More art than jewel, I almost feel like this should be on display behind glass, although I’d be happy to wear it around my neck! Multiple points of interest drive your eye to look closely. Elaborate and abstracted 18-karat and 24-karat ferns – their asymmetry gives it a fantastical feel – are topped off with fossilized agate. The surrounding azure stones serve to enhance the amber tone. It looks vintage and regal, like something plundered by deep-sea divers…out of Marie Antoinette’s jewelry box. But with flowing lines and off-kilter attitude, it’s a modern interpretation that works right into current trends and would give any minimalist outfit a mystical twist. You can go one of two extreme routes: give yourself a clean palette to showcase it and wear something simple, or use it as one of many elements, including it in a rich blend of textures, patterns, and colors to intensify the drama. At Barneys New York (they now ship internationally!!) for $9200.
Pair with: Alexander McQueen’s knuckle-duster box clutch, in lace-covered satin, is an unexpected accessory to go with your “unexpected” jewel. On Net-a-Porter for $2,295.
