JEWELS with Troy McKenzie

Feminine, romantic, and dreamy, pearls have been a classic in women’s jewellery collections across the globe for hundreds of years. A string of pearls can elevate just about any outfit – from dainty pearl earrings to classic pearl necklaces, pearls of any sort are always appropriate. Not to mention, they’re the universal symbol of refined elegance.

As pearls are one of the official birthstones of June, we thought it would only be fitting to list some of the fun facts about this luxurious gem. Here’s what we found:

• Pearls range in colour from white to black

• They are the symbol of fertility, purity, determination, perfection, and, of course, romance

• They come from a living creature, rather than being mined from the ground

• There are four types of pearls, and they all have different characteristics (freshwater pearl, Japanese Akoya pearl, Tahitian pearl, and South Sea pearl)

• During Julius Caesar’s reign, only aristocrats were permitted to wear pearls

As Grace Kelly once said pearls are “the queen of gems and the gem of queens.”

I find we only truly appreciate the beauty of something or someone when we pause, contemplate, and take it all in. When it comes to travel, if you pause and observe, beauty is truly all around you.

It’s in the places you visit, it’s in the paintings and sculptures, it’s in the architecture, it’s in the style and fashion passers-by wear, it can even be in a piece of treasured handmade jewellery bought somewhere on your travels.

From the magnificence of an antique room with a view of Lake Maggiore in Italy to a glass of fine Brunello di Montalcino accompanied by a plate of handmade pesto pasta, there truly is so much to take in.

News to know, for those heading to southern Italy this summer, the new hot spot is Taormina, the pearl of the Mediterranean. Irresistiblyscented flowers and citrus fruit, turquoise waters, and uncountable Instagramfriendly corners make it the perfect place to kick back and relax.

If Italy’s calling, there are still a few spots left on my 2024 Indulgent Italy tour. You’ll enjoy special invitations and tours focused on history, style, and heritage. Get in touch with me today to book.

There’s something really beautiful about your morning coffee or tea ritual. Plus, a hot beverage is the perfect addition to any morning routine like reading the paper or doing your stretches.

If you prefer a slower morning, opting for a wellcrafted zero or lowcaffeinated coffee, or a herbal loose-leaf tea will do the trick without affecting your nervous system. Alternatively, if your morning routine starts with a run or a workout at the gym, a full caffeine blend, or a black loose-leaf tea is the way to go.

The all-new Wolff Caffeine Collection provides this power of choice; to personalise your perfect daily coffee ritual. With three blends, ranging from Zero, Low, and Hero, you’re able to dial into your daily dose of caffeine to meet your needs. The best part is, these blends are suitable anytime, any moment, for anybody. Keep your eye out for these beauties! WOLFF