Statement Jewelry: The hardest part is choosing what to say

Old Euro Diamond Cushion Cut Emerald Ruby Sapphire Brooch 18k Gold Mixed Gemstone Flower Brooch $1,899. Courtesy of Ruby Lane

When you think of your personal style, where do you begin? When it comes to statement jewelry, a pin or a brooch is just a little thing, but it can say a lot. It can reflect one's mood, or one's passion for a hobby. How fitting is it that we so often speak with our hands, so a flash of jewelry can draw attention to our hands, emphasizing "what we say."

My own statements, however, aren't even in the same hemisphere as former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright's statements. Albright reveals in her book "Read My Pins" that she would choose the pins she wore according to the occasion or how she felt. For instance, since Saddam Hussein called Albright a serpent, whenever the U.S. was dealing with Iraq she would wear an antique snake pin.

Whatever your mood, or whatever you're feeling, I'm fairly certain you can find a bauble (either fine or costume) to suit it on RubyLane.com.

For example, a 1960s domed cocktail ring comprised of coral, lapis lazuli, and diamonds for a red, white, and blue effect. Measuring 20mm x 7.5mm, the size and color can't be ignored. Set in 14 karat yellow gold, and weighing in at $2,895, it's a statement piece.

More statement jewelry on Ruby Lane

Check out some of these other jewelry pieces that make one pause and take notice. All courtesy of Ruby Lane.

Antique Victorian Sunburst Diamond Pendant Brooch Vintage 10k Yellow Gold $475. Courtesy of Ruby Lane

Vintage Egyptian Silver Scarab with Turquoise, Synthetic and Natural Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds and White Paste Stones$500

Very Unique and gorgeous Stanley Hagler, N.Y.C. Under the Sea rhinestone, seed pearl, crystal, art glass, enamel and gilt figural fish brooch or pin. The brooch features a large black enamel fish with white enamel circles. The fish is mounted on blue seed pearl flowers with crystal centers which is a Hagler classic. $169. Courtesy of Ruby Lane

Stunning and large vintage signed Claudette emerald, sapphire, aurora borealis rhinestone and keystone brooch and matching clip style earrings. The set features a gorgeous combination of stones including emerald green keystones and baguettes, sapphire blue chatons, baguettes and navettes and aurora borealis chatons. $94. Courtesy of Ruby Lane

Victorian 14 karat rose gold opal ring size 10. The cushion cut rectangular Opal cabochon is 1.00 ct. $540. Courtesy of Ruby Lane

Finely detailed vintage dome cocktail ring (circa 1960s), crafted in 14 karat yellow gold. Fluted lapis lazuli measures 20mm x 7.5mm and fluted coral measures 20mm x 7.5mm. $2,895. Courtesy of Ruby Lane

"fine jewelry"antique jewelry Ruby Lane

Karen KnapsteinAuthor