As MIKIMOTO marks 130 years since its founder created the world’s first cultured pearl, this gem from the ocean couldn’t be more on trend.
Pearls were once viewed as something you’d likely find in an heirloom jewellery box. They were given a platform by the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor who exuded grace and elegance, and those who wore them were afforded the same kudos.
Pearls were almost given a fixed place in society, worn to look classic or even powerful. Jacqueline Kennedy, Michelle Obama, and Royalty past and present were all seen wearing pearls to add sophistication to a relatively simple outfit – they were in fact the highlight of the outfit, albeit subtle and chic. Now the tides have turned and over the past few years pearls have adorned both male and female celebrities. From Harry Styles, the Jonas brothers, Jaden Smith and Shawn Mendes to Rihanna, Sarah Jessica Parker, Gigi Hadid and Kim Kardashian amongst many – pearls are en vogue! From necklaces to earrings, bracelets and rings, worn alone as a statement or in multiple layers to create a sea of pearls on the red carpet, this is an androgynous trend that you can own as an individual – welcome to the dawn of a new era where there is no wrong way of wearing pearls.
Paired with white or yellow gold, the lustrous finish of pearly white or pink pearls looks simply stunning against the sheen of the metal. And for the added highlight, diamonds are a pearl’s best friend.
As we celebrate the beauty of the pearl and its ongoing appearance on the red carpet, the house of MIKIMOTO must be referenced. Built upon the foundations of a quest for perfection and a love for these pure and lustrous gems of the sea, MIKIMOTO is the leading producer of the finest quality cultured pearls, becoming synonymous with superior quality and immeasurable beauty.
DEDICATED TO THE PURSUIT OF BEAUTY
MIKIMOTO was founded upon a dream by Kokichi Mikimoto “to adorn the necks of women around the world with pearls.” Kokichi’s passion was pearls, and he was fondly known as the Pearl King. It was in 1893 that he was successful in creating the world’s first cultured pearls, and subsequently MIKIMOTO cemented itself in the history books. 2023 will mark 130 years since MIKIMOTO’s founder Kokichi Mikimoto successfully created the world's first cultured pearl.
With a steadfast dedication to the beauty of pearls and the ocean from which they derive, MIKIMOTO has developed a deep sense of appreciation and respect for the sea and nature at large.
MIKIMOTO personifies excellence with the finest cultured pearls in the world. To own a piece of MIKIMOTO jewellery is nothing short of a luxurious pleasure.
This year, MIKIMOTO embraces a coexistence with nature, especially with the sea, where the pearls are nurtured. The continuation of its research of pearls, implementation of a zero-emission pearl farming system that collects and recycles all waste from its process, and the introduction of a new thread made from upcycled plastic bottle fibres for pearl stringing, are all elements in which this luxury brand aims to give a little back to the beauty of nature.
Discover more jewels of the ocean here at Mappin & Webb online or visit us in store at one of our showrooms where our jewellery experts will be delighted to help you find the perfect pearls for your style.
