How YouTuber Samantha Guerrero curates her jewellery collection with Mejuri

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An intentionally curated wardrobe and jewellery collection can empower anyone to embrace a daily dose of luxury

For Toronto-based creative Samantha Guerrero, jewellery is like a talisman that she keeps and rarely takes off. And because she can go days at a time without removing all her jewellery, she makes a point of carefully curating her collection with versatile pieces that–from being worn with yoga pants or summer dresses–can work, live and grow with her.

The concept of pieces that grow with her has stuck with her since she received her very first piece of jewellery. “My dad gave me a little white gold ring with two pink hearts representing us when I was around seven or eight. I never, ever take this piece off because it means so much to me. I only ever took it off to resize it so it could grow with me,” says Guerrero. “It’s a classic that will never look out of place. And that’s the thing, it’s grown with me, and no matter how much I’ve changed, it comes with me”.

Guerrero points out that although it’s always fun to dabble with trends in the moment, something she is no stranger to, she almost always prefers to look into the future to make choices that are hard to grow out of. For her, longevity is always the name of the game.

Opting for classic, eye-catching pieces with a sense of simplicity and minimalism makes them that much easier to wear. “I always want to feel good–that’s my priority. Style, for me, is feeling beautiful, confident and powerful,” she shares. “I make a point of waking up and putting myself together, for me, every morning.”

Investing in yourself is the very ethos that Mejuri, one of Guerrero’s favourite jewellery brands, has been built around. Guerrero fondly shares her first memory of the brand, “Way before I was a content creator, I was on public transit on my way to school, and I saw their ‘Diamonds for your damn self’ campaign, and I was immediately sold.” Though there’s beauty in an intentionally thoughtful gift from someone special, there’s something to say about the empowerment that comes with gifting yourself a piece of luxury to indulge in your day-to-day.

You can shop Samantha Guerrero’s favourite Mejuri pieces here, and shop Mejuri’s best sellers here.

Boyfriend Bold Chain Anklet, $260

22 fine jewelry that’s worth the splurge

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CNN —

There are certain items that have an intrinsically low cost per wear — like, say, your favorite pair of workout sneakers, or the tote bag you never leave home without. But jewelry isn’t too far down the list: Save for a few special occasions, most people wear the same necklaces, bracelets or earrings day in and day out, making it easier to stomach a high price tag.

“I tend to splurge on items I know I’ll get my money’s worth for,” says Alyssa Coscarelli, a brand consultant and fashion influencer. “And sometimes, if I can easily picture in my head three or four ways to style an investment piece or multiple situations where I know I’d wear it, I can justify it that much more.”

When stylist Cassandra Dittmer is considering splurging on a piece of jewelry, a brand’s footprint is just as important as the actual item itself. “I can assure you that an expensive price tag and a brand name may not always be worth the investment,” says Dittmer, who focuses on sustainability. “I look for investment pieces that complement and enhance my current wardrobe, but I also carefully consider brand ethos and production practices before splurging on an item.”

“For me, a splurge-worthy item comes down to its wearability,” says Cortne Bonilla, an editor at The Cut. “I always ask myself: Can I wear this with a few different silhouettes? Can I transition this from season to season? If the answer is ‘yes,’ then I know it’s a smart purchase.”

Jewelry is one of the most personal items a person wears — which often means it can be the most expensive too. Ahead, 23 of the best necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets that editors, influencers and stylists say are well worth their hefty price tag.

Pave Huggie Earrings ($185; amyojewelry.com)

Amy O Pave Huggie Earrings

From one of our favorite Asian-owned brands, these huggie earrings are not only 14-karat gold but are set with brilliant Moissanite crystals that sparkle. An Underscored editor owns this pair and says she never takes them off.

Maleficent Ring ($364; catbirdnyc.com)

Catbird Maleficent Ring

A diamond ring is always timeless, but a black diamond ring? Now we’re talking. Made with solid 14-karat gold and flanked by two white rose-cut diamonds, this one is an everyday Underscored editor favorite.

