When it comes to planning your wedding, one of the most exciting yet overwhelming tasks is choosing the perfect jewellery. Wedding jewellery not only complements your bridal look, but it also adds a personal touch to your big day. From engagement rings to bridal necklaces, these pieces are more than just accessories; they are symbols of love and commitment, meant to stand the test of time.
In this guide, I’ll explain the key principles for choosing the perfect wedding jewellery, share insights based on my experience as a former Vogue groom, and give you expert tips to ensure you shine with confidence on your wedding day.
Key Principles to Guide Your Wedding Jewellery Choices
Why “Less is More” When It Comes to Wedding Jewellery
One of the first pieces of advice I always give couples is: less is more. There’s a common misconception that you need to pile on the bling to make a statement, but honestly, when it comes to wedding jewellery, simplicity often speaks volumes.
When I got married at Vogue Ballroom, I remember agonising over which pieces of jewellery to wear. I had a beautiful, detailed suit, and my partner wore a stunning gown, so I didn’t want to overdo it with jewellery. I chose to go with a classic wedding band and a pair of sleek, understated cufflinks. In hindsight, it was the perfect balance—enough to add polish without taking away from the rest of the look.
Here’s the thing: wedding jewellery should enhance your outfit, not overshadow it. If you decide on a statement necklace or bold earrings, be sure to balance the rest of your jewellery to avoid an overwhelming look. A statement piece, such as a striking engagement ring or a vintage wedding necklace, can stand on its own, so the rest of your accessories should be minimal.
How to Match Jewellery to Your Wedding Dress
Your wedding dress is the starting point when choosing your jewellery. The style, shape, and details of the gown can help guide your decisions. Take it from me—the last thing you want is for your jewellery to clash with your dress!
For example, if you’re wearing a V-neck or plunging neckline, a simple pendant or choker necklace works wonders. I remember a couple I worked with whose wedding dress had a deep V-neckline, and we paired it with a delicate gold pendant and diamond earrings. It complemented the dress beautifully without stealing the show.
If you’re wearing a strapless or off-the-shoulder gown, you can really play up the neckline with a statement necklace. I’ve seen many brides in Melbourne who’ve worn bold chokers or multi-strand necklaces with these dress styles to great effect. It’s all about proportion—don’t be afraid to wear something eye-catching if the dress gives you the space to do so.
If you’re going for a high-neckline gown, skip the necklace entirely. Opt for statement earrings instead. Long, elegant earrings can create a sleek look without distracting from the structure of your dress. I remember a bride who had a high-neck gown with intricate lace detailing, and she paired it perfectly with long diamond earrings. The effect was stunning—elegant, sophisticated, and perfectly balanced.
Types of Wedding Jewellery You Can’t Miss
Rings: Wedding Bands and Engagement Rings
Let’s start with the basics—the engagement ring and wedding band. These pieces are the cornerstone of your jewellery collection, and getting them right is crucial.
I’ve worked with brides who feel overwhelmed by the pressure of finding the “perfect” engagement ring. The truth is, it’s not just about the size or the sparkle. It’s about choosing something that resonates with you and your partner. My own engagement ring was simple but meaningful—a classic solitaire diamond on a platinum band, which suited my partner’s taste and matched her vintage-inspired dress. It was timeless.
When choosing a wedding band, consider how it will sit alongside your engagement ring. If you have a statement engagement ring, such as one with a bold setting or a coloured gemstone, you may want to go for a simpler wedding band to avoid visual clutter. On the flip side, if your engagement ring is more minimalist, you can have a bit more fun with your wedding band—think diamonds or textured metals.
Necklaces: Elevating Your Bridal Look with Timeless Elegance
A wedding necklace is an excellent way to elevate your bridal ensemble. For me, I remember working with a bride who had a beautiful, simple gown but wanted something that would really draw attention to her neckline. We opted for a pearl necklace—a timeless choice that complemented the delicate details of her dress perfectly. Pearls are elegant, understated, and complement almost any gown, whether your dress is modern or vintage-inspired.
