Pearls have always been a mainstay in any jewelry store’s repertoire, but in 2019, their presence feels stronger than ever.
Evidence of a pearl renaissance is coming in big waves—from the Breakfast at Tiffany’s-esque pile of pearls Cardi B wore on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards to a slew of modern pearl styles. Ear cuffs, hoops, and bold, sculptural bracelets from designers like Chanel, Mizuki, and Prabal Gurung have all graced the runway at New York Fashion Week’s fall/winter shows.
At JCK Las Vegas this year, be sure to keep an eye out for pearls of many varieties. You’ll see classic strands perfected by some of our longstanding exhibitors as well as fresh new takes from budding designers that fall under the category of “not your grandmother’s pearls.”
As you begin to look forward to the show (JCK Las Vegas and Luxury are just around the corner), consider adding pearls to your shopping list this year. For the classic looks, strands like the one pictured here from Mastoloni—a diamond-dusted, short version—are must-haves. Modern, fashionable updates—like the necklace shown by Parade Design—are the perfect choice for shoppers treating themselves to pearl jewelry as well as those on the hunt for a great gift. And then, of course, there are luxurious, one-of-a-kind pieces. Who can resist those?
Expect plenty of the smooth, lustrous gems that typically spring to mind when someone says “pearl,” but don’t stop dreaming there. We’re seeing a lot of play with texture and size in the latest designs, updating the traditional polished look with a tinge of wabi-sabi—the Japanese philosophy of “perfectly imperfect.” The more organic and “misshapen,” the better!
Styles like the ones pictured here are sure to be on display at JCK Las Vegas. We can’t wait to see what else is in store for 2019. Stay tuned as exhibitors prepare for the biggest show of the year!
Vintage-style tassel pendant with pearls and diamonds, price on request; DSL Pearl
One-of-a-kind interchangeable clasps in 18k yellow gold and platinum with plum, ebony, and grenadile wood, pearl, and diamonds, $2,700-$6,650; Marcel Roelofs
Necklace in 18k rose gold with 1.16 cts. t.w. pearls and 0.04 ct. t.w. diamonds, $750; Parade Design
Signature collection strand necklace in 18k white gold with 11 mm–14.9 mm black Tahitian pearls and 2.08 cts. t.w. diamond rondelles, $22,025; Mastoloni
Earrings in 18k white gold with 11 mm–12 mm South Sea pearls and 0.33 ct. t.w. diamonds, $3,000; Baggins
Ring in 14k yellow gold with cultured white akoya pearl, white opal, and 0.25 ct. t.w. diamonds, $1,974; Stuller
Mahalo collection in sterling silver with Tahitian pearls and CZ, price on request; KIR Collection
Top: Brooch in 18k gold with Japanese pearls and 25.71 cts. t.w. cognac diamonds, price on request; Andreoli