Catbird Ballerina Bracelet ($276; catbird.com)

Catbird Catbird Ballerina Bracelet

“This is another go-to of mine for everyday wear,” says Bonilla. “It can be dressed up or down, and worn by itself or layered with other gold staples. You can never go wrong with a slender gold bracelet.”

Catbird Small Weaving Necklace ($530; catbirdnyc.com)

Catbird Catbird Small Weaving Necklace

“Pearls are a classic staple, but for a modern take, opt for something other than your standard studs or strand,” says Aemilia Madden, senior fashion editor at TZR.

White Sapphire Trio Necklace ($295; mejuri.com)

Mejuri White Sapphire Trio Necklace

With a 14-karat gold chain and three brilliant white sapphire stones of varying sizes, this piece looks much more expensive than it actually is, making it an Underscored editor favorite as well.

Baby Pearl Hoop ($88; catbirdnyc.com)

Catbird Baby Pearl Hoop

Sold as a single earring, these baby hoops made of itty-bitty pearls is an Underscored staff obsession. They work fantastic as a solo piece or bought as a pair.

Kate Spade New York 38/40mm Apple Watch Bracelet ($118; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Kate Spade New York 38/40mm Apple Watch Bracelet

For the tech fanatic, this Apple Watch band from beloved brand Kate Spade made of interlocking hearts comes in either rose gold or silver, and is adored by reviewers.

Chained to My Heart Earring ($140; catbirdnyc.com)

Catbird Chained to My Heart Earring

A truly ideal everyday earring, this single diamond with a gold chain makes for a subtle statement piece, and it’s a favorite of Underscored editors who’ve tried it firsthand.

Thin Croissant Dôme Ring ($345; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Thin Croissant Dôme Ring

Mejuri is best known for its budget-friendly croissant ring, but this thinner, 14-karat gold version makes the silhouette more upscale and higher quality. We love that it’s available in size 3 to 10 too. Check out this version for a simpler dome ring without the croissant effect.

Octavia Elizabeth Micro Gabby 18-Karat Recycled Gold Hoop Earrings ($530; net-a-porter.com)

Net-a-Porter Octavia Elizabeth Micro Gabby 18-Karat Recycled Gold Hoop Earrings

A favorite of Dittmer’s, these timeless hoops are made locally from recycled gold.

Melissa Joy Manning 14-Karat Gold Earrings ($440; net-a-porter.com)

Net-a-Porter Melissa Joy Manning 14-Karat Gold Earrings

Another pick from Dittner, these earrings are locally handmade using traditional techniques to reduce the label’s carbon footprint.

Charlotte Ring ($595; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Charlotte Ring

Made of solid 14-karat gold, this ring can be worn with literally any outfit and for any occasion.

Laura Lombardi Box Chain Necklace ($85; farfetch.com)

Farfetch Laura Lombardi Box Chain Necklace

“Laura Lombardi makes some of my personal favorite everyday chain necklaces, like this box chain that’s a statement on its own or when layered with others,” says Coscarelli.

Charlotte Chesnais Wave Set of 3 Rings ($321, originally $642; farfetch.com)

Farfetch Charlotte Chesnais Wave Set of 3 Rings

“In my mind, versatility is key when we’re talking splurging,” says Coscarelli. “This set of three rings can be worn as a stack or separately, and I can picture it playing well with others.”

The Last Line 14-Karat Emerald & Rainbow Drop Huggie ($479.50, originally $685; shopbop.com)

Shopbop The Last Line 14-Karat Emerald & Rainbow Drop Huggie

“Not all investment jewelry has to be serious; colorful pieces can instantly dress up a casual outfit,” says Madden.

Spinelli Kilcollin Fauna Set of 3 Rings ($1,000; net-a-porter.com)

Net-a-Porter Spinelli Kilcollin Fauna Set of 3 Rings

“I love the versatility of mixed-metal pieces, like this simple ring,” Madden says.