The key here is matching the necklace to the neckline of your dress. A simple pearl or diamond pendant can add just the right amount of sparkle without overwhelming the overall look. For example, if you’re wearing a sweetheart neckline, a statement necklace would work wonders. On the other hand, if you’re sporting a high-neckline gown, skip the necklace altogether and focus on earrings instead.
Choosing the Right Metals and Gemstones for Your Jewellery
Metal Selection Based on Your Wedding Dress
When choosing the metal for your wedding jewellery, it’s essential to consider your wedding dress’s colour. The right metal can complement the gown beautifully, making your entire look cohesive.
For example, if you’re wearing a white or off-white dress, platinum, white gold, or silver jewellery are excellent choices. These metals have a clean, crisp look that pairs well with a white gown. I remember a bride from Melbourne who wore a striking white gown with intricate lace detailing. She went with a platinum wedding band and simple diamond earrings, and it was a perfect match—elegant yet understated.
For ivory dresses, yellow gold shines. The warmer tone of yellow gold enhances the creamy undertones of ivory fabrics. This combination works wonderfully for both traditional and modern brides. A couple of years ago, I helped a bride select a yellow gold engagement ring that complemented her ivory gown beautifully. It wasn’t too overpowering, but it added a soft glow.
When choosing metals for a blush pink or rose-tinted dress, I highly recommend rose gold. It pairs perfectly with the feminine tones of the gown and offers a romantic touch. I worked with a couple in Melbourne who went for a blush-pink gown, and we opted for rose gold earrings and a rose gold bracelet. The result was an enchanting, ethereal look.
Lastly, for warmer ivory or champagne dresses, gold (yellow or rose) is an excellent option. These tones bring out the richness in your gown and tie everything together seamlessly. One of the most stunning brides I worked with had a champagne gown and wore a combination of rose gold jewellery. It added a depth to her look that really elevated her bridal ensemble.
Gemstone Choices: Classic vs. Personalised
While diamonds are the go-to gemstone for many brides, there’s no reason why you can’t mix it up and add your personal touch with colour. Diamonds, of course, remain a classic choice, symbolising eternity and everlasting love. But there’s something undeniably special about incorporating coloured gemstones into your wedding jewellery.
For instance, sapphires (the quintessential “something blue”) are not just for engagement rings—they work perfectly in earrings, necklaces, and even as accent stones in your wedding band. A couple I worked with had a sapphire wedding band with small diamonds around it. It was a beautiful, elegant choice that stood out without being too flashy.
Then there are rubies and emeralds—gems that add a pop of colour while maintaining sophistication. I’ve worked with brides who chose emerald earrings to match their green-themed weddings, and the results were stunning. It’s all about balancing the boldness of the gemstone with the subtlety of the rest of your look.
For a vintage-inspired wedding, consider gemstones like amethyst, topaz, or aquamarine—stones that add personality and charm. These are often chosen for their symbolism, too. Pearls, for example, represent elegance and purity, which is why they’re so popular in bridal jewellery.
Symbolism: Why Gemstones Matter Beyond Their Beauty
What I love most about choosing gemstones for your wedding jewellery is the personal meaning they carry. Each gemstone has its own symbolism, which makes them even more special. Diamonds, representing love and commitment, are timeless for a reason. But maybe you want something more personal. For instance, sapphires are said to symbolise wisdom and loyalty, while emeralds represent rebirth and growth.
If you’re looking for something with extra sentimental value, I’ve had couples incorporate family gemstones, like their mother’s wedding stone, into their jewellery. This adds even more emotion and significance to your wedding day.
Personalising Your Wedding Jewellery
The Power of Custom Wedding Jewellery
A custom piece of jewellery can transform your bridal look, making it one-of-a-kind. Customising your wedding jewellery allows you to tell a story and showcase your personality. Whether it’s a bespoke engagement ring or a custom wedding band, creating a piece that’s uniquely yours is an exciting journey.
I remember working with a bride who wanted a truly personalised engagement ring—something that spoke to her style and love story. She decided on a vintage-inspired band with intricate detailing, paired with a unique sapphire stone. It was unlike anything she had seen before, and the joy on her face when she saw it for the first time was priceless.
