Materials & Pearls
Pearls are at the heart of CHEZ LOLA. I mainly work with genuine freshwater cultured pearls, alongside 18K gold-plated metals, sterling silver and a small selection of natural stones.
You’ll find the exact materials for each piece on its product page.
Shaped by nature
Our pearls are formed inside freshwater mussels. They are real pearls—not plastic, glass or coated imitations.Each has its own shape, texture, colour and glow. These natural differences are not imperfections; they are what make every finished piece uniquely yours.
Freshwater Pearls
Freshwater pearls come in many different shapes, colours and sizes. No two are exactly alike, and small marks or ridges on the surface are completely natural.
For each design, I choose pearls that work well together in shape, size and colour. Your piece may vary slightly from the photograph, but the overall design and feel will remain the same.
Baroque Pearls
Baroque pearls are freshwater pearls with naturally irregular shapes. Some are softly rounded, while others are more sculptural.
They are a big part of CHEZ LOLA because I love the character they bring to a design. Even the simplest piece feels a little different when no two pearls are quite the same.
Metals & Other Materials
Depending on the piece, our jewellery may include:
- 18K gold-plated 925 sterling silver
- 18K gold-plated brass
- 14k gold filled
- 925 sterling silver
- Natural stones, enamel or glass
Our jewellery is nickel-free. Please check the individual product page for the exact materials used.
Pearls come in many forms
Round & near-round
Timeless and refined, with the familiar elegance of a classic pearl. A natural choice for everyday wear, bridal looks and special occasions.
Rice, oval & drop
Gentle, flowing shapes that feel light, feminine and modern while retaining the quiet beauty of traditional pearls.
Baroque & special shapes
Sculptural, expressive forms—including baroque, coin, button and star-shaped pearls—for jewellery with a distinctive point of view.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Are your pearls real?
Yes. We use genuine freshwater cultured pearls, formed inside freshwater mussels. They are not plastic, glass or coated imitation pearls.
Why are the pearls not completely identical?
Every pearl forms differently. Small variations in shape, colour, surface and lustre are natural and make each piece unique.
How do you match pearls for earrings?
For harmonious designs, we match pearls according to size, shape, colour and lustre. Some earrings are intentionally designed as A/B pairs, where different forms create a balanced composition.
Are small marks or ridges considered defects?
Fine growth marks, gentle ridges and subtle surface variations can be natural characteristics of real pearls. We select each pearl carefully so that its individual features complement the finished design.
Will my pearl look exactly like the photograph?
Your piece will retain the design and overall expression shown, but the individual pearl may vary slightly. This means the jewellery you receive will carry its own one-of-a-kind details.
How should I care for pearls and gold-plated jewellery?
Avoid water, perfume, cosmetics, cleaning products and heavy perspiration. Remove jewellery before showering, swimming, exercising and sleeping. Wipe gently after wear and store separately in a dry, softly lined place.