What Should Be In Your Jewelry Box

Just like any girl should have a few key selections in her wardrobe, she should also have certain key pieces in her jewelry box. Here are a few staple jewelry items every girl should have.

1) Pearls. Just like that 'little black dress' a simple strand of pearls and pair of pearl studs are basic items that should be in your jewelry box. There are many options, one is natural pearls. Natural pearls are just that, natural, and rare. A strand of natural pearls can cost you thousands of dollars and you must be careful to check that they are in fact, natural. Today most pearls on the market today are cultured. With cultured pearls there are 2 main kinds: saltwater and freshwater. Saltwater pearls are more expensive because they require more work for the producer while Freshwater pearls typically require less labor. Freshwater pearls are most often 'rice' shaped and have a wrinkled looking surface, though today, round freshwater pearls are being created at a higher cost. A pair of cultured pearls can run the gamut in price, depending on quality. Before buying your own set of pearls make sure to research what you want and find a reputable seller.

2) Diamond Studs. Again, simple and classic. These are an investment, and you should be able to keep them forever. Diamonds never go out of style and can go with any wardrobe choice from jeans to a formal gown. Again prices can vary, but you can always start small. In general, a good, average quality 1/4 ct.(total weight) set will cost you in the high $600 range while the same quality at 1 ct.(total weight) will cost around $5000 and up, depending on the metal used. Save your money and invest in a good quality pair of studs. Diamonds are a girls best friend after all.

3) A nice watch. Sure running around in your Casio or Swatch Watch is fine for everyday, but everyone needs a nice watch to wear out on special occasions or in their professional career. There are plenty of options and price ranges to choose from. Of course there are the most desired and expensive: Rolex, Cartier, Chanel, and Chopard, but there are also more affordable options. A simple Raymond Weil (left,) Movado, or Gucci, while still expensive, are more affordable than some of the others. Still if those price tags are far too steep, Timex has come out with a 'Diamond Collection' retailing for under $200. DKNY and Sagen also have some very affordable pieces. There are plenty of choices out there, but you do want a good brand that will last you and is well made.

4) Cocktail ring. Cocktail rings are fun and should show off your personality. Feel free to play with color and stones and even how you wear them, like on your index finger. They can be simple and reserved or bold and brassy like you. A quality cocktail ring can range in price from a couple hundred dollars to thousands depending on the gemstones and metals. Invest in something you will enjoy making your signature piece and love wearing. The ring on the left is one of ours. A dome Amethyst and Sterling Silver a statement piece.

There are more items that are classic: a gold bangle bracelet, a classic gemstone pendant, and more. Above are 4 classics that will always be instyle and should be in your jewelry collection.
Remember, invest in quality jewelry that will last. Always ask for guarantees and certificates for expensive pieces, and do your homework. Investing in a few key pieces is the crux to having quality jewelry. Spend the big bucks on those quality items and less on the trendy ones.

So, what's in your jewelry box? What do you think is a classic piece?
Sound off below and tell us what YOU think!

Pictures: geekwatches.com. thelin.com, smartbargains.com, and Lisa McConnell Design Studio.
Reference: The Pearl Book:The Definitive Buying Guide, by Antoinette L. Matlins

Mason Winters-