Jewelry has a special way of capturing the essence of time and place. Today, jewelry isn’t just about wearing something beautiful—it’s about wearing something meaningful. It’s a statement, an experience, and for some, a signature style that becomes a part of who they are. The current crop of designers is taking this vision further, creating pieces that challenge convention, stir the senses, and inspire new conversations around personal adornment. The world of jewelry design has always been diverse, but right now, it’s also incredibly dynamic.
This year, we’re seeing a unique mix of artistry and authenticity, with brands that are bold, intimate, and intentionally crafted. From meticulously handcrafted metals to ethically sourced gems, today’s top designers are creating jewelry with stories at their core. Each of these brands represents a different facet of the modern jewelry landscape—from sleek minimalism and innovative craftsmanship to edgy glamour and eco-conscious luxury.
Our editor’s choice spotlights six jewelry designers who are shaping the industry in unforgettable ways. These brands are capturing hearts with distinctive designs that feel both timely and timeless. This is jewelry with impact, made for those who dare to make a statement. Without further ado, here are the top jewelry brands you need to know now.
1.Sapir Bachar
New York-based designer Sapir Bachar is reshaping modern jewelry with bold, sculptural pieces that feel almost otherworldly. A graduate of Shenkar College in Israel, Bachar began her career in fashion and textile design, but her true passion found a voice in metal and stone. Initially inspired by the rich multicultural textile craft field during her tenure as a textile designer for Proenza Schouler and Calvin Klein, Sapir Bachar drew from diverse traditions and techniques to establish her eponymous jewelry line in 2019. Each piece is inspired by the natural world, shaped by textures that evoke waves, sand, and surreal landscapes. Bachar’s work combines an ancient aesthetic with a modern edge, crafted for those who appreciate jewelry as a wearable art form.
2.Saskia Diez
Saskia Diez, the German designer from Munich, embodies elegance in restraint. Renowned for her minimalist yet expressive jewelry designs, she started training as a goldsmith and studying industrial design then she launched her eponymous label in 2007. Diez started her brand with a clear vision: to create pieces that empower without overwhelming, combining beauty with simplicity. Her collections often play with contrasts, like sleek metals alongside rough textures, creating pieces that feel fresh, modern, and timeless. Diez’s jewelry is a perfect choice for those who favor refinement over excess.
3.AKVA Jewelry
AKVA Jewelry, founded by Antwerp-based designer Anneleen Bernaerts, stands out for its commitment to sustainability and architectural design. AKVA reimagines traditional jewelry forms with recycled metals and ethically sourced gems, proving that luxury and eco-consciousness can coexist beautifully. Bernaerts has a background in fine arts, and her pieces showcase her love for modernist structures and clean lines. The brand’s aesthetic is a mix of contemporary minimalism and architectural boldness, with pieces that are made to empower. Bernaerts’ designs are structured yet fluid, offering a unique sense of dynamism that appeals to those who see jewelry as an extension of their own resilience and style.
4. Justine Clenquet
French designer Justine Clenquet brings an edgy twist to contemporary jewelry with pieces that nod to punk and grunge but with Parisian flair. Launched in 2010, her brand has become a favorite for those who love bold, rebellious designs. Clenquet’s pieces are rooted in nostalgia, inspired by the ‘90s, and reimagined in the form of chokers, asymmetrical earrings, and chunky chains. Using mixed metals like brass plated with palladium and pale gold, she creates jewelry that’s bold, versatile, and distinctly cool—a must for those who love breaking the rules with style.
5. Laura Estrada
Laura Estrada’s designs speak to the soul. Based in Los Angeles, Estrada creates jewelry that feels like an extension of the body—fluid, organic, and naturally sophisticated. Her collections are deeply inspired by nature, with shapes that mimic water, earth, and celestial bodies. Estrada’s pieces often feature reclaimed materials, highlighting her commitment to ethical and sustainable craftsmanship. Her jewelry is perfect for those who want pieces that feel intimate and one-of-a-kind, designed to reflect a gentle, ethereal beauty.
6. Von Köck
A brand that dares to defy traditional jewelry norms, Von Kock is best described as contemporary luxury with an avant-garde edge. Known for its unique silhouettes and experimental materials, Von Köck’s pieces feel more like wearable art than conventional luxury jewelry. The brand has gained a following for its aesthetic, blending raw textures with polished forms in a way that feels effortlessly luxe. Each piece has a bold, sculptural quality, ideal for those looking to make a striking statement elegantly. Von Kock is the choice for those who want their jewelry to be as unique and complex as they are, offering a perfect blend of sophistication and experimental artistry.
These brands redefine what jewelry can be, each offering a unique vision that turns pieces into personal statements. With options ranging from minimalist elegance to rebellious glamour, there’s something for every style and mood. These designers don’t just create jewelry—they craft stories, moments, and expressions. So whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance, make a bold statement, or simply elevate your everyday look, these top brands are worth exploring.
