Guilty Pleasure: Top Iconic Jewelry Trends

Once upon a time, fine gems were symbolic of wealth and nobility. Today, however, costume jewelry is ruled in vogue regardless of pedigree. Answer me this, can you distinguish between a timeless piece and jewelry faux pas?

Don't fret, most cannot, and at the height of our most glorious fashion moments, we've all adorned our necks with a velvet choker or arms with a bicep cuff (thank you Kelly Bundy.) While purchasing costume accessories can add up over time and the cost per wear doesn't give you much "bang for your buck" if you only use it twice then set it back in the jewelry armoire.

Take a look at classic pieces that serve not only as stunning evening wear, but also a proper long run investment:

Diver's Watch
You can do this look in silver or gold and is a perfect transition item. It can be worn with a single breasted blazer and jeans or a simple solid color sheath dress.

Stud Earrings
We're talking in the likes of pave diamonds or pearl stud earrings. Studs are the most versatile of all fine jewelry, whether you're at the office or going to a fancy party, studs make it easy to transform an outfit from day to evening wear. Try them with a bias cut blouse or a below the knee, shape forming dress.

Antique Gold Locket
This estate style necklace bridges casual and elegance. It can also serve as a sentimental piece if you choose to place a picture of your mom and dad, or a significant other in it. It looks great with a liberty print blouse and prewashed denim or beige cropped trousers.

Statement-Making Cocktail Ring
A nice bold cocktail ring can bring the wow factor to any ensemble. If you pair it with a ¾ inch shawl-collar coat or a V-neck wrap dress, you'll never go wrong.

Strand of Pearls
Pearls define the classic American look and are well worth the mullah. Create your Upper East Side style by wearing a strand of pearls with a lightweight pastel cardigan and pencil skirt or a flower print sheath dress.

Discover top San Diego jewelry stores for spectacular investment pieces.

Loghman Jewelers in Del Mar
With "Celebrating Brilliance" as its motto, Loghman Jewelers has a tradition of trusted service since 1989. It displays an impressive array of fine jewelry, watches and giftware jewelry. With a highly trained and educated staff, it prides itself in helping its customers make the right selection. It offers Roberto Coin, Breitling, Michael B., Memoire, Baume & Mercier, Giorgio Visconti, Favero and many other notable designers. For more information, visit Loghman.com

Kenz Jewelry in El Cajon
Owned by a third generation goldsmith with more than 30 years of experience, Kenz Jewelry boasts custom design fine jewelry. At Kenz Jewelry, it's not only important that the customer find whatever they are looking for, but that they are treated with the utmost respect and honesty. It not only custom designs its fine pieces, it also polishes and repairs to keep your precious pieces looking beautiful. For more information, visit Elcajonjewelry.com

Gems of La Costa in Carlsbad
Gems of La Costa has been privately owned and operated since 1989. Its jewelers have been trained at the Gemological Institute of America and have more than 40 years experience in the jewelry industry. It pride itself in giving you an experience that leaves you feeling good about when you leave. Gems of La Costa loves to have a personal shopping relationship with each customer to specifically meet any need a customer may have. For more information, visit Gemsoflacosta.com

Discover more San Diego jewelry stores and check out our San Diego shopping blog for more tips and trends.