How To Build A Timeless Jewellery Box

A beautiful piece today; a priceless heirloom tomorrow

There is something quite special about using materials that have existed for millions of years to craft a piece that you know will last forever. Jewellery purchases are made with powerful intentions and will make a meaningful family heirloom one day.

My grandmother, Madiha, used to say, “If you want to know a woman’s true style, don’t look at her clothes, look at her jewellery. Jewellery is a window to the soul”.

I often get asked by clients how to build a timeless jewellery box. Investing in jewellery is amongst the most astute financial decisions one could make. But, where do you start? In this article, I will share my go-to checklist for purchasing jewellery and the staple pieces every woman should have in her jewellery box while staying true to your unique style.

To build a timeless Jewellery wardrobe, first, you must understand what motivates you and how do you view jewellery. Take a moment and answer these questions first:

1. What does jewellery mean to you? Is it purely an investment, a meaningful piece to mark important memories and milestones, or simply an accessory to elevate your outfit?
2. Where are you on your jewellery journey? Are you a beginner, a collector, or in the process of building your jewellery box one piece at a time?
3. Do you know what metal and gemstone colors suit you? If you’re not sure, we covered it in depth here.
4. What are the pieces that are missing from your wardrobe?

Answering these questions will help you become more intentional when you are buying jewellery and will help you to stick to the bigger plan of building a timeless jewellery box. I also advise you to pause and use this checklist whenever you are making a new purchase. Why do you want to buy this new piece?

1. I am in love! (Run don’t walk to get your new piece!)
2. I need this in my wardrobe. (You have my blessing)
3. This will go well with my other pieces. (We love a team player!)
4. I just need a win today. (Take a picture of it, eat chocolate and sleep on it.)

Now, you are ready to start building your collection! Establishing a solid foundation is crucial for your dream jewellery box. Start by adding staple pieces. These pieces play well together and will get you off a strong start. As you build your wardrobe piece by piece, you will become more comfortable with going out of your comfort zone and expanding your jewellery horizon.

Every woman’s jewellery box should have these jewellery investment pieces:

Tennis bracelet/necklace
A tennis bracelet or necklace with beautiful setting will take you places. You can dress it down with a white t-shirt and jeans or dress it up with a cocktail dress. You could layer it with fun enameled pieces for a fun look.

Hoop earrings/huggies
A well crafted pair of hoop earring or huggies are perfect for everyday and for starting your ear game. Go for simple ones if you didn’t quite nail your style, yet. Or go for bold silhoutes and oversized designs for a statement look. This will be the most versatile pieces you will ever own.

Pinkie ring
Good things sure do come in small packages. Pinkie rings have been used for self-expression, celebrating individuality and challenging social norms since ancient times. Signet rings carry big messages. Pick a ring that speaks to you and that you will wear on repeat.

Medallion
Sometimes, more is more. A statement necklace is not only a conversation starter, but it also lays foundation for your neck mess and your daintier pieces.

Cuff
A hero cuff can elevate literally any outfit. That’s why it’s referred to by stylist as one and done. That doesn’t mean that you cannot start by wearing daintier bangles or chain bracelets.

Remember, quality over quantity, always. This will ensure you build a collection that stands the test of time.

The best fine jewellery purchases are often driven by emotion. The staple pieces don’t necessarily have to be plain or simple. You can choose a unique setting, add a pop of colour, play with different sizes or add a statement piece to your stack to make it more YOU.

If you have all the essentials, then it’s time to have more fun collecting unique pieces. A rare gemstone is a great way to start. Adding one-of-a-kind pieces and limited edition pieces will add value to your collection and is also a great conversation starter. Bespoke pieces are also a special addition to your box and a sentimental way to mark an important occasion. You could add hidden messages engraved inside it or use motifs to tell a story. Follow different designers and see which style speaks to you most before making a bespoke piece request.

Next time, we will talk about travel essentials. Get ready to pack your bags!

Happy shopping!