In the overly-scrutinized world of the fashion choices of female politicians, a swanky strand of pearls remains one of the few traditionally feminine accessories able to hold its own with the ubiquitous pants suit.
Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister of Britain from 1979 - 1990, painted by Richard Stone.
Why are these strands of 'power pearls' accepted where other gems of equal costliness might be thought of as inappropriately flashy?
Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.
Because for centuries pearls have been the gem of royalty and old-money families. They represent wealth, power, and to a certain extent, conservative values: three qualities that politicians are generally eager to project.
The short collars of giant South Sea pearls have a particularly imposing presence, and are best pulled-off by those who feel comfortable being the boss.
Yingluck Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand from 2011 - 2014.
Wear em' proud, ladies.