bracelets: These bracelets are made of a string of pearls. They are available in single strands or multiple strands, or they can showcase pearls spaced apart, exposing the underlying chain for a minimalist vibe.
- Bar bracelets: Bar bracelets feature a flat metal plate on a chain, often engraved with a personalized message, symbol, or name of a loved one. The bar can vary in color, shape and size and may be adorned with gemstones.
- Cuff bracelets: Cuff bracelets are typically made from metal, leather or ceramic and do not require a clasp. Instead, a narrow opening allows you to slide your wrist inside. Cuff bracelets tend to be thicker than bangles, offering more space for decorative embellishments.
Earrings
Teardrops and tassels, huggies and hoops are just a few of the many types of earrings.
- Stud earrings: Simple, elegant earrings featuring a small, often round gemstone or metal piece attached to a post that goes through your earlobe. Studs come in many shapes and sizes and can be worn with both casual and formal wear.
- Clip-on earrings: Clip-on earrings do not require a piercing. Instead, they use a hinged lever on the back that grips your ear. Modern clip-on earrings come in endless design options, including single gems, clusters, dangles and more.
- Huggie earrings: Huggies are small, comfortable earrings that “hug” your ear. Typically hoop-shaped, huggies are pretty different from hoop earrings due to the minimal space between the earring and the earlobe.
- Cluster earrings: Cluster earrings feature a grouping of smaller gemstones. Some may lay flat against your ear while others may dangle.
- Hoop earrings: Hoop earrings are circular, oval or sometimes rectangular-shaped and hang further from the ear than huggie earrings. They range from simple (sterling silver or gold) to intricate with gemstones and embellishments.
- Chandelier earrings: These glamorous earrings resemble chandeliers in appearance. They feature multiple tiers of dangling elements, often made with gemstones or beads.
- Bajoran earrings: Popularized by Star Trek’s fictional Bajorans, Bajoran earrings are typically worn on the right ear and attach to the ear in two places: the pierced hole and the top of the ear via a small cuff, often connected by a long, drapey chain.
- Tassel earrings: Playful and bohemian-inspired, tassel earrings feature decorative tassels hanging from the earring's base. Tassels are typically made of string, but other materials, such as metal, may be used.
- Teardrop earrings: These small dangle earrings (yes, shaped like a teardrop or drop of water) come in a variety of materials, sizes and colors.
Other types of jewelry
Even after covering 33 pieces of jewelry, plenty of other types remain to consider. While this list is not exhaustive, here are a few more to add to your collection.
- Brooches: Brooches are decorative accessories with a pin or clasp used to fasten clothing or elevate an outfit. They can range from ornate to simple and may be made from various materials, including metal, gemstones, and fabric.
- Hair clips: Hair clips are functional and fashionable accessories for holding hair in place. Made of metal or plastic, they can be adorned with gemstones, pearls, or other decorative elements.
- Foot jewelry: Don’t forget your feet! Foot jewelry, such as anklets (bracelets for your ankle) and toe rings, can add just the right amount of shimmer to your look.
- Watches: You might wonder, “Are watches considered jewelry?” Yes, though opinions may vary. Watches provide you with more than just time-telling capabilities. They bring a decorative element to your wrist in styles ranging from minimal to flashy.
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