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When you think about childhood tales of mermaids, what springs to mind first? Their tails, perhaps, or their long, flowing hair woven with seaweed? After that, it’s probably their jewellery: the strands of sea pearls lacing their necks, the shells adorning their fingers, the coral twisted into a tiara. Maybe your mermaid is Disney’s Ariel and so you think of her purple shell bra and the necklace in which Ursula traps her voice. Maybe it’s Sara Paxton in Aquamarine, with her compliment-talking starfish earrings. Now, with Disney’s eagerly anticipated live-action Little Mermaid only weeks away from release and mermaidcore — a magical, mystical, romantic trend dedicated to all things under the sea — on everyone’s lips, we’ve dedicated ourselves to sourcing the very best siren-inspired jewellery accessible to us mere mortals. Our very own treasure chest, if you will.
The first port of call? Ottoman Hands, an artisanal British brand specialising in handcrafted, gold-plated jewellery set with semi-precious gems, which we discovered and fell in love with last year. From gold hoops carved into twists of coral to pearl and turquoise beaded necklaces ready for layering, it’s a lineup worthy of a treasure map and plenty of swashbuckling. Luckily for those yet to get their sea legs, there’s no danger (or one-handed pirates) here. Nor will you need a stash of gold coins — prices start at £24 and stretch up to £175. As these pieces are handcrafted, they’re often available in small quantities so be sure to sign up for notifications of when your favourite pieces are back in stock.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by us. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, we may earn a commission.
Ottoman Hands Adelina Beaded Pearl and Turquoise Necklace, £62
Natural pearls and semiprecious turquoise beads combine to create the ultimate boho-style mermaid staple.
Ottoman Hands Adelina Beaded Pearl and Turquoise Necklace, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands Zephyr Hoop Earrings, £39
These coral-inspired hoops prove that mermaidcore jewellery doesn’t have to be encrusted with pearls.
Ottoman Hands Zephyr Hoop Earrings, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands Amalfi Pearl Cocktail Ring, £59
With its organic shape and unique-to-each-piece mother of pearl inlay, this delicate cocktail ring looks and feels much more expensive than it really is.
Ottoman Hands Amalfi Pearl Cocktail Ring, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands June Pearl Beaded Cuff Bracelet, £79
We’re calling it now: summer 2023 marks the return of the boho cuff bracelet. Bonus mermaid points if yours is covered with tiny pearls.
Ottoman Hands June Pearl Beaded Cuff Bracelet, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands Alessia Turquoise Chain Huggie Earrings, £55
For a subtle touch of aqua-inspired style, pair these with your go-to gold hoops.
Ottoman Hands Alessia Turquoise Chain Huggie Earrings, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands Della Pearl Band Ring, £65
Mermaidcore jewellery doesn’t have to be dainty. We love this statement-making, chunky ring, particularly as it’s fully adjustable.
Ottoman Hands Della Pearl Band Ring, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands Tanrica Gold Bangle Bracelet with Turquoise Beads, £65
If you’re not afraid to make some noise, layer up your bangles and cuff bracelets.
Ottoman Hands Tanrica Gold Bangle Bracelet with Turquoise Beads, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands Sasha Pearl Beaded Hoop Earrings, £65
The everyday classic, updated for wannabe mermaids.
Ottoman Hands Sasha Pearl Beaded Hoop Earrings, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands Goddess Aphrodite Pearl Pendant Necklace, £139
Part of Ottoman Hands’ Goddess collection, this stunning pendant features the sculpted torso of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love who is considered by many to have links to mermaid mythology. Here we see her in her shell, rising from the sea and holding a pearl, a symbol of divine femininity.
Ottoman Hands Goddess Aphrodite Pearl Pendant Necklace, $, available at Ottoman Hands
Ottoman Hands Avalon Pearl Pull Through Hoop Earrings, £65
For the chic mermaids out there.
Ottoman Hands Avalon Pearl Pull Through Hoop Earrings, $, available at Ottoman Hands
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