On Zendaya: Mateo Initial 14-Karat Gold Diamond Necklace ($595)
If you’re getting an itch to buy more jewelry than usual this year, it’s not a coincidence. According to Forbes, direct-to-consumer jewelry brands are thriving at the moment. This is likely attributed to the fact that we all need a little pick-me-up these days, and jewelry doesn’t go in and out of style at even close to the pace of clothing and accessories, making it a great investment.
When it comes to investing in fine jewelry, you probably want to put some thought into it. It’s a hefty purchase that you could end up wearing on a daily basis for years to come, so it’s natural to want a little extra guidance. And who better to seek that from than the founder and creator of Mateo New York, Matthew Harris. Harris, who grew up in Jamaica and moved to the U.S. at 16, launched the celebrity-adored brand in 2009, actually starting with men’s jewelry. Today, Mateo’s stunning, modern pieces can be found at a plethora of retailers, including Net-a-Porter, Moda Operandi, and Shopbop, and is loved by scores of stylish, in-the-know women.
When I reached out to Harris for his fine jewelry trend expertise, he told me that his mother always says that there’s nothing new under the sun and that the trends that we have now have been here before. In my opinion, that’s a testament to what a worthy investment fine jewelry is.
With that, keep reading to find out which five jewelry trends Matthew Harris is noticing across the board, and shop his beautiful pieces and others that represent said trends.
“Since our lives have been altered or changed due to COVID, for many, Zoom calls are now a daily norm. The perfect earring trend is alive and well. From huggies to statement earrings, I have noticed that earrings are a mainstay in every Zoom meeting, and why not! It’s the opportunity to brighten up one’s day while stuck at home working. One friend mentioned that she looks forward to getting dressed from the waist up and throwing on a pair of sparklers on the ears.”—Matthew Harris
“Personal jewelry is the biggest trend at the moment. People have moved away from “special occasion” pieces and are purchasing pieces that are more personal. We can’t keep our Secret Initial pieces in stock. As they come off the workbench, they are sold out. 2020 has been an intense year, so anything to make us feel good is beyond welcome. Treating one’s self with a piece of fine jewelry is some of the best self-care.”
“Long gone are the days when pearls were synonymous with grandma. The pearl trend is here to stay and we are beyond happy with it—from pearl beaded chokers to combinations of classic round pearls and more one-of-a-kind Baroque pearls. Dressed up or down, they are just perfect. [What makes them] even more special is that they are the only gemstones formed under any body of water. Just magical!”
“We are seeing a huge trend in bold gold pieces, in the form of linked chains and rings. Maximalist is back and chicer than ever.”
“This classic staple is back and here to stay, with diamond tennis necklaces, bracelets, and even anklets. They are a must-have, timeless in design and truly perfect for any occasion. We stan a diamond tennis necklace with jeans and a T-shirt, strolling down the aisle at Trader Joe’s.”
