Regal jewels

CLOTHES LINES:Some of Michelle Obama's trademark pearls come from long-established US company, Carolee, well-known for its inexpensive (simulated) pearls, and also bridal jewellery. Both can be bought online from a new Irish company based in Letterkenny, Co Donegal. Eimear Thomas, founder of Thomas Laine, lived and worked in New York, where she completed a GIA (Gemological Institute of America) course in jewellery.

Her company offers a mix of bridal, designer and fine jewellery, giving it a wide appeal. Many of the designer names, such as Yosca, Wasabi and Alexis Bittar, may not be as well known in this country as they are in the US, but you can see their work on her website. The bridal jewellery looks like it’s vintage, but comes at very affordable prices. Some of the pieces from Kenneth Jay Lane, who is credited with making costume jewellery hip in the US, and who takes inspiration from Georgian Ireland, are quite stunning. This polished gold “Maltese Cross Cuff” costs €191. For further information, check out the excellent website, www.thomaslaine.com.