"Pearls are always appropriate," Jackie Kennedy once famously extolled. Now, this season's most elegant jewelry proves the iconic former first lady correct.
Pearls are no longer just about single strands or studs. Today they are being styled in modern sculptural settings and paired in unusual ways. Baroque pearls with unwieldy bumps and grooves are gaining popularity over the traditional perfectly round pearl that we have all come to know.
Modern pearls were on display in the March issue with our story, "Still Life with Pearls"—and now you can scroll and shop some of our favorite new takes on the classic pearl below.
Courtesy Moda Operandi
Ranjana Khan
These earrings from Ranjana Khan’s first fine jewelry collection feature natural baroque pearls with inset turquoise creating a very contemporary look. $2,500; modaoperandi.com.
Courtesy Net-a-Porter
Ana Khouri
This artful earing from Ana Khouri sits on your lobe like a sculpture, accenting the shape of your ear with two pearl studs. $1,360; net-a-porter.com.
Courtesy Net-a-Porter
Sophie Bille Brahe
Based in Copenhagen, Sophie Bille Brahe creates delicate works of art with jewelry. Her new Petite Elipse earring featuring two Akoya pearls highlights her craftsmanship. $710; net-a-porter.com.
Courtesy Bergdorf Goodman
Mizuki
The modern shape of this Mizuki ring compliments the natural shape of the baroque freshwater pearl. And a touch of pave diamonds add a bit of sparkle. $2,900; bergdorfgoodman.com.
Courtesy Bergdorf Goodman
Of Rare Origin
This whimsical piece from Of Rare Origin is called the Lady Luck pendant. Hopefully this lighthearted necklace will actually bring the wearer some real luck. $995; bergdorfgoodman.com.
Courtesy Barneys
Feathered Soul
For the woman who loves dainty, personalized jewelry. A small gold chain with a tiny cluster of pearls is the perfect addition to delicate everyday necklace layers. $625; barneys.com.
Courtesy Barneys
Goossens Paris
The pearls on this cuff are suspended with a hidden gold thread, which allows them to spin, showing off their beautiful natural shimmer. $590; barneys.com.
Courtesy Barneys
Ileana Makri
This isn’t your average pearl stud. White seed pearls, encased in a wave of encrusted diamonds, mimic the ocean. $2,560; barneys.com.
Courtesy YLANG 23
Irene Neuwirth
This classic set of pearl earrings has the perfect modern edge for evening. $11,500
Courtesy YLANG 23
Cathy Waterman
This statement ring from Cathy Waterman features her signature milgrain engraving surrounding a substantial Tennessee River Pearl. Wear it everyday or save it for special occasions, either way, it's sure to be a show stopper. $6,010; ylang23.com.