Diamonds are not created equally. Some are lavish and loud while others make a quiet statement. Some are so brilliant as to turn every head in the room, while some simply embellish your natural beauty. And while there are no rules that tell you when and where to display your diamonds, there certainly seems to be some etiquette tied up in wearing your diamonds out and about. So here are a few simple guidelines for the girl who wants to know when it’s okay to break out the diamonds.
1. Work. Diamonds can definitely be worn in the professional setting, but the key word is still professional. You don’t want to walk into the office sporting every diamond in your arsenal, so as a rule, keep it understated and elegant. One or two small-to-medium sized pieces are quite enough.
2. An evening out. If you’re going to dinner, base your selection on the place. A checkered tablecloth is no call for lavish diamond jewelry while you’ll want to avoid anything nice if your venue includes bibs and mallets. If, on the other hand, you are frequenting a five-star establishment, feel free to go overboard and bust out the Heart of the Ocean (in other words, your best diamonds).
3. Casual functions. If you’re attending a school play, a casual luncheon, or any other event that allows you to wear jeans and a t-shirt, you certainly won’t want to get too fancy or fussy with your jewelry. Pair up a diamond ring, a tennis bracelet, or a small pair of studs with other less-expensive jewelry to keep it low key.
4. Family affairs. What you wear to a family function really depends on the message you’re trying to send. If you want to show off, wearing large diamonds (or copious amounts of them) will send your message loud and clear (likely to the consternation of all present). You may be better suited (and appear more gracious) by toning down the diamonds and laying on the love instead.
5. Special events. Again, your level of adornment depends on the event. A night at the opera practically demands extravagance, while going to a wedding precludes outshining the bride. So use your head when selecting diamonds for a particular event, and decide whether you want to wow with an ostentatious display or show some tact with downplay.
