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Oct 16, 2024

5 Expensive-Looking Jewelry Trends on a Budget | Who What Wear

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. If there's one thing I'm always looking out for when browsing my favorite sites, it's

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

If there's one thing I'm always looking out for when browsing my favorite sites, it's expensive-looking jewelry. While jewelry has always been the ultimate finishing touch that can instantly transform a look, I've noticed that it's playing an important role in 2024. Whether a pair of sculptural earrings or a statement chain necklace, the right piece can make any outfit feel more elevated, polished, and expensive.

However, not everyone can or wants to invest in high-end jewelry that can cost thousands. Luxury brands like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and timeless designs, but the reality is that many of us are looking for ways to capture that same level of elegance without the hefty price tag. This is where expensive-looking jewelry trends come into play.

Many of us will dream of owning a Cartier Panthère watch or a diamond-encrusted tennis necklace, but in recent years, shoppers have become increasingly conscious of their purchasing decisions, opting for jewelry that combines timeless style with affordability. The idea is to embrace pieces that deliver luxe aesthetics without compromising quality or breaking the bank.

While the allure of luxury jewelry is undeniable, countless affordable options on the market offer the same level of sophistication. Instead of investing in pieces that may only be worn on special occasions, many now seek versatile jewelry that can be worn daily for a premium feel at a fraction of the cost.

This season, the runways showcased myriad expensive-looking jewelry trends that are both striking and accessible. From the bold chains seen at Bottega Veneta to the crystal-embellished pieces at Gucci, designers embraced a refined and modern aesthetic. But it's not just fashion houses influencing this shift—our favorite influencers like Marianne Smyth and Lois Sterling are embracing jewelry that looks luxe but remains purse-friendly. These tastemakers show us how to incorporate runway-worthy pieces into everyday looks, proving that you don't need to spend a fortune to achieve that high-end vibe.

What makes an expensive-looking jewelry piece? It's all about thoughtful design, quality materials, and how it catches the eye. Sleek, minimalistic designs, polished finishes, and details like sculptural forms and pearls all contribute to a luxurious appearance. A well-crafted gold-plated necklace or a pair of oversize crystal earrings can look just as stunning as a diamond piece from a fine jewelry brand if styled correctly. In fact, the line between costume and fine jewelry has blurred, with designers now offering chic pieces at more accessible prices.

To help you navigate this season's expensive-looking jewelry trends, we've rounded up five that hit the brief. From chunky chains to pearls with a twist, these pieces are perfect for anyone looking to elevate their jewelry game while staying budget-conscious.

Style Notes: It's official—statement chains are back and bigger than ever. Think oversize links in both gold and silver, as seen at Bottega and Valentino. These bold necklaces and bracelets create a focal point for even the simplest outfit, giving a high-fashion feel without the need for other accessories. Pair a gold chain with a classic tee-and-jeans outfit for a relaxed daytime look, or layer it over a silk blouse for the evening. To make it more affordable, opt for gold-plated pieces that still have the shine and weight of luxury jewelry.

This gold-plated link-chain bracelet will add instant sophistication to your everyday stack. The chunky links draw attention to the neckline, whether worn solo or layered with your favorite delicate pieces.

Perfect for elevating both casual and formal looks, this is the definition of effortless elegance.

Make a statement with this chunky gold-plated necklace from Orelia. The bold, oversize links add an edgy twist to any outfit.

Sculptural and bold, this brushed gold-tone necklace from Cult Gaia brings an artful touch to any accessory collection. It's ideal for pairing with minimal outfits to let the piece shine.

Style Notes: Sculptural earrings are taking over the jewelry world this year, with designers like Jil Sander and Loewe showcasing artistic, oversize shapes. From abstract twists to geometric forms, these pieces offer a more avant-garde addition to your jewelry collection. The best part? Sculptural earrings immediately make an outfit look more considered and expensive. Look for gold or silver pairs with a matte finish, as this tends to give off a more elevated look. These abstract pieces work particularly well with sleek hairstyles—think low buns or slick ponytails—to let the jewelry take centre stage. Keep the rest of your accessories minimal to allow your earrings to stand out.

