WHY TO CHOOSE PEARL JEWELLERY?
The short answer - you can wear them both for special occasions as well as everyday wear. But there is a lot more to it, so let’s take a deeper look into the world of pearls.
Pearl jewellery is a timeless choice that combines elegance, versatility, and symbolic meaning. Whether you're drawn to their classic appeal or modern designs, pearls are perfect for elevating your look, whether for everyday wear or special occasions.
Learn all you need to know about pearls now and then and get inspired on how to style them to elevate your look!
What do pearls symbolise in different cultures around the world?
Until recently, pearls have been perceived a bit differently than nowadays...
Throughout history, pearls have carried deep symbolic meaning across cultures. In ancient China, they were cherished by royalty, often used in burial ceremonies to signify honor and respect. During the Roman Empire, pearls represented status and wealth, while in medieval Europe, they symbolized purity and virtue. Across the world, these gems were closely associated with nobility and exclusivity, serving as treasured heirlooms and tokens of sophistication. Today, their symbolism endures, often seen as a representation of elegance, wisdom, and timeless beauty.
What is the history of pearls in fashion and jewellery and why are pearls making a comeback now?
For centuries, pearls have been synonymous with luxury and refinement. In more recent history, pearls became the ultimate accessory for special occasions. Icons like Coco Chanel popularised pearls in the 20th century, blending them into everyday fashion and revolutionising their appeal. In recent years, freshwater pearls have experienced a remarkable resurgence. By 2024, they dominated fashion runways from New York to Paris, shedding their traditional connotations and embracing contemporary designs. This revival is attributed to their versatility and the fashion industry's inclination towards blending classic elements with modern aesthetics. Designers now craft pearl pieces that feel fresh, accessible, and perfect for everyday styling.
Interesting facts you should learn about pearls
- Variety in Colors: Beyond the classic white, freshwater pearls come in hues like pastel pinks and lavenders, offering diverse options for personal style.
- There are 2 main types of natural pearls: Freshwater Pearls: These are cultivated in freshwater mussels, typically found in rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are known for their wide variety of shapes, sizes, and pastel hues, making them popular for modern jewellery. Saltwater Pearls: These pearls are cultivated in oysters found in oceans and seas. Examples include Akoya pearls (classic round shape), South Sea pearls (luxurious and large), and Tahitian pearls (exotic dark colours). Find out how to separate real pearls from artificial ones in our blog post here.
- Sustainability: Pearl farming contributes to marine conservation by filtering and purifying seawater, highlighting an eco-friendly aspect of pearl cultivation.
How to style pearl jewellery with modern outfits?
From gowns to jeans — pearls go with everything!
Today, pearls are no longer confined to formal attire. They complement casual and business outfits alike, adding a touch of elegance without overwhelming simplicity. You might pair a delicate freshwater pearl necklace with a crisp white shirt or opt for bold pearl earrings with a cosy knit sweater. This shift has made pearl jewellery a must-have for anyone looking to effortlessly elevate their look.
Why are celebrities wearing pearl jewellery?
Pearls have long been a symbol of elegance and sophistication, gracing the necks and wrists of many iconic figures. In recent years, they've transcended traditional boundaries, becoming a favourite accessory for both women and men. Coco Chanel, the legendary fashion designer, was rarely seen without her signature strands of pearls, epitomising timeless style. Audrey Hepburn immortalised the pearl necklace in "Breakfast at Tiffany's," cementing its place in fashion history. Modern icons like Rihanna and Sarah Jessica Parker continue the legacy, integrating pearls into bold and contemporary looks.
But the trend isn’t limited to women...
Men have also embraced pearls as a versatile and stylish accessory. Harry Styles frequently sports pearl necklaces, blending classic elements with contemporary flair. A$AP Rocky challenges traditional gender norms in fashion with his pearl accessories, while Pharrell Williams showcases their adaptability in his trendsetting ensembles. Shawn Mendes and Dave Bautista have also added pearls to their wardrobes, proving their universal appeal. Bautista’s appearance at the Toronto International Film Festival, featuring diamonds and pearls, highlights how this timeless gem makes waves across genders. This embrace of pearls by both women and men highlights the gem's universal appeal and its evolution in the fashion world.
Pearls & Marmara jewellery
At Marmara Sterling, pearls have always held a special place and have been deeply loved by our customers. Over the years, we have evolved from using Swarovski crystal pearls in bracelets to exclusively featuring freshwater pearls in all our jewellery.
This transformation isn’t just about materials; when we first started, our pearl offerings included just a few charms and bracelets. Today, our collection boasts dozens of unique designs showcasing pearls, from delicate earrings to bold necklaces.
We’re proud to be part of the global pearl revival and are certain we’re just getting started. With pearls continuing to inspire us, we can’t wait to bring even more stunning designs to life—because timeless beauty never goes out of style.
