16 Gorgeous Photos That Showcase the Glamour of 1950s Jewelry

The 1950s were known as a golden age in fashion and glamour — and the jewelry was no exception, especially among the elites. From Lena Horne’s understated pearl strands to Audrey Hepburn’s glitzy diamond chokers, jewelry from this era was all about making a sparkling yet refined impression.
Get ready to swoon as we showcase 16 stunning photos that prove 1950s jewelry was the ultimate showstopper.
1. French Designer Coco Chanel Boarding a Plane in Texas, 1957

We bet those matching pearl earrings and necklace didn’t come cheap, but something tells us the fashion icon and acclaimed designer could foot the bill.
2. A Young Elizabeth Taylor, 1953

When you’re Elizabeth Taylor, sometimes a sequined bathing suit and a pair of sparkly earrings are all you need.
3. Audrey Hepburn as Princess Anne During the Filming of ‘Roman Holiday,’ 1953

Diamond tiaras and necklaces defined the era’s glamorous jewelry trends. And we bet it didn’t hurt to have the world’s most perfect face to go along with it.
4. Singer Lena Horne Serving Looks at the Coconut Grove, 1955

Dripping in pearls and draped in satin, this was old school Hollywood glamour at its peak.
5. Queen Elizabeth II en Route to Westminster, 1952

Imagine going to work in a fur coat, gloves, and a crown. Oh wait, that was just a normal day for the Queen of England.
6. Haute Couture House Schiaparelli Showcasing a New Jewelry Ensemble, 1953

Who said chunky gold tassels were not a thing back then? They clearly helped complete and elevate this look.
7. A Woman Lays the Table in Preparation for Dinner, 1955

Okay, was this a dinner party she was hosting, or was she ALWAYS expected to dress like this for dinner? Asking for a friend. Also, bring back turquoise pearls! What a vibe.
8. Woman Wearing a Dark Skirt and Blouse with Matching Gloves and Jewelry in Italy, 1956

So apparently in Italy, your gloves had to match your ‘fit. You also had to pose in this awkward way that left people wondering if your neck was in pain.
9. Marilyn Monroe in the Mid-1950s

Of course we couldn’t complete this list of 1950s jewelry without giving a nod to the one and only, Marilyn Monroe. From pearl earrings and diamonds to iconic gowns that shaped the fashion world, the woman truly slayed.
10. Dior Model Jean Dawnay During a Photoshoot in London, 1956

When your hourglass figure matches the Champagne you’re toasting with, you’re for sure winning. Add some bling, gloves, and a fur scarf, and you’re serving class.
11. Marilyn Monroe During the Filming of ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,’ 1953

Dripping in diamonds and draped in satin, Monroe once again proved that diamonds really are a girl’s best friend.
12. American Actress Grace Kelly, Later Known as Princess Grace of Monaco, 1955.

These pearl and gold cluster earrings were really giving classic beauty meets understated elegance.
13. British Actress Carole Lesley Donning Jewelry Worth £2,500, 1953

Sure, £2,500 (about $3,100) doesn’t seem like a lot of money, but after adjusting for inflation, that total now amounts to $32,739! Talk about some serious bling.
14. Hungarian-American Actress Zsa Zsa Gabor, 1952

Going out on the town in the ’50s? Don’t forget your diamond pearl earrings, matching necklace, and bracelet.
15. Actress and Dancer Vera-Ellen Posing With a Piano, 1955

Because nothing screams grace and sophistication like a lace coat layered over a floral gold bodice. And to complete the look: a sleek silver choker with some cute earrings.
16. Model Pat Burrage Dons an Entire Collection of Rose Design Engagement Rings in New York, 1952

This dazzling collection of diamond rings was worth a whopping $50,000 (about $654,782 after adjusting for inflation in today’s economy). We bet security was tight during that photoshoot.