Chasing Rainbows

Jun 5

Symbols of unity, solidarity, and pride to treasure

You don’t need a special month (or a myriad of brand marketing) to show your support for the LGBTQIA+ community. But this summer, like the chance convergence of sunshine and raindrops, Pride Month happens to coincide with one of summer's biggest trends—radiant rainbows (a symbol of the movement since 1978). With no lack of brilliant beads to choose from, glass, enamel, plastic, gemstones, and even heishi beads are lending color to jewelry lovers from head to toe. Wear these symbols of beauty, unity, and solidarity with pride.

**Candy Colors**

While many designers go for subtle style, Venessa Arizaga’s signature are her vibrant, over-the-top-happy designs, which often come in all the colors of the rainbow (and will leave a smile on any wearer—or admirer’s—face).
Venessa Arizaga “Candy Says” earrings, $150 at Venessa Arizaga

**The Sweetest Thing**

Designer Scosha Woolridge looks to every part of the globe for inspiration for her “art meets artifact” aesthetic, including this playful gemstone-beaded “Candy Collection” necklace (which looks good enough to eat!).
Scosha “Candy Gem” necklace in 10k gold with diamonds and gemstones, $695 at Scosha

**Jolly Good**

The mother-daughter team behind Brinker + Eliza doesn’t hold back when it comes to designing bold, trendy jewelry. With collections that include natural elements (think shells, mushrooms, and pearls) alongside long-cherished sy
24k antique gold plated linked knotted chain and glass bead “Jolly” bracelet, $148 at Brinker + Eliza

**Pearl + Polychromatic**

Harwell Godfrey is a designer at the top of every editor and collector’s list. Her love of gems shines through her beaded “foundation clasp” necklaces—the perfect base for adding your favorite rainbow charm. This pearl version elevates an already eye-catching strand of multi-hued stones.
Harwell Godfrey necklace in 18k gold with white pearls and gemstones, $2,950 at Harwell Godfrey

**On The Bright Side**

Virginia-based brand, Elsie Frieda, came to light in 2008 after Christina Scarsella Harrison’s discovery of heishi beads—flat, disc-shaped beads used in both traditional American Indian and African jewelry. Drawing on this global inspiration, Elsie Frieda was founded to encourage all women to celebrate their independence through hard work and kindness, and “to look good while doing it!” The company now spans from Africa to Canada (with a debut collection created in partnership with female artisans in Ghana).
Elsa Frieda “Lavender Brightside” earrings, $155 at Elsie Frieda

**Choose Joy**

Adina Reyter founded her brand with the idea that “happiness is a choice we make every day.” The result? Feel-good fine jewelry where everyday elegance meets permission to be playful. Celebrate your next special occasion with her “Bead Party” collection—customize your own necklace or earrings, or pick from preset party-ready pieces, like this personalized initial rainbow number.
Bead Party “Rainbow Initials” necklace, $793 at Adina Reyter

**Love & Protect**

Over a century old, Aaron Basha is currently run by a fourth-generation member of the Basha family, Regine. She, like her family before her, focuses on cheerful charms and colorful creations as core designs. Fans flock to the brand to mark special moments, including celebrating friendship with a cheery anklet like this one from their “Basha Besties” collection, which features symbols of protection.
Aaron Basha Basha Besties anklet, $75 at Aaron Basha

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).