So Sweet: Brilliant Earth x Ring Pop Is the Ultimate Nostalgic Treat for the “Kidult” Generation
In a collision of childhood whimsy and modern luxury, Brilliant Earth and Bazooka Brands are taking the jewelry world to a sweet new level. The two companies have joined forces to create a candy-inspired cocktail ring collection that reimagines the iconic Ring Pop as an oversized, gem-encrusted treasure.
Released on December 8, 2025, this limited-edition collaboration is more than just a nod to the past—it is a glittering celebration of the “kidult” trend that has taken the luxury market by storm. By transforming a plastic playground staple into a legitimate piece of fine jewelry, the collection invites consumers to wear their nostalgia on their fingers, quite literally.
A Deliciously Luxe Design: The Ring Pop Collection
The Brilliant Earth x Ring Pop collection is not a subtle homage; it is a bold, joyful recreation of the original silhouette that defined 90s childhoods. However, instead of sticky sugar and plastic, these rings are crafted from 14k recycled gold and feature vibrant, lab-grown gemstones that mirror the candy’s most beloved flavors.
The “Secret Halo” Touch
What sets these rings apart from mere novelty items is the craftsmanship. Brilliant Earth has employed its signature Secret Halo setting for this collection. For those unfamiliar with the term, a “secret” or “hidden” halo is a design technique where a circle of smaller diamonds wraps around the base of the center stone’s setting.
Unlike a traditional halo that sits on top to make the center stone look wider, the Secret Halo is visible only from the side profile. This adds a sophisticated, 360-degree sparkle that catches the light from every angle. It creates a “levitating” effect for the massive center gem, making the silhouette feel larger-than-life and slightly cartoony—which is exactly the point. It elevates the design from a simple replica to a piece of serious fine jewelry with a playful heart.
Five Flavors, Five Gemstones
Retailing for $1,790 each, the collection features five distinct “flavors,” each represented by a specific lab-grown gemstone selected for its intense color saturation:
- Strawberry Sweetheart: A deep, romantic pink hue brought to life by a Pink Sapphire.
- Watermelon Crush: A vibrant, refreshing green represented by a Green Sapphire.
- Berry Burst: A rich, regal purple crafted from Amethyst.
- Cherry Darling: The classic bold red, reimagined as a fiery Ruby.
- Raspberry Spark: An electric, icy blue achieved with Swiss Blue Topaz.
- These stones are cut to mimic the faceted, architectural shape of the original candy, ensuring that the ring is instantly maximizing that “wow” factor associated with the treat.
The Rise of “Kidult” Luxury in Fine Jewelry
This collaboration didn’t happen in a vacuum. It is part of a broader, booming cultural phenomenon known as the “Kidult” trend—adults embracing the toys, snacks, and aesthetics of their youth with a sophisticated, high-budget twist.
From Playground to Red Carpet
In recent years, the line between childhood toys and high fashion has blurred. We’ve seen luxury fashion houses send models down the runway carrying handbags shaped like lunchboxes or wearing necklaces that resemble plastic beads. High-end jewelry has followed suit, with designers like Nadine Ghosn creating $10,000 burger rings and Carolina Bucci turning the humble candy necklace into a $5,000 stone-beaded masterpiece.
The Brilliant Earth x Ring Pop collection taps directly into this zeitgeist. It acknowledges that today’s Millennial and Gen Z consumers don’t just want jewelry that signals “maturity” or “status” in the traditional sense. They want pieces that spark joy, start conversations, and connect them to a simpler time.
Why Nostalgia Marketing Works
The psychology behind this trend is powerful. For Millennials and Gen Z, the 1990s and early 2000s represent a pre-digital or early-digital “golden age.” As these generations face the stresses of adulthood—economic shifts, career pressures, and global uncertainty—objects that remind them of recess, birthday parties, and after-school snacks become emotional anchors.
Marketing experts note that nostalgia is one of the most effective tools for building brand loyalty. When a brand like Brilliant Earth acknowledges a shared cultural memory, it creates an immediate emotional bond with the consumer. It says, “We get you. We remember that too.”
A Partnership Built on Joyful Milestones
While the design is undeniably fun, the messaging behind the collaboration is rooted in genuine sentiment.
“At Brilliant Earth, we believe jewelry should feel joyful and personal, which is exactly what makes this partnership so special,” said Pamela Catlett, Chief Brand Officer at Brilliant Earth, in a press statement. “Ring Pop captures the nostalgia of wearing your first ring, and we’re bringing that feeling full-circle with a limited-edition collection designed for the milestones that matter now.”
The “First Proposal” Connection
For many, a Ring Pop was technically their first engagement ring. Whether it was a “marriage” on the jungle gym or a token of friendship exchanged on the school bus, the candy ring has always been a symbol of affection and commitment in the world of children.
By translating that plastic token into gold and sapphires, Brilliant Earth is offering a way to upgrade that memory. These rings are positioned as perfect gifts for:
- Alternative Engagement Rings: For the couple that doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
- Push Presents: A “sweet” reward for a new mom.
- Self-Love Purchases: A “treat yourself” moment for a professional woman who wants to buy her own rock.
- Friendship Rings: The ultimate upgrade for best friends who used to trade candy flavors.
Industry Reaction and Future Trends
The launch has already generated buzz within the fine jewelry industry, signaling that 2026 may see even more collaborations between heritage food brands and luxury jewelers.
Comparisons in the Market
While Brilliant Earth is the first to officially partner with Bazooka Brands for a fine jewelry line of this scale, they are joining a prestigious club of “candy-core” jewelers.
- Nadine Ghosn: Her “Shut Up and Drive” collection features high-end interpretations of everyday objects, proving that whimsy sells at a high price point.
- Sydney Evan: Known for “script” necklaces and charm bracelets that often feature motifs like happy faces and lips, appealing to a similar youthful aesthetic.
- Lauren Rubinski: Her chunky, colorful chains often incorporate enamel elements that feel like adult versions of childhood crafts.
However, the Brilliant Earth collaboration stands out because of its accessibility relative to the ultra-luxury market. At $1,790, it is an investment, but it sits at a price point that is attainable for a mid-career Millennial looking for a statement piece, unlike some bespoke pop-art jewelry that can run into the tens of thousands.
A Word from the Candy Giants
Joanna Firestone, Director of Marketing at Bazooka Brands, emphasized that this evolution was a natural step for the candy company.
“Ring Pop has always been a symbol of celebration,” Firestone noted. “This partnership invites consumers to experience our brand and celebrate life’s moments with even more joy and sophistication. Brilliant Earth did an incredible job taking our top-selling Ring Pop flavors and transforming them into a playful collection of chic and timeless jewels. This capsule collection embodies the powerful nostalgia of our brand and showcases an evolution of how our consumers can carry us forward.”
Conclusion: A Sweet Spot in the Market
The Brilliant Earth x Ring Pop collection is more than a marketing stunt; it is a savvy recognition of a shifting luxury landscape. It proves that fine jewelry doesn’t always have to be serious, somber, or traditional. It can be bright, loud, and deeply nostalgic.
As Gen Z continues to gain purchasing power and Gen X looks for unique gifts that bridge the generational gap, we can expect to see more of these “high-low” collaborations. For now, however, the Ring Pop collection stands as the sweetest way to add a touch of whimsy to an evening out—ensuring that even while doing everyday activities, all eyes (and cravings) are on you.
Whether you are a Strawberry Sweetheart loyalist or a Raspberry Spark fan, this collection offers a rare opportunity to reclaim a piece of childhood—this time, with a lot more sparkle and significantly less sticky residue.
