While repetition might seem like the antithesis of creativity, there’s something about a line of gemstones—single file and reporting for duty—that feels fresh, effortless, and au courant. The irony is that the rivière necklace, configured to show off a collection of matching (or almost matching) gems, is anything but new. Gaining prominence in the 18th century, these “rivers” (“rivières” in French) of stones were strung from ribbon or cord or set with foil-backed collet settings, most often in a graduating sequence. While the settings vary in today’s styles, the sensation of having one’s décolletage fully wrapped in juicy jewels never gets old.
Jade Ruzzo aquamarine 'Elizabeth' necklace in 18k yellow gold, $16,800
Judy Geib emerald rivière necklace in 18k yellow gold, $35,680
Larkspur & Hawk 'Olivia Button' rivière necklace with foil-backed white quartz in black rhodium washed sterling silver, $5,600
MATEO citrine 'Anna Riviera' necklace in 14k yellow gold, $8,450
Nakard by Nak Armstrong 'Ruby Heart' enameled rivière necklace (ruby in blue rhodium-plated sterling silver), $2,950
William Goldberg rivière necklace with graduated ASHOKA-cut diamonds, set in platinum, price on request
