The pearl has always been a rather prim and proper piece of
jewelry – classic and seeped in tradition that never goes out of
style. Well things they are a changing! This year not only has
the pearl is had a very glamorous make over it’s a front and
center fashion statement! Yes, the classic strand still exists
as it always will. But we warned we are seeing some vary daring
looks from the pearl this season. Extra long lengths, tasseled
multi strands, pearls with semi precious stone accents, pearls
on gold or silver chains. The pearl has been transformed into a
fun and fashionable accessory.
The glow or radiance of a pearl is the most important quality.
Avoid pearls that are chalky or dull as they will be weak and
may crack or peal. The surface of the pearl should be blemish
free – no bumps or cracks. Inspect under a bright light. Baroque
pearls are the exception to this rule – their charm is in their
irregularities.
Pearls are measured in millimeters. The larger the pearl the
higher the cost. A 6 mm pearl is going to be much less than a 12
mm pearl. The least expensive pearls are the freshwaters which
mainly come from China. They come in all shapes, sizes, and
colors. Average size is around 7 mm
The best way to care for your pearls is simply to wear them. The
natural skin oils keep them moisturized. Do not put them on
until you are done with your cosmetics. This includes hair,
facial, and perfume. The residues from these products will ruin
your pearls. Do not wear your pearls in the water – chlorinated
and salt water will damage them. Polish with a soft cloth and
never use jewelry cleaning products on your pearls.
Quality pearls are not cheap but they will last a lifetime.
Freshwater pearls are becoming very affordable. Not all of us
will be in the market for “Real Pearls” and lucky us there are
plenty of options. Swarovski makes a crystal pearl that is of
the finest quality and quite difficult to tell from a true pearl
for a fraction of the cost and they are available in a variety
of colors. There is an endless supply of imitation pearl or
costume jewelry pearls on the market. These are offered in a
wide variety of styles and colors. Great fun at affordable
prices.
So you ask what’s “In Style” this season? Well I’m glad you
asked! Pearl rings get the green flag – from low settings to
monster large solitaire pearls, they are all the rave. A pearl
ring can go from romantic and simple to sleek and stunning. The
Bib Necklace makes a very dramatic statement. A broad necklace
that tapers towards the back just like a baby’s bib [thus the
name]. They range from extremely wide to as narrow as a ½”. This
style works great with a simple black dress or strapless
neckline.
The multi-strand necklace is ever so preppy. They range from 12″
to 18″ and pearls are usually small to medium. The object of
these necklaces is for every pearl to be in perfect placement.
Very versatile and fashionable. The opera length necklace simply
never disappears from the fashion scene. They measure 36″ or
longer and they can be worn as a long single lean line, doubled
up, tied in a knot, wherever the moment takes you. These long
strands are terrific for dressing up a pair of jeans or semi
casual look.
The tassel necklace from the footloose and fancy free1920s has
made a come back, and rightly so! Today tassels are often made
from tiny seed pearls or irregular baroques. They range in
length fro short at 16″ to navel length at 36″. The tassel
necklace swings and sways with your movement making it a must
have for those night of dancing.
This season for first time, we are seeing pearls mixed with
colored gems such as amethyst, peridot, or topaz. They
compliment each other nicely – pearls with their soft and subtle
shades mixed with semi precious gems with their vibrant and bold
color. Picture it – what a fashion statement!
Pearls mixed with silver is also new this season. Long silver
chain dangle earrings accented with pearls, or freshwater
droplets set on silver. This season the pearl is all about the
color. Pearls are available in many hues but this season the
“hot spot” is “lavender” and the lavender family ranging from
pale iris to plum.
If you already own a beautiful classic pearl necklace its very
easy to transform it into something from this season. Try adding
a group of charms or pendants, fastening a vintage brooch or
clip[ on earring at the bottom. You could mix various lengths or
sizes of pearls together or entwine a silver or gold chain. How
about mixing your real pearls with your fake pearls? The options
are as endless as your imagination.
Remember when you freshen your wardrobe for the spring, freshen
your costume jewelry too and Make Your Fashion Statement!