The Iconic Rings Every Jewelry Box Needs

For most of us, buying a piece of fine jewelry is a considered purchase. Unlike shopping for jeans or white T-shirts, for example, curating a fine jewelry collection doesn’t allow for many mistakes, so a tight edit of precious pieces that will continue to spark joy (and sparkle) for years to come is crucial. Thankfully, Edwina Hilton, acting fine jewelry buyer at NET-A-PORTER, and jewelry consultant Beanie Major, who assists clients in finding their dream rings, are on hand to round up the styles that should be on every jewelry wish list.

“Forget any preconceived notions you have about engagement rings and choose something that fits into your wardrobe and lifestyle,” says Major. “You will be wearing it with every outfit for every occasion, so choosing something that embodies your style means it’s more likely that you will love it for a lifetime,” she adds. When it comes to diamond engagement rings, there are options to suit every budget, so it’s a case of working out your highest priority – be it design, carat weight, cut, clarity or color. “If you are choosing your own engagement ring, I think this is very much like buying a wedding dress – sometimes you have to try on a lot of different styles and you might be surprised at what you like best,” says Hilton.

Wedding bands are sometimes a tad forgotten about after the excitement and expense of purchasing an engagement ring, but they are just as much a stalwart of your long-term fine jewelry look – perhaps even more so. “There will be times when you’ll want to leave your engagement ring at home (maybe while traveling or working out at the gym), so it’s prudent to choose a wedding band that looks great when stacked with your engagement ring but that also looks beautiful on its own,” advises Major. “If you want something subtle, then a very thin gold band is always a classic,” says Hilton. “Alternatively, a subtle rope pattern is a nice way to add character.” Much like engagement rings, wedding-band designs are becoming more creative, so it’s wise to experiment with different options to see which style nestles best with your existing jewelry, while still offering a striking aesthetic on its own.

“Cocktail rings symbolize freedom and power, dating back to the 1920s Prohibition era in New York, when women donned oversized gemstone rings to illegal cocktail parties,” explains Major. “It’s no coincidence, then, that they’re having a moment now, when we are coming out of lockdowns. Worn on any finger, there is no better way to express yourself than through this dramatic, oversized style of ring.” Semiprecious stones really come into their own when it comes to cocktail designs, while vivid combinations of colorful gemstones and sculptural shapes make this one of the most eye-catching types of ring.

The stacking trend shows no sign of abating, and pinky rings are the perfect addition to a stacked hand. “Don’t forget about your pinky – often people think a pinky ring needs to be quite small and elegant, but a chunky ring can look fab, especially with fun designs and colorful gemstones,” says Hilton. “Pinky rings are sexy, powerful and alluring, and my clients often describe them as their armor,” adds Major. “When buying a pinky ring, opt for something robust, as its positioning on your hand means it takes a little more wear and tear than your other rings.”

“One of the oldest forms of adornment, signet rings were historically worn by noblemen and used to ‘sign’ documents, by dipping the ring with their unique crest or monogram into hot wax,” explains Major. “Once shrouded in strict traditions, today’s signet rings come in all shapes and silhouettes, but nonetheless typically feature symbols that communicate something about the wearer,” she adds. Whether you pick solid gold or gemstone-set styles, the choice of amulets, talismans and monograms is endless. “Signets tend to be an everyday ring, so make sure it reflects your personality or means something to you,” says Hilton.

The 7 jewelry-investment pieces every woman needs

The 6 key trends to give your jewelry box a new-season spin