Butterflies Re-emerge for Spring

Apr 27

And our hearts are all a-flutter

Like tulips and daffodils, some trends pop up perennially. The latest to make a migration back into our hearts and jewelry boxes? Butterflies. These fluttering figures had their heyday in the 90’s and early aughts, and like many other icons of that era, they’re back, and we’re here for it.

“Heyday” might be putting it lightly. Rewind to the late 90’s, and butterflies could be found flitting everywhere, from hair accessories and sunglasses to denim jackets and ball gowns. Mariah Carey had a hit song (and album) titled “Butterfly,” Drew Barrymore tattooed one on her midriff, and Naomi Campbell showed up arm and arm with Kate Moss at a party for Donatella Versace, sporting a chainmail number from the designer that featured the winged creatures.

In their latest metamorphosis, high-end and contemporary jewelry brands are reimagining the delicate critters in a rainbow of gemstones, creating fanciful pieces to embrace, whether for the first time or all over again.

**Midnight Garden**

Designer Anabela Chan’s background in architecture and fashion shine through in these whimsical ornaments. Made with lab-created gemstones, each asymmetrical earring can be converted into a shorter version, perfect for those looking for versatile, day-to-night pieces.
Anabela Chan “Midnight Garden” convertible earrings in 18k yellow gold vermeil and sterling silver with gemstones and diamonds, $2,595 at OLIVELA

**Rainbow Ombré**

Nicole Rose offers clients a chance to create unique jewels with a one-on-one private jeweler experience, but she also has many shimmering offerings on hand. Her butterfly pieces come in a variety of sparkling colors, but this rainbow ombré number really stands out.
Nicole Rose butterfly necklace in 18k yellow gold with ombré sapphires and diamonds, $2,250 at Nicole Rose

**Two Butterflies**

Van Cleef & Arpels is known for their flora and fauna collections. The recent reprise of their “Two Butterfly” collection is a fanciful interpretation of butterflies fluttering, wrought in fine materials. The *maison* makes several versions, but in our opinion, turquoise and diamonds are ideal for summer styling.
Van Cleef & Arpels “Two Butterfly” ring in yellow gold with diamonds and turquoise, $21,900 at Van Cleef & Arpels

**Mini Butterfly**

Sydney Evan was created in 2001 by designer Rosanne Karmes, and has since become a go-to for coveted fine-meets-fashion jewelry for fans that include Rihanna, Jennifer Lawrence, Gabrielle Union, and Kim Kardashian (to name a few). Her beaded bracelets are a top seller, so it only makes sense that she’d introduce a version featuring the popular butterfly.
Sydney Evan bracelet in 14k yellow gold with rainbow gemstones, $1,135 at Sydney Evan

**Estate Earrings**

Schiffman’s is a fourth-generation jewelry business that originated in Greensboro, North Carolina in 1893. They offer luxury jewels and timepieces from top brands, but their estate selection is not to be missed. Keep an eye out for unique finds like these tsavorite, pink sapphire, and ruby beauties.
Estate butterfly earrings in 18k white gold drop with gemstones, $3,295 at Schiffman’s Jewelers
*This item is sold out.

**Butterfly Stud**

You can always count on Alison Lou to create cheerful, playful baubles—butterflies are definitely in her wheelhouse. This single earring is ideal perched in a second ear-piercing. Wear it year-round for a constant reminder of joy.
Allison Lou stud earrings in 14k yellow gold, $295 for one at Alison Lou

**Memento**

Ri Noor is a brand that aims to create unique pieces of jewelry with one-of-a-kind gems, ranging from delicate designs to statement pieces. The “Memento” collection includes both, with classic motifs found in nature, meant to “symbolize a special life moment or a new chapter in our life.”
Ri Noor “Momento” ring in 14k yellow gold with rainbow sapphires, $2,350 at Ri Noor

Editor: Rebecca Daly
Market Editor: Johannah Masters

Every item featured is personally selected by our writers and editors (read: we're totally into it). Please know that when you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission (read: we get to keep doing what we love).