Forget stuffy heirlooms – pearls have been given a contemporary makeover
Words Joy Montgomery
The phrase ‘pearl-clutching’ isn’t exactly synonymous with cutting-edge fashion types – quite the opposite in fact. Less punk, more prudish, cardigan-clad aunts. However, after many years of being confined to antique fairs and ageing jewellery boxes, pearls have been given a modern makeover courtesy of some of the coolest names in the business…
Modern pearls are all about off-beat compositions and minimalist settings. Think neat rows on punkish ear cuffs and small drops scattered over gold hoops. Nothing about these pieces is conventional. Just think of pearls as your new costume jewellery. Statement-making and unapologetic, come autumn these pieces will add an avant-garde edge to traditional cashmere. No other accessories need apply.
Peruse our shopping gallery to discover our edit of the best pearl pieces
Aurélie Bidermann
Cheyne Walk Pearl and Gold-Plated Earrings, £265; matchesfashion.com
Yvonne Leon
18-karat gold pearl earring, £650; net-a-porter.com
Uterqüe
Vintage Pearl Bracelet, £55; uterque.com
Anissa Kermiche
14-karat gold pearl earring, £1,265; net-a-porter.com
Gold Philosophy
Delphine Collar, £256; goldphilosophy.com
Delfina Delettrez
18-karat gold pearl earring, £490; net-a-porter.com
Theo Fennell
Freshwater Pearl and Diamond Bee Drop Earrings, £3,800; theofennell.com
Lanvin
Gold-tone faux pearl necklace, £750; net-a-porter.com
Mizuki
14-Karat Gold Pearl Cuff, £2,285; net-a-porter.com
Annoushka
Diamonds and Pearls Ring, £2,800; annoushka.com
Sammie Jo Coxon
Calendis Half Hoops, £1,210 – £2,420; sammiejocoxon.com
Laurence Coste
Augusta Earrings, Gold and Pearl, £325; laurence-coste.com
