Edited by Adri

The costume jewelry trends these past seasons have been practically just swimming around the same concept: "Bold and Bulging" with over the top detailing and chunky features. The more the merrier as they say, the trends are even more focused with a hybrid of natural materials and various metals. Modern artistry still prevails in the upper market with usage of more long-lasting and sustainable materials such as sterling silver gold-filled and stainless steel metals– I've read before in an intensive analysis on jewelry industry in the Philippines that these are what's called "Bridge Jewelry", since they are positioned between Fine and Costume/Fashion jewelry.

Chunky & Large Metals

Huge and bold ornaments are in this time and ideas such as “not enough” and “much more a lot more-ness” is definitely desirable. Decadently embellished items having drama and generating a main statement will be the showstoppers everyone is hunting. Also, enormous (and expensive!) metal pieces as the giant curb link necklace pieces created by Kenneth J. Lane and other designers are really in. 

Antique/Vintage/Retro & New Combinations

Absolutely everyone loves the look of antique, vintage and retro jewelry and now the most recent trend is to thoughtfully mix these and make a new and imaginative item as one. Jewelry designers, say, Elizabeth Locke and Roberto Coin are beautifully infusing their new concepts and marrying them to antique and vintage that seems to be and the resulting styles are perfect.

Dramatic, Special and “Restructured” Necklaces

As opposed to the 60s when the huge brooches and pins are the key component in one’s individual adornment… Now is the necklace. The bib necklace started to grow in the hearts of many at least 3 years ago and evidently, these are still very influential today and in fact evolved to different stand-out pieces like over-the-top multi-chain neckpieces, fabric-made, etc. Although necklaces are today’s key piece for jewelry, I would say that brooches can still be used still especially that trends in the 60s and 70s are back in the game. There are also interesting stand out pieces such as feathered headpieces and earrings- these truly bring the bohemian in any girl. Just be cautious that using these can be tricky, so perhaps search for looks that would suit your taste and body type before trying on items like these.

Ornamented & Bold Bracelets

This pattern has been scorching for a while considering that Louis Vuitton produced a significant statement with his embellished cuff designs. Wonderfully dyed leather cuffs reminiscent of “surfer chic” with ornamentation are generating much rave and substantial Lucite confetti bangles like in the old 50s and 60s, metal cuffs with charms, studs and crystals are all big and bold.

Eclectic /All-natural Ethnic /Tribal

Ethnic and regional styles are often very hot and this year has no exception. Taking from the Native American or African use of natural stones like turquoise, agates, onyx, opaque and other stones in rock candy colors as seen in high stop styles of Oscar Heyman and Katy Briscoe. Beautiful pale angelskin coral and red coral, whether utilized in their raw type or faceted are still not to be missed. Bringing all these together is just one concept: Mother Nature.

Fake & Genuine Pearls

Pearls yell pure classicism. For centuries they have been hugely desired for their natural class and exclusive appeal. Used in the Victorian Era, pearls have evolved from simple one-strand to numerous layers and layers of beautifully hand crafted balls. Even Cartier has revived their classic styling in a lot more eye catching pearl with diamonds as added details. Pearls can be worn with edgy metals and other ornaments to have that feel of “warrior princess” but still exuding glamour.

 Rings Taking Over Hands

No matter whether fake or genuine the more one can place on a finger the greater and the notion is achieve that “eye catching style”.  Clusters of different materials such as crystals, pearls, charms, natural stones, wired beads and even novelty pieces (like a scorpion, or a humming bird—anything of a known item or figure) are quite the rave nowadays. Flashing a statement ring while getting cocktails and engaging in convos is the ultimate tease!

Huge Hoops and Chandelier Earrings

A pair of hoop earrings is very flexible and this trend is nonetheless quite robust. The bigger… longer… and glitzier, the better. Hoop earrings that go 2-4” down give that fashionable trick and would surely bring you to that extra mile if they’re with rhinestones or diamonds or maybe embellished with other designs. Jewelry designers Patricia Locke and Ramona Singer are creating new and fascinating hoop earring designs. Now for a more elegant look, chandelier earrings are ideal. Bulgari, and other people are providing their spin on this traditional earring design and style. In 2010, earrings with extreme coloration palettes like scorching pinks, reds, greens and yellows produce a striking contrast that will give any vogue search a touch of glamour.

“Green Eco Conscious” Movement

It is actually sweet to witness eco-friendly things on the runways- this only means designers have learned (although forcefully) to be more resourceful and see beauty in other materials.  Such as Mari & Lani Davis, Alex and Ani, and Tamra Gentry are concerned with “recycle and reuse” philosophies in their styles. Whether its plainly about recycling with plastic milk cartons, utilized newspapers, or whatever trash there is… fascinating and thrilling jewelry is literally popping up just about everywhere. And personally, it’s all about how things are put together, regardless of materials.

**Reference: IC Ideation for Gems and Jewelry/ http://icgj.net