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Usually associated with maiden aunts and royalty, pearls are making a comeback among the fashion-conscious.
And model Zanita Whittington shows why they are now a must-have accessory for young Hollywood celebrities looking for a touch of glamour.
This $400,000 necklace features a rare and perfectly matched 17mm graduated to 14mm strand of pearls.
The necklace was designed by jewellery firm Autore, which provides stars including Scarlett Johansson and Angelina Jolie with pearls for premieres and awards ceremonies.
They are being displayed in Auckland as part of a fundraising fashion show today at The Westin hotel to benefit Breast Cancer Research.
Autore general manager Justin Schwaz said the pearls' lustre increased the value of the necklace.