Mixed metals make these sculptural hoops versatile enough for every occasion. They're the perfect mix of modern design and classic sensibilities.

These domed earrings take the classic silhouette to new heights with their exaggerated woven design. Minimal yet impactful, they're perfect for both everyday and occasionwear.

Every fashion editor I know has a pair of earrings in this shape, and who can blame them? They're so chic.

If you want to look rich, look to these gold vermeil sculptural studs. Their organic, flowing shape brings a unique touch for something different.

Style Notes: Pearls have always been synonymous with elegance, but this year's interpretations are anything but traditional. Designers like Simone Rocha and Alexander McQueen have reinvented pearls by incorporating them into unexpected designs—think multistrand necklaces, mismatched earrings and pearls combined with metal elements. The beauty of this trend is its versatility. Try a layered pearl necklace over a ribbed-knit sweater for a fresh take on daytime luxury, or go for pearl-embellished drop earrings to make a cocktail dress feel kitschy and fun. When looking for affordable options, freshwater pearls offer a chic alternative to their pricier counterparts.

These 18-carat gold-plated earrings feature stunning baroque pearls, bringing a modern twist to classic pearl jewelry. They'll add understated glamour to any outfit.

This pearl-adorned bracelet mixes luxe gold-tone hardware with classic freshwater pearls for a striking contrast.

The daintiest pearl necklace.

This bracelet is the perfect fusion of edgy and elegant.

Style Notes: Crystals are having a moment, and they're being used in ways that feel super fresh. From crystal-embellished chokers at Gucci to glittering drop earrings at Saint Laurent, this trend is all about making a statement. The key here is to avoid anything too dainty or overly embellished. Instead, think minimalistic pieces with a touch of sparkle. When styled right, crystal jewelry can look just as luxurious as diamonds. Opt for sleek, streamlined pieces that add a subtle shimmer, whether a simple crystal choker worn with an open-collared button-down or crystal-studded hoops to elevate a little black dress. Keep the rest of your outfit pared back to let the crystals shine.

The perfect crystal ring to add to your stack.

Simple yet eye-catching, these gold-tone earrings feature shimmering cubic zirconia stones, delivering just the right amount of sparkle to elevate your day-to-night looks in an understated way.

Draped with delicate crystals, this gold chain necklace adds a refined sparkle to any outfit.

The delicate leaf design is a simple way to make your ear stack sparkle without adding anything too heavy.

Style Notes: Gone are the days when we had to choose between gold and silver. Now, it's all about mixing your metals for a modern and unexpected look. Designers like Chloé and Hermès have embraced this trend on the runways, showing us that, when done right, combining different metals adds dimension and depth to an outfit. The trick to this trend is balance. Start by layering a couple of gold and silver necklaces, or stack rings in contrasting metals. When choosing your pieces, opt for minimalistic designs to keep things cohesive rather than chaotic. Mixed metals also work particularly well with casual, everyday outfits because it doesn't require too much thought to get the look.

These two-tone gold-and-silver hoop earrings are the epitome of modern elegance. Wear them stacked for a bold look or alone for a sleek, refined touch.

The combination of sterling silver and gold vermeil makes this delicate bracelet perfect for everyday wear.

These would also look so chic worn on their own—don't you think?

This striking bangle combines silver and gold tones with round-cut crystals for a sleek, modern look.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.

Humaa is the Junior Branded Content Editor at Who What Wear UK, where her expertise lies in paid for and affiliate stories for beauty and fashion brands. Humaa has a BA Hons degree in English literature and previously held editor roles at British Vogue and Marie Claire US. Most recently she moved over from the Who What Wear US Branded Content team to join the UK title to help build out the team on home ground. She is a September baby and though does not believe in astrology, cannot deny that she is a Virgo through and through. When she's not trying to poke a hole through her credit card on a daily basis, because of her job writing many, many shopping stories, you can find her making her way through her Kindle Unlimited TBR list–spoiler: it's a long one. Follow her on Instagram at @Humaa.Hussain

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