Not Your Grandmother's Pearls

Pearls have had a pivotal place in the jewelry box for decades.  Some passed along from mother to daughter to daughter's daughter, classical wedding and gala attire, perfect right-of-passage gift to commemorate any and all special occasions.  But grandma's pearls have come a long way baby...  These aquatic treasures are busting out of the mold into more contemporary every day wear, and fashionistas around the world are loving it!

Trendsetting First Lady, Michelle Obama, has made fashion waves since she and the president graced American hearts raising the bar on marriage, family, and of course, couture! Mrs. Obama represents the out most class with a moderate style that embodies her ubiquitous position as the most powerful woman in the world.  A true fashion diva, she is often seen with the universal double strand white pearl strands, a prerequisite for the corporate professional and more conservative fashionistsa that is more of a "Charlotte."  Mrs. Obama can do no wrong in my eyes when it comes to fashion and setting a prime example for leading a nation with her head held high.

Enter "Carrie."  SJP has long since been the fashion icon raising the bar down every red carpet, be it a floral arrangement coming out of her hat or ruffles galore, no one can deny her highness turns heads. Here Sarah Jessica Parker adds her own unique touch to the classic pearl set, going bold, bronze and long.  A piece like this could be worn as she sports with a casual sweater, or to hit the town giving life to a simple cocktail dress.  With incredible dye techniques freshwater pearls today come in a variety of hues, shapes and sizes.  They are affordable, they can be dressed up or down, and they have just become your new best friend. Fortunately, they are no longer just for dress up any more...   

Several jewelers are mixing up textures and stones bridging the classic pearl to modern generations.  Mandy Moore looks dashing in a 'tuxedo style' set sporting black and white tones.  Note the length of the necklace breathes life into a simple strapless black dress, and paired with studs the necklace stands on its own to carry the outfit into a red carpet "do." Below Malinda Williams features the up-and-coming twisted strands of pearls that add a  fun and sophisticated splash for any occasion.

As the saying goes, the world is your oyster (pun intended).  Take advantage of the great canvas of freshwater and cultured pearl out there.  Mix them with some colorful semi-precious stones.  Wrap them in wire for a fun wearable-art ring.  One-of-a-kind jewelery designers are waiting for you (as are retailers at your neighborhood department store.) Tip #1: I learned from a trip to China that when you rub real pearls together, they should have a slightly rough connection. If there is a smooth rub, be careful, they are likely glass.  Tip #2: Have fun with it!  Wear a pair of studs to the gym or to keep the kids at bay, then change it up for an evening out with some dangling chandeliers.  Go for it!

A variety of pearls are available at kaiexpressions.com