Maybe it’s a return to 90’s fashion. Or perhaps it was all of the looks walking down the red carpet at this past year’s MET Gala. Or maybe it’s the ubiquitousness of celebs from Gigi Hadid to Hailey Bieber to Rihanna adopting and reinventing the style. Whatever the reasoning behind the movement, pearls were one of the hottest jewelry looks of 2023 and it’s looking like the trend is going to carry through 2024.
Of course, there’s nothing more classic that a simple strand of pearls. Perennially feminine, and with an ethereal beauty that transcends any of-the-moment craze, a strand of pearls will always withstand the test of time and can be passed down and enjoyed for generations. Yet we’re also now seeing more of pearls’ playful side. Whether in the designs of the maker, or in the way people are opting to personalize the look, pearls are being showcased in an entirely new light.
As with most jewelry trends, JA New York shows offer a variety of ways of embracing the moment. Designer Laura Foote offers several collections that highlight the diversity of these gems of the sea, such as dramatic drop earrings perfect for any celebratory event and embellished button earrings that can be worn every day. We’re particularly partial to her sweet, stylish Mother-of-Pearl ring and bracelet she displayed at our Fall show; they would be equally stunning with jeans and a t-shirt, or as a complement to any black tie ensemble.
Trio Designs had one of the best looks of our last show with a pair of bold, circular earrings that are all one needs to make a statement. With multiple sized pearls, some framed in diamond pave, the resulting effect is that of clouds floating on your ears and bursting with sparkle. Maybe it’s our sentimental side that always comes out this time of year, but these earrings just feel like holiday cheer!
Nava Dee always has pieces that we are perfect for layering and stacking, and we love the Mother-of-Pearl heart pendant we saw on our show floor in October. This piece would be a perfect addition to any well-orchestrated “neck mess,” yet it can hold its own as a standalone adornment.
Venerable antique and estate dealer, Paris Station, never disappoints; we always love perusing their cases to see what treasure they’re revealing to attendees of our event. At our last Spring show, this South Sea pearl necklace featuring a massive cabochon emerald surrounded by diamonds took our breath away. Another absolute stunner spotted at our March show was this pearl and emerald choker from Dewcarat in our NCA pavilion. Created in the Kundan Meena style, the impeccably detailed work in this piece is breathtaking from all perspectives. And while both of these statement pieces are definitely heirloom quality, we feel strongly that whomever is lucky enough to own them should not lock them away in a safe but wear them proudly and loudly!
