Jewelry Sets: The Three Different Levels of Matching

by Rena Klingenberg. © 2003-Present Rena Klingenberg. All Rights Reserved

Jewelry Sets: The Three Different Levels of Matching, by Rena Klingenberg, Jewelry Making Journal

What’s your approach to jewelry sets?

Do you prefer a set of matching pieces, or mixing it up a bit?

I’ve come up with these three “matching levels” for jewelry items that are worn together:

1) Completely Matching Jewelry:

Pieces that are made with identical materials and techniques, and look noticeably alike.

Example of completely matching jewelry – from my Leaf and Vine wire bracelet tutorial and earring tutorial:

Jewelry Sets:  The Three Different Levels of Matching - Level 1 Completely Matching, by Rena Klingenberg, Jewelry Making Journal

2) Coordinating Jewelry Pieces:

Pieces that share some characteristics (such as color, shape, or technique) – but are not completely matching.

Example of coordinating jewelry – from my Riveted Pendant tutorial and Rectangle Hoop Earring tutorial:

Jewelry Sets:  The Three Different Levels of Matching - Level 2 Coordinating Jewelry Pieces, by Rena Klingenberg, Jewelry Making Journal

3) Completely Unrelated Pieces:

Pieces that don’t share any characteristics.

Example of completely unrelated jewelry – from my Dangerous Curves Necklace tutorial and Flower Power Button Ring tutorial:

The Three Different Levels of Matching - Level 3 Completely Unrelated Jewelry Pieces, by Rena Klingenberg, Jewelry Making Journal

My Preference

When I wear completely matching jewelry sets, I feel uncomfortable – like I’m wearing someone else’s style.

Instead, I’m more comfortable wearing coordinating pieces that share some characteristics, like these turquoise stone earrings paired with this polymer clay pendant:

Jewelry Sets: The Three Different Levels of Matching, by Rena Klingenberg, Jewelry Making Journal

These turquoise stone earrings are about 25 years older than the polymer clay pendant – and a completely different material. But I love wearing these coordinating pieces together!

What do you prefer?

When it comes to matching jewelry sets,

  • What level of matching do you wear?
  • What do you make?
  • What do your customers prefer?

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