Wearing Tahitian Pearls As A Fashion Statement

Pearls have been around since ancient times. In fact, archeologists have found fragments of them in the sarcophagi of Persian princesses and countless other royals. For many years pearls were worn exclusively by the ruling class and as far as the early modern history, they continued to be viewed as a status symbol. In fashion, one of the most famous fashion icons, Coco Chanel, wore multiple strands of pearls draped over her shoulders and so her brand represented luxury.

Nowadays, pearls are seen as more than just representing luxury. Women from different societies around the world love to wear them, as they are sophisticated and elegant. Even though sometimes pearls are viewed as conventional, they are increasingly becoming a fashion statement, not just for royalty and celebrities, but for everyone who wants to wear them. 

Versatility has continued to be a trend in pearl design - from long necklaces to transformable jewelry with different shapes and colours. Among the most beautiful gemstones are the Tahitian pearls because of their dazzling natural colours, most commonly known as the first naturally coloured black pearl in existence. Here’s more about them and how you can wear them as a fashion statement.

Tahitian pearls       

Tahitian pearl, or better known as the black pearl, is a beautiful gemstone formed from Pinctada margaritifera (black lip oyster). It takes two years for these oysters to mature enough so that they begin producing pearls. After harvesting, the pearls are washed and scrubbed to remove any organic material, and later polished in a tumbler filled with waxed bamboo chips. 

Tahitian pearls come in different shapes, from perfectly round classic pearls to artistically circled baroque pearls. These pearls offer a striking display that many people can enjoy, depending on their personality. The sizes of Tahitian pearls range from 8 - 9 mm to 15 - 16 mm. When it comes to Tahitian pearl necklaces the size ranges from 2 - 2.5 mm and the strands are called “graduated” because the pearls are graduating from small near the clasp and gradually increasing to a larger center section.  

We often associate Tahitian pearls with the color black, but the truth is that there are plenty of other colors you can find, from pale dove gray to medium and dark charcoal gray. There are hundreds of overtone combinations such as classic peacock, aquamarine, or pistachio. You can choose whatever colors you like

How to accessorize Tahitian pearls

Tahitian pearls are considered some of the most beautiful pearls a woman can wear. These days pearls have become a fashion trend not only for women but also men. Even fashion designers mix them up with their new collections. To be able to make a fashion statement wearing these incredible gemstones, it is important to know the correct way to accessorize them with any outfit. If you know how to wear them, they can look stunning on anyone.

If you want the classic look, wear a single-strand Tahitian pearl necklace. But, if you are feeling rebellious and want to make a more noticeable statement, for example, you can combine your pearl earrings with other bold pieces of jewelry that you already have. Just pay attention so that the jewelry combination complements each other. What’s great about these pearls is that they go well with modern designs such as a cool black leather jacket under which you wear a simple white t-shirt and a pair of jeans.

There are some other ideas you might follow when thinking of accessorizing Tahitian pearls. For one, follow the neckline of the outfit you are wearing, for example, if the top or dress has a plunging neckline then consider wearing a simple single strand of pearls. If you want a minimalistic look, choose simple earrings or a bracelet that incorporates the design you are wearing. But, if you want to be noticed, multiple layers are a must! Remember Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s? For many people, the image of pearls is associated with her role in that movie. That’s one iconic look and a perfect combination we can all agree on.

Beyond the fashion trend

Pearls are one of the few trends that remain in style and never fade away. Something that was once reserved for your grandmother has graced the likes of Princess Diana as well as Elton John and Rihanna. As we mentioned above, many designers have used the timeless allure of pearls, accessorizing the runway looks and incorporating them into the designs themselves.

Starting with the 17th-century masterpiece The Girl with a Pearl Earring (even though there was a debate whether her earring was a pearl or not) and then continuing with the beautiful Grace Kelly describing pearls as her favorite accessory in 1950. If you know Princess Diana, you know the famous revenge dress paired with a pearl choker with a sapphire that Queen Elizabeth II had gifted her. Among some of the most popular celebrities making a fashion statement with pearls is Rihanna. During her Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show performance, she took an edgy look wearing a multi-layered pearl choker and retro pearl sunglasses with a simple black dress and lace gloves.

Elizabeth Taylor is one of those stars that have a deep connection with her jewelry. She has been known to have an impressive collection that includes a lot of pearl pieces. One very famous piece is the double-headed lion pearl necklace which was designed by David Webb. Another celebrity known for his flamboyant looks is Sir Elton John. Once, he had combined an eggshell pearl necklace with matching hoop earrings. Yet another famous male celebrity rocking the pearls nowadays is Harry Styles. He wore a single pearl drop earring to the 2019 Met Gala and made an incredible impact on the men’s fashion of today.

In closing

Pearls are now considered to be in the midst of a major fashion renaissance. With designers innovatively using them, pearls are seeing a much-deserved update. Once a sign of luxury favored by the upper class and grandmothers, now a favorite among girls and women as a fashion touch when paired with casual outfits.

There is no doubt that pearl fashion is timeless, and if you have to choose one why not go with the extraordinary Tahitian pearls. Beyond interesting and unique, they might give a classic yet cool and modern look to your fashion style.