A Classic, Reimagined
Mikimoto takes the pearl necklace to new heights and a wider audience
Those with an affinity for jewelry will most likely be familiar with Kokichi Mikimoto, the ‘Pearl King,’ who founded the Japanese pearl jewelry brand, Mikimoto, in 1893. Highly respected as a visionary and astute businessman, he has catapulted his cultured pearl brand to great heights, with the ultimate dream of “adorning the necks of all women around the world with pearls.”
Making a Case for the Mikimoto Pearl Necklace
In the years following its establishment, the Mikimoto brand entered a new chapter after Kokichi Mikimoto sent a team of skilled craftsmen to Europe to hone their skills in the latest jewelry design techniques and styles like Art Deco and Art Nouveau. Mikimoto then evolved a style that was distinctly his by melding the European techniques and styles with traditional Japanese metalworking craftsmanship.
Over time, the pearl necklace soon became an indispensable item in many a jewelry box across the world, which begs the question: Why does every woman need a Mikimoto pearl necklace?
The short answer is because it is a classic; a feminine piece that transcends time and trends whether worn long or short. But on a deeper level, a Mikimoto pearl necklace is also a tangible expression of a modern miracle that exemplifies the synergies between man and nature, and of man nurturing nature.
Mikimoto is also instrumental in the evolution of the pearl necklace, especially in our ever-changing world. Over the years, the iconic jewelry piece has taken on new meanings, expressions, and designs, which are able to reach a wider group of clients, typically comprised of women with their fingers on the pulse of style.
Modern Masterpieces
In recent times, Mikimoto has proven that the pearl necklace is more than just a finishing touch to an outfit. It has the ability to make a statement or double as an artistic canvas, whether through commercial collections or one-of-akind high jewelry masterpieces.
Here are some notable collections that take us on a journey through the recent defining moments in the brand’s history:
Baselworld
At Baselworld in 2015, Mikimoto unveiled four compelling creations in luminous strands of Akoya pearls, diamonds, and colored gems. One piece that became instantly iconic is the Pearl Stream. Draped over the body, strands of Akoya pearls flowed like a stream, while the pearl and diamond knot at the neckline made this a head turner.
Praise To Nature
The statement and pendant necklaces draw from the sea, coral reefs, and underwater sea creatures for inspiration. One necklace narrates the magical tale of life beneath the ocean; the waves depicted by swirls of ribbon waltzing around gemmy fish. White South Sea and Akoya cultured pearls, aquamarine, beryl, sapphire, and diamonds bring the tiny fish to life.
Jeux de Rubans
Jeux de Rubans is a whimsical interpretation of decorative ribbons. The necklace and earrings in the collection — rendered in gold and adorned with Japanese Akoya cultured pearls, white South Sea cultured pearls, sapphires, and diamonds — showcase the beauty of cultured pearls. A stunning piece from this collection is an intricately beaded pearl necklace reminiscent of the Peter Pan collar.
Jardin Mystérieux
Imagine a fantastical garden and fences with creepers entwined over it; now imagine dewy blossoms in cheerful hues swaying in the breeze. That’s how these creations draw you into a beautiful wearable garden. The Jardin Mystérieux comprises necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings and brooches, comprised of plique-à-jour (enamel), diamonds, sapphires, garnets, peridot, tourmaline, alexandrite, and spinel, among others.
Double 8
The Double 8 (88) is a versatile necklace that’s inspired by the auspicious number ‘8.’ Strung with 88 beautifully spherical Akoya cultured pearls, the clasp is functional and enables the piece to be worn in many styles, by simply forming the figure ‘8’ and wearing it in proportioned loops.
Mikimoto Looks to the Future
Mikimoto’s recent collaboration with avant-garde fashion brand Comme des Garçons, resulted in the brand’s first unisex line, where Akoya and South Sea pearls are juxtaposed with sterling silver hardware in heavy chains and the CDG logo.
Designed with attitude, the creations challenge “the norms of beauty and explores a sense of originality free of tradition and boundaries.” Finally, it brings Kokichi Mikimoto’s vision to fruition, fit for the new age: “To adorn the necks of all, regardless of age or gender.”