Whether you're accessorizing for work or play, having the right jewellery can go a long way in helping you project an image of confidence and individual style. But how do you develop that style when you're building your jewellery wardrobe from scratch?

According to the experts, developing your own style means, "knowing yourself": what you like and dislike. To determine this, ask yourself "What is my ideal?" and "What turns my head?" Decide if that means contemporary or classic jewellery styles; streamlined or detailed; coloured stones or white diamonds.

Next, make sure what you've selected fits your personality and lifestyle. Comfort is a must. If something is either physically or psychologically uncomfortable to wear, you'll have trouble projecting the kind of confidence and competence integral to developing a personal style.

As for the jewellery itself, stick with the basics in the beginning. The rule of thumb is to always buy the best-quality basics you can afford, so you can add matching pieces later. In gold jewellery, such basics should include a gold chain necklace, classic hoop or button earrings, and a link bracelet. In diamond jewellery, classic stud earrings or a solitaire ring shouldn’t be missing from any woman’s jewelry case. The myth saying that diamond jewelry fits only to formal occasions has been overruled since long. You can wear your diamond solitaire all day long. Diamonds match to almost all appearances. Even an old “used” pair of jeans can be combined perfectly with them, provided they are not loaded with other accessories.

Thereafter you can expand your collection additing pieces which are determining your style. A simple dress becomes charming when additing an impressive gold ring with a precious stone. A brooche in gold with multicolour gems is enough to set the tone of femininity to a strict set. A pearl necklace dresses your decollete, without any other color to your outfit.

And, don’t underestimate the earrings. Earrings are the jewels, which are closer to your face and they can brighten it, highlight the strong points and hide the weak. Take care at the shape of your face: a round shape should seek elongated, dangling styles that draw the eyes down, rather than around. For a rectangular face, try jewellery that adds width, camouflaging the length of the face. And for heart-shaped faces, look for earrings that are wider at the bottom, because style can soften a pointed chin look. However what is true for all face types is that with a pair of stunning earrings you can steal the show.

Bizzare, sophisticated or simple, jewels inspire us and do not only define our style but also our mood. Enjoy them...