MIKIMOTO | Pearls Reimagined as Men's Adornments

MIKIMOTO

Get dapper in PEARLS;

Tadanobu Asano, Adorned in Pearls (1)

Wearing elegant items with a casual flair──Style, ultimately, is about that very essence. As a suggestion, OPENERS focuses on pearls as a men's accessory. This is about wearing them in a way that transcends the notion of formal jewelry. There should be no set rules.

Modeled by ASANO TadanobuModel Photographs by HATA Junji (Cyaan)Still Photographs by HAYASHI Toshiichiro (forest)Styling by SHIMAZU YoshiyukiHair by ABE (M0)Makeup by YUKI (M0)Text by TSUCHIDA Takashi

Beyond formal occasions

Pearls are among humanity's oldest jewelry. Their brilliant history can be traced back to the time of Cleopatra. Unlike other mineral resources, pearls require no cutting or polishing; they possess a beautiful luster in their natural state. Yet, until the establishment of oyster cultivation techniques in the late 19th century, they remained a product of nature's chance.

Wealthy individuals of the Middle Ages eagerly sought pearls, competing in quality and quantity. Of course, it wasn't just women who were captivated by pearls. Their rarity made them a symbol of social status, and they were even used as part of insignia. For men of privilege—nobles, royalty, knights—they became an indispensable accessory.

What's particularly noteworthy here is how royalty and nobility in the Middle Ages wore pearls. Beyond necklaces, pendants, rings, and brooches, they were sewn directly onto clothing, multiple pearl hair ornaments were worn, and ropes of pearls were draped over turbans. We can glimpse these styling choices in portraits and historical photographs.

While we cannot directly replicate the extravagance of their attire today, the richness of their creativity in approaching pearls with such freedom cannot be overlooked.

In Japan, pearls are strongly associated with formal jewelry, perhaps because their luster is not dazzling but possesses a calm radiance. There are also theories about pearls having healing powers, but these are not definitively proven.

Henry Guttmann/Getty Images

View "Necklaces in World History"

Regardless of whether it's due to the history of pearls,──one thing is certain: in today's world, pearls pair exceptionally well with the casual-mix coordination championed by global celebrities. If styling means deliberately wearing elegant jewelry in a relaxed manner, then pearls—the most formal (as perceived) of items—are perfect for pairing with understated clothing.

Jewelry should, by its nature, be free. Adding pearls to your everyday attire. We hope you find value in such an endeavor.

MIKIMOTO

Get dapper in PEARLS;

Tadanobu Asano, Adorned in Pearls (2)

Supreme Quality

All the items introduced here are creations of MIKIMOTO. This esteemed jewelry brand, a source of pride for Japan on the world stage, began in 1893 when founder Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in culturing pearls for the first time globally. Since then, as an originator of pearls, it has forged a historical path, dedicating over 120 years to refining design and craftsmanship.

Furthermore, the pearls handled by MIKIMOTO are uniformly of exceptional quality. The nacreous layer, which creates the pearl's luster, is dense and thick, resulting in a beautiful radiance. The proof is in the details: bring your face close, and you should see your reflection in each individual pearl. The brand's iconic pearl necklaces are created from these individual pearls, meticulously matched for size and luster to achieve a stunning harmony.

While pearls might evoke the pure white luster of Akoya pearls, some pearls from the South Seas possess black or golden hues. Unlike Japanese Akoya oysters, these mother-of-pearl shells are larger, allowing the pearls to grow significantly, offering a sense of luxurious volume. Their colors can also be enjoyed depending on your fashion choices.

A final word: pearls are sensitive to acids found in sweat, cosmetics, and perfumes. Therefore, avoid washing them with tap water and wipe them with a soft, dry cloth after use. Beyond that, feel free. Don't be bound by convention; subtly incorporate pearls into your life. You are sure to make wonderful discoveries.

To "Man in PEARLS; Tadanobu Asano Adorned in Pearls"

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