June – July Highlights, Featuring Fresh Cake and Fresh Water Pearls

I know it’s technically “ruby season”, but can we take a minute to appreciate these pink and mauve freshwater pearls? This set (shown above) was thoughtfully gifted to me from my sister-in-law, and meticulously crafted by Leah Alexandra Jewelry. If this name sounds familiar, you’re likely thinking of the original “Spark Studio”, owned by local Vancouver designer, Leah Alexandra, who is well known for her more permanent jewelry pieces, many of which have been featured in magazines such as Elle, Vogue, and InStyle. Need I say more? I mean, we all know I’m going to say more anyway, so let’s get into all the pretty little details of this set…

First off, I love that the earrings match my current studs (and most of my wardrobe). Although you can’t tell in the photos below, I have 5 piercings on each ear, all of which are often occupied by plain sailing cubic zirconia, because there’s nothing more annoying than having to constantly switch out every single piercing, just to match a different set of earrings or outfit. Needless to say, I appreciate that the pearl drops continue to keep things simple, while still elevating the overall look.

Now for the necklace. I love that while it’s the obvious focal point, it doesn’t take away from the earrings. It really just further compliments them. It’s also unique in the way it can be worn and I like that the pearls shift in size halfway through.

As for the pearls, themselves… If you know me, you know I love soft, light blushes and everything shimmery. The freshwater pearls carry these elements so beautifully. No matter which way the light hits, the softness remains, and even with the sharpest glisten, they look stunning without being overly “flashy”. Might I add, the subtle shimmer is very reminiscent of June — one of the literal highlights of my Summer so far. However, wearing them mid-July hits different (I’ll get to that in a moment).

Complete with 14k gold-fill, these pieces serve as the perfect pairing for any casual and/or classy occasion.

Okay, back to July… Though I initially received these pearls last month as a birthday gift, wearing them now and next to my mother’s name (Suzy), gives a whole new meaning. This week (today), my mom would have turned 61, and though she was anything but subtle (definitely a flashy ruby), the delicate flare from these pearls feels like a reflection of her radiance. It may not be as warm, bright, and bold as she was in the physical world, yet its found a way to find its way (and perhaps in new ways). Afterall, freshwater pearls are said to represent new beginnings. However, much like the gradual, patient process of what it takes to form a pearl, it has taken me quite some time to fully embrace “the now” and all that is new. And for the first time, I feel content with that.

Now let’s see what the experts have to say (and whether or not it resonates)…

As described by LAJ, these pearls make for “the sweetest addition” to any ensemble, and I truly couldn’t agree more. From one Birthday to the next (and exactly one month apart), the 16th that was once sweet enough to cut through the bitter (though now not as honed), still lives on to capture the ever existing beauty of today. I like to think of these pearls as a forever reminder of that — a forever reminder of all the sweetness that once was and still is. Speaking of, they pair exceptionally well with fresh (or frozen) strawberry shortcake from Trafiq on Main (scroll to get a more visual taste).

Well, there you have it. Fresh cake and freshwater pearls — a match made in Vancouver, Canada.

For more visual details, catch the latest on my IG @haveyour.c.a.k.e

xo