Jennifer Fisher Samira Hoop Earrings ($500; net-a-porter.com)

Net-a-Porter Jennifer Fisher Samira Hoop Earrings

“These are one of my go-to hoops for everyday,” says Bonilla. “Jennifer Fisher is the queen of a good hoop. The gold-plated brass keeps them from getting tarnished, and they remain shiny with wear.”

Aurate Diamond Stacker Ring ($300; auratenewyork.com)

Aurate Aurate Diamond Stacker Ring

“If you know me, then you know I never leave the house without a plethora of gold rings on my fingers,” says Bonilla. “They add an element of sophistication to even the most normcore of ensembles.”

Zoe Chico Heavy Metal Anklet ($495; shopbop.com)

Shopbop Zoe Chico Heavy Metal Anklet

“There’s just something about an anklet that really sparks joy,” says Bonilla. “During the warmer months, it looks so cool against a chunky flip-flop or platform sandal. Plus, it doubles as a bracelet.”

Loren Stewart Silver Necklace ($395; net-a-porter.com)

Net-a-Porter Loren Stewart Silver Necklace

Designer Loren Stewart is part of Net-a-Porter’s sustainability program, Net Sustain — and Dittmer loves that this necklace is made from recycled silver.

Melissa Joy Manning 14-Karat Gold Earrings ($440; net-a-porter.com)

Net-a-Porter Melissa Joy Manning 14-Karat Gold Earrings

Another pick from Dittner, these earrings are locally handmade using traditional techniques to reduce the label’s carbon footprint.

Mejuri Long Gold Chain ($210; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Mejuri Long Gold Chain

“Most of my everyday jewelry comes from Mejuri, who make really simple yet beautiful pieces at an accessible price point,” says editor and influencer Christina Grasso. “I especially love their gold chains, which I wear and layer almost every day.”

Sophie Bille Brahe Earrings ($975; farfetch.com)

Farfetch Sophie Bille Brahe Earrings

“I love the look of a freshwater pearl earring, especially with a crisp white shirt,” Grasso says.

The best jewelry picks under $100

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CNN —

The right accessories can make or break an outfit. While fine jewelry is great, we believe that each piece in your collection doesn’t have to be a splurge. Whether you’re looking to explore new trends or build up your collection with some new go-to pieces, we scoured the web to find some of the most gorgeous (and expensive-looking) jewelry picks under $100 — from earrings to watches and everything in between.

Looking to drop some extra dough to impress that special someone? Be sure to check out our Valentine’s Day jewelry picks under $500 too.

Earrings

Mejuri Large Hoops ($85; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Mejuri Large Hoops

Mejuri’s Large Hoops are at the top of our wish list. Made of 14-karat gold, these skinny hoops are an essential accessory.

Aurate Bold Ear Cuff ($40; auratenewyork.com)

AUrate AUrate Bold Ear Cuff

Not sure if you’re ready for that piercing you’ve been daydreaming about? Try an ear cuff in the meantime. The chunky Aurate Bold Ear Cuff will fit snug on your ear and is available in yellow, rose or white gold. If you’re looking for a smart way to travel with your jewelry, the brand recently launched a stylish Travel Pouch ($100; auratenewyork.com) made of vegan leather that’s super convenient and available in a vibrant terra-cotta color.

Catbird 18th-Century Bow Stud ($64; catbirdnyc.com)

Catbird Catbird 18th-Century Bow Stud

You should think of your jewelry as a work of art, and this stud was made in collaboration between Catbird and New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Like each piece of jewelry in the collection, this tiny bow was inspired by a work from a female artist that’s part of the museum’s archives.

Pavoi 14-Karat Gold-Plated Celestial Earrings ($12.95; amazon.com)

Amazon Pavoi 14-Karat Gold-Plated Celestial Earrings

Reach for the stars wearing a pair of these celestial earrings that’ll suit your mood: Choose from three finishes in the shape of a star, moon or lightning bolt.

Aleishla Lopez Mother-of-Pearl Brass Dangles ($65; etsy.com)

Etsy Aleishla Lopez Mother-of-Pearl Brass Dangles

Now presenting: One of our favorite pairs of earrings probably ever. These handcrafted dangly pieces feature gold arches with mother-of-pearl beads in the center that are sure to make a statement.

