Of course, diamonds and fine watches are the foundation of any jewelry retail business, but we’re about to make a case for expanding your selection of pearls. Beyond the classic strands and ear studs, pearls have gotten a designer upgrade, inspiring edgier, more playful, even sexier styles that have been hitting this season’s runways as well as the Red Carpet. We were wowed by the pieces on display from new designers as well as old favorites at the Jeweler’s of America Fine Jewelry Preview (watch our video!). There was nothing demure about them—each item made a stunning fashion statement. “People are always trying to put pearls into this one dimension of a look,” Kathy Grenier, the Cultured Pearl Association of America’s marketing director, told us when we stopped by their booth. “But if a jeweler wants to stand out, they can set themselves apart by expanding this category. There’s so much variety in it.” To get a glimpse of the newest looks, check out the pieces here. And see more spectacular pieces and our full interview with Grenier on our video: Smart, Sexy, Fun New Takes On Pearls.