Nothing is more elegant that a pair of simple stud pearl earrings, and a single strand pearl necklace with soft ivory bridal gown. Bridal pearl jewellery is pretty, feminine, and warmer than diamonds or crystal, which makes it more forgiving to the complexion than other styles of bridal jewellery.
Unfortunately many brides are put off pearl jewellery because of various myths and misconceptions associated with it. Here are four common myths about pearl jewellery;
Myth 1 – Pearl jewellery is unlucky for brides
If you want to wear your grandmothers beautiful pearl earrings, but have been told that pearls are unlucky, don’t worry you can still wear them as your something old. Pearls are seen to be unlucky because they are associated with tears, but this doesn’t need to be a bad thing.
Legend has it that pearls were created by an angel tear falling into an open oyster, and that is the origin of the myth. In fact pearls are a symbol of purity, innocence and a happy marriage, and the Greeks believed that wearing pearl jewellery would promote marital bliss and prevent newlywed women from crying.
Myth 2 – Pearl jewellery is only for mature brides
Don’t disregard a pearl necklace just because you think that only old women wear pearls. Pearl jewellery looks great on women of every age, and if a classic design doesn’t appeal to you there are a variety of contemporary styled pearl necklaces and pearl earrings for you to choose from.
Multiple strand necklaces, with pearls widely spaced all the way around the neck, and drop style pearl earrings, with larger pearls as the base and a couple of smaller pearls on top create a modern look. You can even have a tiara or Alice band made with pearls to provide a coordinated effect.
Pearls work well with gold to create a warm vintage look, but they can also be combined with silver, white gold or platinum for a colder, more modern feel. Look for bright white pearls if you want to combine them with silver jewellery.
Myth 3 – Pearl jewellery is expensive
While high quality natural fresh water pearl jewellery is very expensive, your bridal pearl jewellery doesn’t need to be. You can buy beautiful pieces made from imitation pearls, which are indistinguishable from the real thing unless guests are actually going to touch your jewellery. You can easily mix a genuine antique pearl necklace with modern imitation pearl earrings and nobody will be any the wiser.
Myth 4 – Pearls are only available in white
Natural pearls are most frequently found in white or off white, but they can also be found in pink, lavender, and grey. For something special black Tahitian pearls are a stunning option, and South Sea pearls are available in contrasting gold. Natural or imitation pearls can be coloured to any shade you like, but you might do better combining white pearls with coloured glass beads. Alternating white pearls with red, blue or green glass beads along the length of a necklace provides contrast and a touch of colour.