Zales Diamond Flower Stud Earrings ($83.30, originally $119; zales.com)

Zales Zales Diamond Flower Stud Earrings

We can’t believe these gorgeous diamond earrings are under $100. The diamond flower crafting and beaded outer frame set these studs apart from the rest.

Mejuri Lotus Studs ($80; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Mejuri Lotus Studs

When we came across the Lotus Studs by Mejuri, it was love at first sight. Featuring three sapphire stones, these studs are classy yet flashy.

Pavoi 14-Karat Gold Colored Chunky Open Hoops ($13.95; amazon.com)

Amazon Pavoi 14-Karat Gold Colored Chunky Open Hoops

These chunky open hoops are a real wardrobe game changer. They’re lightweight and add some shine to your everyday wear.

Gorjana Chloe Mini Stud Earrings ($32; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Gorjana Chloe Mini Stud Earrings

A versatile pair of stud earrings is nothing short of a necessity. Available in gold and silver, these studs will become your go-to earrings for everything from Zoom meetings to errand runs.

Zales Baroque Cultured Freshwater Pearl Graduated Linear Drop Earrings ($74.25, originally $99; zales.com)

Zales Zales Baroque Cultured Freshwater Pearl Graduated Linear Drop Earrings

If quarantine has taught us anything, it’s that you never need an excuse to dress up. Don’t wait for a special occasion to buy these beautiful drop earrings that combine seven bright freshwater pearls with a delicate gold chain.

Pavoi 14-Karat Gold-Plated Ear Crawler ($12.95; amazon.com)

Amazon Pavoi 14-Karat Gold-Plated Ear Crawler

An ear crawler is great if you want the look of wearing multiple earrings without actually getting the piercings. Available in three styles and three gold finishes, these crawlers by Pavoi will lend a chic vibe to any outfit.

Nordstrom 2ct tw Cubic Zirconia Earrings ($46; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Nordstrom 2ct tw Cubic Zirconia Earrings

These earrings have over 500 5-star reviews, and for good reason: They’re stunning. The studs are made of cubic zirconia stones secured by either gold or silver triple-pronged settings that deliver some real sparkle.

Caitlyn Minimalist Name Earrings (starting at $19.87, originally starting at $26.50; etsy.com)

Etsy Caitlyn Minimalist Name Earrings

Name necklaces are really in right now, but we also love name earrings. Personalize a pair of these earrings with your name or the name of someone special to you for a truly unique accessory that hugs the earlobe.

Aurate Mini Gold Bar Earring ($100; auratenewyork.com)

AUrate AUrate Mini Gold Bar Earring

Tired of your usual round studs? Opt for these mini gold bar ones that’ll add just a little bit of edge to your look.

Necklaces

Mejuri Tarot Sun Necklace ($80; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Mejuri Tarot Sun Necklace

If tarot reading is your thing, one of these Mejuri necklaces is totally for you. Let the tarot sun pendant on this necklace remind you to shine bright each day.

Fortune & Frame Flowered Vines Fortune Locket ($78; fortuneandframe.com)

Fortune & Frame Fortune & Frame Flowered Vines Fortune Locket

Keep your affirmations close to your heart with this stunning locket by Fortune & Frame. You can personalize your fortune to house it inside the locket’s glass window for a subtle reminder of what’s important.

Miabella Solid 925 Sterling Silver Figaro Link Chain Necklace (starting at $22.90; amazon.com)

Amazon Miabella Solid 925 Sterling Silver Figaro Link Chain Necklace

We can always count on Amazon to carry our everyday essentials, including this figaro link chain necklace. Made of sterling silver and available in five lengths, this chain is perfect for anyone.

Your Names Jewelry 14-Karat Solid Gold Name Necklace (starting at $22.50, originally starting at $30; etsy.com)

Etsy Your Names Jewelry 14K Solid Gold Name Necklace

A name necklace is one of our favorite Valentine’s Day gifts we’ve ever received. Whether it’s a gift to someone else or yourself, you can’t go wrong with a nameplate.

