Bohemian Jewelry

Bohemian jewelry is the very opposite of minimalistic. In fact, one can easily identify boho bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings based on their maximalist look. Intricate or large in size, statement or beaded, with or without gems and in a plethora of antiqued finishes, bohemian jewelry comes in many shapes and forms.

One of the easiest ways to identify bohemian jewelry is to ignore all the ultra-glossy and perfectly polished metallic pieces and go for more muted, matte metals instead. Similarly, if they come with turquoise gems, tribal engravings, natural gemstones or Moroccan-inspired designs, even better. Just like clothing and accessories, bohemian jewelry is focused mostly on natural materials, often incorporating genuine gemstones, white and colored pearls, leather, opal, wood (bangles, beads) and bone in the designs.

What to Look for in Jewelry

• Natural materials: metals, gems and pearls

• Turquoise anything

• Intricate beaded designs

• Wood beads and accents

• Artsy stackable rings

• Layered necklaces

• Antiqued silver and antiqued gold metals

• Jewelry with an artisanal feel

• Mexican bracelets

• African finger rings and African necklaces

• Moroccan jewelry

• Large pendants, large rings

• Tassels

Elevating Boho Outfits with Dressier Jewelry Pieces

If you want to incorporate pearls as part of you bohemian outfits, look for jewelry pieces that combine the gems of the sea with fringe, tassel and other such traditional boho elements. Alternatively, mother of pearl jewelry pieces in fantasy designs and combined with other semi-precious gems or antiqued finish metals are very boho-chic, perfect for complimenting weekend and vacation-ready outfits.

For dressier occasions, use pearls in order to elevate the look of your outfit by bringing it out of the hippie sphere and more into the boho-chic territory. If you choose precious metals, opt for ones that are not high-gloss, but rather have a matter, more subtle shine. Moreover, choose natural gems and stones whenever in need of dressing up, as thoughtfully selected jewelry pieces have the power to give any outfit a more polished vibe. While boho in itself is a departure from polished styles, if you want to still rock a bohemian dress at a fancy event (wedding, anniversary, festive occasion), a baroque pearl ring or pearl, amethyst (or your precious stone of choice) earrings are a great way to have the best of two worlds.

What to Avoid When Shopping for Boho Jewelry and Accessories

• Neon colors unless they are part of ethnic-inspired designs

• Artificial fabrics like latex, low-quality faux fabrics

• Plastic

• Lucite

• Artificial, saturated shades

• Minimalistic jewelry, unless used for complex layering

• Futuristic and geometric jewelry

STYLE GUIDE:  PEARL STUDS

What is one jewelry piece that many of the bohemian style influencers we covered above wear regularly? Pearl studs. These influencers, including Zoe Kravitz (pictured on the left), use pearl studs to accent various outfits in creative ways. The earrings work well with a variety of different colors and add the perfect touch of refinement.