I remember the first time I went in to Tiffany: It was 2004, and I was terrified. Audrey Hepburn, engagement rings, that beautiful blue box… its iconic status made me think that everyone was going to be glamorous and snobby, and all the jewelry would be totally out of reach. Turns out, I was wrong—at least on the snobby and out-of-reach fronts. Everyone is lovely–friendly and approachable and wholly respectful—and the jewelry collections range from affordable indulgences to someday-when-I-marry-a-millionaire luxuries.
The necklace, above, falls into the 'fantasy' category: It's a one-of-a-kind piece with raw diamonds. Yeah, it's $750,000, but I figure by the time I'm 50, I'll have amassed that kind of budget for jewelry, so I'll just hang in there.
The Elsa Peretti charcoal cuff bracelet, on the other hand (or, er, wrist) is $450, which, while I'd have to cut out cosmos and lattes for a while, is totally doable.
YES! I LOOK FORWARD TO #GROWINGYOUNGER
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A few of my other favorites:
I realize I need a manicure, but this aquamarine ring looks like it was made for my hand, no?
These are hands-down some of my favorite, affordable pieces: Elsa Peretti's Diamonds by the Yard collection's sterling silver and diamond necklaces are classic, can be worn with anything and will be kept forever. The single-stone necklace on the right is $250, and bracelets are available, too. There's also a Color by the Yard collection, with the same design but an aquamarine stone (which are clearly my new obsession). This picture doesn't do them justice. Check it out here. (Are you a man reading this? It's a perfect gift for your girlfriend/fiance/wife! Run, don't walk!)
This little jewelry box is sweet for anyone, but I think it's the perfect way to introduce your favorite niece to the wonder that is Tiffany. $95
Sparkly things! More gorgeous pieces that are available for the holidays. That necklace… the drop earrings… the ring… So beautiful I think I need to lie down…
And finally, a special shout-out to and from my favorite associate, Dave, who arranged these (also incredibly classic and timeless) diamond initial necklaces. He had an important tip: Remember that the jewelry cases at Tiffany aren't arranged by price. If you're wandering through the store and here a price quote that makes your heart stop, there's no need to avoid that whole section. Sterling silver pieces can be place next to jewel encrusted platinum, so if you see something like, just ask!
—Becky Ellis