Celebrity Jewelry

Judge the Jewels: Baseball’s Joc Pederson Swings for the Fences with Custom Pearls

The world champion Atlanta Braves outfielder wears the jewelry during every game.

Published

2 years ago

November 25, 2021

Becky Stone

Photos from Joc Pederson’s Instagram

The sighting: Atlanta right fielder Joc Pederson has been rounding the bases in a custom strand of pearls! And we don’t mean just once or twice – this pearl necklace is the professional athlete’s go-to accessory.

The jewels: Pederson’s pearls were custom made for him by Gabe Arik of Happy Jewelers. According to Sports Illustrated, the 24-inch strand is intentionally large, with 14-millimeter cultured pearls separated by extra knots to ensure that pearls won’t scatter all over the field if the necklace breaks mid-game.

Happy Jewelers reportedly keeps backup pearls on hand in case Pederson’s necklace breaks, a precaution that came in handy this week when Pederson damaged his signature strand night before a big game. As documented on their Instagram, Happy Jewelers rushed an employee to the airport, pearls in hand, and was able to deliver a replacement before the next day’s opening pitch.

The trends: Pearls have been hot for a while now and the popular jewel can’t seem to stop attracting new, highly influential devotees. It’s a look traditionally seen as demure and feminine, although more recently that association has taken on an aura of power as women around the world donned pearls to honor VP Kamala Harris at her inauguration. Now, baseball fans drape themselves in pearls to show support for Pederson and his teammates.

As for the question of whether pearls could become a trend for men off the playing field, we’d argue it’s already happening. Just ask Harry Styles.

Photo from Joc Pederson’s Instagram

What do we think? The only nit we could possibly pick here is that Pederson’s pearl strand might be a little long for the neckline of his uniform. A shorter lengnth could have lined up perfectly with the collar, although the insouciance of the longer length does feel appropriate for pearls appearing in such an unexpected context.

Pederson posted an Instagram photo of himself delightedly holding up his strand of pearls with the caption “rock what you want.” We have nothing but respect for this level of style and confidence.

Judgement: 15/10 for defying expectations in the best way

Related Topics: celebrity jewelry Featured

Becky Stone

Becky Stone writes about jewelry styles for INSTORE. She is founder and CEO of well-known jewelry blog Diamonds in the Library.

click to Comment(Comment)

Up Next

The Film Spencer, a Biopic of a Challenging Time in Princess Diana’s Life, Stars Kristen Stewart and Mouawad Jewels

Don't Miss

Then and Now: Kerry Washington, Brand Ambassador for Aurate, Wears Hoop Earrings Kerry Washington, Ambassador For Aurate Wears Hoops Reminiscent of Sade’s Iconic Style

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”