Cover Jewelmer’s fine jewellery, crafted with the world's finest South Sea pearls (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
Jewelmer’s fine jewellery, crafted with the world's finest South Sea pearls (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
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Three decades since the South Sea pearl was named the national gem, Jewelmer celebrates the Philippines’ heritage through timeless craftsmanship
This pearl month—in commemoration of 30 years since the South Sea pearl was declared the National Gem of the Philippines, via Presidential Proclamation No 905—Jewelmer honours the anniversary through its collections, but more so through its commitment to the craft.
To understand a Jewelmer pearl is to understand the miraculous journey behind its creation. A single golden South Sea pearl requires five years of meticulous care and 377 precise steps. Cultivated within the rare gold-lipped Pinctada maxima oyster—the largest pearl-bearing oyster in the world—and nurtured by local communities, each gem is a testament to the harmonious relationship between man and Mother Nature.
Above The Pamana Brooch (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
The Pamana Brooch (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
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The Philippines is home to abundant natural marvels of great scale and gravitas: from jagged peaks on the highest mountains to vast coral atolls under the surface of crystalline waters. In striking contrast, perhaps, is the South Sea pearl. Unlike geological formations or entire underwater ecosystems, you can place it in the palm of your hand, hold it close, and carry it with you.
Despite its physical size, this gem holds weight. It’s a wonder of nature born of the Philippine islands and the dedication of its people, with a singular lustre that certainly merits esteem. Few understand this better than Jewelmer, the French-Filipino Maison that has spent decades transforming the pearl into an enduring symbol of home across borders and generations.
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Above Caravelles Creations (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
Caravelles Creations (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
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Above Jewelmer's fine jewellery creations (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
Jewelmer's fine jewellery creations (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
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The high jewellery Maison also acts as a bridge between cultures. Founded in 1979 by French pearl farmer Jacques Branellec and Filipino entrepreneur Manuel Cojuangco, Jewelmer unites the savoir-faire of Paris’ Place Vendôme with the craftsmanship that lives and breathes across the Philippine islands. This is the synergy that allows Jewelmer’s pieces—from the iconic Les Classiques strands to the Lumière de l’Infini crown—to stand proudly on the global stage.
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Above Les Classiques Earrings (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
Above Les Classiques and Caravelles Creations (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
Les Classiques Earrings (Photo: courtesy of Jewelmer)
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In this way, the radiance of the golden South Sea pearl serves as a luminous symbol of connection. Each gem feels significant because it carries heritage, warmth and a piece of the Philippines no matter where you are in the world. As we commemorate three decades of our national gem, let Jewelmer serve as a quiet yet steadfast compass, carrying the feeling of home wherever you go.
Discover Jewelmer’s South Sea pearl collections and find your piece of home at their boutiques worldwide, or on jewelmer.com.
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Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.
