For its first Fashion Week, New Zealand fully embraced the idea of fine jewelry as an integral part of fashion. Central to the jewelry, meanwhile, was the country’s native blue pearl.

Eighteen designers created 30 unique pieces of jewelry for a special display that opened during the inaugural New Zealand Fashion Week. This exhibit fell in line with major marketing efforts by Eyris Blue Pearl Company, which coordinated the special event. To further promote New Zealand jewelry and the blue pearl, Eyris sponsored a special tour of the 30 pieces for display at select jewelry stores throughout the country.

Among the jewelry on display during New Zealand Fashion Week was this “Rhiannon” necklace by Iain Henderson for Eyris Pearls, P.O. Box 1790, Christchurch, New Zealand; (64-3) 377 0365, Web site: www.bluepearls.com.