Shine Bright

Jewelry adds a personal touch; it makes a statement about who you are and tells your story.

Different generations are likely to have different ideas when it comes to formal jewelry. Let the dress and personality be your guide. Statement earrings can be chosen to reflect personality, but the necklace should be in harmony with the dress. The style and color of the necklace should complement the dress, not compete with it. A bold necklace can infuse modern style into a formal look without overpowering it.

“Jewelry should enhance your look,” stated Vita Mazza, owner of Gemaginations Jewelry in Brightwaters. “Pale glass stones look elegant and add a touch of glimmer above the neckline. Bold jewelry can make a statement without being loud.”

Tennis bracelets and tennis necklaces are favored jewelry pieces for formal affairs, and much more affordable due in part to the growing popularity of lab-grown diamonds.

“We are seeing a lot of couples who, for philosophical and/or financial reasons, are choosing lab-grown diamonds over earth-mined diamonds when selecting their engagement rings,” Joseph Tavella, owner of Argyle Jewelers in Babylon Village, told us. “Lab-grown diamonds cost 50% - 80% less than earth-mined; that’s significant. Physically, visibly, and chemically, they are identical to earth-mined diamonds. GIA and IGI grade lab-grown and earth-mined diamonds exactly the same. Without the laser inscriptions on the labgrown diamond, you would not be able to decipher whether it was an earth-mined or lab-grown diamond. Engagement ring stones are our biggest seller, but our customers have been purchasing more diamond jewelry in general. It’s really been a lot of fun!”

Whether your look is elegant, sophisticated or glamorous, the right jewelry can add the finishing touch.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when selecting something beautiful to wear around your neck:

• A woman’s décolletage is a beautiful area, the necklace should not overpower it.

• When selecting a necklace, the general rule of thumb is to pick one that follows the neckline of the dress.

• V-necks work best with a pendant; chokers and statement necklaces go better with strapless and sweetheart necklines.

• No matter the neckline, the necklace should sit on your skin, not the dress.

• There’s nothing more classic than diamonds or pearls. These are timeless pieces that will look just as elegant now as they will in 25 years.

• Floral pieces with leaves or vines that display stones at the center of the flower give a romantic look, perfect for the prom, or an outdoor or vineyard wedding.

• If bling is your thing, take a cue from Old Hollywood - sparkle is key, but don’t overdo it. Pick one piece of jewelry to focus on, and let the rest be supporting characters.

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