10 Jewelry Trends Experts Say Shoppers Are Choosing Most at Jewelry Stores Near You Ahead of Thanksgiving and the 2026 Holidays

There’s a reason teardrop earrings have remained popular for formal occasions. The elongated shape creates a graceful line beneath the earlobe, and the clear stones catch the light whenever you move. A 2026 guide to modern drop-earring designs includes classic pear-cut stones among the styles that continue to appeal to jewelry shoppers. For this Thanksgiving, I’d skip heavily decorated chandelier earrings and choose a single sparkling drop suspended from a smaller stud. It’s elegant enough for a holiday dinner without competing with your outfit.

Styling tip: Wear your hair tucked behind your ears or in a simple low bun. If shopping for a similar pair, compare the size and weight so the earrings remain comfortable through a long gathering.

Not every pearl earring needs a traditional setting. The first design combines flowing silver metalwork with a single dangling pearl, creating something that looks almost hand-sculpted. Jewelry designer Sophie McKay has discussed the appeal of fluid silver earrings, while designer Loveness Lee points to the movement and dimension of irregular surfaces. For Thanksgiving, I’d wear this style with hair loosely pinned back so the unusual shape stays visible. The pearl softens the metal, making the earrings feel dressy without looking overly formal.

Styling tip: Let these earrings be the main attraction. A simple silver ear cuff can complete the look without adding another large accessory.

A gold dome ring is a small piece with a surprisingly big presence. Its rounded, polished surface catches the light, while the smooth shape makes it easy to style without an elaborate stack. Frank Darling co-founder Kegan Fisher has identified chunky dome rings as a major jewelry direction for 2026, alongside other sculptural designs. For a holiday gathering, I’d choose one substantial ring rather than several competing pieces. The rounded shape looks particularly good alongside simple nail colors and tailored clothing.

Styling tip: Wear one dome ring on your index or middle finger and leave the neighboring fingers relatively bare. A hollow design may feel lighter than a similarly sized solid piece.

Emerald green, sapphire blue, and rich purple are bringing more personality to jewelry this holiday season. Rather than relying entirely on clear stones, designers are exploring unusual cuts and combinations that make colored gemstones the center of attention. In September 2026, industry publication Rapaport examined changing holiday demand for distinctive colored gems, particularly among North American consumers seeking more individual pieces. For Thanksgiving, I’d choose one gemstone ring in a saturated color and keep the rest of the jewelry simple. It adds interest without requiring an entirely new outfit.

Styling tip: Try a rich purple or forest-green stone with gold-toned jewelry. If buying fine jewelry, ask about the gemstone’s identity, treatments, and care requirements rather than judging it by color alone.

A single pendant can change the appearance of an entire outfit, especially when it hangs lower than a conventional necklace. The 2026 version favors substantial shapes, interesting materials, and cords or chains that allow the pendant to stand on its own. Moda Operandi executive Ryan Kleman has discussed growing customer interest in long statement pendants, with personal styling becoming an important part of the appeal. For the holidays, I’d choose a smooth, sculptural pendant that sits below the collarbone rather than layering several delicate necklaces.

Styling tip: Try the pendant over a simple high-neck top or dress. Adjust the length so it doesn’t disappear underneath a scarf or jacket.

Pearl necklaces aren’t limited to formal outfits anymore. This season, larger pearls, irregular shapes and unusual proportions are giving traditional strands a more contemporary appearance. On the fall 2026 runways, designers embraced chunkier pearl necklaces and unexpected pearl combinations, showing how a familiar material can look strikingly different with modern styling. For Thanksgiving, I’d wear a short pearl strand with a simple dress or a neatly tailored top, letting the texture provide the detail. There’s no need to combine it with another statement necklace.

Styling tip: If you already own a pearl necklace, try wearing it at a different length or pairing it with contrasting earrings rather than replacing it.

A little color around the neckline can do wonders for a simple Thanksgiving outfit. Gemstone bead necklaces are getting attention for their playful combinations of shapes, sizes, and materials. In October 2026, jewelry-industry reporting from the JIS trade show examined the renewed interest in color, beads and individual expression. I’d choose a short strand featuring two or three complementary gemstone colors rather than a rainbow of unrelated shades. The result can feel cheerful without becoming distracting.

Styling tip: Wear the necklace against a solid-colored top so the beads stand out. Look closely at the clasp and stringing, particularly if the beads are substantial.