Inspiration

Pearl Jewellery Returns To The Spotlight

By Amanda Evans 4 Minute Read

2022 is the year of comebacks, and pearls are back in the spotlight. Back from the 1980’s pearls are definitely ‘en vogue’ once again and here’s our buyers’ edit of these classics with a contemporary twist.

The catwalk shows of Autumn ’21 and Spring ’22 have been bathed in excitement, not only for the fact that we seemed to be on the path to regain some kind of normality again but also for the exciting, playful, colourful, and bold fashions and accessories that made their mark and set this year’s trends. Subsequently we are delighted to see the lustrous pearl back on the podium, and not being designated as purely a ‘bridal jewellery’ accessory.

Their elegant aesthetic has historically made pearls a popular choice amongst powerful women such as Jacqueline Kennedy and Michelle Obama who often wore them during official duties. Despite her love of diamonds in the film ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s,’ Audrey Hepburn is synonymous with the four-strand pearl necklace that she so confidently wore in this iconic movie, and Coco Chanel infamously said, “ A woman should have ropes and ropes of pearls.” Now the major fashion houses such as Chanel, Dior and Prada are embracing this trend once again, as well as celebrity A-listers such as Rihanna who announced her first pregnancy earlier this year with strings of pearls clothing her bump, proving that pearls aren’t preppy. Pearls have also taken a unisex turn with artists such as Harry Styles rocking his own unique look.

A woman should have ropes and ropes of pearls.Coco Chanel

What Makes Pearls So Special

Pearls truly are a gift from the ocean. Their muted white and soft exterior has a lustrous and unique beauty native to the waters whereas gemstones are derived from the earth. No other gemstone can imitate the beauty of the pearl. Natural pearls are extremely rare and valuable and prior to the advent of the cultured pearl, were heralded as only for the rich and honourable. With brands such as Mikimoto perfecting a perfectly round cultured pearl, ownership of pearl jewellery is no longer exclusive.

Pearls still retain their popularity for those seeking a timeless classic look on their wedding day. They have also been recognised to be symbolic of purity, wisdom, and serenity - wonderful characteristics to channel throughout life, whilst simultaneously radiating sophistication.

Whilst you might not be in the market for wearing pearls the size of ping pong balls or trying to compete with your favourite celebrity icon, this doesn’t mean that your options are limited. Here at Goldsmiths, our buyers have curated a collection of easy-to-wear pearl jewellery that can suit a variety of occasions and styles.

Lustre and Sparkle

It is no secret that diamonds and pearls are a wonderful combination frequently seen. The matt lustre and soft sheen of the pearl has a classic look when viewed alone but combined with the scintillating sparkle of the diamond it presents a more modern approach, combining nature’s finest gems from the ocean and the earth. Our white gold diamond and pearl cluster necklace with matching earrings features the perfect balance of the two, or for an elegantly detailed look try our yellow gold pearl and cubic zirconia floral pendant with matching drop earrings which presents a great sparkle and lustre combination at a more purse friendly option.

Goldsmiths

9ct White Gold Pearl 0.04ct Cluster Stud Earrings

£162.50£325.00

Goldsmiths

9ct White Gold Pearl 0.03ct Cluster Necklace

£425.00

Goldsmiths

9ct Yellow Gold Pearl & Cubic Zirconia Floral Pendant

£150.00

Goldsmiths

9ct Yellow Gold Pearl & Cubic Zirconia Floral Drop Earrings

£125.00

We have a variety of pearl earring combinations in both yellow and white gold. For those who prefer a stud style then the white gold 6-6.5mm pearl with diamond studs sit elegantly against the ear or for those who embrace the huggie hoop trend, these 9ct yellow gold cubic zirconia pavé huggie hoops with pearl drops are a wonderful addition to any ear curation.

Goldsmiths

9ct White Gold Diamond and 6-6.5mm Fresh Water Pearl Earrings

£225.00

Goldsmiths

9ct Yellow Gold Fresh Water Pearl & Cubic Zirconia Huggie Earrings

£200.00

Although renowned for her wonderful, coloured gemstone designs, jewellery designer Kiki McDonough has also embraced the pearl jewellery trend with her 18ct yellow gold diamond hoop earrings with a pearl drop that has a longer more oval appearance. The subtle combination, also available in white gold, complement the iridescence of the pearls presenting a timeless and contemporary classic. Weaving in an alternative gemstone, Kiki Mcdonough has also created an alternative pearl design combining white topaz, diamond, and pearls

Kiki McDonough

Kiki Classics 18ct Yellow Gold, Pearl Drops With 0.13cttw Diamond Hoop Earrings

£1,100.00

Kiki McDonough

Kiki Classics 18ct White Gold, Pearl Drops With 0.12cttw Diamond Hoop Earrings

£1,100.00

Kiki McDonough

Pearls 18ct White Gold, White Topaz & 0.23cttw Diamond Pearl Drop Earrings

£1,600.00

Classic Iridescence

If you’re seeking a pendant with a difference then our 9ct yellow gold Mother of Pearl pendant makes a larger statement with a flatter surface, highlighting the iridescent sheen that the pearl is so applauded for. And for those who seek a bracelet to complement their look, our yellow gold and pearl beaded bracelet is a delicate and sophisticated way to elevate your style.

Goldsmiths

9ct Yellow Gold Mother Of Pearl Pendant

£165.00£275.00

Goldsmiths

9ct Yellow Gold Bead & Pearl Bracelet Strand 7-7.5mm

£250.00

Discover your perfect pearl jewellery here at Goldsmiths online or visit us in store at one of our showrooms where our jewellery experts will be delighted to help you.

Goldsmiths is a trading name of Watches of Switzerland Company Limited. Registered Office: Aurum House, 2 Elland Road, Braunstone, Leicester, LE3 1TT, Registered in England and Wales, Company number 00146087. Registered VAT Number 834 8634 04. Watches of Switzerland Company Limited acts as a broker and not a lender and offers finance from Secured Trust Bank PLC trading as V12 Retail Finance and PayPal UK Ltd, Whittaker House, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond-Upon-Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom, TW9 1EH trading as PayPal Credit. Watches of Switzerland Company Limited is authorised and regulated by the Finance Conduct Authority. Our registration number is 308710. Credit provided is subject to age and status, minimum spend applies. Terms and Conditions apply. UK residents only. We may receive a commission if your application is successful, and the amount may vary depending on the product chosen and the amount of credit taken out. Not all products are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and FOS protection will not be extended to unregulated agreements. Please note the Consumer Credit Act states that should your purchase / loan amount cost more than £30,000 you will not be covered under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.

*Next day delivery available on most items. See product pages for more information.

Pearl Jewellery Returns To The Spotlight

What Makes Pearls So Special

Lustre and Sparkle

Classic Iridescence

Sign Up For The Jewellery Edit Newsletter