An heirloom can be a sentimental connection to your history – especially to the legacy of women in your family. Whether earrings from a grandmother who has passed away, or a favorite aunt’s pearl necklace, borrowed jewelry can add an element of emotion to a bride’s wedding day. If no such piece exists in your family, this is your opportunity to start the tradition – why not create an heirloom for generations of brides in your family? If you follow simple guidelines while making your purchase, your heirloom can be something that women in your family enjoy with much sentiment for many years to come.

When selecting jewelry to pass down to generations of brides-to-be, choose something traditional that isn’t likely to go out of style. Jewelry that is timeless and classic in shape and style is likely to complement any gown. Take care to choose a piece that is of fine quality and solid structure. If it is intended to last for generations, investing in a quality piece of jewelry will ensure it lasts as long as the tradition. 

Some jewelry pieces that have a timeless quality are pearl necklaces, pearl earrings, diamond earrings, a diamond pendant, a locket, brooch or a diamond cross.

S omething N ew . . .

W hether passed on from a relative or purchased new, jewelry should complement the bride’s gown and personal style. As a general rule of thumb, a bride’s jewelry should reflect the formality of the wedding. A small, informal wedding suggests simple accessories, whereas a grandiose affair lends to wearing more elaborate jewelry.

Choosing just the right earrings can complete a bride’s look. Earrings should be noticeable and the right choice is largely dependent on hair and dress style.  A dress with ornate design will likely call for simple, elegant earrings whereas a dangle can add just the right amount of glamour to a simple gown. A high neckline lends to wearing a long pair of earrings.  A gown with pearl details would be complemented by a pair of pearl earrings. Drop earrings are very feminine and work well when a bride’s hair is worn off her face or with shorter hairstyles.

A bride’s necklace can be dramatic or as simple as a strand of pearls. Proportion should be considered when choosing a necklace: weight, shape and length should be selected according to the dress style and neckline. For versatility, look for a necklace with a chain extender that can adjust from 16 to 18 inches.  

Choose a necklace that follows the shape of your gown’s neckline.  A diamond pendant would look great worn with a v-neck, while a pearl necklace would best complement a gown with a round neck.  For bateau and jewel necklines, skip the necklace altogether as it will interfere with the important neckline of your gown.   A brooch would be more appropriate for these styles.  

Simple designs are likely to complement a bride’s look whereas heavier pieces may overwhelm a bride’s face or ensemble.  Pearl chokers are quite versatile and work well with most necklines.

S omething B lue . . .

T radition calls for brides to think in terms of delicacy, but depending on frame, dress and personality, a unique piece can sometimes make a strong fashion statement. Colored stones work well when used with diamonds and are often the choice of women who are remarrying or willing to break with tradition!

Blue stones have become standard in wedding jewelry designs due to the tradition of wearing "something blue" and because of the stunning enhancement they add to diamonds and metals like platinum or white gold.  Here are some precious and semi-precious blue stones commonly used in wedding jewelry. 

Sapphires – a symbol of truth, sincerity and constancy – are precious stones that come in a wide range of blues.  Second only to diamond in hardness, sapphires are available in sizes up to 10 carats. 

The Montana Blue Sapphire is a lighter "cornflower" blue color. It is known throughout the world and has intrigued European gem collectors for years.

Swiss Blue Topaz is a semi-precious stone often used to promote wisdom in its wearer. Gaining popularity in the 20th century, blue topaz is available in light to deep blues.   

Aquamarine is a beautiful blue-green semiprecious stone worn today for mental inspiration, inner calm and enhanced verbal and written communication.   

Once you’ve refined your selection, take your jewelry to a dress fitting and have your hair styled as it will be on your wedding day.  This will ensure that your jewelry works well with your dress, hairstyle and headpiece. Above all, make sure you are comfortable and pleased with your wedding day ensemble.