Lustrous pearl jewelry has been treasured since ancient times, and it’s not going out of fashion anytime soon. If you’re searching for a meaningful gift for the special lady in your life or are interested in adding an heirloom-worthy piece to your collection, it’s time to shop for pearl bracelets. With countless designers and styles to choose from, there is pearl jewelry for every woman just waiting to be discovered.
Why Every Woman Needs a Pearl Bracelet
A gold pearl bracelet is also one of the most versatile accessories you can buy. Wear it on its own for a chic everyday staple, or style it with a pair of pearl earrings for an elegant matching look.
Whether you’re looking at a gold pearl bracelet from over a hundred years ago or a design created in the last decade, one thing is certain: bracelets with pearls are timeless. With proper care, these classic pieces are ideally suited to one day become a family heirloom.
Learn A Bit About Pearl Formation
If you’ve ever seen the shining, beautiful gem in person, you’ve likely wondered how it came to be. To many, pearls are nature’s little mysteries; in truth, it’s just simple, organic science.
A pearl is formed when an irritant gets inside the shell of a mollusk. As soon as the debris enters the oyster or mussel, the creature’s natural defense mechanism kicks in, secreting nacre, or mother-of-pearl, to coat the irritant. Over time, the layers of nacre build up, eventually forming a beautiful pearl.
Is There a Difference Between Cultured and Natural Pearls?
While both are considered “real” pearls, understanding the difference between cultured and natural pearls is essential. The natural kind of pearl grows in the wild without human intervention and becomes increasingly rare as the years pass. Cultured pearls are specially created and farmed in controlled man-made environments and are more commonly used in pearl jewelry.
Common Types of Pearls Used in Pearl Bracelets
Typically, a silver or gold pearl bracelet will feature one of the four most popular types of saltwater or freshwater pearls:
- Akoya: known for being perfectly round with classic white hues and subtle pink or cream overtones
- South Sea: renowned for their large size and wide range of natural colors, including white and gold
- Tahitian: recognized for uniquely dark grey, green, and blue colors and captivating overtones
- Freshwater: prized for a diverse range of colors, shapes, and affordability
How Much Do Pearls Cost?
Pearls are available at a variety of price points, so you can score one at any budget, whether that’s $50, $10,000, or beyond. This price tag is determined by the designer, size, shape, color, uniformity, luster, metal type, and pearl type. For instance, a gold pearl bracelet with perfectly round and reflective pearls will cost more than something featuring imperfect, irregularly shaped gems.
What Do Pearls Symbolize?
Pearl jewelry has captivated cultures around the globe for centuries, and not just for its beauty. Between being associated with the moon and being worn as a status symbol, there are countless examples of these iridescent beauties holding rich symbolism and significance throughout history. Gold pearl bracelets represent:
- Purity
- Wisdom
- Prestige
- New beginnings
- Eternal love
- Good luck
- Innocence
How to Choose the Perfect Pearl Bracelet
Investing in your first, second, or even fifth bracelet with pearls is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. As you browse the jewelry store, make sure to keep these considerations in mind to find precisely what you’re looking for:
Set a Realistic Bracelet Budget
Before you fall in love with a gold pearl bracelet, we recommend taking the proper financial precautions and setting a budget for your purchase. Once you’ve determined the dollar amount you’d feel comfortable spending, share that number with your jeweler to get the process started
Consider the Metal Type for Your Pearl Bracelet
Pearls have a unique way of shimmering and shining when set in any type of jewelry metal. Certain materials complement certain pearl overtones best, whether that be silver-toned pearls set against sterling silver or pinkish pearls in a yellow-gold pearl bracelet. When you shop for fine jewelry, you’ll find pearl designs with these popular metal settings:
- Yellow gold
- Rose gold
- Platinum
- Sterling silver
- White gold
Check Out Colorful Pearl Designs
If you picture pearl jewelry, you’re likely thinking of the classic pure white pearl. But did you know there are vibrant pearls in a variety of colors? If you’re someone who likes to accessorize with a touch of color, ask to try on silver and gold pearl bracelets featuring pink, blue, copper, yellow, green, and purple pearls.
Consider the Different Pearl Sizes
The size of the pearls in your bracelet will affect the overall value and visual appearance. If you want a bolder statement piece, shop around for designs with 10mm pearls and above. If you like a more delicate look, something in the 2-6mm range is best.
Don’t Forget About Personal Style
After you take the design elements into consideration, it’s important to remember that your individual style matters above all else. Are you more of a dainty jewelry wearer, or do you prefer a larger-than-life statement piece gracing your wrists? Take a look at the other pieces in your jewelry box to determine which kind of pearl bracelet would best suit your existing collection.
Popular Types of Bracelets with Pearls
Whether you’re treating yourself to a timeless gold pearl bracelet or shopping for a traditional 30th-anniversary present, there are countless designs to explore. Discover a few of our favorite styles:
Station Bracelet with Pearls
With evenly spaced gemstone details and a simple chain, a pearl and diamond station bracelet is the epitome of subtle style. Layer it with other cuffs and bangles for a maximalist look or on its own for understated elegance.
Single Strand Pearl Bracelet
Perhaps the most traditional style, a single-strand pearl bracelet features a single row of uniform pearls strung together on a flexible wire. Pair it with a matching single-strand pearl necklace to elevate any outfit in your wardrobe.
Multi-Strand Pearl Bracelet
If you like the look of a single rope of pearls around your wrist, you may love a multi-strand pearl bracelet. With two, three, or more rows of pearls stacked on top of one another, this type of design brings a sophisticated, textured look to your style.
Silver and gold pearl bracelets are among the most sought-after designs year after year. With a wide selection of pieces to choose from and expert tips on selecting the best one for your style, finding the right bracelet is simple.
