How to Choose Jewelry for Your Wedding Day

Although all eyes will be glued to the beauty and symbolism of your wedding ring, other jewelry will round out your bridal look. Depending on your personal preferences, the cut of your dress and the style of your hair, you may opt for a necklace, bracelet or earrings. Coordination of gemstones is key, as are the jewel tones you choose.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Diamond Earrings
• Diamond Necklaces
• Pearl Bracelets
• Pearl Earrings
• Pearl Necklaces
• Personalized Jewelry

1. Think about how you can work family jewels into your bridal look. For sentimental reasons you may choose Grandma's pearls, your favorite aunt's diamond earrings or your mother's charm bracelet instead of buying new pieces.
2. Opt for a necklace that complements the cut of your dress. A pearl or rhinestone choker works well with a strapless bodice, whereas a diamond solitaire will look stunning with a V or sweetheart neckline.
3. Harmonize the gemstones found in your dress or headpiece with those in your jewelry. Pearls will complement beading, whereas diamonds or zirconia go well with sequins or crystals.
4. Consider a tennis bracelet over long, plain gloves or a rhinestone or pearl cuff over a bare wrist. Wear similar metals so that you don't find your jewelry clashing.
5. Let your hairstyle, headpiece and necklace dictate the earrings you choose. Chunkier styles and those with a drop look great with upswept hair, whereas simple studs or small bejeweled hoops may be the perfect addition to a dramatic necklace or decorative veil or tiara.

Tips & Warnings

• If your dress has a lot of beading, rhinestone detailing or lace trim, it's better not to add a necklace because that could cause your look to become too busy.
• Try on all jewelry with your bridal ensemble before you make your final decision. It may look perfect in the catalog or under glass but be less than stunning when you try it on.
• Keep in mind that deep-colored stones such as rubies, sapphires and emeralds may be too bold for wedding white. Lighter colors such as aquamarine, citrine and lighter topaz could offer the perfect hint of color.
• Only purchase jewelry that has a reasonable refund or exchange policy, in case you change your mind after making a purchase.