“Pearls Gone Wild”: A Modern Take on a Classic Gem

Luxuriose Ruby Necklace by Silver Frog Jewelry Studio on CustomMade.com

Ancient legend says that pearls were thought to be the tears of the gods, and the Greeks believed that wearing pearls would promote marital bliss and prevent newly married women from crying. Early Chinese myths told of pearls falling from the sky when dragons fought. Well, whatever the lore, whatever the myth, pearls are a hypnotic classic gem that are timeless. classic and contrary to Greek legend, will surely make the recipient cry with joy.

I thought it would be fun to feature a few CustomMade artisans who are creating jewelry with pearls in a modern, untraditional way. These are not your grandmother’s pearls! These are “pearls gone wild,” as stated by Alexa Brazilian in a recent article in the Wall Street Journal online. Easily recognizable and classically gorgeous, the pearl is “the patron gem of goddesses, brides and true love,” and it’s the gem that heirlooms are made of.

The CustomMade artisans of Silver Frog Jewelry Studio use natural, hand faceted ruby beads to adorn a large genuine white pearl (picture above).

And artist Julie Glassman combines opal, cubic zirconium, black,white, and green freshwater pearls, turquoise, and precious metals with a Cloisonne enamel evil-eye to create a dramatic custom statement necklace that so many women would love to own (picture below).

Evil Eye Cloisonne Necklace-Garden of Eden by Julie Glassman Enamel Jewelry on CustomMade.com

Mimi Favre Studios incorporate an 18K yellow gold pyramid cap and french hook with a flawless South Sea pearl to create a stunning, modern remake of the classic stud earring.

Pyramid Pearl Earrings by Mimi Favre Studio on CustomMade.com

While designer Cynthia Britt chose a huge 16mm Mabe pearl in her 18k yellow gold leaf and sterling silver custom ring.

"Fluer" Pearl Ring by Cynthia Britt Designer Jewelry on CustomMade.com

Finally, I chose a striking design by Kavi Handmade Jewelry. A large, oval Brazilian amethyst is the centerpiece supporting a lustrous double strand button pearl wristlet.

Amethyst Button Pearl Bracelet by Kavi Handmade Jewelry on CustomMade.com

To see more examples of custom made jewelry featuring this oyster-born gem, visit CustomMade.com and browse our custom jewelry designers.

If you have your own idea and want to make it a custom made reality, go to our Get-It-Made board and start your project today!