Vintage diamond-cut belcher bracelet

Remember when there was no internet connection? Paparazzi ran wild, capturing every angle of your favourite fashion icons. And the rules? There were none. You could be minimalist, grunge, hip-hop, rave, or goth. Each subculture had its own style, its own presence on the runway, and its own defining figures. Jewellery was no exception. Designs in both white and yellow metals were used to accessorise completely different aesthetics.

From barely-there pieces like fine chains, pendants, and micro huggies, as seen on Carolyn Bessette, to chunky gold creole hoops worn by R&B songstresses, the spectrum was wide. Diamonds moved out of formality and into everyday wear, while logo pieces, nameplates, and statement pendants added a sense of identity and status. At the same time, silver jewellery, chokers, and darker, more industrial designs defined grunge and goth aesthetics, while rave culture introduced playful, synthetic materials designed for movement and light.