20 Minimalist Jewelry Brands That Are Elegant, Timeless and Make Great Gifts

• Why We Love It: in-house design team crafts the jewelry, fair pricing
• Material: recycled gold, sterling silver, titanium, 14k solid gold, 18k gold vermeil, enamel, ceramic, responsibly-sourced diamonds, AAA-grade gemstones, freshwater pearls
• Return Policy: free 30-day returns for customers in the US, Canada, UK, Australia and Germany

When we think of sleek, stunning jewelry designs that can stand the test of time (AKA the occasional scrape or accidental bang against the countertop), our mind goes to Mejuri. With an incredible assortment of unique, minimalistic designs that capture attention without screaming ‘over the top,’ Mejuri is easily one of our top brands to shop for everyday jewelry. Every item is crafted with high quality materials with prices ranging anywhere from $30 to $4,400, depending on make and finish. PureWow senior editor Dana Dickey admits to perusing Mejuri’s feed often. “The pieces [from Mejuri] have a sleek sensibility that’s of-the-moment, yet the designs are classic enough that I know I will be able to wear them for years,” she says. “Everything at Mejuri is super compatible with whatever everyday rings, bracelets or necklaces you already wear.” In fact, Dickey recently added the Dual Pearl Necklace to her own collection.

• Why We Love It: female-founded with a family-inspired origin history, Meghan Markle-approved
• Material: solid 14k gold, natural gemstones
• Return Policy: 30 days of the purchase date to receive refunded payment; merchandise credit after 30 days

What started off as a passion project two decades ago quickly turned into a well-known jewelry brand adored by Meghan Markle herself, who slyly confirmed her relationship with Prince Harry in the press when she wore a Maya Brenner necklace with initials ‘M’ and ‘H.’ When it comes to jewelry favorites, PureWow senior editor of branded content and our resident royal expert and co-host of Royally Obsessed Roberta Fiorito isn’t gate-keeping her obsession. “I love Maya Brenner, especially her letter necklaces which you can now add/subtract to when you want,” she raves. Whether you’re looking for bridesmaids’ gifts, an anniversary trinket or a pick-me-up treat, Maya Brenner has something for everyone, including the zodiac fanatic in your life. The items are designed to be lived in and can be worn in the shower, pool, ocean and while working out. Reviewers find the jewelry to be surprisingly durable over years of wear, but if you happen to need a cleaning, size adjustment or stone replacement, they have a care and repair shop on their site where you can send in your MB pieces.

• Why We Love It: nickel- and lead-free, great warranty policy
• Material: 14k gold and rose gold plating, platinum or rhodium plating, brass, stainless steel, cubic zirconia, vermeil jewelry crafted from 18k gold plating, sterling silver, real round-cut diamonds
• Return Policy: contact Uncommon James within 30 days of the date your shipment is received for free return shipping with unworn, qualifying orders; sale items are final sale

ICYMI, Laguna Beach and The Hills alum Kristin Cavallari has a jewelry line, Uncommon James. Taking inspiration from her family and two hometowns, Orange County and Nashville, she designed each piece to be worn in tandem or separately, finding beauty in the simple details on their own or when stacked together. The quality of the materials can vary from piece to piece, so we recommend you note how to best care for your jewelry so it won’t tarnish. Plus, you can get free shipping at checkout on all jewelry orders, no minimum required.

• Why We Love It: lifetime guarantee policy, ethically-sourced, sustainably made
• Material: ethically sourced sustainably made from recycled 14K gold, 18K gold, platinum, 14K gold-plated vermeil or sterling silver
• Return Policy: 30-day return window from the day of shipment delivery on unworn pieces (made-to-order designs, included in policy)

“AUrate is a New York-based company that has super chic, minimalist designs that don’t feel quite so basic, which is right up my alley,” says PureWow fashion editor Abby Hepworth. AUrate started when longtime friends and Moroccan and Dutch duo, Sophie Kahn and Bouchra Ezzahraoui, teamed up to create a line focused on fine jewelry with a contemporary twist. “Basically, it means that everything they make is wearable and accessible for every day but doesn’t look [like] pieces you can get everywhere else. The founders also put a big emphasis on sustainable and ethical production methods,” adds Hepworth. When it comes to everyday wear, she opts for the little diamond bezel necklace and a pair of deco fan pearl earrings that can easily be dressed up for a wine night or dressed down for a casual day at the office. They also have an engagement jewelry section to shop, which features a wide variety of beautiful and reasonably priced lab grown and natural diamonds.

