classy necklaces

Mexico's Guillermo Arregui designs a luminous choker of arresting beauty. It is cast of sterling silver and centered by a glowing amber gem. Crowned with an iridescent pearl and peridot, the pendant glistens with tumbaga, a gold and copper alloy developed since pre-Hispanic times.

.925 Sterling silver

When used in jewelry, amber beads can include a stunning arrangement of tones and hues. Natural amber ranges from yellow to deep orange. It may sometimes even have a green cast to it, as well as opaque swirls within. Because amber is the preserved resin of prehistoric trees that grew millions of years ago, it sometimes has tiny inclusions of plants and insects -- making it highly prized.

This fresh and original necklace design from Khun Boom in Thailand features mixed metals with different finishes. A textured and oxidized sterling silver bezel with polished 24k gold plated prongs embraces a beautiful pale pink chalcedony. The pendant centers a classic sterling silver cable chain. Weighing five carats, the chalcedony gem is faceted in a checkerboard style.

A hand-painted wreath of blue blooms travels from artisan Juana Ponce's atelier to your life, crowning your days with a glorious look. Ceramic and a 14k gold-plated cable chain compose this necklace, whose pendant is inspired by Mexico's classic Talavera pottery.

Mexico's Monica Vazquez honors the traditional Talavera artistry in this 10k gold-accented necklace—blue as the region's midnights. Polished for a lustrous look, the accessory showcases a ceramic pendant of classic hand-painted motifs. A gorgeous tassel completes the design, boasting a matching blue hue.

Classic Balinese jewelry techniques are on full display in this elegant two-tone necklace handcrafted in the village of Celuk. Curling wirework and small silver droplets called jawan are delicately placed by hand using tiny tweezers to create elegant and versatile jewelry you'll turn to every day. 18-karat-gold plated bands complement the selectively oxidized sterling silver.