Jewelry.  It shines. It sparkles. It makes us feel special.  My favorite kind of jewelry is jewelry that I buy for myself as a memento of a life accomplishment.

A few weeks ago, in a post about handbags priced for holiday bonus season, a few of you asked for a corresponding jewelry post.  So I present five brands that make jewelry that falls in the $200-$1,000 category.  Because a little bauble is a great way to celebrate professional accomplishments.

Vrai has some of the most beautiful diamond jewelry currently on the market.  The pieces are simple, elegant and priced reasonable.  This East-West pendant necklace ($325) is dainty and chic.  I also love their Inner Truth Medallion ($450).  And don’t miss their fabulous selection of earrings.

Bloomingdale’s is technically a retailer and not a brand, but their in-house jewelry line has a little something for everyone.  These cool freshwater pearl earrings are currently 50% off, putting them just under-$200.  I also love this sterling silver rope bracelet with gold accents.

Stone & Strand is a new-to-me brand that has so many pretty pieces.  This charming cable and diamond-cluster ring ($385) is such a fun piece.  And, of course, this x-shaped diamond pave ring ($525) caught my eye.

If you’re looking for affordable fine jewelry pieces, Stone & Strand is where I would start.  I saw these short bar-hook earrings ($585) on someone last week, and they were phenomenal.

This Adina Reyter Pave Claw Ring ($995) was the ring that I originally wanted for my engagement.  I thought it was the perfect mix of edgy and pretty.  All of her pieces are really beautiful.  I especially like this pave pear-shaped pendant necklace.

You didn’t think we were going to get through this guide without a David Yurman shout out, did you?  Some of my favorite self-purchased jewelry is from Yurman.  They have so many beautiful pieces, including this Madison Chain Bracelet ($750) that is a great balance between casual and fancy.  DY also makes an all-silver version for $300.  I also love this crossover ring in silver and gold for $450.

{image by Landon Arnold; this post contains affiliate links that may generate commission for the author}