In my search for birthstone pieces to celebrate in November, I was struck by how many creations feature topaz and citrine. It’s a consistent sentiment that designers continuously surprise and amaze, lending new perspectives to gemstones you didn’t realize were possible.

One piece stood out to me in particular, and I’m not sure I can aptly describe why, other than to say it gives me a feeling equivalent to letting my hair down.

From London’s Sweet Pea Fine Jewellery, the necklace playfully dangles chains along with turquoise and topaz, a cool pairing that adds calm to the chaos. It’s a bit edgy yet delicately done, like a rock ’n’ roll ballad (but a good one that ages well).

The piece is from Sweet Pea’s Pogo Punk collection, which includes many similar designs in gemstones such as sapphire, emerald, tanzanite, spinel, and ruby.

“I used to be a punk in the 1970s,” says Sweet Pea designer Siobhan O’Neil. “Music was a key part of punk life, and my friends and I used to spend many a night at the [London club] Music Machine listening to the Clash, the Damned, the Stranglers, to name but a few. This subculture from my youth inspired this collection. The fine chains flying off in random places and the asymmetrical beads scattered about have the essence of the punk rock era.”

It’s true that the details on these pieces possess the essence that O’Neill speaks of, but don’t believe the collection is strictly reserved for members (or former members) of the punk scene—so beautifully made are these jewels, with a daintiness that to me feels more like an ode to celebrations of all sorts. These dangling chains and confetti-like gemstones feel perfect for now and the holiday season, with a splash of color to brighten every day going forward.

Top: Pogo Punk necklace in 18k yellow gold with blue topaz and turquoise, £755 ($1,000); Sweet Pea Fine Jewellery

Brittany Siminitz

JCK Contributing Editor