Gold expert Jan Springer shares the latest jewellery looks

May is Gold Month, and we're really excited about the new jewellery we'll be bringing you! Jan Springer's here to talk about the latest looks in gold.

Jan's been involved in the jewellery and precious metals industry since 1970. As well as QVC, her clients include The Goldsmiths Company and the World Gold Council.

What styles are coming up for summer and beyond?

The layered look is really taking off. It's all about mix and match - lots of different lengths, weights and styles of chain worn together, and bangles layered with slim link bracelets. There's a real east-meets-west look to this style. The rule is that there really are no rules! It's a great way to use your existing jewellery and mix it up with a few new pieces to freshen up the look.

If you're only looking for one key piece to add to your collection, what would you go for?

I would say look for anything in rose gold. It was everywhere at the latest jewellery fairs, and has made the cross-over from the designer watch market into all aspects of jewellery. It's such a soft, feminine finish, and is especially perfect for the summer months as it looks great with a tan. Of course, rose gold represents love, so a piece of rose gold jewellery makes the ultimate romantic gift.

Is there anything else we should keep an eye out for?

There's been a leap forward in jewellery technology in recent years, so there are lots of new and exciting finishes to look out for. There's deep diamond cutting which gives individual pieces the appearance of gemset sparkle; delicate frosting that will look particularly good in the summer; and a new highly polished yellow, almost citrus finish that's taking the market by storm.

Are statement pieces, such as cocktail rings, still big news?

Not so much this season - it's more about creating your signature look than it is about the 'bling bling'. Large pieces are still out there, but if you're more comfortable with smaller, more discreet pieces, then this can be 'your' look. This season, more than ever before, it's about how you feel in your jewellery, rather than following the crowd.

Despite the price of gold rising, it's as popular as ever. Why do you think that is?

Traditionally, in times of uncertainty, gold is seen as a constant. It generally holds its value well and is viewed as portable wealth. If you're feeling the pinch in your purse, gold can be a good way to spoil yourself without having to spend much - though of course, you can spend a great deal on gold jewellery if you can afford it!

Why do goldsmiths still choose to work with gold?

Although the choice of metals for goldsmiths to work is huge, their preference is still for gold. This is not just because of the sense of preciousness; it's an incredibly giving metal that's very malleable and lends itself to many techniques and finishes that simply can't be achieved with other metals.

Why do you think that gold jewellery never falls out of fashion?

Although trends come and go in jewellery, I believe gold has a unifying effect on everyone that wears it. My job has taken right around the world, and wherever I go, the love of gold is the same. There's a very deep-rooted, almost instinctive connection with gold in all its forms. In times gone by it was a symbol of power as well as wealth, and I don't think we've ever lost that emotional link with this most precious of metals. You can see this reflected in the fact that gold jewellery often becomes an heirloom object spanning generations of families - something I've seen in nearly every country I've visited.

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Comments

[Susan Burr]

Hello!
I am in the United States and I watch QVC on a regular basis. I love gold jewelry and was wondering if the new chocolate gold is popular in the UK.

[Krysia Saul]

Any programme with Jan Springer is a delight to watch quite simply because of her quiet and gentle but authoritative presence. I would value her advice if she can spare the time.

I would like to purchase one "good" suite of jewellery - a necklace, earrings and bracelet - that will remain contemporary. While individual pieces don't have to be matching I would like them to work well with each other.

I prefer white to yellow gold, but concede that gold might be more enduring. I like sharp, clean, contemporary rather floral, fussy styles. The Spiga chain is a favourite. Could Jan offer some suggestions and also where is the best place to buy. I'm going to Venice end of October so any recommendations for jewellery shopping there would be much appreciated.

[June Laushway]

Hi

Will Stefano Oro be back this month or any time in the future? I am interested in buying something.

Many thanks.

June L.

[Ann Fox]

My father and I have bought items 679617 and 685466 two tone gold bangle and necklace for my mum and wonder if you are going to be doing matching earrings. She absolutely loves them and we would like to be able to complete the set.