• Why We Love It: diverse size range, sustainable and recycled materials, next-day shipping options, special request options for every piece, donate 10 percent of all profits to organizations that empower women like the Malala Fund and the body: a home for love
• Material: 14k gold-fill, 14k rose gold-fill, sterling silver, solid 14k gold
• Return Policy: 30 days for refund; exchange for store credit up to six months; prepaid return shipping label is included

Count on GLDN if you’re on the prowl for bridal gifts that’ll make your best group of gals cry. “The pieces are so sleek and timeless,” says PureWow commerce editor Olivia Dubyak. “I have a name plate necklace that’s held up so well over the years,” thanks to the high-quality, recycled and sustainable materials the brand sources for their designs. But what makes these pieces truly one-of-a-kind comes down to the details, like the incorporation of Roman numerals or a birth month flower etched into the gold-fill ring. And the feature we love the most? GLDN’s site includes a ‘ships next day’ section for last-minute shoppers that need to rush-order a gift or for impatient buyers like who simply can’t wait to wear their brand-new pieces.

• Why We Love It: bold and contemporary designs, one-year warranty policy, donates one percent of sales to organizations that uplift women
• Material: brass or stainless-steel metal base, 14K gold-, rhodium- or silver-plated, freshwater pearls, glass beads, biodegradable acetate, recycled steel and copper
• Return Policy: 14 days upon shipment delivery for refund on full priced items; sale items are final sale; free returns for Canadian and U.S. customers

Seen on the likes of Emma Blunt, Hilary Duff and Jessica Alba, JENNY BIRD is practically a household name amongst A-list celebs. And we totally get it. It’s hard not to fall head over heels for the jewelry collections when you see ‘em. These stunning designs are minimalistic to the core, but incredibly bold and sophisticated all the same. This Canadian-based jewelry retailer mastered the art of creating chunky pieces that enhance your spotlight rather than claim it. From the reimagined paperclip chain necklace to the voluminous cufflink-like earrings that are “like shoulder pads for your ears,” JENNY BIRD pieces command a room in the classiest way.

• Why We Love It: large selection of delicate pieces, 100 percent carbon and water neutral
• Material: 10k gold-plating, 14k gold-plating,sterling silver, brass, stainless steel, rhodium, Cubic Zirconia, natural gemstones, freshwater pearls, lab grown diamonds
• Return Policy: 30 days of the original delivery date for unworn and undamaged goods; free for U.S. customers; some final sale exceptions

As if serving up super-chic, everyday minimalistic jewelry pieces wasn’t enough, Ana Luisa is busy working on maintaining the earth’s longevity by remaining carbon and water neutral through their whole processes. For a brand that values quality over trends, they sure have some best-selling and trending pieces we can’t keep our eyes off of, like the Harley double hoop earrings which give off the illusion of having two piercings or the High Shine bundle that mixes two contrasting necklaces. “I purchased this bundle about six months ago, and despite frequent wear and occasional exposure to water and sweat, they still look brand new. The simplicity of the bundle is great,” raves one reviewer. On top of being extremely durable and water-resistant, the jewelry is also hypoallergenic and doesn’t irritate sensitive skin, according to reviews.

• Why We Love It: permanent dainty and timeless bracelets, surprise treats in packaging, ethically sourced
• Material: recycled diamonds, 14k gold, 18k gold, 22k gold, Sterling Silver, platinum, brass, bronze, opals, pearls
• Return Policy: online orders can be returned within ten days of the date your package was delivered; $5 return shipping charge; some final sale exceptions

ICYMI: Permanent bracelets were trending last summer. If you and your bestie forgot to set a date to get zapped at your nearest Catbird, there’s still time. Zapped or not zapped, Catbird’s online jewelry selection is incredibly alluring. From wispy elements to dripping chains and colorful gemstone placements, this Brooklyn-based brand is effortlessly chic. “Personally, I love Catbird's micro charms,” says PureWow VP of editorial, Candace Davidson. “You can get them engraved, making them a great gift, especially for someone who doesn't like feeling weighed down by jewelry.” Delicate they may be, meek they are not. The jewelry is durably crafted to last a long time, but if damage or breakage occurs, the brand has a two-year warranty from purchase date to send those in for fixing.

