The Famous Jewelry of Jacqueline Kennedy

The beautiful Jacqueline Kennedy was born on July 28th, 1929 and was the wife of the 35th President of the United States, the late John F. Kennedy. Jacqueline lived a full and wonderful life until her passing on May 19th, 1994.

While her husband was president, Jacqueline became known as a fashion icon thanks to her wonderful taste in wardrobe designers along with the jewelry accessories that she wore. Her personal style was classy and elegant and she only wore the best designers. Over the years, Jacqueline acquired quite and extensive jewelry collection, some that was given to her as gifts and some that she personally purchased.

One of the most famous pieces of jewelry that Jacqueline owned and wore quite often was a gorgeous triple-strand of luminous pearls that was designed for her by American jeweler Kenneth J. Lane. Given as a gift to her by her husband, this gorgeous pearl necklace quickly became her signature statement piece. What many people did not know what that this was actually a faux pearl necklace. She was seen wearing these pearls often during her time as First Lady. After she passed away, the pearl necklace was sold for over $211,000 and they have been copied by many jewelry makers.

During their Presidency, Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy were gifted a rare strand of Margarita pearls. The Venezuelan president gifted these pearls to them when the Kennedys paid an official visit to Venezuela. The Margarita pearls are from an island off of the coast of Venezuela named Margarita Island. The pearls found there are famous for their color range and the strand given to the Kennedy's is in a yellow tone and is considered rare.

Mrs. Kennedy made her place in history by her fashion and jewelry choices. She created new fashion trends whenever she wore something new and exciting and was revered for her style and grace.

by Kaye Lefier, Contributing Editor at ChasingTreasure.com, online store specializing in wooden jewelry boxes and leather jewelry cases. Kaye is an avid Jewelry Collector and writes about Jewelry and Jewelry Trends.

Barbara Bush's Famous First Lady Pearls

Sometimes jewelry styles and trends are made famous by the women that wear them. Barbara Bush is remembered for always wearing what has become known as the First Lady Pearls. The particular style she wore often was a 3 strand of costume pearls. Many jewelry designers copied her famous pearl necklace calling it "First Lady Pearls" and sold replicas in the retail marketplace.

When she first became First Lady of the United States other necklace styles were more popular but since she loved her costume pearls and wore them often, faux pearl necklaces became the hot, new, must-have jewelry accessories during those 4 years. She wore her "First Lady Pearls" with various business suits, both slacks and skirt suits and formal wear. When Mrs. Bush wore her famous pearl necklace, she often paired it up with a pair of single stud earrings.

Barbara Bush's main cause was improving literacy and would often be photographed wearing her First Lady Pearls while doing her work for these special literacy projects. She also embraced those who were suffering with AIDS, the HIV virus. Wife of one President and mother of another, Barbara Bush was the "First Lady of the United States" for 4 years and is married to former President George H.W Bush. She was one of the most popular first ladies and is highly admired and respected. She was first lady from 1988 through 1992.

Today, faux pearls strands are still a fashion basic accessory as well as many of the fresh water pearls that you can find in a range of different hues. It is nice to know that some jewelry trends always remain in style and you can fall back on your favorites as needed.

by Kaye Lefier, Contributing Editor at ChasingTreasure.com, online store specializing in wooden jewelry boxes and leather jewelry cases. Kaye is an avid Jewelry Collector and writes about Jewelry and Jewelry Trends.

Pearl Jewelry for the Classic Holiday Bride

Most women have been dreaming about their wedding since they were little girls. They know what they will wear; the style of the dress, the veil and the beautiful jewelry that will adorn them for the finishing touch.

After dreaming of the perfect wedding all of their young lives, many women still want to be a classic bride. Selecting a classic style in the dress and also pairing it with beautiful pearl jewels will always be the right choice.

Selecting the right pearl length necklace for your dress will, of course, depend on the style of your dress and the neckline. Here is a guide that will help you find the right length to compliment your dress.

Choker: Usually a single strand of pearls that lay tight on your neck or collar. Great for higher neckline dresses.

Collar: This is made of three or more strands that fit securely around the neck lying at your collar line. This beautiful style looks lovely with a plunging neckline.

Princess:  This length falls below the hollow of the throat. You can find pearl necklaces in multi-layers in this length if you need a bit more definition to the pairing.

Matinee: This size hits the top your chest and looks great with a boatneck or jewel neckline. Check the length with your dress to make sure that it does not get lost and make sure there is not a lot of decoration on your dress.

