Emma Stone has one, Michelle Williams has one, and now, so does Ariana Grande. We’re talking about pearl engagement rings, the most unexpected wedding jewellery trend to have emerged in the past year.
Of course, we’ve been seeing pearls everywhere for a while now. The organic gem is very much in fashion, especially those of the misshaped, freshwater variety. We’ve seen them strung on necklaces or dangling from earrings on the runways of Gucci, Givenchy, Jil Sander, Simone Rocha — just to name a few.
Even men are wearing them. Comme des Garçons’ Rei Kawakubo, having noticed that they look good in them, launched a unisex pearl collection with Japanese jeweller Mikimoto this year as well.
“The pearl is very classic, but it is, at the same time, an indispensable item for its timelessness,” explained Mikimoto’s managing director, Yasuhiko Hashimoto, about the appeal of the natural gem. Pearls as adornment — that’s something we can all appreciate. The gem has graced the finery of royals for centuries, after all. What’s surprising is that more brides are also embracing pearls as a symbol of love, dedication and commitment.
As far as engagement rings go, pearls are an unconventional choice for many reasons. They rank only 2.5 on the Mohs scale, which makes them susceptible to scratches. (For comparison, diamonds rank the highest at 10.) The milky orbs are also porous; to preserve their mesmerising lustre, you’ll have to avoid everything from chemicals (soaps and hair spray are a big no-no) to cosmetics (apply your perfume before slipping the ring on). For maintenance, wiping gently with a clean, soft and dry cloth is generally advised.
Who wants to go through all the trouble? Perhaps the same people who would like to put in the same love, dedication and commitment into their future marriage. In that sense, a pearl ring is the most romantic thing you can choose to wear on your wedding day. Below, we’ve listed some beautiful designs to treasure for a lifetime – the new pearl engagement rings to buy.
The story first appeared in Singapore. Products curated by Team LSA India.
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The South Sea pearl is coveted for many reasons: it’s the largest type of pearl, it’s extremely rare, and it glows with a satiny lustre unlike any other pearl. The precious gem sits at the centre of this Tiffany & Co. South Sea Noble ring, and it’s made even more exquisite by the ring of rose-cut and round diamonds around it.
(Photo credit: Tiffany & Co.)
Stackable rings are a huge trend this year too, so this stunning diamond and white pearl ring in 18Kt white gold is perfect for women looking for something unique. You can mix and match or wear all of them together to create your own custom design.
(Photo credit: Bluestone)
The Chaumet Joséphine Aigrette pavé diamond ring in rose gold, set with Akoya cultured pearls and brilliant-cut diamonds is everything glamorous and stunning. If you are looking for an offbeat design that transcends time, this one hits all the right spots.
(Photo credit: Chaumet)
This one’s definitely for the woman who loves to go beyond traditional design and straddles contemporary design all at once. It can also double up as a cocktail ring as the diamond pierced pearl in the centre lined with prong-set diamonds, gives you a three-dimensional feel.
(Photo credit: Moi)
Made with 18K gold and Akoya Pearls, this pearl ring is handmade and is as simple and minimalistic as it gets. The Line has always been a great label to turn to for a modern take on jewellery and this pearl ring ticks all the right boxes
