From Queen Elizabeth and the “Iron Lady” Mrs Thatcher to today’s latest female figurehead, America’s first female vice-president-elect Kamala Harris – with her designer single-strand necklace and earrings – pearls have been the go-to jewel for powerful women. Here, we handpick the most gorgeous new pearl jewellery that makes an elegant yet forceful fashion statement.

Van Cleef & Arpels

Lucioles necklace. Photo: VCA

The Lucioles necklace exudes 1920s glamour with the long, draped pearl design adorned with a scattering of pink tourmaline beads. Set on white gold, the centrepiece features an exquisite floral design consisting of diamonds and a prominent 7.81-carat oval-cut pink sapphire. Price upon request.

C artier

The Royal High Jewellery tiara. Photo: Cartier

The Royal High Jewellery tiara is graced by a striking 53.84-carat natural pearl, topped with a 5.01-carat cushion-shaped diamond. Set with more coloured pearls and diamonds, the tiara transforms into a necklace; while the pearl can be removed to be worn as a pendant. Price upon request.

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Dior

Tie & Dior earrings. Photo: Dior

The Tie & Dior earrings are decorated with tsavorite garnet and diamonds, reflecting creator Victoire de Castellane’s love of colour-rich stones. The asymmetrical pink pair, set in 18-carat gold, are finished with pistachio cultured pearls. Price upon request.

Mikimoto

Jardin Mystérieux brooch. Photo: Mikimoto

The Jardin Mystérieux brooch features a diamond-encrusted gate, surrounded by exuberant foliage embellished with natural freshwater pearls, sapphires, tourmalines, garnets and alexandrites. Price upon request.

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Chaumet

Labyrinthe brooch. Photo: Chaumet

The Labyrinthe brooch from the maison’s new Perspectives de Chaumet collection is centred on an outstanding white South Sea pearl weighing 16.24-carat, juxtaposed with rose gold, mother-of-pearl and brilliant-cut diamonds. Price upon request.

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