Haute and heavy jewelry is big in fall 2013 fashions

Who says ear cuffs, knuckle rings, chunky chains and spikes are solely the armor of street-storming teens? Now showing up in luxurious, feminine forms — often encrusted with a heavy dose of diamonds — these powerful new pieces are also dangerously chic. Punk meets pretty on Christian Dior’s single pearl tribal earring and Repossi’s diamond-embellished ear cuff, designed to mimic multiple piercings to glamorous effect. These could prompt even the most conservative ladies to indulge in a hint of rebellion. Rings have gone bold and bolder, sprawling across the hand or down the length of a finger. Eddie Borgo’s “Pharaoh” ring artfully balances a tough spiked tip with delicate chain links, conjuring images of Cleopatra gone clubbing. Just one piece of hard-core chain-link jewelry, such as Bottega Veneta’s “Intrecciato” bracelet, adds edge to any look that is otherwise frilly or precious. Or take styling lessons from Lanvin’s Alber Elbaz and pile on chain chokers, along with whimsical brooches and script necklaces. You won’t need to spell out the “cool” factor.