PARED-DOWN PEARL EARRINGS

THE fact that Vermeer’s iconic Girl

With The Pearl Earring was painted in 1665 is proof of the enduring appeal of mother of pearl, the milky white gemstone that naturally forms in the shell of a mollusc.

While it’s hard to argue that pearl jewellery has ever really gone out of style per se, the shiny stone has rarely been on the cutting edge of fashion – until now.

Pearls are shaking off their fusty

“only your granny would wear them” reputation with beautiful, fashionforward pieces that are proving very popular indeed.

According to fashion site Lyst, pearls are one of 2020’s hottest jewellery trends, with searches for pearl drop earrings rising 25% year-on-year, and searches for pearl anklets jumping by 67% since the start of the year.

Even men’s pearl jewellery is on the rise, after stylish celebrities like Harry Styles and Pharrell Williams have been seen wearing the gemstone.

For a simple but chic way to try the trend, you can’t go wrong with pearl earrings – but be sure to steer clear of boring old round studs.

If you prefer smaller designs, go for irregular shaped pearls that have a more modern feel.

Pearl-embellished hoops are another cool way to bring the trend bang up to date, and they’re ideal for mixing with with other gold or silver earrings as part of a cool “curated ear” look. From investment pieces to cute costume finds, here are five of the best pearl earrings pairs on the high street . . .

Olivia & Pearl Keshi Stud Earrings in Pink with Sterling Silver,

Astrid & Miyu Rope and Pearl Pendant Hoops in Gold,

£69

£159

£80