Madewell Herringbone Chain Necklace ($32; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Madewell Herringbone Chain Necklace

Reviewers are into this necklace because it’s a great everyday piece at such an affordable price. Made of polished brass, Madewell’s Herringbone Chain Necklace will definitely get plenty of wear.

Trendsmax Initial Letter Pendant Necklace ($12.99; amazon.com)

Amazon Trendsmax Initial Letter Pendant Necklace

We’ve been seeing this initial letter pendant all over TikTok. For under $15, there’s no question that you need one to add to your jewelry collection. (Did we mention it has nearly 14,000 5-star ratings?)

BaubleBar Michaela Curb Chain Collar Necklace ($44; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Baublebar Michaela Curb Chain Collar Necklace

A statement necklace doesn’t have to have a pendant or a bit of sparkle. Let this chunky chain collar necklace by BaubleBar do the talking to dress up any fit.

Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace ($42.50, originally $50; amazon.com)

Amazon Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace

A simple chain with a gemstone pendant will always do the trick. We have our eyes on this Kendra Scott Elisa Necklace that’s available in 29 colors.

Caitlyn Minimalist Baby Heartbeat Necklace ($29.62, originally $39.50; etsy.com)

Etsy Caitlyn Minimalist Baby Heartbeat Necklace

Some of our most cherished jewelry pieces are custom-made ones. Consider getting yourself or your loved one this necklace that displays the heartbeat of someone special.

Rings

Mejuri Croissant Dôme Ring ($75; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Mejuri Croissant Dôme Ring

The Croissant Dôme Ring is easily one of our favorite Mejuri pieces. Even better: It’s available in both gold or silver.

Pavoi 14-Karat Gold-Plated Simulated Diamond Stackable Ring (starting at $13.95; amazon.com)

Amazon Pavoi 14-Karat Gold-Plated Simulated Diamond Stackable Ring

This ring just screams affordable luxury. Reviewers love it because it can serve as a replacement wedding band when it’s too risky to wear the real deal, or it can accentuate their engagement ring.

Aurate Open Link Ring ($80; auratenewyork.com)

AUrate AUrate Open Link Ring

We really love the chain-link jewelry trend, so it’s no surprise we’re into Aurate’s Open Link Ring. It’s sure to garner plenty of compliments each time you wear it.

Zales Button Cultured Freshwater Pearl and Lab-Created White Sapphire 3-Stone Ring ($49.98, originally $99.99; zales.com)

Zales Zales Button Cultured Freshwater Pearl and Lab-Created White Sapphire 3-Stone Ring

This ring is certainly engagement-worthy, or even just makes for a beautiful, thoughtful gift. It features a freshwater pearl surrounded by two white sapphires for a classic style that won’t break the bank.

Set & Stones Margo Ring ($50; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Set & Stones Margo Ring

How adorable is the double-knotted design of this ring by Set & Stones? Reviewers say it’s a great option for stacking.

Mejuri Boyfriend Stacker ($65; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Mejuri Boyfriend Stacker

This Boyfriend Stacker ring, available in gold or silver, will pair well with anything, and we love how it resembles a traditional men’s wedding band.

Pandora Rose Geometric Shapes Open Ring ($62.50, originally $125; jared.com)

Jared Pandora Rose Geometric Shapes Open Ring

This ring is stunning to say the least. Between the open shape and contemporary geometric design, we haven’t seen anything quite like it.

Bracelets

Mejuri Drawn Cable Chain Bracelet ($90; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Mejuri Drawn Cable Chain Bracelet

This chunky gold bracelet is sure to become a staple in your collection — it’s a simple yet chic way to spice up your wrist.

Catbird Sweet Nothing Bracelet ($94; catbirdnyc.com)

Catbird Catbird Sweet Nothing Bracelet

Made in the brand’s Brooklyn studio, this dainty bracelet is well loved for its versatility and subtle glimmer when it catches the light.

