To Match or Contrast?

As a jewelry designer, I find myself, most often, arranging pieces with customers in mind. It's surprisingly rare to create something just for me (so I'm a little excited).

With a few fancy and festive events on the horizon, I spent the weekend shopping for a cocktail dress and heels. Something fancy, something unique, something that will showcase jewelry.

After a Saturday afternoon at the mall with a trusty friend at my side, we narrowed the search criteria for the dress to dark colors or jewel tones, and discovered that I'm open to strapless dresses (previously on the "I just can't wear it" list). However, we didn't quite find the winner.

Sunday afternoon, I google'd "consignment" and set out to continue the mission. Three stores in- I found it. First the flowered heels that make me believe I'll magically be able to salsa like a star. Soon after, the deep, Pacific-blue silk, strapless dress. As the cherry on top, I spent a total of only $58 (Thanks Buffalo Exchange!)

Now, for the necklace...
My first thought was "hooray, I can use my favorite stone in the world!... LONDON BLUE TOPAZ". However, after exploding my gem collection, I'm liking the warm reds, pinks with splashes of green to pick up the shoes.
To match or contrast?

Comment to contribute your preference, and check back soon to see the complete "look" for my Friday night art opening.