What is Nacre? And how does it create luster in pearls?

Tahitian Bubble Earrings by Sean Gilson for Assael

That soft, subtle glow that we all love about fine quality pearls is unmistakable and highly prized. It is created when nacre reflects the light. But most people do not fully understand what nacre is or why it is important to consider when buying pearls. Here we dive deeply into the definition of nacre and…

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Met Gala Jewels 2022 – Pearls on Parade

The 2022 Met Gala in New York City on Monday was particularly colorful, from the exotic fashions reflecting the “Gilded Glamour” theme to the fabulous accessories, especially pearls. A multitude of white pearls and some smoky Tahitian pearls appeared on the Red Carpet at one of Fashion’s biggest nights. Here, we explore the lustrous pearls…

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Why Pearls for Valentine’s Day

No matter who you shop for to celebrate Valentines – your romantic partner, spouse, best friend, or yourself – fine pearl jewelry offers magnificent options. Pearls make a most memorable gift. Personal, sustainable, and versatile, pearls are the responsible and meaningful choice. Here, we explore why pearls are the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day. Pearls…

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Fine Pearls… Forever Jewelry for a Reason, a Season, a Lifetime

As we return to celebrating in person this holiday season, never have our cherished connections felt more meaningful or our social gatherings been more appreciated and anticipated. As we look forward to hugging again, we can also create beautiful moments of lasting joy.  There’s never been a better time to make a gathering of family…

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A Brief History of Tahitian Pearls

The beautiful and exotic Tahitian Pearl has a relatively short history. Not that oysters were not naturally producing a few rare dark pearls, but the oyster producing them, the Pinctada Margaritfera, was originally more prized for its unique colors of mother-of-pearl, that glistening substance lining the shell of the oyster. The Tahitian Pearl as we…

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What is an Akoya Pearl? And Why Are Akoya Pearls So Special?

Assael_Akoya Title Collage

What is an Akoya Pearl and what makes Akoyas special? With the fashion world embracing pearls like never before, there is quite a buzz about pearls these days, prompting Vogue to ask earlier this year, “Are Pearls the New Diamonds?”  With the pristine white wonders of mother nature showing up on runways, red carpets and…

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Wear Your Pearls, Girls – A Mother’s Day Memoir

My mother Susanne had infallible taste in fashion and jewelry. I never saw her put a foot wrong. Ever. On a rather modest budget she stood out in any crowd, with her signature pageboy hairstyle, a strand of good cultured pearls, and gold bangles and charm bracelets which jangled as she smoked her Kent Ultra Lights.

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