High jewellery is commanding renewed attention in 2026. At a time when gold and silver prices continue to soar, collectors are gravitating towards exceptional pieces that prioritise craftsmanship, rarity and artistic storytelling. Recent showcases and auctions, including the Couture Jewellery Show in Las Vegas, high-jewellery sales in Geneva by Christie’s and Sotheby’s, and Dior’s latest Diorissima haute joaillerie collection, have highlighted some of the key trends shaping the category this year.
Key Trends
Cord Necklaces with Supersized Pendants
Statement pendants are getting bigger and bolder, often woven into cords. High-jewellery brands such as Emily P. Wheeler and Uniform Object showcased oversized gemstones and pendants suspended from leather, velvet and rubber cords, while Francesca Villa and Lalaounis made the pendant the focal point of the entire look at the Couture Jewellery Show 2027.
Quirky, Playful Shapes
From popsicles and seashells to fish and Egyptian Pharaohs, designers are embracing whimsy. Van Cleef & Arpels’ 2026 High Jewellery collection paid tribute to the world of the Egyptian pharaohs through whimsical, sculptural motifs and unexpected forms.
Coloured Gemstones
Richly hued gemstones, like emeralds, rubies and sapphires, remain a defining feature of high jewellery. Dior’s Diorissima haute joaillerie collection exemplified this trend with its dazzling array of coloured stones.
High jewellery is resurging globally, driven by the growing desire for heirloom-worthy pieces. Gems like emeralds, rubies, sapphires, paraíba tourmalines, and rare spinels have become focal points collections. They are often paired with diamonds to create striking contrasts and stronger visual identities, according to Riva Dhir, creative director of a jewellery brand.
Larger-than-Life Designs
Maisons are embracing scale and spectacle. Bvlgari’s Eclettica collection 2026 celebrated eclecticism through bold, wearable works of art, while Chopard’s Miracles collection translated nature’s small wonders into cinematic, one-of-a-kind jewels.
Strands of Beads, Pearls & Gems
Long necklaces featuring colourful beads, pearls and gemstones are having a moment. Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection highlighted the trend with layered strands that added colour, texture and movement.
