Fine Jewelry: While pearls come in many varieties, inevitably, there are those that truly stand the test of time, and there is no better example of this than an elegant strand of Mikomoto Akoya and South Sea cultured pearls. Since founded back in 1893, Mikimoto & Co., Ltd. has been a world leader in the art of cultivating and crafting superior-quality pearl jewelry.Setting the standard for jewelry design in the pearl industry, the Japanese pearl empire consists of many highly sought-after designer collections. Both the Milano and Pearls in Motion collections are considered by many to be among the finest hanadama or “flower pearls” worldwide, and like each of Mikimoto’s pearls, the collections represent only the finest quality of harvested pearls.

The Milano Collection by renowned Italian designer, Giovanna Broggian, combines the best of both European and Japanese design elements. The exclusive collection of necklaces, pendants, rings and bracelets are set in 18K yellow, rose or pink gold, with the focal point of each piece being none other than one of Mikimoto’s cultured White, Black or Golden South Sea pearls.

As Mikimoto’s most versatile collection, Pearls in Motion features a patented gliding mechanism, which provides the unique ability to reposition the pearls along an 18K gold chain. With each pearl remaining in place, the collection is not only fashion-forward but extremely functional, making it the ideal accessory for the woman who is constantly changing up her look. The Pearls in Motion Collection includes necklaces, earrings and bracelets, which beautifully showcase the Japanese White Akoya and White and Black South Sea cultured pearls. Many of the pieces within the collection include pave sheres, rondelled or satin-finished stone shapes with the option of adding diamonds.

In addition to these two collections, Mikimoto offers a wide range of designs and settings, from modern hoop-style earrings, opera-length necklaces and Baroque South Sea pearls to the extremely rare and coveted, natural Conch collection.Having graced the necks of fashion icons, Mikimoto has been (and will probably always be) the premier choice when it comes to cultured pearls. So while trends may come and go, the understated elegance and timeless beauty of Mikimoto will no doubt always be in style.

Mikimoto’s newest collection highlights asymmetrical, unusually textured baroque pearls, marking a departure from the brand’s signature jewellery boasting perfectly symmetrical, flawless round pearls.

 The 25-piece Baroque Couture line, retailing from $9,200 to $46,000, features one-of-a-kind creations with pavé diamond treatment.