• Why We Love It: playful, whimsical and wearable designs
• Material: 18k gold over Sterling Silver or vermeil, 14k solid gold, 18k gold-plated
• Return Policy: accepts US order returns within 30 days in unworn, undamaged condition; cost of return label will be deducted from the final refund amount; free returns for exchange/store credit/replacement

OK, we’ll say it…Rellery puts the charm in charming. Flower charms, initial charms, engraved charms, symbol charms, you name it. But that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Founder Sally Rong started Rellery from her NYC apartment, finding the joy in creating one-of-a-kind gifts for herself and friends. This creative and playful spirit lives on in her designs as the company grew and orders spilled in. Enjoy picking out a favorite checkered ring (one of the brand’s signature items) or splurging on a pink ombre huggie or two. When it comes to quality and longevity, Rellery is second to none, according to PureWow assistant commerce editor Natalie LaBarbera. “I recently [bought from] Rellery and am so impressed with the quality of their jewelry! I've had a simple gold chain anklet on for a few days now and I absolutely love that it goes with everything.” They even sell compact travel jewelry organizers that come in various shades, like a moody rouge red in their soft vegan leather.

• Why We Love It: wide variety of affordable earscape sets, shop by hole piercing options
• Material: titanium, solid 14k gold, solid 18k gold tops
• Return Policy: accept returns made within 21 days of the initial purchase; must be in unworn condition with no signs of damage

If you’re on the hunt for earrings á la carte, look no further than Studs. Besides loving their cool classics and creative collabs, Studs is near the top of PureWow managing editor Catrina Yohay’s list for the high-quality earrings at reasonable prices. According to her, “They're the kind of pieces you can live in. I leave mine on overnight and while showering and after many months they've yet to tarnish.” No doubt thanks to the solid 14- or 18-karat gold set with titanium flatback posts for the sturdiest wear. “If you have multiple piercings, their earscape sets are a must for a curated look that costs less in the long run,” Yohay adds. We especially love their comprehensive (ear)ducation guide to help you understand all things ear piercings like proper aftercare, earscaping and a breakdown of the famous Studs snakebite piercing which, spoiler, does not, in fact, include snakes.

• Why We Love It: options to rework heirlooms into custom jewels, offer appraisals
• Material: 14k gold, platinum, tourmaline, opals, diamonds
• Return Policy: returns for store credit only (return shipping cost will be the client’s responsibility); no refunds, store credit or exchanges for custom jewelry

Marrow Fine wants customers to expect the unexpected when it comes to its modern keepsakes. When founder Jillian Sassone lost her grandmother, she inherited some of her most valuable relics. Wanting to keep these mementos close while making them her own, she started her brand. Known for specializing in ornate settings with rare, precious stones, Marrow Fine takes pride in producing rare jewelry you can’t find elsewhere. The best part? They breathe new life into your own treasures with a simple custom request on their website so you, too, can turn your great-grandmother’s brooch or your late-mother’s engagement ring into a beautiful keepsake of your own in eight to ten weeks.

• Why We Love It: signature cable twist designs, details pay homage to the fine arts
• Material: recycled gold, recycled sterling silver, 18k gold, 22k gold, sterling silver, stainless steel, titanium, anodized aluminum, ceramic, copper, rhodium-plated silver, precious and semi-precious gemstones
• Return Policy: full refund for online and store purchases returned within 45 days of their purchase date; outlet purchases are final sale

Unapologetically innovative and instinctively classic, David Yurman fuses three pillars to maintain the value of their pieces throughout the decades: fashion, art and jewelry. Together, husband and wife duo David and Sybil Yurman managed to combine their sculpting and painting prowess into what is now one of the leading luxury jewelers known for their signature cable twist designs that pay homage to French Impressionist color palettes. Like an art collector, PureWow assistant editor Destinee Scott doesn’t buy just any piece. “I'm not a jewelry person,” she says. “So when I buy jewelry, it’s investment pieces that will never go out style. David Yurman is at the top of my list because the pieces are high quality and last a very long time (my grandmother just gifted me her blue topaz set that looks brand new).” In addition to being long-lasting, they’re also transparently ethical and source the best-of-the-best conflict-free diamonds that comply with the Kimberly Process, an international process that verifies transparency on a diamond’s origin. David Yurman does tend to be on the pricier side, but if you’re looking for top-of-the-line jewelry staples for yourself or a loved one, it’s worth the investment.

