Two strands of pinkish-hued baroque South Sea pearls from YVEL

Baroque pearl set in 18kt gold ring with opals and cognac diamonds from ARUNASHI

There were a few “stories” being told at this year’s COUTURE – but one being told time and again was that of individuality; unique pieces that allow the wearer to express her personality.   The two best vehicles by which this story was told were varied uses of color and shape; and one of the best means to do so was use of the pearl.

Golden Philippine South Sea pearl in figural "oyster-shell" ring of 18kt gold set with multi-colored semi-precious stones from JEWELMER

Pearls seemed to line every row.  Strands of enormous blush pink baroque South Sea at Yvel; the most intense golden pearls from the Palawan region of the Philippines, at Jewelmer (yes, the Philippines.  Who knew?); not to mention the magnificent baroques at Arunashi that seemingly crawl out of their ring settings.

Bracelet of brown Tahitian pearls in macramé with 18kt rose gold and diamond accents from SHAMBALLA JEWELS

Colored Tahitians strung onto macramé bracelets at Shamballa Jewels, freshwater pearls on rocking leather lariats at Scott Kay, and one-of-a-kind pearls atop ever more imaginative cocktail rings by Sevan Biçakçi.

Baroque South Sea pearl in figural "lobster" ring set with rose-cut diamonds from SEVAN BIÇAKÇI

These pearls are imbued with a whisper of mystery, a sense of the forbidden, and a feeling of romance.  I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again (because I love quoting myself, especially when I’m right) – but “these ain’t your mother’s pearls!”  And, as anyone who knows her will confirm, in my case, that’s a very highly-set bar! 

Non-conformist Pearls
Couture 2011

Get into it!