If eye-popping pavé paving the surface of jewelry symbolized the economic boom of the 1990s, it’s only appropriate that a subtler sprinkling of diamonds be the trend this year.

Using flush-set or burnished diamonds, designers and manufacturers make a simple statement about luxury style. The stones add a soft sparkle, and, designed with what appears to be an almost random sprinkling, the look is fresh.

Along with a rejuvenating take on fashion, the small stones—so often seen in past years encrusting the surface of gold and platinum—offer consumers a refreshing price break.