Kendra Scott Ott Friendship Bracelet ($70; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Kendra Scott Ott Friendship Bracelet

Reviewers of this Kendra Scott friendship bracelet describe it as “delicate and stylish,” and we couldn’t agree more. Available in silver, gold and rose gold, it’s also adjustable for a comfortable fit, making it an excellent gift for your bestie too.

Pandora Open Bangle Tiara Wishbone ($45, originally $90; jared.com)

Jared Pandora Open Bangle Tiara Wishbone

You can’t go wrong with a piece of jewelry from Pandora, like this simple bangle. We love the tiara wishbone detail that’ll make you feel like royalty.

Gorjana Power Stone Stretch Bracelet ($48; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Gorjana Power Stone Stretch Bracelet

If you’re on the hunt for a beaded bracelet, the Power Stone Stretch Bracelet by Gorjana is an excellent pick. Available in 10 colors, each bracelet pairs semiprecious stone beads and gold-plated nuggets meant to deliver positive vibes.

Mejuri Tiny Pearl Bracelet ($65; mejuri.com)

Mejuri Mejuri Tiny Pearl Bracelet

Mejuri’s Tiny Pearl Bracelet is a must-have in your collection, especially if you’ve been wanting to accessorize with more pearls. The dainty piece will stack well with other bracelets too.

Joycuff Inspiration Cuff Bangle ($14.97; amazon.com)

Amazon Joycuff Inspiration Cuff Bangle

This bangle by Joycuff is meant to give you a dose of inspiration whenever you need it. It’s also adjustable, so it will fit any wrist size.

Watches and accessories

Skagen Aaren Kulør Rubber Strap Watch, 41mm ($95; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Skagen Aaren Kulør Rubber Strap Watch, 41mm

Designed by Danish brand Skagen, this watch embodies the Scandinavian spirit. Available in green, blue and light blue, the Aaren Kulør watch is colorful yet minimalist for a statement watch sure to brighten your day.

Stiroll Thin Replacement Band ($18.99; amazon.com)

Amazon Stiroll Thin Replacement Band

As most Apple Watch fanatics will tell you, the watch definitely classifies as a piece of jewelry. Swap out your old rubber band for this one that’s much more chic.

Ettika 3-Pack Crystal Bobby Pins ($40; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Ettika 3-Pack Crystal Bobby Pins

Hair accessories can be considered jewelry too, right? Grab a pack of these crystal bobby pins to add some shine to your next hairstyle.

Zales Lab-Created Blue and White Sapphire Pendant and Earrings Set ($89.40, originally $149; zales.com)

Zales Zales Lab-Created Blue and White Sapphire Pendant and Earrings Set

Purchasing a jewelry set can definitely help you get the best bang for your buck. For less than $100, you can get this blue and white sapphire pendant and earrings set that’s seriously gorgeous.

David Donahue Brass Cuff Link & Stud Set ($85; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom David Donahue Brass Cuff Link & Stud Set

If you’re in the market for a new pair of cuff links for yourself or as a gift for him, this set by David Donahue, available in three brass colorways, boasts rave reviews and will lend a touch of elegance to your formal wear.

Ettika Cystal Charm Anklet Set ($50; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Ettika Cystal Charm Anklet Set

Your ankles need some attention too, especially as we transition into warmer temperatures. This set by Ettika includes two crystal-studded charm anklets that you can rock daily.

Pandora Crown O Sparkling Charm ($35, originally $70; jared.com)

Jared Pandora Crown O Sparkling Charm

If you’re looking for a new vibrant charm for your Pandora bracelet, check this one out. We love the crown detail and the beautiful blue crystal that will add a bit of sparkle.

Fossil Mini Carlie Star Leather Strap Watch, 28mm ($89; nordstrom.com)

Nordstrom Fossil Mini Carlie Star Leather Strap Watch, 28mm

Reviewers love Fossil’s Mini Carlie Star watch because it’s simple but elegant, making it a great go-to piece to complement any look. It even features Roman numerals for an extra touch of sophistication.

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