When designing your custom wedding jewellery, consider working with a trusted jeweller who specialises in bespoke pieces. A good jeweller can take your vision and bring it to life, whether that’s incorporating sentimental items, personalising engravings, or combining different elements like your favourite gemstones.
Heirloom Pieces: Adding Sentimental Value to Your Bridal Look
Don’t underestimate the power of heirloom jewellery. Whether it’s a family heirloom passed down through generations or something special your partner has given you, incorporating these pieces into your bridal look adds emotional depth and significance.
When I got married, I wore a bracelet that belonged to my grandmother. It was a simple piece, but it held so much meaning. This is something I always suggest to brides—incorporating sentimental items into your wedding jewellery is a beautiful way to honour your family’s legacy.
Whether it’s a grandmother’s vintage brooch, your mother’s diamond earrings, or a ring passed down from a loved one, heirloom pieces can add character and sentiment to your look. Make sure you give yourself enough time to plan how these pieces will fit into your overall jewellery selection. I worked with a bride who wore a family heirloom tiara and used vintage wedding earrings as her “something borrowed.” The combination was both stylish and deeply meaningful.
Tips and Expert Advice for Choosing Wedding Jewellery
Top Shopping Tips for Stress-Free Jewellery Selection
When shopping for your wedding jewellery, the earlier you start, the better. Trust me, when you’re knee-deep in wedding planning, it’s easy to put off these decisions. But jewellery is one area where procrastination can lead to stress. I always recommend starting your search at least 6 months before the wedding. This gives you enough time to try on various styles, make decisions, and even customise pieces if necessary.
Setting a budget is crucial, too. Wedding jewellery can be a big-ticket item, so having a clear budget in mind will help you focus on what’s really important. And don’t forget to account for fluctuations in gold and diamond prices—being aware of these factors can help you plan your purchases better.
One of the biggest pieces of advice I offer brides is to try on every piece before committing. I once had a bride who was torn between two necklaces—both beautiful, but when she tried them on, one clearly stood out as a better match for her gown. It’s essential to see how pieces look on you and with your dress.
Customisation and Sustainable Choices
In today’s world, more and more brides are opting for sustainable jewellery options, and I think it’s a fantastic choice. Whether it’s choosing recycled metals or ethically sourced gemstones, there are plenty of options that align with a more eco-conscious approach.
Many jewellers also offer customisation services for wedding jewellery, allowing you to create pieces that align with your ethical values while still getting something truly unique. I had a couple who chose fair trade diamonds for their engagement rings and felt great about their decision. They not only got something special but also knew it was an ethical choice.
Considerations That Are Perfect for Your Perfect Wedding Jewellery
Comfort, Style, and Sentiment Matter Most
When it comes to wedding jewellery, comfort and style should be at the forefront of your decision-making. Your jewellery should not only elevate your bridal look but also enhance your confidence throughout the day. After all, you’ll be wearing it for hours, and you want to feel as good as you look!
From personal experience, I remember how much I appreciated having comfortable jewellery on my wedding day. I wore a simple wedding band and a classic pair of cufflinks. The key was that I felt like myself, and nothing distracted me during the ceremony. Similarly, I’ve worked with countless brides who were adamant about comfort, choosing delicate, lightweight pieces over heavy, statement jewellery, so they could enjoy the day without worrying about adjustments.
Style is another significant factor, of course. Your jewellery should be a reflection of your personality, whether you’re into minimalist designs or bold, statement pieces. But don’t forget the sentimental value of your jewellery, especially when you incorporate heirlooms or custom pieces. This adds emotional depth to the day and makes your jewellery all the more meaningful.
Let’s Get Straight to the Point
Choosing the perfect wedding jewellery is all about balancing style, comfort, and personal meaning. Start with your wedding dress as the foundation, matching your jewellery to the dress’s style, neckline, and colour. Focus on complementary metals and gemstones, considering classic choices like diamonds or adding personal touches with coloured stones or custom pieces. Remember to keep it simple—less is often more—and incorporate heirloom or sentimental pieces for an emotional touch. Whether you opt for delicate studs or a bold necklace, your jewellery should make you feel beautiful and confident on your big day.