• Why We Love It: option to engrave jewelry pieces for free, recycle your old jewelry for loyalty points
• Material: plated brass, plated sterling silver, 18k gold plating, 14k gold plating, rhodium plating
• Return Policy: do not accept returns on earrings for hygiene reasons; accept all other products for up to 28 days for a refund or exchange; sale items are final sale

Feeling let down by the impersonal experiences and lackluster designs from her own shopping excursions—and having inherited her mother’s love for accessories—Connie Nam sought inspiration from her Korean roots and nomadic lifestyle when she created Astrid & Miyu. The brand’s goal? To revolutionize the jewelry experience. If you’re located in New York, you can stop by the brand’s Nolita location and drop off your unwanted sterling silver and solid gold to be recycled. As a thank you, you’ll receive 1,000 loyalty points that are equivalent to $10 to spend online or in store. The money raised from your recycled accessories will go to The Felix Project, which fights food waste and hunger in the U.K. Erring further on the side of sustainability, the brand uses reusable jewelry pouches to reduce waste (that are oh-so cute, too).

• Why We Love It: coastal elegance, in-depth information on high-quality materials
• Material: 14k gold, 18k gold, 14k gold filled, .925 sterling silver
• Return Policy: within 14 days of delivery date in unworn, original condition with no damage; customer covers return shipping costs

RG’s mission? To create contemporary works with a "craft [that] is deeply rooted in the storied tradition of jewelry making.” If you’re looking to wear a touch of that California sunshine, then you’ll love how this brand masters that ‘golden girl’ essence by incorporating coastal inspiration in minimalist designs. Oh, and they sell their own foam-based jewelry cleaner in a non-aerosol pump (psst…that means no damage to the environment) complete with a brush, too, so you can breathe a bit easier having all the necessary tools to maintain the health of your precious keepsakes. Bottom line: Quality and fair pricing means everything for RG. But don’t just take our word for it. One RG reviewer can’t get over their purchase. “[I’m] in love with my Neptune necklace! The chain is very sturdy and the fact that it's gold-filled makes it less susceptible to tarnishing by the elements. However, you still have to take good care of gold-filled items. Haven't taken it off since I received it!”

• Why We Love It: option to make custom creations
• Material: lab-grown diamonds, gemstones, 18k gold, platinum
• Return Policy: must be requested via email and shipped back within 14 days of receipt of your order; in unworn, original condition with no damages; some exclusions apply

Tons of celebrities wear Jean Dousset, and for obvious reasons. Not only are the pieces jaw-dropping and of the upmost quality, they’re also extremely elegant. ICYMI: Jean Dousset is the great-great-grandson of Louis Cartier, so elegance runs in the family. “I recently got this pendant by Jean Dousset, and I'm obsessed,” says PureWow associate editor Marrisa Wu. “It's so dainty but packs an incredibly sparkly punch. I love how the delicate prongs add warmth but keep the focus on the (lab!) diamond.” Indeed, these elegant designs range from everyday staples to sentimental engagement rings and wedding bands for both him and her. Plus, Jean Doussset has a lifetime warranty policy for the occasional instance of a manufacturing defect.

• Why We Love It: incorporates art deco designs, transparency in creation, great return policy
• Material: recycled 18k gold, recycled 14k solid gold, recycled gold vermeil, sterling silver, conflict-free diamonds, natural gemstones, freshwater pearls
• Return Policy: within 100 days of purchase for a full refund; in a new, unworn condition and in their original, undamaged packaging; engraved pieces are non-returnable/non-refundable

You had us at art deco. Geometrical in design and rich in vibrancy, a Monica Vinader keepsake is easily identifiable. All the goods come with a ‘no-questions asked’ five-year warranty. The brand is also committed to sustainable practices and uses 100 percent recycled packaging. Recently, they introduced their newest initiative, the passport project, which lets you trace your Monica Vinader jewelry from conception to completion. While pushing the envelope on transparency in the jewelry biz, the brand continues to push the boundaries in make and style. They create cool collections that are reminiscent of the 1920’s with a modern twist (think: fresh takes on Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby). Don’t forget to take a peek at their assortment of leather jewelry boxes perfect for traveling and chic nesting dishes you’ll want to put on display.

