The Best Diamond Pendant Styles to Start Your Jewelry Collection
Perfect on their own or for layering, pendant necklaces are a diamond essential must-have.
The idea of building a natural diamond jewelry wardrobe can be a bit overwhelming. Where do you start–– diamond pendant designs. It is helpful to think of your natural diamond jewelry in the same way as you do your fashion investments, like say a little black dress, a khaki trench coat or any other high quality item you wear repeatedly over the years. There are several diamond essentials to consider for your collection, eternity bands, tennis bracelets, hoops and rivières all included. A key piece to add to the list: diamond pendant necklaces.
Meet the Expert
- Marion Fasel is an esteemed jewelry expert, author, curator, and trend forecaster
- She is the founder and Editorial Director of The Adventurine online jewelry magazine
- She is the author of several books, including The History of Diamond Engagement Rings: A True Romance
What Is a Diamond Pendant Necklace?
A bit different than most of the classic diamond jewelry styles, diamond pendants have a broad definition, running the gamut from a solitaire necklace to distinctive designs. The individuality in diamond pendant designs literally extends back to the dawn of time. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, pendants can be found in jewelry collections dating to the “Stone Age when pendants consisted of such objects as teeth, stones and shells.” Flash forward to the Renaissance and diamonds became a part of pendant designs that included all kinds of fantastical creatures and mythical characters. For the last hundred years, diamond pendants designs have transformed as lucky charms as well as pretty motifs.
Today, diamond pendant designs couldn’t be more popular. People often layer them on other necklaces of various lengths. Jennifer Aniston demonstrated the style to perfection when she arrived to the 2016 Critics Choice Awards. The actresses jewels included an diamond pendants in different shapes from Anita Ko, Suzanne Kalan, and Carbon and Hyde.
So, returning to the original question in this story: how do you pick the perfect diamond pendant or better yet start a capsule collection of your own pendant essentials? Well, it all starts by understanding a few timeless pendant categories.
Solitaire and Cluster Diamond Pendant Styles
In 1974 when Elsa Peretti launched her collection at Tiffany it included a solitaire diamond on a chain that was part of her Diamonds by the Yard(r) collection. This little piece popularized diamond solitaire necklaces, which are still beloved to this day. When asked by Newsweek about the jewel in 1977 Peretti said, “There is nothing more pretty than a little diamond on a chain.” Of course, leave it to Zendaya to continue to prove this true nearly four decades later.
Jewelry brands today have gotten creative with the idea of diamond pendant designs involving solitaires. Some styles include colorful enamels around one stone.
Others make pendants, like Suzanne Kalan’s below are made out of a cluster of stones. There are also styles centering on various fancy diamond shapes such as a pear shape.
Initial Diamond Pendant Necklaces
The history of initial diamond pendant designs has been getting a lot of play in the fashion press lately because Balenciaga made a chunky rendition thought by many to be reminiscent of the famous style worn in the 16th century by Anne Boleyn, the doomed wife of Henry VII.
Whatever the case may be regarding Boleyn inspiring Balenciaga, the story proves initial necklaces were genuinely worn hundreds of years ago. Stephanie Gottlieb’s charm necklace allows you to design your own pendant arrangement with an initial and birthstone to represent someone special in your life.
Today, initial diamond pendants designs can be found in any number of styles from delicate styles to chunky gold fonts. There are also diamond letters set in pearls and pieces that pop with colorful enamel.
Choose a letter for your first name or last name. Charm style pendants that can be piled on a chain make it possible to wear even more letters. People often assemble the initials of their children or other loved ones.
Symbolic Diamond Pendant Designs
Signs and symbols are the most perpetually consistent diamond pendant design category. Wearing a pendant with a meaningful motif puts your lucky charm right near your heart. It also presents your sentiments to the world as it is worn in the line of sight of your face, unlike say a ring or bracelet. The Foundrae collection has a comprehensive array of diamond pendants symbolizing everything from good karma to a course correction.
Designers express themselves through signs and symbols in any number of creative ways. Catherine Sarr of ALMASIKA has a complete collection of gold and diamond pendants in the shape of cowrie shells, named Le Cauri Endiamnté. In African legends, the cowrie shell is a motif of protection linked to the Ocean.
No matter what essential pendant style you choose to add to your collection, it will undoubtedly transform into a beloved personal treasure for its inherent meaning.
Diamond Pendant FAQs
What’s the best length for a diamond pendant necklace?
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but a 16- to 18-inch chain is generally considered the sweet spot. It places the pendant just below the collarbone—ideal for layering or wearing on its own. If you’re styling with a button-down or a higher neckline, a slightly longer chain (like 20 inches) can add a bit of drama. For everyday wear, though, 18 inches is the go-to.
What diamond shape is best for a pendant?
It depends on your style. A round brilliant cut is classic and versatile—perfect if you’re building a foundational jewelry wardrobe. If you’re drawn to something more distinctive, try a pear-shaped or emerald-cut diamond. These shapes offer a little more personality while still keeping things timeless. Fancy shapes also look especially striking in solitaire settings or framed with pavé details.
When are diamond pendants typically given as gifts?
Diamond pendants are the kind of gift that feels both personal and significant. They’re often given for milestone moments—think birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or the birth of a child. They’re also a popular choice for celebrating promotions, new beginnings, or just because. Because pendants are worn close to the heart, they make a meaningful symbol of connection and celebration.
How do I clean a diamond pendant necklace at home?
Keeping your diamond pendant looking its best doesn’t require a trip to the jeweler. At home, you can use a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Soak the pendant for a few minutes, then gently brush it with a soft toothbrush—especially around the setting where buildup tends to hide. Rinse with lukewarm water and dry it with a lint-free cloth. If your pendant includes pearls or delicate elements, skip soaking and opt for a gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth instead
