Jewelry That Jewelry Editors Wear

Most women invest in tennis bracelets and brand name jewelry... but there are cooler options to hand down to the next generation.

I was never really into jewelry. I mean, in my early 20s, a diamond tennis bracelet was what every girl wanted; it was cool, but my interest never went beyond the basics like cuts and clarity… and of course, a size of a stone. Then, in my mid-20s, I visited a showroom-turned-store called Muse, and everything changed. Their founder opened up a whole new world of jewelry for me, one focused on artistic expression and craftsmanship. Around that same time, I also visited David Webb’s studio where I watched craftsman create molds and set stones for chunky ornate jewelry. It felt like stepping into another universe compared to the usual fine jewelry experience I had with large brands owned by massive conglomerates. It was like a magical world of art shrunken into shiny tiny things. And I think as a woman, it’s just something we innately love as it is human nature to want to be adorned, especially when we are adored.

Maybe that’s what I was actually chasing; a sense of artistry and legacy. But in a world dominated by Cartier Love Bracelets and Van Cleef Alhambra (yes, icons), as beautiful as they are, there’s an entire world beyond that. Don’t get me wrong, Tiffany’s Elsa Peretti collection is undeniably sexy and cool, but it’s instantly recognizable. You know it when you see it. So I guess this is about all the amazing artisans who are not recognizable unless you’re heavily into the jewelry space, like an accessories editor or jewelry connoisseur. These are, in essence, the cool girl jewelry investments.

I was at Saks Fifth Avenue looking grabbing a coffee and a very funky and glamorous woman in a large fur coat sat next to me and reached over for a straw. I immediately noticed the shiny ring on her finger. It was a round stone set in a triple gold bezel with a thick chunky band. I immediately asked her where it was from; vintage, of course. A conversation starter nonetheless. And to me, that is fine jewelry. I can’t even tell you the amount of times I have sat near women at a restaurant or holiday where I ask to try on their pieces.

I used to want every “it” piece out there, and I do have some gorgeous staples, like a Chopard heart necklace and a Piaget bracelet, both of impeccable quality and beauty. And they do get a lot of wear. This is not to say that the large brands don’t hold value, or don’t have any cool pieces… they do! But one Hannukah my husband came home with Nikos Koulis earrings, and I felt like I was given a true treasure. I cried. I swear. There’s just something about a smaller, under-the-radar jewelry house. Treasures are often things that you can’t find everywhere. Their pieces turn heads, and people always ask, “Where did you get that?”

Here are some of my favorite fine jewelry brands that are known to turn heads, in no particular order:

Silvia Furmonovich:

An award-winning Brazilian jewelry designer, Sylvia Furmanovich is known for her intricate, nature-inspired designs that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. Her pieces often incorporate unique materials like wood, creating bold, colorful, and the most unique sculptural works of art. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Furmanovich's jewelry has garnered international recognition and awards for her originality and artistry.

Nikos Koulis:

Nikos Koulis is a Greek jewelry designer celebrated for his sophisticated, timeless designs. His collections often feature luxurious gemstones, intricate gold work, and a refined sense of elegance, blending classic motifs with contemporary aesthetics. Known for his use of black enamel, his pieces are hard to miss! Koulis' creations are known for their attention to detail, making his pieces highly sought after in the high-end jewelry market.

Buccelatti:

Buccelatti is an iconic Italian jewelry brand known for its exquisite craftsmanship and timeless designs, adored by