Borrowed Bling: Fine Jewelry for Rent

We rent cars, tools, technology, tuxedos and holiday houses. So why wouldn’t we rent luxe gowns and fine jewelry for those days we want to be our best and brightest?

Blame our desires on the red carpet, designer-filled runways, busy social schedules and brides with a specific vision of their wedding day. Hollywood has always had an intimate relationship with the world’s finest jewelers and we’ve grown accustomed to watching stars parade borrowed Bulgari, Chopard, and Harry Winston at award nights, movie openings and music events. Endless images of international fashion weeks pass before our eyes and for some, fresh looks and deep closets are de rigueur to meet the demands of a busy private and professional life.

So when companies came along who catered to that need/want with luxury jewels, watches and statement jewelry, it seemed like a match made in heaven. Suddenly, by renting for a fraction of the purchase price, we didn’t have to settle for knock-offs; our red carpet aspirations could meet our real-life expectations.

Here is a brief summary of the key players:

Haute Vault

If it ticks, sparkles or shines rent it

Specialty: weddings; formal, informal & men’s jewelry; formal and luxury sport watches for men and women

Brands: More than 50 brands available including Harry Winston, Philippe Patek, Cartier and Bulgari

Membership & Key Benefits:  Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Corporate; rental charges applied to purchase; 15% discount off published rental rates; 20% off purchases; try before you buy

Stores:  Founded by 5th generation jewelers/owners of King Jewellers in Miami

Rental Period: a week to a month

Adorn

Specialty: Fine diamonds and pearls – necklaces, earrings, bracelets and accessories; luxury costume jewelry; rent/own

Brands: Not applicable

Membership & Key Benefits: Style consultations by phone: 1-800-399-7401

Stores: Online only

Rental Period: Unknown

Rent the Runway

By giving people access to remarkable luxury experiences, we’re changing the meaning of ownership — and revolutionizing retail in the process.

Specialty: Bridal accessories, statement jewelry

Brands: Oscar de la Renta, Kate Spade, Vera Wang, Dannijo and more

Membership & Key Benefits: ‘Unlimited rental @$139/month; ‘Pro’ membership @$29.95/month includes free shipping & insurance

Stores: Rent by app or in person in Chicago, Washington DC, NYC Flatiron, NYC Style Studio, Las Vegas; by appointment or walk-in

Rental Period: Flexible

And finally, reading the fine print: Every contract has fine print and rental jewelry is no exception. Take the time to read it carefully to avoid potential misunderstandings.

With rental sign-up, before checking the box to submit an application, each company will present their terms and conditions. These describe the terms of membership approval, deposits, credit checks, security and late fees, insurance, shipping & handling, damages and substitutions. Shipping is restricted to the United States.