One of the oldest known gems, archaeologists unearthed pearl jewellery in the pyramids, proving their existence goes back at least 5,000 years

Pearls are not just for your wedding day; think countless glamorous celebrities through the ages from Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly through to Angelina Jolie – pearls offer a timeless, stylish jewellery look.

It’s widely thought they became synonymous with bridal jewellery as they are symbolic of purity, however, when paired with something edgy they can suggest an edge of naughtiness, as seen on the latest designer catwalks. The most exciting contemporary jewellery designers are further challenging the prim stereotype of white pearl jewellery by incorporating dramatic natural coloured pearls into modern styles, completely altering the personality and wearability of pearl jewellery.