Mikimoto, the prestigious brand renowned for creating the world’s first cultured pearl in 1893, has teamed up with Chrome Hearts, a luxury label celebrated for its edgy aesthetic, to launch an exciting new collaborative collection. The “Mikimoto Chrome Hearts” collection debuted last week, marking a bold fusion of classic elegance and contemporary rebellion.
This innovative partnership arose from Chrome Hearts’ desire to integrate pearl elements into its fine jewelry line. Founded in 1988 by Richard Stark and Laurie Lynn Stark, the brand has always embraced a unique blend of underground culture and high fashion. The idea to incorporate pearls was sparked by their eldest daughter, Jesse Jo Stark, who has long been captivated by pearls for their duality—representing both timeless beauty and a radical spirit. Recognizing the significance of this material, she proposed the collaboration, leading her father Richard to affirm, “If it’s pearls, it has to be Mikimoto.”
Together, Jesse Jo and the artisans at Mikimoto crafted an exquisite range of pieces featuring 18-karat white gold, diamonds, and both Akoya and white South Sea pearls. Each design harmoniously marries Mikimoto’s luxurious pearls with Chrome Hearts’ signature motifs, resulting in jewelry that challenges traditional notions of luxury.
Yasuhiko Hashimoto, COO of Mikimoto, expressed the essence of this collaboration: “In blending Mikimoto pearls with Chrome Hearts’ bold designs, we’re not just creating jewelry; we’re challenging preconceptions about what luxury means in today’s global culture.” The collection embodies a celebration of artistry, self-expression, and individuality, pushing the boundaries of tradition while honoring the freedom to be unique.
The Mikimoto Chrome Hearts collection consists of two parts: a core collection featuring eleven pieces including earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and a pin brooch; and an exclusive selection of four intricately hand-crafted necklaces, each limited to just two pieces—one available in the U.S. and one overseas.
This exclusive collection is available at select Chrome Hearts stores in New York, Aoyama, Tokyo, and London, as well as at Mikimoto locations in Tokyo, New York, and Hong Kong. With its blend of contrasting aesthetics and commitment to craftsmanship, the Mikimoto Chrome Hearts collaboration is poised to become a coveted addition to any jewelry lover’s collection.
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