Pearls continue to be the top choice for bridal accessories and not only in jewellery, but also used to adorn shoes, gowns, purses, veils, combs and headpieces, floral arrangements, bouquets, and even table décor. Grooms may opt for pearl cuff links and wedding cakes are being decorated with edible sugar pearls. They are a classic gemstone and definitely here to stay.
Pearls are one of the oldest bridal traditions and date back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. They symbolize wealth, eternal love, purity and romance…. Their subtle glow creates a timeless elegance, and royal princesses, first ladies, socialites and celebrities have reinforced the trend for decades.
So, perhaps the traditional single or double strand of pearls isn’t your style. Whether you opt for genuine or artificial pearls, there are so many other non-traditional choices you can select from. How do you plan to wear your pearls? Traditional neckline or a long pearl rope draped down an open back with a tassel? Will they be white, cream or ivory and the classic 8 mm size?
Coloured pearls in champagne golds, blush pinks, pale and sapphire blues, silver greys are all showing up on today’s brides. Larger pearls in short strands with crystal or gemstone pendants are also a popular choice. Pearls are a classic combination that works for all brides. Finding the design that reflects your personal style is the essential part.
A starting point for most brides is their choice of gown-strapless, off the shoulder, round or V-neckline? The style and neckline are the prime considerations if you’re planning to wear a necklace. Pearl earrings, rings and bracelets come in many shades and styles and some brides opt for these accessories and forego the necklace.
Wedding guests and bridal parties will often select pearls to accessorize their wedding attire. Pearls always make great gifts and as a mother of the bride on two occasions, I gifted both of my daughters with pearls to wear on their wedding day. A treasured “something new” that may one day become a family heirloom.
When I set out to design and create jewellery for my wedding collections, pearls are my absolute favourite and I have never struggled with imagining new designs. Starting with pearls as the primary component gives the piece a timeless elegance right from the outset. Creating jewellery for such a special event in someone’s life is so fulfilling for me as a designer, and I hope adds to a very memorable day.
At Romance & Ruin our love affair with pearls continues and we offer a range of lovely handmade, one-of-a-kind designer pieces created with reclaimed vintage fine costume pearls. Whether you want your pearls to make a statement or prefer a more serene, traditional style, we present a beautiful array of choices. Necklaces in a variety of styles, lengths and shades embellished with elegant vintage and antique repurposed jewellery, stunning pearl drop earrings in a choice of styles, and charming bracelets that will capture your heart.
Keep sparkling!!
Marian xo
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If you’re a fan of period dramas, chances are you’re familiar with this fashion icon of the 1920’s, the Cloche. With the popularity of Downton Abbey and Boardwalk Empire in 2010, followed by Peaky Blinders in 2013, the fashions, jewellery and hats of the 1920s peaked our interest—and it certainly did mine. I fell in love with the classic bell shape silhouette of the hat and the beautiful detailing on them.
