is not so unlike collecting paintings, ceramics or wine links of london stores. You seek out the best examples of a particular category, whether it’s Deco-era Cartier or contemporary studio jewelry. But as opposed to other fine collectibles, you can wear your prized pieces, have them function as objects that enhance you Links Charms . When chosen confidently, with an eye for timeless design, jewelry can become the most powerful accessory in your wardrobe, an indelible stamp of your personal taste.

“The key to creating the ultimate jewelry collection is to find designs that are unique but that can stand up to changing fashions,” says Russell Zelenetz, co-owner of Stephen Russell in New York City. “You don’t want jewelry to be so high-fashion that it’s out of style next year. At the same time, you don’t want it to be staid.”

The Duchess of Windsor was famous for her jewels Links Necklaces , most of which were commissioned by the duke, a noted jewelry connoisseur. The Windsors could afford the most opulent jewelry in the world yet gravitated to decidedly tasteful, chic pieces by designers such as Suzanne Belperron, who often worked with semiprecious stones like agate or chalcedony. Seventy years later, Belperron’s creations are among the most sought-after anywhere.

“If your jewelry is striking and well-coordinated, you don’t have to wear the most beautiful clothing in the world,” says Candy Udell, who co-owns the five-store London Jewelers chain, which has locations in Southampton and East Hampton, New York. “When you walk into a room, people notice the jewelry first.”

Wearing unique estate jewelry is one way to ensure you’ll have that effect in a room. “A great piece of jewelry never goes out of style,” says Ellen Israel, of Kentshire Galleries in New York. “Jewelry made in France and America in the 1930s and ’40s had a level of design and craftsmanship that can’t be touched now sweetie Bracelet. The trick is to find pieces that express your individual taste and personality.”