Pearls have long been a symbol of elegance and timeless beauty. From the understated simplicity of pearl studs to the intricate designs of chandelier earrings, pearl earrings offer a style for every occasion and taste. Explore the various pearl earring styles, their unique characteristics, and the best ways to wear them to find a pair you will cherish forever.
Why Wear Pearl Earrings?
Known for their natural luster and understated beauty, pearls have been cherished throughout history and remain a staple in jewelry collections today. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, pearls carry a sense of tradition and heritage. They are valued for their rich symbolism, including themes such as:
- Purity
- Wisdom
- Serenity
- Wealth
- Loyalty
- Elegance
- Transformation
Aside from their symbolism, pearl jewelry can add a touch of elegance and class to any ensemble. Pearls are extremely versatile and complement a wide range of skin tones and styles. Grab a pair of pearls to complete your look when you feel like your outfit is missing that chic element!
Different Types of Pearls
Buying pearls can go even further than just how you style them. Different types of pearls have different characteristics depending on where they are from.
Freshwater pearls: These are the most popular and affordable pearls. They have a wide range of shapes and sizes and can also vary in terms of quality.
Ayoka pearls: Ayoka pearls are saltwater pearls mainly cultured in Japan. They are perfectly round and very lustrous, making them an excellent option for pearl stud earrings.
Tahitian pearls: As some of the largest and most coveted pearls in the world, Tahitian black pearls are naturally dark and have a glowing metallic shimmer. They are cultivated around the island of French Polynesia and are considered very rare and exotic.
South Sea pearls: South Sea pearls are the rarest and most valuable pearls on the market. They can be white or gold and average around 13mm, making them the largest pearl variety available.
Do Pearls Come in Different Colors?
While many people think the classic white pearl is the only type, there is actually a wide variety of pearl colors. Adding color to the pearl earring can further personalize the look and add your individual touch to the jewelry. Along with the iridescent white color, pearls can also come in the following colors:
- Yellow
- Green
- Purple
- Brown
- Blue
- Cream
- Black
- Gold
- Pink
- Copper
Our Favorite Pearl Earrings and How to Style Them
Choosing the best earrings for you comes down to your personal style and the occasion you are dressing for. Pearls can be styled for both casual and formal occasions.
1. Pearl Stud Earrings
Pearl stud earrings feature a single pearl that sits close to the earlobe. These earrings are classic, understated, and versatile. Pearl studs are a great choice no matter the occasion – they look great with anything, from jeans and a T-shirt to a wedding dress.
2. Pearl Drop Earrings
Often attached to a chain or thin piece of metal, pearl drop earrings will hang right below the earlobe. This style is a great option for daytime but can also be worn for a formal occasion. They look particularly stunning with an updo or a half-up hairstyle.
3. Dangle Pearl Earrings
Dangle earrings are similar to drop earrings but hang a bit longer and have more movement. While dangle pearl earrings are generally best for a more formal outfit, you can make the look a bit more understated by choosing an earring that only has one pearl. To brighten up a simple ensemble, opt for a dangle earring that features several large pearls.
4. Chandelier Pearl Earrings
Elaborate and often ornate, chandelier pearl earrings have multiple strands of pearls that cascade down from the earlobe. The pearls may be combined with vibrant gemstones for an eye-catching look. Chandelier earrings make a statement and are beautiful for formal events like a gala or wedding.
5. Pearl Climber and Crawler Earrings
Pearl climbers and crawler earrings provide a modern twist on the classic style. This type of pearl earring climbs up the earlobe but only requires one piercing. This style has been gaining popularity in recent years and can be worn every day or reserved for special occasions.
6. Pearl Hoop and Huggie Earrings
Hoop and huggie earrings can be worn for any event. Huggie earrings are smaller and “hug” the earlobe a bit more, while hoop earrings can range from small to large sizes. Small pearl huggie earrings would be perfect for the office, while large pearl hoops are great for a nice dinner or a night out.
Choosing the Best Pearl Earring for Your Face Shape
Another thing to keep in mind is your face shape, as certain styles will complement certain shapes better. Diamond and round face shapes may want to stick to a pearl drop, dangle, or chandelier earring, while square faces are better off with a pearl stud or hoop earring. Oval faces are lucky because any type of pearl earring will enhance their features!
Tips for Picking the Best Pearls for Your Earrings
Much like the 4Cs of diamond quality, the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has already created the 7 Pearl Quality Factors as a way to determine a pearl’s quality.
7 Pearl Quality Factors
- Size
- Shape
- Color
- Luster
- Surface quality
- Nacre quality
- Matching (for two or more pearls)
Of the seven characteristics, luster is the most important. When a pearl’s luster is rated excellent or very good, the reflections will appear bright and sharp. Apart from luster, surface quality is the next most important factor to consider, as this will determine if the pearl has any impurities that may diminish its value.
Pearl earrings remain a timeless and versatile addition to any jewelry collection. Their enduring elegance, rich symbolism, and diverse styles make them suitable for every occasion and personal taste. Whether you prefer the classic sophistication of pearl stud earrings or the bold beauty of chandelier earrings, there is a pearl earring style to complement your unique sense of fashion.
