Why pearl is the most versatile stone, according to Isabella Roux
Pearls are really having a moment right now - but for Isabella Roux, this is nothing new.
The Geneva-based fine jewellery designer, whose work is inspired by the wild landscapes of the Irish west coast, has long worked with pearls in a way that feels neither conventional nor precious.
"I love the ease and versatility of pearls," Sadhbh Roux-Fouillet explains. "They can be worn every day, layered, reworked, or paired with charms — there's a real sense of playfulness in them." That playfulness is central to how Isabella Roux approaches the material. Pearls knotted on silk, baroque mixed with round, black and white strands combined, worn by men as well as women. "My husband wears a black and white pearl necklace all the time," she says.
"I like taking the idea of a classic pearl and shifting it slightly"
For Sadhbh, pearls occupy a unique position among precious materials. "They're such a beautiful material, bright, soft, and full of life. They feel effortless to wear, and I love that they bring a sense of beauty without needing to be precious about it."
That last point is worth noting: in fine jewellery, effortlessness is one of the hardest qualities to achieve.
If you are considering investing in pearls, Sadhbh has clear advice.
"It's worth understanding what you're buying, there's a big difference between freshwater, Akoya, and South Sea, both in quality and price."
Beyond that, she encourages buyers to follow their instinct. "Choose what you're naturally drawn to. There are so many variations in tone and shape, I've been particularly drawn to grey pearls lately."She also emphasizes that how you care for your pearls really matters.
"Pearls are organic, they don't love perfume, heavy creams, or being scratched against harder jewellery. With a little care, they age beautifully and keep their natural lustre."
" It's about showing pearls in a way that feels natural, modern, and easy to live in."
- Christine Hvelplund
Sadhbh's own favourite from the collection is currently the long drop pearl pendant. "It feels incredible to wear — either on its own, layered with a tight pearl choker, or a simple gold chain. It's a very easy piece, especially for summer: worn with a white T-shirt, a simple black top, or something open and relaxed." The appeal, she says, is in how natural it feels. "It's about showing pearls in a way that feels natural, modern, and easy to live in."
If you’re looking to invest in pearls - in their versatility and elegance - then Isabella Roux is definitely the best place to start.
Discover her full collection here.
