With my 21st birthday coming up, I want to celebrate in style. The only problem? Style costs money, and I’m in no position to splurge on a new going-out outfit. But I’ve got a secret that gets me compliments on my outfit even from the friends that have seen me in it a dozen times—jewelry.

When I’m having one of those days where everything in my closet is simply unwearable, I go with a basic black outfit—pumps, pencil skirt, and v-neck top—and make a statement with a pair of unique earrings or a bold necklace. That’s why lately, I’ve been lusting after Salonika jewelry.

Each Salonika piece, inspired by the designer’s Mediterranean heritage, makes a statement without being gaudy. If you’re bored with your basic silver and gold jewelry, check out the City necklace—a howlite stone that hangs on a suede chain. And as a bonus, howlite, which looks like turquoise, is said to have healing properties and relieve the wearer of angry energy.

The jewelry in the 2007 Salonika line will run you anywhere from $75-$280, and owner and designer Bryce Gruber says her pieces are made to last. “The quality of Salonika pieces means you’ll still be wearing them in 5, 10, or 20 years at least,” she told me.

Gruber’s pointers on wearing jewelry:

Quality over quantity: “Jewelry is almost always an investment. It’s a better value to spend a little more on a piece that you’ll wear for years to come than a piece that will be out of style by next season! You’ll notice that the best dressed people in the world generally seek out the highest quality.”

Bigger isn’t better: “My least favorite trend is chunky, plastic necklaces. They aren’t flattering, are really junky, and typically cost $50-300 retail. For the same the amount of money I’d rather see women wearing jewelry made from top quality materials, so they can wear it for years.”

Fits like a glove: “Jewelry is similar to a good pair of jeans… The right piece will look right with anything you put it with.”

Keep it simple: “A good piece of jewelry should be designed so it catches the eye, incorporates high quality materials, and doesn’t look too busy.”

Make it personal: “I generally mix and match pieces with funky outfits, that’s the way to personalize any accessory. The new fall 2007 Salonika line is debuting a pink pearl and carnelian toggle necklace with silver beads that I wear with this current season’s sterling silver river bracelet.”