Bye-bye brat summer, enchanté demure Autumn. It’s time to put party girl style to rest and embrace timeless old-money glamour. Pearl jewellery is in the spotlight and shining bright. Chanel, Givenchy, Versace and more completed many of their spring and summer 2024 looks with pearl accessories. These iridescent undersea treasures deserve a spot in your jewellery collection – they might be trending right now but they’re also considered a style classic for good reason.   

Pearl jewellery is a truly timeless classic

Precious pearls have been used in jewellery and accessories for centuries. The oldest piece of pearl jewellery was discovered in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess, dating back to 420 BC. The appeal of the pearl is universal – from the ancient Romans and Greeks to early Chinese royalty, they have long been treated as a status symbol.

Pearls to the people: Rise of cultured pearl jewellery

Natural pearls were very rare and only very wealthy folks could afford them. This lasted until the 1900s, when the first cultured pearls came onto the market, making them more accessible.

By the 1920s, most pearls on the market were cultured and more affordable. This led to the popularity of long pearl necklaces worn in Roaring Twenties flapper fashion. By then, cultured pearls could also be made in a variety of colours and “pastel pearls” enjoyed some popularity in the 20s too.  

Pearlcore and beyond

Fast forward from the 1920s to the 2020s, and pearls are still considered a style staple. The Gen Z pearlcore aesthetic trend emerged in 2022 and is still going strong today. Lustrous pearl jewellery sets are soaking up the limelight as runway models and Hollywood celebrities get on board with the latest pearl trend. From Rihanna to Kate Middleton, pearl jewellery is being worn by some of the world’s most stylish women, and even the gents are joining in – Marvel movie star Dave Bautista was recently snapped at the Toronto International Film Festival sporting a multi-layered pearl necklace with his Gucci suit.

Pearl bracelets from Abbott Lyon: our top picks

Pearl Chain Bracelet

A romantic combination of gold beads and vegan-friendly white pearls. If you’re looking for pearl wedding jewellery, this delicate gold and pearl chain bracelet is sure to capture your heart.

Lunar Pearl Initial Bracelet

A bold, chunky faux pearl bracelet for women looking to stand out from the crowd. Layer this oversized pearl bracelet with thinner bangles for a maximalist look, or wear it on its own as a statement piece.

Organic Pearl Bracelet Charm

Add a little luxe to your favourite charm bracelet with an organic pearl.

Mini Freshwater Pearl Beaded Bracelet

A string of dainty genuine pearl beads to keep your look on point as other trends come and go. This mini pearl bracelet also makes a beautiful bridal piece. 

Shop Abbott Lyon’s pearl collection and create your own perfectly pearlcore looks this season.