Golden Compasses

Jan 12

These navigation-inspired styles are off the charts

If you’ve been sensing a sea change in the jewelry motifs attracting you lately, you’re not alone. Perhaps it’s a reaction to a world that feels increasingly off course, a need to right the proverbial ship, designers are turning toward an age-old symbol of seafaring: the compass. This wayfinding ware connotes control and suggests smooth sailing ahead. Need a hand navigating all the options? Let us be your guides.

**Itty Bitty**

With her personal penchant for ripped jeans and sneakers, designer Zoë Chicco may have a reputation as the bad girl of fine jewelry, but her designs, like this aptly-named “Itty Bitty” compass, are as good as it gets.
Zoë Chicco “Itty Bitty” Compass bracelet in 14k yellow gold, $250 at Zoë Chicco

**Mother of Pearl**

Born in Paris to Danish diplomat parents, a Graduate Gemologist and GIA Diamond Grader, inspired by her own international adventures, who better to design the ultimate luxurious iteration of this icon of travel than designer Anne Sisteron?
Anne Sisteron compass charm in 14k yellow gold, black mother-of-pearl, and diamonds, $1,310 at Anne Sisteron

**Mini Adventure**

Monica Rich Kosann sees herself as a storyteller first, a jewelry designer second. In her own words, each piece she creates “is really an evolution of that idea—capturing the special moment, the empowering story.” What could be more empowering than a symbol that points the way?
Monica Rich Kosann “Mini Adventure Compass Key” charm necklace, $1,450 at Walters & Hogsett Jewelers
*This item is sold out.

**Grandfather**

Inspired by the design and nostalgia of antique pocket watches, powered by the “inner compass” of a woman’s intuition, this abstract style from Kirsty Stone’s Retrouvaí brand leaves room for your own interpretation.
Retrouvaí “Grandfather Compass” pendant necklace in 14k yellow gold with dark mother-of-pearl, mint garnet, and diamonds, $6,700 at Retrouvaí

**Compass Signet**

While David Yurman may have achieved international recognition for his signature Cable motif, his other designs shine just as bright. Case in point? This sparkling signet ring, evocative of both a classic compass rose and the North Star.
David Yurman “Compass” mini pinky ring in 18k gold with diamonds, $1,500 at David Yurman

**West 13th**

Elizabeth and Irene, the sister act behind New York’s Doyle & Doyle, designed this pretty pendant as a symbol of both finding the way home, and finding hopeful new directions. (We’re willing to follow where it leads).
Doyle & Doyle “West 13th Collection” compass rose pendant in oxidized sterling silver with 18k yellow gold and diamond, $295 at Doyle & Doyle

Editor: Samantha Durbin
Wordsmith: Rebecca Daly

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