• Why We Love It: incorporate e-coating over their metals, use intricate accents on most designs
• Material: 14k gold plating, rhodium plating, brass, genuine gemstones
• Return Policy: mustrequestwithin 21 days of the original shipping date

Made to be layered, Leeada’s pieces are uniquely intricate without being gaudy or overbearing. If you’re on the lookout for chunky chains or teardrop droop earrings for that destination wedding you have next month, Leeada’s your gal. The star embellishments, key pendants and turquoise accents certainly caught our eye, but picking a front runner is next to impossible. Rather than enameling or plating, Leeada coats the metals and chains with an e-coating, which is a fancy-shmancy term for an organic lacquer that helps your keepsakes last longer. (Here’s a breakdown on all the advantages of e-coating.) They provide a list of tips for those wondering how to properly care for their lovely Leeada bracelets and earrings, but you’ll find that it’s surprisingly similar to any other fine jewelry you may own: Put on perfume and lotion before, avoiding getting the material wet, clean with soap and water and so on and so forth—you know the drill.

• Why We Love It: build your own watch set, sleek Scandinavian influences
• Material: stainless steel, recycled polyester, nylon
• Return Policy: full refund and prepaid return labels for all online products within 14 days from the delivery date; in unworn, original condition

Say hello to the Scandinavian brand pioneering sustainability in watchmaking. If you want a hassle free, sleek watch that looks oh-so chic and put-together, than look no further than Nordgreen. Select from a multitude of watch faces to find one that complements your style and choose one or a few interchangeable straps to mix and match as you please. As for any watches that are sent back to the brand due to damage or manufacturing issues? Nordgreen gives them a second life by repurposing those outliers into refurbished watches that are completely repaired. And we get it, finding a watch can be overwhelming, especially when they tend to be on the piercer side. Nordgreen has stunning options for both men and women at extremely reasonable prices (we’re talking as low as $170), and they make online watch shopping rather enjoyable and—most importantly—easy. Shop by dial color, case color, strap, size, collaborations, vegan options and more like a build your own watch set section. Timeless beauty for the timekeeper is just a tick away.

• Why We Love It: excellent customer service
• Material: 14k gold, conflict-free diamonds
• Return Policy: 14 days from delivery date for a complimentary return with prepaid label on U.S. orders; some final sale item exclusions apply

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a concierge service you could go to for all your jewelry inquiries and needs? Oh wait, there is! Ring Concierge is known for making the engagement ring shopping experience unbelievably enjoyable. One client, who walked away with an emerald whisper thin engagement ring complete with trapezoid side stones says, “The team was so knowledgeable and helpful, and I was able to design the ring of our dreams.” Whether you’re finally purchasing that tennis bracelet you’ve been saving for or you plan to drop big bucks on diamond earrings, Ring Concierge is with you every step of the way. They encourage shoppers to utilize their chat, phone or email customer care service as you build your jewelry wardrobe.

• Why We Love It: engravable gifts, pieces will coordinate with every wardrobe
• Material: 14k gold, 18k gold, sterling silver plating, brass, classic diamonds, genuine precious gemstones
• Return Policy: returns are accepted within 30 days of purchase for unworn items

If you’ve wanted to get your hands on the Laguna Beach-based brand celebs like Jennifer Lopez and Michelle Obama can’t get enough of, now is your chance. We recommend taking a peak at the best-selling Parker necklaces, which you can make uniquely yours with charms. Aside from throwing trunk shows, opening up bicoastal storefronts and building a booming online business, Gorjana’s founding couple, Gorjana and Jason Reidel, also keeps philanthropy in mind, with annual donations The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Baby2Baby, Toys For Tots and Dress For Success. This caring nature is felt in the customer service experience, too. They make it extremely easy to shop by type, collection, metals, stone, type or best-sellers, but if you have lingering questions, you can use their chat bar to find answers or speak with a representative.