Latest collection from Pearls specialist Mikimoto launches next month

The new Mikimoto Milano Collection by Giovanna Broggian is designed and produced in Italy using Mikimoto South Sea Cultured Pearls. The exclusive Milano Collection flawlessly combines Italian design with the classic Mikimoto Pearls. Unique arrangements and the patented setting mechanism allow the Pearls to be the focal point of every Milano design. Mikimoto introduces two new styles to the Milano Collection: Sakura and Water Lily. Sakura is a delicate collection that uses cherry blossoms as the lead motif. Rose and white gold cradles large White or Black South Sea Cultured Pearls, Mother of Pearl and pure diamonds in floral compositions as well as bouquets on chain necklaces, earrings and rings. Water Lily exhibits the flower in a combination of gold and diamonds, forming fleshy petals in a distinctive goblet shape that accommodates luminous Pearls. The new range will be available from the Bond Street store and selected stockists from August.

Marilyn Monroe pearls to go on display

For one week only and in conjunction with the Bond Street Culture and Heritage Week, Mikimoto will be exhibiting Marilyn Monroe’s Mikimoto pearl necklace in its original oval, leather, velvet-lined box. In 1954 Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio travelled to Japan for their honeymoon, where Mikimoto presented Marilyn with an Akoya pearl necklace. The Mikimoto pearl necklace was one of the only pieces of fine jewellery Marilyn owned, as most of her jewellery was costume. Mikimoto was the first to develop a technique for the cultivation of pearls. Today, almost all pearls sold worldwide are cultured pearls. The family-run business remains a world leader in superior-quality Akoya and South Sea cultured pearls and the company is respected for its product design, crafting techniques and strict quality control. The Bond Street Culture and Heritage Week runs from 7-13 June 2010.