Down-trodden times sometimes call for retail therapy, but instead of the quick satisfaction that accompanies spontaneous spending sprees, it might be wise to give some of these purchases a second thought.

Jewelry is a fashion item that doesn’t particularly adhere to any trends, and can instantly brighten up or update a tried-and-true look. Case in point-everyone remembers Angelina Jolie’s emerald jewels from Sunday’s Oscar ceremony; her dress was nothing to rave about. In lieu of miniature golden men being awarded to blinged-out actresses in their thousand-dollar dresses this past Sunday, and the increasing value of gold in the market, investing in a new piece of gold jewelry (faux or not) shouldn’t hurt your bank account as much as the “of-the-moment” fringed dress.

Below, various options for all of your moods and budgets…