![pearl earrings in a shell](https://www.annoushka.com/media/wysiwyg/1920-qog_1.jpg)
![pearl earrings in a shell](https://www.annoushka.com/media/wysiwyg/414_qop_1.jpg)
prized for their undeniable beauty, rarity and lustre are the oldest gem on record. Known to many as the ‘Queen of Gems’, have been coveted for millennia and are arguably one of natures greatest miracles and discoveries.
Now grown in a range of enviable colours, shapes and sizes,
are an icon of gemstones, rich in history and symbolism.
Sisters, Not Twins
are worn in their natural state, each with a unique colour and lustre of their own. No is alike or a perfect match and it is this individuality that makes them so special. At Annoushka, we say our are ‘sisters, not twins’, designed to complement each others unique character and to showcase their natural beauty in their own right.
![queen elizabeth](https://www.annoushka.com/media/wysiwyg/1920-qog_2.jpg)
![queen elizabeth](https://www.annoushka.com/media/wysiwyg/414_qog_2.jpg)
A Regal History
are a timeless decoration and have been traced back as far a 5th century BC after a fragment of pearl was found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess, now displayed in the Louvre.
The Chinese used to decorate the crowns of emperors and sacred statues of Buddha in pearls, whilst in Ancient Rome Julius Caesar made it prohibited for to be worn by the working classes.
During the 15th century the discovery of pearls in Central and South America led to the ‘Pearl Age’. Worn as a form of adornment for centuries, became a symbol of nobility, status and power across many cultures. Over this time the pearl trade boomed and in Elizabethan England it was the royals that could be seen wearing them.
To this day, are still adorned in Royalty. Queen Elizabeth is rarely seen without her iconic three strand pearl necklace and The Duchess of Cambridge, an owner of our wears her for everyday style.
![woman wearing pearl earrings](https://www.annoushka.com/media/wysiwyg/1920-qog_3.jpg)
![woman wearing pearl earrings](https://www.annoushka.com/media/wysiwyg/414_qog_3.jpg)
Golden Pearls
Pearls are a timeless decoration and have been traced back as far a 5th century BC after a fragment of pearl was found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess, now displayed in the Louvre.
The Chinese used to decorate the crowns of emperors and sacred statues of Buddha in pearls, whilst in Ancient Rome Julius Caesar made it prohibited for pearls to be worn by the working classes.
During the 15th century the discovery of pearls in Central and South America led to the ‘Pearl Age’. Worn as a form of adornment for centuries, pearls became a symbol of nobility, status and power across many cultures. Over this time the pearl trade boomed and in Elizabethan England it was the royals that could be seen wearing them.
To this day, Pearls are still adorned in Royalty. Queen Elizabeth is rarely seen without her iconic three strand pearl necklace and The Duchess of Cambridge, an owner of our Baroque Pearl Drops, wears her pearl earrings for everyday style.
Freshwater Baroque Pearls
The majority of Annoushka’s pearl jewellery is hand made with freshwater baroque pearls. These are non-symmetrical, and come in irregular shapes as is their natural character. It’s this natural design that makes them so perfect for contemporary jewellery.
The iridescent hues of pearls can vary from white, cream and pink to grey, golden or even in some cases green. Each pearl is matched with a ‘sister’ as closely as possible and we always strive to find your desired colour, shape or look.
![yellow gold and pearl earrings](https://www.annoushka.com/media/wysiwyg/1920-qog_4.jpg)
![yellow gold and pearl earrings](https://www.annoushka.com/media/wysiwyg/414_qog_4.jpg)
Caring for and Storing Your Pearls
To keep your pearls as lustrous as the day you get them, follow our top tips for caring for and storing your pearls.
“Last thing on, first thing off”. Always put your pearl jewellery on last to avoid any unnecessary chemicals damaging them. Removing your pearls before anything else also minimises the risk of damage when removing clothes.
Keep pearls away from cosmetics, hairspray, high heat and household chemicals as these can crack or damage the pearl surface.
Never use ultrasonic cleaning and opt for warm soapy water or a professional clean.
Gently polish pearls with a soft polishing cloth.
Do not exercise, have a shower, swim or do the dishes when wearing them. Store your pearls away from other jewellery and wrap them in a soft cloth or pouch to avoid any scratches or tarnishes from other materials. The best advice we can give is to keep wearing your pearls. They thrive from the moisture and natural oils from your skin so the more you wear them, the better they’ll look!