Celebrities' Obsession for Pearls

Celebrities and their obsession with pearls throughout the centuries.

Posted: June 03, 2011 

Widely known fact: all women adore pearls, especially those in the public eye. It is safe to say that even the simplest pearl necklace can transform any ensemble from bleak to chic. Celebrities sporting pearls is an established trend in fashion history. Originally, pearls were reserved for the superior gender of celebrities, Royalty. Pearls, a sign of virtue as well as undisputed power, symbolized natural, priceless perfection – which, of course was associated with superior royalty. For Queen Elizabeth I, pearls were also a sign of virginity.

While pearls have held tight to their reign as a status symbol throughout the ages, there is one noticeable change to be seen. Celebrities have continued the pearl’s superiority and royalty into contemporary times by donning the expensive accessory to red carpet premieres and star-studded fetes; however, it is to be noted that while royalty of any age wore pearls, presently, younger generations of celebrities appear to be pearl-less.

Modern times see the pearl as a sign of maturity or intellectual superiority. With such a wide array of fine jewelry available to celebrities, when younger celebrities do wear pearls, we take note and in turn, associate said celebrity with more maturity.

One fact that has remained constant throughout the centuries past is that celebrities, just as their royal counterparts did, adorn themselves in pearls to satisfy their great desire to be seen by the public as icons of ultimate class. Audrey Hepburn’s character in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” cherished her pearls, wearing them constantly throughout the film. Hepburn and pearls became synonymous and her celebrity flourished; thus becoming one of the most powerful icons of her time. This is the fame that celebrities’ desire and pearls are the perfect accessory with which to reflect status.

 Print This Document

LIKE