My jewellery collection has been expanding slowly over the years. Of all the categories in my wardrobe, I’ve found that quality jewellery is worth investing in the most, as long as the pieces are classic and built to last.

As someone with a warm skin undertone, gold jewellery is a no-brainer, and I’ve learned to always stick with gold vermeil pieces. The average gold-plated jewellery will tarnish and wear away quickly; 14k solid gold is less hardwearing and substantially pricier. Gold vermeil hits the sweet spot, and now many brands offer it as an affordable option–if you read the fine print carefully, costume jewellery (not fine jewellery) from fashion designer labels use gold-plated nickel and brass in a lot of their pieces, which means you’re paying a lot more for something that will not last beyond two seasons.

Hailing from the UK, Monica Vinader is a mid-tier brand offering the best of both worlds with timeless pieces. I’m guilty of shopping with them every holiday season because their pieces elevate any look effortlessly, and there’s always something new that catches my eye. Their core collections are also all available in sterling silver, gold vermeil, and rose gold vermeil hardware, so you can easily pick whatever suits your skin tone best.

As part of its sustainability initiative, Monica Vinader has been transitioning its collection to lab-grown diamonds, which are physically identical yet offer higher quality and clarity than the traditional mined equivalent. Monica Vinader has partnered with Altr, which grows all lab-grown diamonds with 100% renewable energy and is SCS-007 certified, the first multi-stakeholder sustainability standard developed for the diamond sector. There’s no compromise on clarity, colour, or cut either; the lab-grown diamonds selected are VS clarity, G/H colour, and 1.1mm, compared to mined diamonds used, which were HI colour, I1 clarity and mostly 0.8mm.

For starters, I’ve picked out nine diamond pieces on my wishlist, most featuring lab-grown diamonds in dainty elegant pieces that feel timeless and won’t date. They’re also easy to wear with any outfit and perfect for layering with other pieces you might add to your collection later.

The holiday season is always the best time to dabble in investment pieces because most international brands run holiday campaigns at significant discounts.

Monica Vinader is currently having its Singles Day sale, with 30% off everything and 50% off selected pieces in a rotating flash sale.

Tip: Even when the current sale ends, you can always get 20% off your order when you shop with my direct links; no code is required.

1 | Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Wire Earrings

If drop earrings feel a bit intimidating or are too large for your face shape, try these subtle earrings that dangle and show off some extra sparkle.

2 | Diamond Essential Band Ring

Although non-lab-grown, the delicate diamond still makes a statement on a wider band, almost like a male wedding ring.

3 | Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Bracelet

A single stone set on a dainty chain, the bracelet features Monica Vinader’s clever sliding adjustment that fits any wrist snugly. A similar style is also available in 14k solid gold.

4 | Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Cuff

If you prefer open cuffs to closed bracelets, these feature two stones set on each end. They look great on top of a dark winter sweater or paired with a plain chain bracelet in matching hardware.

5 | Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Stud Earrings

These are the classic stud earrings everyone needs in their collection, something you can throw on every day, knowing they will go with any outfit. The single stone is set against a faceted backing, giving the illusion of more shine and sparkle. Also available in 14k solid gold.

6 | Skinny Eternity Ring

Another timeless piece that can gladly stay in my jewellery box forever. Also available in 14k solid gold and a wider 2.5mm version for maximum sparkle.

7 | Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Bangle

Between all the bracelet types, I gravitate towards bangles the most because they are fuss-free with no chains hanging about and give a sense of security that they will not fall off. These are engraveable and come in several sizes for the perfect fit. Also available plain and in diamond pave.

8 | Large Lab Grown Diamond Essentials Necklace

Like its matching earrings and bracelets, the single stone necklace is a versatile must-have for collection starters. Consider the Asscher cut or pear drop setting if you’re looking for a contemporary twist.

9 | Lab Grown Diamond Huggie Earrings

If you have a second or third piercing on your earlobe, huggies are perfect for layering without stealing the show. Also available in a larger hoop.

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