What does a jewel say about the person wearing it?

A jewel speaks, but not always as we think. Here are some things it can communicate, with a warning: they are possible readings, not truths.

What it can communicate #

• Style: minimalist, classic, bold, vintage, handmade. See understated or statement jewelry.
• Values: someone who chooses handmade or second-hand jewelry may value origin or sustainability. See buying handmade jewelry.
• Life stage: a wedding band, a birth jewel, a graduation piece. See bridal and wedding jewelry.
• Belonging: to a family, a culture, a group or a belief. See symbols in traditional jewelry.
• Status or a taste for luxury, with a branded or high-jewelry piece. See fine or costume jewelry.
• Creativity: an artist's or contemporary piece. See contemporary jewelry.

What it does not communicate #

A simple jewel does not mean poor taste or little money, and a large jewel does not mean vanity. The price also says nothing about what it means to the wearer.

Jewelry with a message #

Some jewels say something explicitly: initials, symbols, names. See personalized jewelry and amulets and talismans.

Choosing what you want to communicate #

Before buying, you can ask yourself what you want your jewel to say, or whether you want it to say anything. See how to choose jewelry for your style.