Editor’s note: This article, originally written by Elizabeth Deheza, has been extensively revised and updated by our editorial team to include new information and insights.
The Emotional Connection to Pearls
For many women, the first encounter with pearls is a memorable one, often linked to a beloved family member. As one young Londoner says: “Pearls are timeless and connect the generations: From grandmother to mother to daughter…” These precious gemstones evoke a sense of nostalgia and emotional connection with their unique beauty, luminosity and femininity.
Pearls carry meaningful messages, as if each one has a story to tell. “I do have a beautiful set of pearls that my Mum gave me right before I gave birth to my daughter,” recalls an American film producer, while a financial woman from Germany associates pearls with her father, who chose a pearl necklace for her. No matter where we come from, we all seem to have the same devotion for pearls, which we have either inherited or received as precious gifts from our loved ones.
There is undeniably a strong connection between nature, pearls and women as Lulu Tyers, founder, designer and CEO of Pearl-Lang, states:
“Pearls are the only organic gems on earth and are natural treasures. We are all part of nature, and in a way, pearls are an indicator of the health of our environment. To grow high quality pearls with excellent lustre and surface quality, you need pristine waters. The day we run out of pearls is the day we know we are doomed as a human race!”
What Are the Different Types of Pearls?
Lulu shares her expertise on the different types of pearls. The Pearl Lang collection includes Freshwater, Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea pearls, all meticulously selected from the top 1% of the total harvest.
When asked about the difference between cultured pearls and natural pearls, Lulu explains:
“The only difference between cultured pearls and natural pearls is that cultured pearls are initially assisted by man, but nature must complete its own work. We as humans cannot intervene in the process of pearl formation in the oyster. Almost all pearls that are offered on the market are cultured pearls. Natural pearls are extremely rare and are usually found in museums and auctions.”
How is Pearl-Lang Changing the Pearl Industry?
Pearl-Lang is a one-stop shop for pearl connoisseurs and first-time buyers alike. The brand is dedicated to educating its customers about the pearl market and helping them make informed decisions. Lulu firmly believes that the biggest challenge facing the pearl industry is the lack of information for end consumers: “Very few people know how many different varieties of pearls, shapes and colours are out there.”
Pearl-Lang provides customers with knowledge about this market and can help them make the right choice. “We are among the very few that are transparent on pearl grading and pearl knowledge. We evaluate each product using the seven pearl value factors established by GIA, the most renowned gemological institute in the world, which also grades diamonds. I do not believe that pearls are a mystery to people. It is important that people understand what they are buying and what quality it has.
How Can You Style Pearls for Both Classic and Modern Looks?
Pearls are associated with elegance, timelessness, class, emotion, simplicity and nostalgia and are the epitome of chic for everyday wear or special occasions. A French businesswoman says: “I associate pearls with Gabrielle Chanel, my source of inspiration. The little black dress with a pearl necklace as an accessory is a ‘sans fautes’ for a chic look”
Lulu encourages women to wear pearls more often and offers a wide range of options. “We have white round pearls if you prefer a classic look, or you can wear long multi-coloured strands that are more modern. However, if you want to express your individuality, you should try our unique baroque pearls. They are truly one of a kind.”
Pearl-Lang’s designs utilise precious metals and gemstones such as 18 carat gold, sterling silver and diamonds. The collection includes versatile freshwater pearl necklaces, bracelets and earrings that range from vintage to modern designs, offering a perfect balance between femininity and sophistication.
For those who have always favoured modern or edgy jewellery, Lulu recommends discovering the diversity and individuality of pearls. “[Pearls] come in a multitude of natural colours, shapes and varieties. I think the diversity and individuality of pearls is particularly exciting for the younger generation who want to express their personality through timeless elegance with a modern twist.”
“For me, elegance is not an old-fashioned word… With all the first ladies and members of royal families around the world wearing pearls in portraits, I think it has become a consensus that this jewellery is associated with a conservative and formal look.” Pearl-Lang proves that this misconception is not relevant for today’s women.
Whether you are a pearl lover or just starting to acquire fine jewellery, there’s a pearl for everyone. A natural gemstone of fine quality, designed exclusively for you to cherish for a lifetime and beyond, is an elegant thing to treasure.
