Mikimoto has released a new campaign starring Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh. Titled “1893 Mikimoto – Time on a String,” the campaign pays homage to the year Kokichi Mikimoto created the world’s first cultured pearl. By highlighting this foundational year, the brand said it is reaffirming its heritage while bringing renewed focus to the pearl necklace.

The phrase “Time on a String” is meant to call to mind the idea of weaving through time as if stringing pearls on a necklace, expressing a legacy that connects past, present, and future through each strand, Mikimoto said. 

It’s a tribute to the timeless beauty and heirloom quality of Mikimoto pearls, the brand said.

“Honoring our founder’s devotion to ‘adorn everyone with pearls,’ Mikimoto continues to carry on his legacy by embracing the multifaceted allure of pearls, entrusting his dreams through our jewelry for over 130 years,” the company said.

Mikimoto President and CEO Yasuhiko Hashimoto conceived the concept for the campaign, which features Yeoh in three different looks.

“At Mikimoto, we seek partners who embody both timeless elegance and modern strength. Michelle Yeoh is admired by audiences of all ages and across continents, making her a powerful reflection of the global spirit of our brand,” Hashimoto said.

“Her presence brings a sense of grace, confidence, and enduring relevance that mirrors the beauty of Mikimoto pearls.”

In the hero image for the campaign, seen at the top of the article, Yeoh is wearing pearl strands of three different lengths, 59 inches, 79 inches, and 118 inches. In other visuals, she is seen wearing a classic pearl necklace featuring large, opulent pearls ranging in size from 16.1 to 19.1 millimeters, paired with large pearl and diamond drop earrings.

In the final campaign image, Yeoh wears a black pearl lariat paired with a modern, sculptural high jewelry ring and ear cuffs.