Jewelry Time Warp: The 1980s

Photo credit: @acchitto

Madonna. Nintendo. Neon. Yuppies. VCRs…

The `80s embraced in-your-face art like no other decade, and that included the art of jewelry. Bold, statement, even downright gaudy jewelry was the thing to be seen in. It was a time of excess, and everyone from musicians to moms was cool with that. Fast forward to 2022, and the `80s are still a source of inspiration, evident in social media influencers and street-style fashionistas sporting big, gold jewels. Like totally wow.


Chain Earrings

Sauer is a heritage brand in Brazil founded in 1941 by Jules Sauer, currently led by Creative Director Stephanie Wenk. They work exclusively with recycled 18k gold and sustainable materials and protect the Amazon by planting seedlings and trees in the Apui region for every piece of jewelry sold. Oh, and they also create gorgeous statement pieces.

18k yellow gold, rock crystal, emerald, and diamond earrings, Price Upon Request at Sauer


Heracles

Ninon was launched in 2017 by fashion editor, designer, and entrepreneur Mert Aslan and costume jewelry guru Ahmet Günes. Master Istanbulite artisans handcraft each piece. Their Heracles necklace is part of the Icons Collection that looks to muses like Cher and Bianca Jagger to inspire their ultra-bold jewels.

22k gold-plated bronze “Heracles” matte necklace, $420 at Ninon



 

Lyra

Acchito designers Elena Faccio and Francesca Richiardi aspire to “create a product that leaves a mark.” Their showstopper gems, including this adjustable mini-toe or chevalier ring, are made in Italy and meant to intrigue.

18k gold plated brass and Swarovski crystal “Lyra” ring, $181.50 at Acchitto


Hammered Gold

History and glamor merge within Once Upon a Diamond’s vintage and estate collections. These hammered earrings are a classic Henry Dunay style. A no-brainer if you’re trying to pull off a sleek `80s look.

Henry Dunay 18k yellow gold hammered omega pierced earrings, $1,895 at Once Upon a Diamond

*This item is sold out.


Ice Gemini

PONO’s designer Joan Goodman looks to diverse places and things when creating her line: ever-inspiring Mother Nature, exotic Hawaii, eclectic NYC, and the craftsmanship of Italy. Her colorful resin pieces are modern classics with a tinge of `80s playfulness.

Italian resin “Ice Gemini” bracelet in storm, $215 at PONO


Zig Zag Brooch

A pioneer of 1980s design, Paloma Picasso turned heads when she started designing for Tiffany & Co. with her Paloma’s Graffiti designs that celebrated graffiti art. Her styles are still some of the most covetable pieces from Tiffany & Co. today.

Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co. 18k yellow gold “Zig Zag” brooch, $1,498 at 1stdibs

 

Editor: Samantha Durbin
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).

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Jewelry Time Warp: The 1960s