Discover Your Jewelry Personality With These 3 Style Identities

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DISCOVER YOUR JEWELRY PERSONALITY WITH THESE 3 STYLE IDENTITIES

From the refined traditionalist to the eclectic bohemian, explore the handcrafted pieces that will encourage you to embrace your most authentic self.

By Khensani Mohlatlole

Mar 8, 2022

When it comes to embodying your personality through fashion, jewelry is one of the most obvious ways. Unlike other accessories such as shoes or handbags, jewelry’s primary function is ornamental. However, these personal statements can also hold very significant, long-lasting meaning due to the slower nature of the jewelry trend-cycle and the endurance of metals and precious stones when coupled with excellent craftsmanship. So whether your personality is best described as free-spirited, conscientious, or extroverted, we’ve compiled a selection of stunning trinkets for the whimsical bohemian, refined traditionalist, and daring trendsetter.

1. The Bohemian

While biomimicry is very trendy right now, the desire to carry the natural world with you is a timeless instinct. If you’re drawn to earthy palettes, natural fibers, and artisanal design, the organic and handcrafted detailing of Ami Doshi Shah will best speak for you. Ethically produced by Kenyan artisans, the irregularly faceted Zoisite crystal of the Torque Necklace is a beautiful talisman that is at once tasteful in its materials while still revealing a nonconformist attitude with its hook-like shape. In addition, the Kenyan brand’s Vessel necklaces, available in a variety of sizes to wear as a standalone piece or stacked for impact, are great nods to jewelry’s origins as amulets and lucky charms.

A sense of mysticism and appreciation for the ethereal can be found in the work of Sidai Designs. The Kenyan brand preserves the Maasai beading tradition in a contemporary aesthetic that merges the wonder of the past with an appreciation for the future. The Kifungo Double Tassel Earrings are shoulder-sweeping chandelier earrings that will elevate your look with handcrafted beading inspired by the Pembetatu Collection’s themes of balance and natural order. As part of the Kikomo Collection, Pichulik’s Beige and Aqua Aruba Bracelet is inspired by the summer and ocean. The braided rope and wax cord bring in a handmade quality while maintaining an air of polish. The mango wood of the Orbit Bangle is a welcome reminder of nature on your wrist, a great contrast to the technological presence of Smartwatches and the fast-paced world that might rest alongside it.

2. The Traditionalist

If the perennial and practical are key factors in wardrobe choices, you might be a traditionalist. You prefer to make more subtle and muted style statements, focusing on quality timeless pieces that you can easily mix and match through all the seasons to come. If your wardrobe leans to the more unembellished side, jewelry can allow you to add a sense of playfulness to your more simple sensibilities. Patrick Mavros’ take on the classic wire cuff comes in enduring sterling silver and features sea-urchin detailing and unique aquatic-sized topaz stones revealed upon closer inspection. The natural motifs often found in the Zimbabwean brand’s jewelry draw upon the history and character of the label and make for unexpected twists to time-proven classics.

If you tend to err on the more intricate side, you’ll enjoy the delicate detailing and ease of layering that comes with Pichulik’s braided rope-textured brass jewelry. The Milagro Hoop Earrings minimalist take on the typically bold hoop earring will quietly accent any look. You can easily add the Amie Chain Necklace to your current stack, perfect for bringing an air of sophistication to more casual staples such as the plain white tee. If you’re one for less fuss, Sidai Designs’ will do your layering for you with their inspired design featuring two glass beaded necklaces in one, the handmade gold piece from the Tanzanian brand symbolizing purity and wisdom.

3. The Trendsetter

Not one to follow trends, unorthodox regalia are at the top of your wishlist. Color, movement, and shape inform your choice when it comes to alternative pieces that invoke a spirit of innovation. Your wardrobe already consists of bold prints and conspicuous items that speak to your desire to express individuality. Adele Dejak’s Tiara Earrings are a dynamic approach to statement-making pieces grounded in sustainable production methods thanks to the repurposed brass, which speaks to the Kenyan brand’s heritage. Jiamini’s Mung’ung’uti collection is wearable art through its appropriation of the spinal cord in repurposed gold-plated brass handcrafted by a team of female artisans. Armor-like in appearance, the Spine Drop Necklace and Spine Bracelet provide a dress-up factor without coming across as overly elaborate.

Further enhancing your arsenal, Margaux Wong offers chunky rings made from reclaimed and recycled materials. The Burundi-based designer fashions abandoned cow horn and brass into lustrous, marble-like jewelry. Focal pieces, respectively, the Glorious and Shield Rings, also work great paired together, bringing out the idiosyncratic beauty of the articles. Finally, allow IAMISIGO’s I AM MOUNTAIN Earrings to set the tone for your outlook—one that is both adventurous and elegant—with its carved camel bone set against recycled silver and 24-karat gold plating.