The bride’s choice of jewellery, along with other accessories may well reflect the formality of the wedding celebration. Gowns which are strapless or have low necklines are perfect to showcase the wonderful array of today’s beautifully designed jewellery.

Historically considered the wedding gem, pearl jewellery is traditionally presented by the Father of the Bride or the Groom and symbolises love, virtue, spirituality and prosperity. Throughout history, pearls have been at the height of wedding fashion, especially pearl necklaces and the tradition continues to this day. In ancient Rome, pearls were considered the ultimate symbol of wealth and social standing. The Greeks associated the pearl with love, marriage, beauty, and believed the pearl would promote marital harmony.

It is unfortunate that many items of pearl jewellery for the wedding and bridal market sold today and labelled bridal ‘pearls’ are not real pears but ‘faux’ or fake pearls. The word ‘pearl’ on its own is widely accepted nowadays as referring to cultured pearls. Faux pearls should be clearly described as fake pearls.

Today’s modern designs often include faux diamonds (CZ's), rhinestones, swarovski crystal, semi-precious stones and glass beads – it is of course a matter of personal choice and budget. The choice in colour of the pearls is second to none with freshwater pearls now dyed in a hue of shades and of course the designs can be made to measure to match the bridal parties gowns exactly. An ivory gown may therefore be best suited to pearls of a similar cream colour whilst a gown with gold could have a necklace which incorporates champagne or gold coloured pearls.

Necklaces vary in style and length and some classics include:

The Choker - worn close around the neck is traditionally from one to three strands, although many modern designs have up to 60 strands of finely ‘floating’ pearls creating a wonderfully luxurious effect. This style works well with a jewel or bateau neckline.

The Collar - Usually of three or more strands this fits snugly around the middle neck. A traditional Victorian style that is suited to a strapless or plunging neckline.

The Princess - This is perfect for a strapless gown, as the full length falls below the hollow of the neck in front, usually adorning a pendant. The Princess style is suited to most gowns with exception to those with a high neckline.

The Matinee - Longer than the princess, usually falling to the top of the bust line, just above the top of the dress, and looks fabulous with a bateau, jewel or a lower neckline with lace/sheer fabric covering the de colletage area.

The Opera - or lariot as it is popularly referred as now, consists of one or two long single strands which fall below the bust line and gives a classic look when worn with a very high neckline. These strands of pearls are worn loose around the neck, looped around or casually knotted at waist length – usually more suited to everyday wear than bridal gowns.

The back of the necklace should always be taken into consideration. Our back jewels vary between jewels that attach to a necklace or lariats which elaborately drape down your back.

Bracelets and Watches

Bracelets are suited to being worn with sleevesess, short-sleeved and three-quarter sleeved gowns. A bracelet may also be combined with gloves.

A watch may be worn if it is in keeping with the bridal gown – possibly a family heirloom, or the strap made in pearls in keeping with the rest of the jewellery.

Earrings

When choosing earrings, there are a number of factors you should consider – hairstyle, the shape of your face and other jewellery.

Remember:

• A dangle/chandelier earring helps to widen a narrow face.
• A button/plain pearl stud accentuates a round face.
• Short squared earrings will add interest to a long face.
• If you are not wearing a necklace, or your necklace is plain, you may wish to consider wearing more elaborate earrings.
• Many designs are only available as pierced earrings, and a good supplier will accommodate altering earrings to clips for you.

Whilst traditional pearl studs work well for most brides, it is worthwhile considering the overall design of the gown, face shape and colouring before making your decision! We can suggest designs from our extensive collection which includes tiny pearl and crystal drops to more opulent chandelier earrings.