Inside The Mikimoto & Chrome Hearts Natural Diamond Collab
Cultured pearls and natural diamonds come together in an daring yet classic collection.
High jeweler Mikimoto, known for its artful jewelry featuring cultured pearls, is unveiling its first-ever collaborative collection with luxury brand Chrome Hearts. Bold with a distinctly edgy look and feel, Chrome Hearts has imbued its striking sensibility into the collaboration. The result is a perfect “fusion of contrasting aesthetics, embodying the spirit of innovation and artistic expression that defines both brands,” according to a press release.
The limited-edition collection features four exclusive hand-crafted necklaces, plus a core collection of eleven pieces including a pendant, a lariat, two pearl strand necklaces, five drop and stud earrings, a bracelet, and a pin brooch, all made with Mikimoto’s signature highest-quality pearls, with some featuring natural diamonds as well.
The idea for the collection was first planted in 2020 when Jessie Jo Stark, daughter of Chrome Hearts founders Richard and Laurie Lynn Stark, brought the idea of a pearl collection to her father. Richard Stark told her, “if it’s pearls, it has to be Mikimoto.” A few years and many creative hours later, the collaborative collection was born.
Only Natural Diamonds spoke with Mikimoto COO Yasuhiko Hashimoto to get an exclusive, first-hand look at the collaboration and collection, available to shop in on Friday, November 8.
Only Natural Diamonds: What makes this collaboration with Chrome Hearts different from other collabs Mikimoto has done in the past?
Yasuhiko Hashimoto: This partnership allows us to push the boundaries of pearl jewelry design in a way that incorporates Chrome Hearts’ distinct look and design language, making it a true first for each brand. Each piece in the collection tells a story of tradition meeting modernity, with Chrome Hearts’ bold, avant-garde designs intertwining with Mikimoto’s century-long expertise. The result is a collection that redefines what luxury jewelry can be, delivering pieces that are not only visually stunning but rich with craftsmanship and cultural significance.
CH Plus/Heart/Pearl Drop Earring (Courtesy of Mikimoto x Chrome Hearts)
OND: Natural diamonds and natural pearls have similar auras about them—being from nature, precious and rare—how did you see them marrying each other in this collection?
YH: Our founder, Kokichi Mikimoto etched his name in history in 1893 when he successfully created the world’s first cultured pearls and from there, MIKIMOTO was born. Given our expertise and founding principles, our products only feature the best cultured pearls have to offer.
OND: Why natural diamonds?
YH: Natural diamonds represent peak luxury, strengthening the messaging behind our traditional heritage within the jewelry industry. As with all MIKIMOTO and Chrome Hearts jewelry, gemstones are responsibly sourced and inspected for the utmost quality.
OND: What was it like working with a bold brand like Chrome Hearts?
YH: By combining Mikimoto’s legacy of excellence in pearl cultivation with Chrome Hearts’ innovative design approach, we’ve created pieces that are truly unique in the luxury jewelry landscape. Every pearl is meticulously selected for its purity and perfection, while Chrome Hearts infuses a rebellious spirit into each design. Together, these elements culminate in jewelry that is as bold as it is timeless, honoring both the traditions of pearl craftsmanship and the cutting-edge sensibilities of modern luxury
