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The Case for Adding Brilliance to your Jewellery Collection

For centuries, jewellery has served as a silent language adorning our bodies and whispering tales of wealth, status, and personal style. But in a world increasingly dominated by neutrals and minimalist silhouettes, a vibrant shift is taking place: the resurgence of colour in the realm of fine jewellery.   

Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co. pair of tanzanite and diamond pendeloque earpendants, circa 2000. $165,000-200,000

Once relegated to playful cocktail rings or statement pieces, gemstones in all their chromatic glory are reclaiming their rightful place as essential components of a sophisticated jewellery collection.

This embrace of colour transcends mere whimsy. It speaks to a desire for self-expression, a way to weave a unique story through the kaleidoscope of gemstones. A fiery ruby pendant speaks volumes about a woman’s inner strength, while a cascade of sparkling sapphires whispers of elegance and grace. A necklace adorned with an emeralds’ refreshing green can evoke feelings of springtime renewal, while a tourmaline bracelet in a spectrum of pink tones can inspire feelings of love and optimism. 

Eiza Gonzalez wearing an emerald and diamond necklace by Cartier at The Met Gala, Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,
The Metropolitan
Museum of Art, 2024
Credit: Doug Peters / Alamy

Beyond personal expression, colour in jewellery offers a powerful tool for elevating one’s wardrobe. A well-placed emerald necklace can transform a simple black dress into a work of sartorial art. A pair of yellow diamond earrings can add a touch of sunshine to a neutral ensemble, while a strand of colourful pearls lends a whimsical touch to a tailored suit. Colour becomes the punctuation mark, the finishing touch that completes a stylish statement. The right pops of colour can bridge the gap between a well-dressed and a truly stylish individual, adding an unexpected flourish and a touch of artistry.

Chopard 18ct gold, gemstone and diamond ‘Copacabana’ sautoir necklace. $48,000-60,000

The benefits of colour extend beyond aesthetics. Studies have shown that colour can have a profound impact on our mood. Bright gemstones like rubies and sapphires can lift the spirits and inspire a sense of joy. A splash of amethyst with calming lavender hues can evoke a sense of serenity, while a burst of citrine can lend a touch of optimism. Donning a piece of colourful jewellery can be a deliberate act of self-care, a subtle reminder to embrace the beauty and vibrancy that life has to offer. The right gemstone can serve as a daily reminder of joy, a silent pick-me-up tucked close to the heart.

This chromatic revolution isn’t a rejection of timeless elegance. Classic silhouettes and impeccable craftsmanship remain the foundation of fine jewellery. However, the incorporation of coloured gemstones allows for a deeper level of personalisation and emotional connection. It’s about injecting one’s unique energy into a piece, transforming it from mere adornment to a cherished talisman.

Property of a private
Sydney collector
David Webb honey topaz, crystal and diamond ring. $6,000-9,000

So, open your jewellery box to a spectrum of possibilities. Embrace the ruby’s fiery glow, the sapphire’s celestial serenity, the emerald’s verdant vibrancy. Let your jewellery collection become a canvas for self-expression, a symphony of colour that reflects your inner spirit and elevates your personal style. After all, a touch of brilliance is sometimes all it takes to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.

By Hamish Sharma, Head of Important Jewels

Top Image Left to Right:
Aquamarine and diamond ring. $28,000-34,000

Pink tourmaline and diamond ring. $6,000-9,000
Green tourmaline and diamond ring. $8,000-12,000

July 2024