Cartier or VCA - My First Piece of Designer Jewelry

At the end of this year, I plan on purchasing my first piece of designer jewelry. Normally I stick to purses when making an investment in
myself, but I would like to start building out my humble jewelry
collection a little more. I have some nice, no-brand pieces, but would
love to include a premiere designer. I'm still in the early phases of
making a decision, but wanted to solicit some opinions on some possible
options, cognizant of the fact that I am posting in the Cartier thread
so I am likely to get opinions that skew one way! I am looking for a
somewhat dainty piece that I can wear with anything (but likely not
every day), yet something that has a presence. I've been leaning toward
getting a necklace, but have also seen some earrings that I like very
much. I'm also undecided whether to buy yellow/pink or white gold.
Budget wise, I definitely want to be under $3k. Here are the options I
consider to be frontrunners as of now:
The Cartier Amulette de Cartier - I quite like the malachite or the lapis.