Mina by JLL Pearl

Mina is the long pearl spinel white topaz necklace I designed as two pieces that only make sense together. The outer strand carries small uniform freshwater pearls along its full length. The inner choker holds black spinel beads, two large baroque pearls, and a pavé white topaz ball at the centre.

The centre

The three elements at the front of the choker strand are what make Mina readable from a distance. Moreover, the two baroque pearls that flank the pavé ball are deliberately different in surface and light — one smooth and lustrous, the other slightly uneven. Because the pavé ball sits between them in oxidised silver, it holds the composition without resolving it. Still, the piece is never loud.

Two ways to wear it

Mina is designed to be worn as a double strand, the choker sitting high and the pearl strand hanging below. Furthermore, the pearl strand can be worn alone — long, understated, and classical. Therefore, it moves between two registers depending on the occasion and the mood.

I make Mina in two distinct stages, each strand separately, then together. As a result, this long pearl spinel white topaz necklace takes considerably more time than a single piece. In this way, it reflects how I work: slowly, in Greece, without shortcuts.

Mina arrives in its JLL Pearl pouch with a certificate of authenticity. Because I work with natural pearls, no two sets are exactly alike.

Materials

• Long strand: uniform round freshwater pearls, silver spring ring clasp
• Choker strand: black spinel beads, two large baroque freshwater pearls, one white topaz pavé ball in oxidised silver setting
• Handmade in Greece by Patricia Mulko