Whether you’re looking to up your style game or treat your lady gang back home, these Australian finds are a must-have for any traveller. Don’t forget to bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Byron Bay-based label Temple of the Sun is known for intricate gold and silver jewellery. Their Lotus necklace, for example, is a symbol of friendship and optimism.
1. Rings
Whether it’s a delicate gold chain, oversized pearls or a layered earring collection that you need to elevate your look, Australian jewellery brands have got you covered. Local label Sir. is best known for crafting must-have ready-to-wear styles in dreamy fabrics and prints, but they’ve recently ventured into the jewellery industry with a collection of rings that are sure to turn heads. Featuring an edit of spheres, hoops and drops, there’s something for every style.
For a more contemporary approach to bohemian accessories, head to Sydney-based boutique Saint Valentine Jewellery. The jewellery and accessory brand’s collections — which include staple gold and silver necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets — are meticulously crafted by hand in the studio using sustainable practices like metal recycling and minimal impact packaging. They also offer an at-home trial service to ensure you’re getting the perfect fit.
Other Byron Bay-based jewellery brands that deserve your attention include Bixby & Co and F+H, which both create statement pieces inspired by music subcultures as well as industrial hardware. Featuring unique designs with androgynous appeal, these pieces will add some edge to your wardrobe.
Reliquia is another favourite for jewellery fans seeking modern heirlooms that are influenced by relics and family treasures. Each piece is crafted by hand in the Sydney studio with precious metals and semi-precious gemstones. You can even personalise your jewellery with engraved messages and affirmations from Sydney-based label By Charlotte, which counts Dua Lipa, Taylor Swift and Alicia Vikander among its fans.
Lastly, for those who prefer a more minimalist approach to jewellery, check out the artisanal offerings from Melbourne-based brand Elso. The jewellery brand’s collections feature everything from delicate gold chains and rings to hoop earrings, necklaces and pendants, all crafted by local artisans. Plus, $5 from every purchase goes towards iEqualChange to support refugees.
2. Earrings
Earrings are the perfect jewellery items to take on your trip as they can easily turn a casual outfit into an elevated look. They can also add a touch of elegance to a more formal attire. When choosing the best earrings to wear, opt for a pair that are dainty and light so that they won’t weigh you down when worn for long periods of time.
You may also want to consider wearing studs instead of hanging earrings as these are easier to handle when it comes to everyday wear. Another great option are drop earrings that hang below the earlobe, which can range from simple pearls to intricate metal carvings. You can even try out cluster earrings which consist of several tightly-packed gems and stones for a more dramatic style.
The rugged landscape and flora of Australia have inspired various jewellery designs. For example, pearls cultured along the coast are commonly used in necklaces and earrings. The country’s rich history of gold mining has also influenced the jewellery it produces. For instance, rings and bracelets with gold nugget motifs are popular with both locals and tourists.
When choosing the best jewellery to bring on your trip, make sure that it can be worn with multiple outfits and won’t attract unwanted attention from thieves or pickpockets. Additionally, it’s always wise to leave your wedding ring at home and wear a placeholder ring while traveling as it will be safer and less alluring for potential thieves.
It’s also a good idea to choose pieces made of materials that will not irritate the skin when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time. This will reduce the risk of having a negative skin reaction and protect your jewellery from damage and fading due to prolonged sun exposure.
It’s also a smart move to pack some bobby pins with you in case your earrings become tangled and entangled with one another. This will prevent them from falling off during your trip and will make the untangling process a lot easier. You can also use the simple straw hack to keep your necklaces tangle-free, which you can find on this helpful tutorial.
3. Necklaces
You’ll find that necklaces are like mini time capsules, allowing you to tell your story through every move and glimmer. From a dainty initial necklace to an opera-length pearl statement piece, these accessories will take your look to the next level. Whether you’re looking to add some whimsy or to commemorate a special occasion, we’ve got the perfect pieces to elevate your wardrobe (and your trip).
If your style leans more towards a minimalist aesthetic, Australian jewellery brand Kirstin Ash’s curated collection of effortless everyday essentials will surely meet your needs. From gold bands that are perfect for stacking to delicate pearl designs, the brand’s bespoke items make great heirlooms down the line.
Another label that’s dripping with soul is Melbourne-based boutique Aletheia & Phos. Founded on the philosophy of connection, each piece is designed with sentiment and intention, which is clearly seen in their I Carry Your Heart range. The collection features a variety of half-circle pendants with Australian flora patterns and pale pink morganite stones, making it the perfect way to keep loved ones close to your heart.
Similarly, Sydney-based Alana Maria offers a selection of dainty, simple gold and silver jewellery with timeless design elements. The brand’s sculptural hoop earrings, delicate pendants and choker-style chains are ideal for outlasting the fashion cycle and will become go-tos in your everyday rotation.
If you’re looking for a more extravagant addition to your jewellery box, Hamish Munro is the Australian designer for you. Using 9 and 18-carat golds along with sterling silver, the brand’s jewellery is crafted from gems including Australian sapphires, emeralds and rubies.
If you’re looking to commemorate a special occasion, consider the label’s locket necklaces. The minimalist pieces allow you to fill them with a printed picture of a loved one, a snippet from a love letter or any other tiny keepsake that’s near and dear to your heart. The best part? They’ll only go out of style when your memories do.
4. Bracelets
A stylish bracelet is one of the most coveted accessories. It dresses up everyday outfits and sets off formal attire with elegance. Whether you prefer dainty bracelets, a stacked mix of different styles or a gold bangle, there’s a perfect bracelet out there for everyone.
Silver is a popular metal that can be used to create both bracelets and earrings. It is a softer metal than gold and can be easily molded into intricate designs. Silver can tarnish over time, but it is easily polished and cleaned to restore its shine. Some silver bracelets are plated with gold to protect the metal from tarnishing and to add color to the piece.
Another common type of bracelet is a cuff. These are wide or thin bracelets that slip over the wrist. They are tighter than bangles and don’t move up or down the arm when they are worn. Cuffs can be a simple accent or a bold statement and look great when paired with dainty earrings.
If you love the idea of a bold cuff bracelet, check out Australian jewelry brand Linden Cook. This brand combines European bohemian glamour with 1980s excess, and its pieces are designed to be worn for every occasion. The label’s signature motifs include skulls, arrows, crosses and heart shapes.
Another jewelry brand to check out is Christie Nicolaides, which specializes in handmade Australian opal jewelry. Opal is the national gemstone of Australia, and it’s also featured on Sydney’s public transportation card. The brand offers a wide range of handcrafted necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets. The collection includes a variety of stones, including semi-precious and precious gems, glass, enamel and plated brass.
If you’re looking for a more unique piece, try a charm bracelet. This type of bracelet comes with a central pendant that hangs from a chain. The pendant is often shaped like a heart, lock, cross or letter, and you can add additional charms to the bracelet when you’re ready to switch up your style. Charm bracelets can make a great gift for a loved one or even yourself.
