Women Who Shine: Iconic Jewelry Looks from the Past Two Decades
In celebration of International Women’s Day earlier this month and the ongoing Women’s History Month, I’ve collected my top five jewelry looks seen on some very iconic women posing on some very legendary red carpets. Each choice is an extension of the fact that these particular female stars love to be bold and enjoy a good “best-dressed” moment. I commend them for making statements, having fun with their jewels, and possibly even starting new trends.
Kerry Washington
This one is no surprise and should win for “most creative diamond setting.” The stunning “Scandal” actress started off the new decade strong at the 2020 Golden Globes. She drew gasps and applause with a tuxedo-inspired Altuzarra ensemble styled with a diamond-encrusted harness, and pretty much nothing else. It was a risk, but a well-executed one if I do say so myself.
Lady Gaga
At the 2019 Oscars, Lady Gaga embraced the spotlight with co-star Bradley Cooper in a gorgeous pendant, which also happens to hold some history. The 141-year-old yellow diamond design from Tiffany, worth a supposed $30 million, is comprised of almost 129 carats and was previously worn by Audrey Hepburn during a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” shoot. It looked like Gaga paid subtle (but beautiful) tribute to that moment with a classic black Alexander McQueen gown.
Rihanna
I can’t exclude the Met Gala and Rihanna from this list. In 2015, the singer helped Chinese couturier Guo Pei rise to a new level of fame by shutting down the red carpet in a yellow cape finished with fur and intricate golden embroidery. A headpiece, also designed by Pei, and a Nouvelle Vague Cartier necklace completed the look and successfully helped celebrate The Met’s “China: Through the Looking Glass” exhibition.
Angelina Jolie
As far as earrings go, Angelina Jolie’s emerald pair from the 2009 Oscars might be some of the most coveted of all time. Estimated to be worth around $2.5 million, the Lorraine Schwartz masterpieces flawlessly complemented her simple gown and swept-up hair, becoming another example of her ability to appear demurely eye-catching.
Eva Mendes
Eva Mendes’ turquoise Panka necklace from Van Cleef & Arpels delivered strong boho-glam vibes and paved the way for the flourishing trend. A vintage treasure made up of 132 stones, the private-collection design contrasted perfectly with her white Christian Dior gown and classic hairdo for a striking instant in style history.
Images courtesy of Pinterest
About The Author
Debbie Azar is the Co-Founder and President of Gemological Science International (GSI), one of the largest gemological organizations in the world, and a distinguished leader in the global diamond and jewelry industry. As an executive with extensive knowledge of the jewelry and gem lab industries, her entrepreneurial skills and vision have helped GSI achieve rapid and continuous growth worldwide, establishing 13 leading-edge gemological facilities on four continents. She currently serves on the boards of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Responsible Jewellery Council, and Jewelers for Children, and is a member of the 24 Karat Club of New York. She has been featured in Forbes, Daily Mail, Good Morning America, Bloomberg, Bloomberg Businessweek, Fox Business, Fox5, CBS2, BOLDTV, Varney&Co, The Street, and NASDAQ, among others.
