The supply chain of pearls was profoundly changed since 1893 when Kokichi Mikimoto astounded the world by creating the first cultured pearl in Ojima Island, Toba, Japan. The king of pearls spared no efforts in perfecting the culturing technique, integrating the best of domestic and European jewellery craftsmanship, venturing into overseas markets, preserving the environment, and praising to nature. His dedication and perseverance are abided by the global Mikimoto team which is preparing for the 125th anniversary of the legendary brand in 2018.
A natural link is formed between Mikimoto and nature. “Pearls come from the ocean which, together with air, flowers and trees are part of the natural environment. It is of pivotal importance to preserve and appreciate our nature,” said Ichimura Mirai, (Executive Director) of Mikimoto. The brand’s indebtedness to Mother Nature is perceivably expressed in most of its jewellery collections including the newly-launched Praise to Nature which features graceful flowers set in 18-karat gold with various kinds of cultured pearls, coloured gemstones and diamonds.
The scene of a single strand of perfect pearls cascading down the neck of a dignified lady visualises the famous quote by Kokichi Mikimoto. Over the years the brand has rejuvenated the image of pearls by introducing avant-garde jewellery collections accented with coloured gemstones and diamonds, according to Ichimura. “Mikimoto constantly adapts to changes and trends. We keep surprising customers with something new and different. Capitalising on the trend of transformation, we have introduced long necklaces that can be worn as chokers, bracelets and brooches for personal styles and different occasions.”
A pearl brand in its essence, Mikimoto has diversified its product range to include chic diamond jewellery in a bid to offer loyal customers an alternative way to appreciate the exquisite quality, design and craftsmanship of Mikimoto jewellery.
Mikimoto reciprocates the environment by means of the ‘zero emission’ initiative. “Not a single part of an oyster is to be wasted. All by-products found during the pearl cultivation process are useful as accessories, food, pharmaceutical products, fertilizers, etc,” Ichimura explained.
Kokichi Mikimoto opened the first pearl jewellery shop in Ginza, Tokyo in 1899, followed by the first overseas store in London in 1913. Besides those, the visionary pearl giant now operates mono-brand boutiques and sales points in metropolitan cities in the world including Paris, New York, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and major cities in mainland China.
Among the exiting line-up of special activities in celebration of the 125th anniversary in 2018, Ichimura says the brand will relaunch the extraordinary ‘Yaguruma’ sash pin, a versatile jewellery for kimono first appeared in 1937. It can be worn in over 10 different ways as a ring, a hair clip, a brooch, etc.
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