Jewelry Week Forecast: The Styles That Will Trend

By Brittany Siminitz | May 27, 2026

If you’re reading this on Wednesday, I’m likely weaving my way through the show floor at Luxury, taking in some of the industry’s most dazzling jewelry offerings. Over the next several days in Las Vegas (Couture opens this evening, the JCK show on Friday), I’m hoping for hours of discovery: new jewels, emerging designers, and—my favorite part—unexpected trends.

Whether they turn into full-fledged movements or remain delightfully niche, I love spotting the themes I didn’t see coming. In years past, it’s been everything from a surge in Montana sapphires to certain silhouettes and design details that suddenly seemed to appear everywhere at once.

What this year’s surprise standout will be remains to be seen, but there are a few trends I am anticipating. Here, the styles likely to dominate the aisles in Vegas.

Marie Lichtenberg dice jasper — *Dado jumbo charm in 18k yellow gold with jasper and 1.6 cts. t.w. diamonds, $22,540; Marie Lichtenberg*

Whimsical objects

Fine jewelry has been leaning further into whimsy in recent years, with gemstone-studded insects and mythical creatures becoming increasingly common. But some designers are taking the trend beyond the animal kingdom, transforming everyday, nostalgic, and deeply personal objects into elevated fine jewelry.

Few do it better than Marie Lichtenberg, who will be exhibiting at Couture with her signature playful, symbolism-rich designs. And she’s hardly alone. More jewelers are embracing a sense of storytelling and humor, turning everything from lucky charms to familiar keepsakes into beautifully crafted wearable objects. Let’s hope the trend only grows from here.

Jennifer Dawes butterfly ring — *Glorious butterfly ring in 18k yellow gold with 0.18 ct. t.w. marquise and pear-shape diamonds and 0.09 ct. t.w. round diamonds, $5,950; Jennifer Dawes Design*

Butterflies

See also: whimsical objects, above. But butterflies in particular feel poised to take flight this year.

I’ve already spotted a number of previews featuring the winged motif, and I have a feeling they’ll be fluttering throughout the showcases in Vegas. Maybe it’s because we could all use a little more beauty right now, or because butterflies have long symbolized transformation, hope, and joy. Whatever the reason, I’m expecting to see them in full force, and ideally in a true kaleidoscope—which (fun fact!) is the official term for a group of butterflies.

Anzie tennis bracelet — *Amie nylon cord bracelet with 14k yellow gold tennis racket charm with diamond, $190; Anzie*

Alternative chains

One of my favorite emerging styles is the alternative chain: made not of precious metal but ribbon, leather, or silk cord. These and other materials are being used for necklaces and bracelets finished with gemstone pendants.

There’s something compelling about this mix of precious and casual that makes fine jewelry feel more approachable without diminishing its luxury. The look feels in step with the current mood: less formal, more personal, and designed for effortless everyday wear. Alternative chains gives us fine jewelry that doesn’t feel overly fancy, and that balance is exactly what makes it so appealing right now.

Lalounis gold earrings — *Bead drop earrings in yellow gold, price on request; Lalounis*

Sculptural gold

Sculptural gold jewelry is hardly new, but in an era dominated by conversations about natural versus lab-grown diamonds and gemstones, a beautifully executed gold jewel feels more compelling than ever.

Expect to see plenty of substantial gold pieces throughout Vegas: chunky silhouettes with faceted surfaces that mimic the look of carved gemstones; beaded, twisted, woven, or hammered finishes that emphasize texture and craftsmanship. The focus is less on excess and more on artistry—gold jewelry that makes a statement through form, weight, and workmanship alone.

Just Jules cluster earrings — *Cluster earrings in yellow gold with 0.6 ct. t.w. emeralds and 0.5 ct. t.w. diamonds, price on request; Just Jules*

Gemstone clusters

And finally, the cluster. Long a staple of fine jewelry, clustered gemstones feel fresher than ever thanks to a mix of varied cuts, interesting color palettes, and—much like Just Jules’ version above—textured settings.

Stay tuned for next week’s updates on my discoveries at Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

Top: Jennifer Dawes’ ring stack demonstrates several jewelry trends coming to Las Vegas (visit the designer at the Out of the Jewel Box Experience, booth 14030 at JCK).