You don’t have to sip Cosmos or Mojitos to rock one of these beauties. Bigger-than-life statement rings are hugely popular right now and women feel as comfortable wearing them with off-duty jeans and tees as they do their glam outfits. Today, there are so many eye-popping gobstoppers to choose—from giant pearl or gemstone solitaires to precious metals that can be shaped into almost any artful motif. Bonus: Here are 4 cool facts about cocktail rings that may surprise you.— Sue Perry

1920-1933 You may not think of these baubles as a symbol of Prohibition and women’s independence, but they definitely are. During the government ban on alcohol, getting into a secret cocktail party was considered a status symbol. It became the fashion for women, dressed to the nines, to flaunt these big, attention-getting rings—always on the right index finger—as they sipped their drinks. According to some sources, the more unconventional and ostentatious the ring, the more modern the woman was perceived to be. In addition, many women asserted their independence by buying their own cocktail rings.

1940’s The rings moved out of the speakeasy and caught on as proper evening attire as screen stars of the day, including Barbara Stanwyck, shown above, started wearing them in films and on the Red Carpet.

1950s Home cocktail parties became the rage and so did the cocktail ring.

1960s-1970s Cocktail rings fell out of favor for awhile.

Today Also known as statement rings, these head-turners are back in a big way. Though the 20’s cocktail rings often showcased enormous diamonds or other precious gemstones, today’s rings are more likely to sparkle with other gems that are readily available in large sizes, such as quartz, tourmaline, blue topaz, and citrine. Shown above: Victoria Beckham.

Shown above:  Kaali Designs Tanzanite and Tsavorite Ring