Designers and brands are melding tradition and contemporary elements to create innovative pieces that resonate with consumers’ heightened desire for individuality.

New York-based Rebecca Rau Jewels recently unveiled the Then & Now Collection, a fusion of ancient artifacts and modern adornment. Drawing inspiration from historical artifacts spanning from 1200 BC to 1880 AD, each piece integrates ancient treasures with modern gemstones, precious metals and pearls.

“Then & Now is an act of preservation through reinvention. Each one-of-a-kind piece holds a conversation between what was and what might be, between the craftsman of another age and the artist of today. Rebecca Rau’s work reminds us that jewellery, at its most profound, is a vessel for memory, story and the enduring pursuit of beauty,” the brand stated.

The 'Reimagined Jasper' necklace lies at the heart of the collection. This Renaissance-inspired statement piece centres on a 1st-2nd century AD brown-jasper fragment, framed by unheated orange zircons, umbalite garnets and Tahitian pearls. The pendant hangs from an 18-karat yellow gold French “book” chain, dating to circa 1865.

Meanwhile, Gucci and Pomellato have jointly launched Monili, a high jewellery line that reflects a shared philosophy of craftsmanship and unites Gucci’s leatherwork heritage with Pomellato’s mastery in goldsmithing and gem-setting.

Inspired by Pomellato’s archival designs from 1984, the Monili Collection brings together essential forms and precious materials in a series of distinctive pieces. For instance, the bracelets feature brown or black leather with diamond pavé set in 18-karat gold.

“The name, Monili – Italian for “jewels” – speaks to the collection’s poetic spirit and enduring refinement. Defined by balance, contrast, and intention, it embodies clarity of form and a contemporary vision of timeless design. Sculptural silhouettes and signature codes are reimagined in gold, diamonds and rich leather,” said Gucci.