When the 2026 Met Gala rolled out its “Costume Art” theme, Hollywood star Emily Blunt turned heads with a jaw‑dropping statement piece that redefined the line between jewelry and couture. The actress arrived in a sleek Ashi Studio corset top and matching trousers, but it was the dazzling body necklace that stole the show.
From Concept to Center Stage: The Mikimoto Masterpiece
Designed by the legendary Japanese jeweler Mikimoto, the necklace is a true work of art. It features a structured diamond collar that frames a 21.85‑carat pear‑shaped morganite as its centerpiece, surrounded by an astonishing 45.97 carats of sparkling diamonds. The piece is embellished with thousands of Akoya pearls that cascade over Blunt’s arms, creating a fluid, almost wearable sculpture.
According to the press release, the necklace functions as “both jewelry and dress.” In other words, it was not merely an accessory but a garment in its own right. Blunt herself described it as “perfect” for a theme that celebrates the “inherent relationship between clothing and the body.”
Accessorizing the Extraordinary
Blunt didn’t stop at the necklace. She complemented the look with matching pearl and diamond earrings, as well as two rings that echoed the same opulent motif. Her stylist, Jessica Pastor, noted that the necklace “became the garment” rather than playing a supportive role. The ensemble was completed by a corseted top laced at the back, black tassels hanging from the shoulders, and a pair of trousers that matched the top’s sharp silhouette.
On the red carpet, Blunt posed alongside co‑star Stanley Tucci from “Devil Wears Prada 2,” Tucci’s wife, and her sister Felicity Blunt. Though her husband, John Krasinski, was absent, the star’s presence was unmistakable.
Why the Met Gala Is the Ultimate Jewelry Showcase
The Met Gala has long been a platform where designers, celebrities, and jewelers converge to push creative boundaries. In 2026, the “Costume Art” theme encouraged guests to treat their outfits as living canvases, and Blunt’s body necklace exemplified that vision. By integrating pearls and diamonds into a structured garment, the piece blurred the line between adornment and apparel, offering a fresh take on luxury fashion.
Key Highlights of Emily Blunt’s Met Gala Look
- Body necklace: 21.85‑carat pear‑shaped morganite + 45.97 carats of diamonds
- Thousands of Akoya pearls draped over arms
- Matching pearl‑and‑diamond earrings and rings
- Ashi Studio corset top with black tassels
- Matching trousers and a structured diamond collar
- Stylist: Jessica Pastor, who emphasized the necklace’s garment‑like quality
Behind the Design: Mikimoto’s Signature Craftsmanship
Mikimoto, founded by H. M. A. K. Mikimoto in 1893, is renowned for its meticulous pearl cultivation and jewelry artistry. The 2026 necklace showcases the brand’s commitment to blending traditional techniques with contemporary design. The use of a morganite centerstone—a gemstone prized for its soft, peach‑tinted hue—adds a unique touch that sets the piece apart from typical diamond‑heavy creations.
In addition to the visual impact, the necklace’s construction demonstrates advanced engineering. The structured collar ensures that the morganite remains centered while the surrounding diamonds are arranged in a way that maximizes light reflection, creating a luminous effect that changes with every angle.
What Makes the Necklace Worth $500,000?
Several factors contribute to the necklace’s hefty price tag:
- Gem









