One time when I was eating shellfish as a kid I found a tiny pearl in my mouth. Probably 4mm. I looked at it and I knew enough to know what it was and how it got there. I had no idea how rare that was in the wild. I can’t believe I just left it there thinking it must be common. Believe me, it’s never happened again.
As a jewelry designer, my love for pearls is deeply rooted in their unique and natural characteristics. One of the aspects that captivates me is the fact that pearls are a product of nature, formed within shells by their animal inhabitants in relative short order compared to stones. And, this inherent connection to the natural world adds a certain allure to pearls that is unparalleled in the world of gemstones.
I am particularly drawn to the natural colors and luster of pearls and find beauty in their understated elegance. Unlike artificially enhanced pearls on the market, natural pearls exhibit a range of subtle hues - whether it's the soft blush of pink, the creamy white, or the iridescent shades of gray and black - each natural color tells a story of the environment in which the pearl was formed, but also, evokes a sense of sophistication. The way they reflect light creates a mesmerizing glow, adding a touch of glamour to any piece of jewelry. This luminous quality gives pearls a timeless and classic appeal that transcends trends and fads.
Beyond all that - I am fascinated by the rich fashion history that pearls hold. Throughout different epochs of fashion, pearls have been a constant presence, adapting to the evolving styles and trends. From the iconic pearls worn by Audrey Hepburn to the more contemporary interpretations on fashion runways, pearls have maintained their status as a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Whether used in a classic strand of pearls, incorporated into modern and avant-garde designs, or paired with other gemstones, pearls seamlessly adapt to various styles. Their ability to transcend time and remain relevant in every era is a testament to their enduring charm.
In working with pearls, I feel a sense of respect for their natural origins and their enduring presence in the world of fashion. It is this respect that drives my passion for creating jewelry that not only showcases the beauty of pearls but also pays homage to their rich history. Pearls are not just gemstones; they are timeless treasures that deserve to be cherished and celebrated in every era of fashion.
At LBJ, the love for pearls runs deep, and transcends the conventional, as we try to redefine the perception of pearl jewelry for the here and now. While there’s no argument that pearls are often associated with traditional and classic styles, at LBJ, we believe in simplicity in design as well as pushing the boundaries.
In keeping with this idea - Knotting pearls not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability and longevity. We approach this with meticulous attention to detail, using traditional pearl knotting techniques.
Our mission at LBJ is to take pearls back and in new and exciting directions. Our unique LBJ designs blend pearls with other gemstones, metals, and unconventional materials to create pieces that are bold, distinctive, and truly one-of-a-kind.
In the world of jewelry, pearls hold a special place for their timeless beauty and understated elegance. At Linda Blackbourn Jewelry, our love for pearls goes beyond tradition, as we strive to innovate and incorporate pearls into our jewelry designs. Follow along to explore the enchanting what’s next in pearl jewelry design for our new bridal collection 2024.
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