All that glitters

Women and jewellery have been synonymous since time immemorial. The oldest known piece of jewellery dates back almost 100,000 years – it was shiny and sparkly and worn by a woman. It seems that our ancestors were not immune to the attractions of wearing pretty things on their arms, fingers, necks and ears. Today, with rising social expectations on how women should look and dress, the long legacy of fancy jewellery looks set to continue its moment in the sun.

Silver lining
With a legacy that stretches as far back as gold's, silver finishes a close second on the list of timeless metals. Lower prices allow it to have a more mass appeal and its affordability makes it a popular choice for regular, everyday use. Intricate designs in varying shades of pure and oxidised silver litter every woman's jewellery box and options for embellishment range from precious to semi-precious stones to pearls. Experiment with petite, understated ear and neck pieces for daytime engagements and use large, statement designs to add some zing to an evening affair. 

A girl's best friend
In the not too distant past, an ingenious marketing campaign immortalised diamonds as a symbol of forever love and they have since become a universal staple in romance and matrimony. While solitaire rings have long been the go to choice for engagements, it is the addition of diamond 'sets' that is new to the South Asian culture. Exquisite, feminine necklaces complemented by dangly earrings and matching bracelets are crowned by pops of colour in the form of rubies and emeralds and together with the precious stones, dia monds have the last word in class and elegance.

Bohemian rhapsody
If feminine grace and subtle elegance conflict with your inner hipster spirit, fear not for this decade's embracement of the boho chic pales only in comparison to the 60s'. Flirt with shells from the depths of the sea or coconut exteriors that are reminiscent of lazy summers by the beach; string together colourful beads that make rainbows bleed or jangle an armful of threaded bangles for the reckless and rebellious; manipulate recycled wood into chunky arm candy or antique brass that seems to tell a story. 

So whether you want a new best friend, or are just looking for a silver lining on a dark day or want to easy back and listen to Queen reruns, find the perfect piece of ware for yourself. Or better still, go out and get them all.

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed
Model: Riba and Doyel
Make-up: Farzana Shakil
Styling: Azra Mahmood
Jewellery: Aarong