I’m not really one for slavishly following jewellery trends, instead I prefer investing in more timeless pieces that I know I will truly love and treasure forever. However, as we step into 2023, it’s always interesting to see what the key themes for the coming year will be.
Often, tapping into a trend can be more about working with what you already have or looking at old unloved pieces in a new light. Vintage jewellery can also be a great way to test the water without making a huge financial commitment and spending money on a piece you’re not sure you’ll get much wear from.
From statement earrings to signet rings, 2023 is shaping up to be a year full of bold and unique styles. With that in mind, here are 5 jewellery trends that you can expect to see lots more of in the coming 12 months:
1) The statement signet ring
The beauty of the signet rings style is that it can be worn in multiple ways – on the pinky finger or thumb, or as a statement ring on the index finger. They can also be stacked with other rings for a unique and layered look. This versatility makes them a great addition to any jewellery collection making them a piece that you’ll get absolutely LOADS of wear out of for many years to come.
Fancy tapping into the signet ring trend? For an ultra feminine version try Wilhelmina Garcia’s Gold Pink Daisy Ring or her equally cute Gold Orange Tulip Ring. For a more mystical take on the signet ring style, look at This Story’s Selene Signet Ring available in both sterling silver and gold vermeil or the Lunae Sun Face Signet Ring from Studio Rua.
Above: Bespoke engraved signet rings in silver and gold by Elin Horgan Jewellery
A bespoke signet ring can be a great way of creating a piece of jewellery that’s both unique and super meaningful to you. I created the classic signet ring designs above in recycled silver and gold vermeil with clients' initials engraved on the bezel at the top and a personal inscription inside the ring band.
2) Silver linings
Silver is having a bit of a resurgence this year, with the emphasis on bold and chunky sculptural pieces. This trend is all about taking traditional jewellery designs and giving them a modern twist, creating pieces that are both beautiful and unique. Bold silver jewellery can be worn in a variety of ways. Large statement pieces can be used as the focal point of an outfit, while smaller pieces can be layered together to create a more complex look. This flexibility makes it easy to integrate these pieces into your existing jewellery collection.
Silver is always a classic and elegant choice and a more affordable choice than solid gold or gold vermeil making it making it a great option for those who want to experiment with new trends without breaking the bank. Some my own favourite silver pieces include these geometric-inspired, hand carved and cast Rhea Pendant and the Meteorite Necklace. These simple, but striking silver necklaces come on different length chains making them perfect for layering together.
Want something a bit chunkier? How about the flowing organic Earring No. 13 from Glasgow-based jeweller Bonnie Powell or these fabulously sculptural Origami Earrings by Ange B Designs.
3) Pearls of wisdom
Pearls are STILL having a moment, but are getting bolder and chunkier for 2023. Pearl jewellery has been used as a symbol of elegance and sophistication for centuries. The natural beauty and iridescence of pearls make them a timeless addition to any collection. Gone are the days when pearls were only for formal attire, these days they can look equally good dressed up or dressed down. For exampe, I reckon these pretty Ocean Shell Freshwater Pearl Earrings from Edge of Ember would look great with a pair jeans and a masculine blazer.
Above: Vintage faux pearl earrings from Etsy
Whether you choose to go for fake or real pearls, this is one area where it’s definitely worth exploring vintage or second hand pieces. These Vintage Faux Pearl Earrings are pleasingly chunky or, if you’re after the real deal then what about this White Gold & Natural Pearl Necklace from Jollys Jewellers who are specialists in fine and pre-owned jewellery? If vintage is your thing, it’s also worth checking out local auction houses or auction sites as you can often find some real one off treats at reasonable prices if you’re happy to spend some time hunting around for the perfect piece.
4) Shoulder duster earrings
Big bold shoulder dusters are the earring du jour for 2023. Really big earrings can seem a bit daunting to wear so the trick is to choose something involving wire or chain so you can the size and volume without the weight. Grainne Morton really is the queen of the statement earring and has a huge range of beautiful styles to choose from. I love these Long Rainbow Drop Earrings which are 10cm long and really impactful without being overpowering.
These pretty Sapphire & Oxidised Silver Earrings by Kate Wood also fit ‘delicate but big’ bill and are light enough to wear all day. If you’re in the market for something more minimalist, then try my recycled silver or gold plated Venus earrings or the Apollo Statement Earrings which are made from square section wire so despite being large are super comfortable to wear.
5) Arm cuffs
Arm cuffs and chunky bracelets are set to become big in 2023. Whether you wear it on your upper arm or wrist, a big chunky cuff is an ideal way of making a subtle style statement this year. Keep it simple with just a single piece and let your arms do the talking. Online retailer Wolf & Badger stock some fabulous cuff designs from a range of independent designers or you could one of Bristol jewellery design Alice Menter's bold and luxurious industrial pieces like the Monica Cuff (below) in yellow gold and silver plated brass.
Above: Monica cuff by Alice Menter
Again, tapping into the vintage market is a brilliant way to explore the cuff jewellery trend and you're sure to find some amazing and unique pre-loved pieces like this decorative bracelet.
As always when making an investment in new jewellery, the most important thing is to choose pieces that speak to your personal style and make you feel good. So go out there, have fun and experiment with different jewelry styles that resonates with you. Happy shopping!
Elin Horgan designs and creates handmade jewellery in her Bristol studio. Elin’s beautifully simple handmade jewellery is carefully crafted and designed to be worn every day. You can read more about Elin’s work and the ethos behind her understated jewellery brand on her About Elin Horgan Jewellery page.
If you’d like to enquire about a specific product or discuss a custom piece of jewellery, please have a look at the Bespoke Handmade Jewellery page or email info@elinhorgan.com