Fine jewellery and luxury watches have always been symbols of opulence, tradition, and status, but as we enter 2025, the conversation around them is shifting. No longer confined to mere adornment, jewellery and watches are now powerful tools for self-expression and empowerment. Women are becoming the driving force behind this change—demanding innovation, sustainability, and style. In this article, we dive into the evolution of modern jewellery and watches, highlighting key designers to watch, the art of layering jewellery for a contemporary look, the rise of lab-grown diamonds, and the growing trend of women as the biggest investors in luxury watches. Plus, we offer a guide on how to start your own luxury watch collection.

1. Jewellery Designers to Watch in 2025

Pioneering a new era of fine jewelry.

The world of fine jewellery in 2025 is one of dynamism, where established houses are blending their legacies with the bold visions of rising stars. Designers today are shifting away from the conventional, pushing boundaries in materials, creativity, and sustainable practices. Here are a few designers to keep on your radar:

Nicole Kidman x Omega

While Nicole Kidman is better known for her Hollywood roles, her collaboration with Omega has redefined how celebrities influence the jewelry world. Her curated collection for the Swiss luxury watchmaker offers a sophisticated balance of modern designs with timeless elegance, featuring watches that merge precision with cutting-edge craftsmanship. Kidman’s taste for understated luxury makes her pieces perfect for the modern woman who values both style and functionality.

Bibi van der Velden

Known for her whimsical yet luxurious creations, Bibi van der Velden has made her mark by incorporating unique materials like precious metals, wood, and even feathers into her fine jewelry collections. In 2025, she is expected to continue her innovative approach, focusing on pieces that evoke nature, empowerment, and individuality. Her designs are playful but rooted in sustainability, aligning with the values of the modern consumer.

Johan Peter Frick x Frick Watches

For those venturing into luxury watches, Johan Peter Frick offers pieces that combine artisanal craftsmanship with Swiss precision. Frick’s watch designs are inspired by historical timepieces but with a futuristic twist, making them a perfect choice for women who appreciate both heritage and innovation. His craftsmanship and use of sustainable materials ensure that his watches not only tell time but also tell a story of responsible luxury.

2. How to Layer Jewellery for a Chic, Modern Look

Mastering the art of layering for personal expression.

Layering jewellery is one of the most personal ways to showcase your style. In 2025, it’s about striking the perfect balance,creating a look that’s bold, yet elegant, and personal, yet chic. Here’s how to layer jewellery for a modern, sophisticated appearance:

Start with a Statement Piece

When layering, begin with one standout piece. A bold necklace or a large cocktail ring can serve as the focal point of your look. For example, a chunky gold cuff or a large diamond-encrusted pendant can be paired with delicate necklaces or stacking rings to create balance. The key is to let the statement piece shine without overwhelming the rest of the look.

Play with Length and Texture

To create dimension, vary the length of your necklaces and bracelets. Long chains can be layered with shorter chokers or delicate necklaces for contrast. Similarly, stacking thin bands with a larger statement ring can add depth to your fingers. Play with textures, mixing different metals or combining shiny gold with matte finishes for an intriguing visual effect.

Mix and Match Styles

Gone are the days when all your jewellery had to match perfectly. In 2025, it’s about combining contrasting pieces for a curated look. Layering a vintage brooch with a contemporary diamond necklace or mixing rose gold with platinum can create a unique, stylish outcome. The idea is to curate a collection of jewellery that speaks to your personality, rather than strictly following traditional matching rules.

3. The Appeal of Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Traditional Stones

Why lab-grown diamonds are reshaping the fine jewelry landscape.

As sustainability continues to be a driving force in the luxury industry, lab-grown diamonds are gaining traction as a modern alternative to traditional mined stones. But how do these two options compare, and why are women increasingly turning to lab-grown diamonds in 2025?

Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing

Lab-grown diamonds are produced in controlled environments using renewable energy sources, making them a more eco-friendly option compared to mined diamonds, which are associated with significant environmental impact and ethical concerns. The process of mining can often involve exploitative labor practices, whereas lab-grown diamonds offer a transparent and ethical path to owning a diamond.

Quality and Value

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds, meaning they have the same brilliance, hardness, and durability. The primary difference is the price tag. Lab-grown diamonds are often more affordable than their natural counterparts, allowing for larger stones or more intricate designs without the hefty price tag.

However, traditional diamonds still hold a special allure, particularly in terms of their rarity and the stories attached to them. Some buyers remain drawn to the romance of owning a piece of natural history, whether it’s a family heirloom or a unique gem sourced from a remote location.

Choosing the Right Diamond for You

Whether you opt for a lab-grown or mined diamond depends on your personal values and priorities. If sustainability is important to you, a lab-grown diamond is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to the legacy and tradition of natural diamonds, their rarity and emotional significance make them a timeless investment. Both options represent the modern woman’s desire for quality, beauty, and conscious consumerism.

4. Women as the Biggest Investors in Watches

@pulseonthewrist

The rise of women collectors in the luxury watch market.

The luxury watch market has traditionally been male-dominated, but in recent years, women have emerged as some of the biggest investors in high-end timepieces. In 2025, women are not just wearing watches;they are curating collections, becoming collectors, and investing in timepieces that speak to their style, sophistication, and financial acumen.

Watches as a Statement of Empowerment

For women today, luxury watches have become more than just a functional accessory; they are a powerful symbol of independence, success, and personal taste. A luxury watch collection is a statement of confidence, a nod to both fine craftsmanship and an appreciation for timeless elegance. Whether it’s a Patek Philippe, Rolex, or a Cartier, investing in a high-end watch is no longer just about keeping time—it’s about making a statement.

Why Women are Investing in Watches

The appeal of luxury watches lies in their dual function as both jewelry and investment pieces. Watches from prestigious brands tend to appreciate in value over time, making them a smart financial decision. For women, watches offer the opportunity to invest in something beautiful and enduring, an asset that can be passed down through generations.

How to Start Your Luxury Watch Collection

If you’re looking to start your own luxury watch collection, the key is to approach it with intention and knowledge. Begin with classic pieces that have a proven history of value appreciation. A Rolex Datejust or a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso are excellent starting points due to their timeless design and strong resale potential.

When curating your collection, consider a mix of iconic pieces, limited editions, and watches with unique features or complications. Be mindful of provenance, condition, and rarity—these are the factors that can elevate the value of your collection over time. The key is to balance personal style with investment potential, ensuring that your collection tells a story and holds lasting value.

Conclusion: Empowering Women Through Jewellery and Watches

Jewellery and watches in 2025 are more than just symbols of luxury—they represent empowerment, individuality, and personal expression. As women continue to redefine their role as both consumers and investors in fine jewellery and timepieces, we are seeing a shift towards more sustainable, ethical, and personalised luxury. Whether it’s through layering pieces for a chic modern look, investing in a lab-grown diamond, or curating a luxury watch collection, the world of fine jewellery and watches is becoming a powerful tool for women to express their identities and values.

As you step into the new year, let your jewellery and watches be a reflection of your personal journey; a celebration of the past, a statement of the present, and an investment in the future.