The 60s & 70s
The divide between imitation and real pearls widened with the rebellious 60s and 70s. Pearl necklaces looked out of place with miniskirts and hot pants, though older wealthy women still sought classic pearl jewellery. Brightly coloured beads and plastic were the order of the day as the hippy generation became more environmentally aware. Plundering pearls from the ocean to satisfy the needs of the wealthy was frowned upon. But movie stars still adored pearls, and Richard Burton gifted
Elizabeth Taylor the most famous of them all, La Peregrina pearl. Another iconic pearl necklace was worn by Audrey Hepburn in the film ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’. This simulated multi-strand pearl necklace designed especially for the film further reinforced the notion of fashion jewellery.