Opera: This is a long single strand that falls below your chest.  You definitely need a slim style dress with this length, but it can be worn wrapped around your neck a few times for another great look. The Opera length is also great for wearing backwards if you have a plunging back and a high cut neckline. An amazing statement piece!

By pairing your pearls to your dress and neckline, you will find the classic bridal look that you have longed for.  Enjoy finding the perfect piece for your special day!

by Gregg Nosaji, Contributing Editor for ChasingTreasure.com, online retailer of jewelry boxes, jewelry armoires and jewelry related gifts. Gregg is an event consultant and writes about gift ideas and special occasions.

How to Care for Cultured and Freshwater Pearls

The beauty of the cultured and the freshwater pearl is the natural luster and shine. Preserving that luster is easy when you properly care for your pearls.  Here are some tips on how to care for your pearls so that you get the longest usage out of them so as to enjoy for many years to come.

Whether you have genuine cultured pearls or semi-precious fresh water pearls, they are a natural stone that can be easily damaged. Never allow your pearls to be in contact with sweat, vinegar, hairsprays, cosmetics, perfumes, bleaches or anything that is not natural in nature.  Before and after you wear your pearls, wipe them with a soft, damp cloth to remove any oils or dirt that can occur when wearing your pearls. Using any type of commercial jewelry cleaner will damage your pearls so only use fresh clean water when wiping them off.

Pearls are also very fragile and can easily be scratched by other hard gems such as diamonds and settings from rings or clasps from necklaces.  Store them in a soft pouch; wrap them in a soft cloth or individually in a jewelry box in its own lined compartment.  Take care to keep the clasp away from the pearl. Since pearls are a natural organic gem, they need air and moisture so they do not crack, therefore never store your pearls in a plastic bag or any sealed bag or box.

When wearing your pearls, put them on after dressing and applying any makeup so that they do not come into contact with any other chemical additive. Also make sure to remove your pearls while you are exercising as perspiration is caustic to a pearl.

If you love your pearls and wear them often, as you should, they will continue to have the beautiful shine and luster that makes the pearl a favorite gem of many women.  When caring for your necklaces, check the silk cord often for damage and wear.  You should have them re strung on a yearly basis to insure that they remain safe and the knots between the pearls remain taut.

Pearls have been a classic staple in women's jewelry for years.  Caring for your pearls only takes a few additional steps but taking he time to maintain and treat your pearls well will bring you many years of beauty to enjoy.

by Jasmine Yesak, Contributing Editor at ChasingTreasure.com, online retailer of quality jewelry boxes, jewelry organizers and watch boxes. Jasmine is a Jewelry Enthusiast and Organization Consultant, she writes about Jewelry Care and Jewelry Storage Tips.

Pearl Care and Jewelry Storage

Pearls are prized for their natural beauty and require proper storage and care to retain their natural luster. It's important to store pearls in a dedicated jewelry box, a soft cloth pouch, or in a lined jewelry compartment in your larger jewelry box where they will not come into contact with other jewelry.

Since pearls are an organic gemstone they require moisture to keep them from becoming dry and brittle. If your pearls are stored in a closed box, take them out periodically to avoid dehydration.

Pearls should not be stored in plastic, near heat, or near other hard jewelry items that could scratch them. Never leave them in direct sunlight or expose them to high temperatures. Pearl jewelry should always be removed before using household detergents like laundry soap or dishwasher soap.

While wearing your pearls, perfume and hairspray should not be used because the alcohol and harmful acids can damage them. Perspiration can also harm the beauty of pearls, dulling their beautiful luster. They should be wiped with a damp (not wet) cloth after each wear. Avoid conventional jewelry cloths that are chemically treated. They contain harsh chemicals that could damage the surface of the pearl. Use only cleaning products and cloths designed specifically for cleaning pearls.

To keep your pearls clean, wash them with a cloth dipped in mild detergent and water, or with a cleaner made specifically for pearls. Then, dampen a cloth with water only and wipe the pearls again. The pearls should be lain flat, not hung, to dry. If the string is wet, hanging them could cause it to stretch. Never wear your pearls while the string is damp or wet.

The silk string of your pearl strand will need to be replaced over time. Take them to a professional jeweler for restringing. Be careful not to get pearl strands wet or wear them while swimming or bathing, because water can weaken and stretch the silk thread.

Pearls will continue to be a favorite jewelry choice, complimenting both classic and contemporary styles. With proper storage and cleaning, they will retain their natural beauty for years to come.