Jewellery Trends for 2010

PEARL SEASON

Available at Raffi Jewellers in our Signature Pearl Collection.

This year has proven that if a woman is going to be taken seriously, she needs a strand of pearls. The more successful she is, the bigger the pearls. Pearls personify the classic, chic style that permeates fashion runways and red carpets these days, so it's only natural that jewellery designers are finding more ways to capitalize on the classic pearl. With historically high prices for diamonds, up 16 percent this year and precious metals at record levels too, pearls are one of the few categories where prices have remained stable.  The pearl palette this season is especially rich in warm flattering shades, led by the continued strength of chocolate pearls. These brown shades are especially popular with women who already own pearls in other shades who are eager to add a new color to their wardrobes. Long pearl strands, as well as pearl and chain combinations, continue to be strong this season. The long strands layer well with other necklaces. Worn long over dresses, wrapped twice with separates, or two or three times to fill a neckline, these long necklaces offer wearers maximum wardrobe versatility, which adds to perceived value.

MUST-HAVE HOOPS

Available at Raffi Jewellers in the Signature Diamond and Coloured Gemstone Collection.

Classic but also fashionable, no jewellery wardrobe is complete without the perfect pair of hoop earrings. Jewellery designers are making it easy this year to find a hoop that fits your style and budget, from red-carpet worth diamond designs to everyday styles. Inside-out diamond hoops, the must-have earring of last year, remain in demand for this upcoming season. They are joined by a great selection of signature hoops with designer style. Many new hoops are in warm yellow and rose gold with interesting silhouettes. And don't forget trendy styles with black metal, dangles, or texture. For the fashionable woman, hoops are much larger than in the past. Two to three inch sizes are particularly glamorous. With hoops so important, many jewellery designers are carefully adapting styles to perfect the way the earrings hang from the ear. Small changes in the angle of the circle or the wire itself can make a big difference to the way a hoop looks and feels when it's worn. That is why it is so important to purchase hoops in person, not on-line.