The jewelry trends shaping up 2026
Individuality, innovation, and intention are the pillars shaping 2026. People are starting to dress for themselves, embracing personal style over fleeting trends, while learning to choose with intention—to choose what matters to them, what makes them happy, what serves them.
With fashion to express their authentic selves, jewelry then becomes more than an accessory; it’s a statement—This is who I am. This is me.
1. Customization and bespoke jewelry
Ready-to-wear has its place, but self-expression calls for pieces that are made for you. From monogrammed rings to pendants bearing your initials, charm bracelets, birthstone jewelry, custom-cut stones, or even a special piece reset from an old heirloom, personalized jewelry is not just one-of-a-kind—it’s uniquely yours.
Many jewelers and jewelry shops offer bespoke options, where you can either bring your own stones (and even old jewelry pieces to repurpose) or have a piece from scratch. Working closely with a trusted jeweler and clearly communicating your vision—through pegs and mood boards—is just as helpful.
2. Sustainability and making conscious choices
Now more than ever, people are concerned about where their gemstones come from and how their jewelry pieces are made. Growing awareness of ethical sourcing, the environmental impact of traditional mining practices, and labor practices is shaping how they make their choices. It’s why some favor lab-grown diamonds over natural diamonds—and why transparency, traceability, and responsible sourcing are becoming non-negotiables in fine jewelry.
That said, there’s an expectation for jewelers and jewelry brands to be open about their processes and the materials they use and source, especially since people today do more research and ask for certifications of authenticity.
What’s more, brands are chosen based on credibility and trust, although style, design, and personal taste are still big factors.
3. Vintage jewelry
With the rise of “grandma chic” decor, Taylor Swift’s elegant old mine cut proposal ring, and vintage fashion in general, heirloom jewelry is seeing a resurgence in popularity. All the more reason to bring out the family jewels—whether it’s your grandmother’s ring, your mom’s earrings, or even that thrifted find you scored many years back.
Look out for gemstones with old cuts (European, mine, or rose), and jewelry that features ornate settings, patinaed metals, and hand-carved, time-worn details rich with history—showcasing an old-world charm and craftsmanship that modern designs often cannot replicate.
4. East-West setting, mixed metals, and mixed gem cuts
On the other hand, 2026 is also a year of experimentation. A year when strict rules are gone. Traditional designs are given a modern upgrade with oval or marquise-cut gemstones set horizontally instead of vertically across a band.
Expect to see jewelry pieces that mix yellow gold, white gold, or even rose gold for depth and versatility. Expect to see more mixed gem cuts—where a single piece can combine oval-, round-, and cushion-cut gemstones. Expect rings, bracelets, and necklaces that combine textures, finishes, and metals that are adaptable to any style—while allowing for playful stacking and layering, all in the name of personal style.
5. Nature-inspired and organic
Following the rise of sustainability and “earth-core” aesthetics, organic gems have become the hot item of 2026. Picture luminescent moonstones and pearls that echo a celestial glow; opals and labradorite that shift flashes of rainbow color. Picture dendrite agate with branch-like patterns much like trees, turquoise—with colors and far-reaching lines reminiscent of the land and sea—or even amber that preserves bits of nature or bugs in its honey-toned body.
Whether cradled in large pendants, woven into layers of necklaces, spotlighted in statement rings, or worn as delicate earrings, these gemstones—often retaining their natural imperfections, rough textures, and uneven cuts—celebrate nature in its rawest form, and can feel like carrying a piece of the earth, sky, or even the cosmos with you.
6. Vibrant colors and deep hues
Fashion is as lively as it is vibrant this 2026, and its accessories mirror that tune. Think rich jewel tones that saturate runways—from emerald greens to ruby reds, and deep sapphire tones. While not necessarily restricted to the Big 3 of jewelry, other rainbow-colored gems like tourmaline and garnet, along with citrine, peridot, and spinel, are now making bold appearances in rings, earrings, and necklaces.
And special mention to oxblood-colored stones (rubies, spinels, or even garnets from the pyrope, almandine, or rhodolite variant), which add a dramatic touch to any outfit with their rich, wine-like, burgundy tones.
The resulting effect is a pop of color that brings energy, fun, and whimsy—while elevating any look.
7. Statement pieces
Go big or go home is the theme of 2026 jewelry, and statement pieces echo that perfectly. Bold, sculptural designs, large hoops, and chunky rings (or even earrings) make a big impact by commanding attention and turning jewelry into the main focal point.
Look for oversized chains, large pendants, multi-stone rings, chunky bracelets, and layer away. It’s all about maximalism done right—that is, by combining metals, textures, colors, and gems that look and feel dramatic, cohesive, and unapologetically you.
Is minimalist jewelry no more?
Amid bold choices and vibrant colors, it begs the question: Is minimalism dead? Not exactly. But things have switched up. After years of delicate chains, understated studs, and thin bands, fashion is now embracing statement pieces that have become the main focus.
Even so, the common denominator remains—that jewelry, in any shape or style, is a form of self-expression. It showcases personality and tells a story—sometimes with a little sparkle, or in this case, with a lot of shine.
