Diamonds and their traceability might have been a common topic of interest at this year’s JCK Show in Las Vegas, but knowing the origins of consumer products isn’t limited to diamonds.
Many exhibiting brands showcased an understanding of sustainability—the two key r words, recycled and responsible, were tossed around a lot. That was reflected in numerous collections around the show floor, and in one key way that was less expected than the recycled gold and responsibly sourced gemstones we have become so familiar with: multi-use products.
Sustainability has much to do with source, yes, but it’s also about quantity. In fashion, brands preach fewer, finer pieces, while a trend among younger generations promotes thrifting—secondhand is in utmost vogue.
In jewelry, that might translate to a bump in vintage and pre-owned purchases, but it also encourages investing in versatile pieces that cover a wide range of wear. And that speaks to shoppers spending consciously, in part because of the current tricky economy that has consumers putting a lot of consideration into their purchases.
Convertible jewelry was huge on the show floor this year, though it’s far from a new concept. I have to wonder if this “trend” is in fact having a renaissance, or if I was subconsciously seeking it during my time at the show—I suspect it’s a bit of both.
You’re undoubtedly familiar with convertible brooch/pendant combinations. They’ve been around forever, and the style endures—brooches are thriving. Clip-on pendants were also frequently seen, in a spectacular array of looks and price points. Parlé showcased an incredible diamond necklace with removable Australian opal pendant. John Atencio delighted with a long chain necklace that could be worn doubled or long, with an optional clip-on tassel that would make as lovely an earring as it does a pendant. Norman Silverman stole the show with a detachable yellow pear-shape mega-diamond.
Reversible styles were also big. Picchiotti debuted a collection of flexible jewelry that featured diamonds on one side and gold on the other (the Italian jeweler showcased at Couture this year). Several medallion-style pendants spotted throughout had meaningful imagery and words on either side.
One of the biggest hits—or maybe the one I found the most intriguing—were the clickers. True to their name, these are little hoop-shape pieces that click closed, worn on a charm bracelet or chain or even as earrings. Alp Sagnak had them as snakes, in white or yellow gold, and demonstrated how the adaptable piece can turn a long chain into a Y-shape necklace or be worn with an assortment of chain lengths and layers or a multistrand bracelet or as a huggie earring. Dorian & Rose had such pieces lined with pavé diamonds, to be used on a chain or bracelet (as pictured at top), allowing the wearer to change out the charms without visiting a jeweler. Aurelie Gi had them displayed along with their large collection of whimsical charms, to be worn on necklaces or bracelets, or in the ear. For such a small item, it’s very powerful.
Never has such versatile jewelry been quite so compelling, and based solely on my short time in Las Vegas, we’re just getting started with its surge in popularity. Styles like these let the consumer take ownership of not only what jewelry is worn but how the jewelry is worn. As more shoppers look to stretch their money further, you’ll find their potential will only grow.
Top: A medallion pendant from Dorian & Rose attaches to one of the brand’s chains with a diamond clicker.
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