Pearls

These days, pearls often have a slightly old fashioned connotation, associated with women of 'a certain age' and prim and dull clothing. Something you might wear to please your mother-in-law - just. What folly! Pearls are timeless not antiquated, captivating in a subtle, sophisticated way and will lift any outfit from nothing to quietly elegant. I love pearls precisely because they are not overpowering or in-your-face bling. There is nothing worse than a woman dripping in jewellery like a Christmas tree, don't you think? So, here is my low-down on what selection of pearls should ideally fill one's jewellery case: Simple stud A perennial favourite that will see you from morning through to evening. All colours are nice but white is the classic choice. Look out for designs with diamonds, to add some subtle sparkle.

Drop earrings Slightly more dressy than studs, drop earrings are reminiscent of the Renaissance and, of course, of the famous Vermeer painting 'Girl with a Pearl Earring'. Wear with a little black dress and Bob's your uncle...

Necklaces Immortalised by Coco Chanel, ideally one should have an exemplar of each specific length: Collar (25-33cm), Choker (34-41cm), princess (42-48cm), matinee (49-60cm), opera, (70-90cm) and a rope (anything longer than opera).

Ring Not a must-have per se but it is so much more elegant than one of those big, chunky cocktail rings.

Brooch Another way to adorn your LBD or maybe a scarf. Just be careful when you pin; we don't want any big, gaping holes.

Special An unusual design can really take the humble pearl into the limelight. I found this beautiful lace-like collar in a vintage shop and it looks stunning worn against a plain dress, preferably black.

And sometimes, only extravagance will do:

Final note: Invest in the real deal if you can but fake will do just as nicely.