MANILA, Philippines ? Blessed are those who show up early at launches and events, for they get to take exclusive photos and meet the hosts up close and personal.

This was the case at the opening of Jewelmer?s 14th fine jewelry store on the second floor of Greenbelt 5. Its superb staff and senior officers?Ana Marie Echavaria, Celine Aguila, Daniela San Agustin and Carmina Sanchez?organized an exclusive affair with guests sampling and trying on their incredible elegant suites of golden pearls set with diamonds.

Jewelmer is launching a younger and less pricey line for twenty- to thirtysomething first-time customers, consisting of stately pearl studs and fine filigreed pieces. For many Filipino woman, after all, a sensible string of real pearls is one?s best friend after diamonds.

A video on ?The Miracle of the Golden Pearl? was shown, and copies of the accompanying hardbound book with the same title were given out. The video featured a clip of the Paris fashion show last year that showcased Jewelmer jewelry, with top Filipina models wearing gowns by Rhett Eala.

In these Philippine Daily Inquirer exclusive shots are the new Princess Line and Paris showstoppers, including a long necklace with pearls the size of golf balls and a sculptural piece with golden pearls attached to gold springs that bounced around the neck of the model. This piece got a standing ovation from the Paris audience.

The launch of the new line marks Jewelmer?s celebration of its 30th year in the business. How apt, as 30 years is pearl, while 40 is ruby, and 50 is golden.