2022 Trends in Jewelry

by Kerry Andersen

When Kimberly Griffin opened Legacy Jewelers in Lake Charles four years ago, she was intentional about offering everything from classic looks to trending jewelry options at every price point. She doesn’t overstock the store so she can scour markets for the latest trends and can keep her inventory fresh and fun. Griffin says, “We try to be on the forefront of what’s trending and what’s classic. You can marry those and it’s a beautiful thing!” Here’s a roundup of the top jewelry trends Griffin is seeing in a season where individuality shines.

Chain Reaction

A basic gold chain like a gold paper clip necklace may not seem like a bold wardrobe option. But layer on three chains, or five (or more), and it’s the fastest way to update your style quotient. Start with something delicate, add a herringbone chain (yes, they’re making a comeback), top it with a sparkly diamond cut necklace and now you’re making a statement. This look works best with simple basic chains, which also makes it an affordable way to rock a look that goes with everything! Bottom line – more is better!

Big Bangles 

The easiest way to add a punch of style to your wardrobe this season is to grab a bangle bracelet – the bigger the better! Start with a bold chunky metal style and then start layering them on. Griffin says don’t be afraid to mix and match metals and textures. It’s even better if each bangle tells a story – a jewel-encrusted anniversary gift, a thin bracelet to celebrate a promotion, and a diamond tennis bracelet. Start a collection that you can add to each year for a personalized look that is right on trend. 

Bright and Beautiful

One of the most eye-catching jewelry trends in 2022 involves color. Designers are infusing their pieces with every hue of the rainbow. Whether its colored metal or rich, saturated enamel, the vibrant hues are popping up everywhere. Jewelry pieces in juicy colors are joyful and fun and allow you to play with your look or match your clothing in a fresh new way – look for pink, green, even neon! 

Two is Better Than One 

Stylish hands everywhere are sporting the Toi et Moi ring – which is French for “you and me.” This sought-after style features two stones of any kind bound together by a precious metal. The modern take has designers mixing stones of different shapes and colors in a setting that symbolizes love and connection. What makes it extra special is upcycling a family heirloom or the diamond from your original engagement ring and adding a second stone such as a birthstone or an upgraded larger diamond. There are no rules here. Choose stones that have a personal meaning or tell a story and pair them in a dramatic new way for a look that is fresh and uniquely yours.

Silver is Shining

For ladies who prefer silver over gold tone jewelry – this is your moment! Griffin recommends choosing a dramatic textural bangle for a bold style statement. It’s also a great base for an oh-so-trendy bracelet stack. Real silver will tarnish so be prepared to buff your pieces to keep them looking new or choose white gold as a low maintenance alternative. Mix new silver styles with your existing gold pieces to extend your jewelry wardrobe. Hoop earrings are back in a big way too so grab a pair in a silver metal for a fashionable look. Expert tip: choose rhodium plated styles for a longer lasting shine. 

Lab Grown Diamonds

Diamonds grown in a lab used to be frowned upon by many in the fashion world. But Griffin points out they have the same physical and chemical structure as mined diamonds, but without damage to the earth. They shine as much as (if not more than) real diamonds and are an affordable way to invest in a timeless look. Once considered a great option to replace your ‘real’ jewelry while traveling, lab grown diamonds are now a trendy and beautiful choice for every day. 

Legacy Jewelers is located at 3133 Ernest Street in Lake Charles, (337) 433-3375. Open M-F, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Follow them for style inspiration on Facebook and Instagram at @legacyjewelerslc or online at www.legacyjewelersswla.com . Legacy carries both fine and quality fashion jewelry plus Mignon Faget, game day looks, and gift items. They also offer expert jewelry repair in-house.