Pearl necklaces have historical and cultural significance, symbolizing purity, wisdom, wealth, and elegance. This makes them a timeless accessory for various occasions, from formal events to everyday wear. These exquisite pieces offer a variety of designs, ensuring there's something perfect for every taste and occasion. From classic pearls that exude sophistication to contemporary designs that make a statement, our pearl necklaces are crafted to enhance your elegance.
Whether you're attending a special event or seeking the perfect gift, our pearl necklaces offer unparalleled elegance and versatility. Discover the allure of our freshwater pearl necklaces and let their timeless beauty be a cherished addition to your jewellery collection. Embrace the sophistication that comes with wearing classic pearls and make every occasion memorable.
There are four main varieties of cultured pearls commonly available today: Akoya Pearl Necklaces,Freshwater Pearl Necklaces,Tahitian Pearl Necklaces and South Sea Pearl Necklaces. Each offers something different and each can be magnificently beautiful.
Akoya Pearl Necklaces
Grown in saltwater, Akoya pearls are known for their color, shape and most of all, luster. Luster is the quantity and quality of light that reflects from the surface of the pearl. This is the most important factor in choosing an Akoya pearl necklace. It’s what makes the pearls shine. It’s also a proof-positive indicator of whether the pearls spent enough time in their mother oyster.
Freshwater Pearl Necklaces
Freshwater pearls have been around nearly as long as Akoya, but have never been considered quite as valuable, even though they are more “pearl” than Akoya. How so? Freshwater pearls are traditionally grown without a bead. They are 100% nacre (pearl). So why are they considered less valuable? Because a freshwater shell can grow dozens of pearls at a time. Most Akoya oysters only grow one or two at a time.
If you’ve seen freshwater pearls in a store, you probably think all freshwater pearls are weird shapes and not very shiny. This is most often the case. They aren’t as round as Akoya because they don’t have a bead in the center. But fine freshwater pearls do exist, and the finest, like those we refer to as “freshadama,” are nearly indistinguishable from fine Akoya pearls in shape, color and luster.
If this is the first strand of pearls for you or someone you’re shopping for, consider freshwater. Not only do they offer the Akoya look at a lower price, they also commonly grow in natural pastel colors. You’re only going to find those colors (naturally) in freshwater pearls.
Tahitian Pearl Necklaces
Have you been to Tahiti in French Polynesia? If so, I am sure you will agree it is one of the most exotic vacation destinations. The pearls that grow there are no less exotic. They are often called “black pearls,” but in reality, Tahitian pearls exhibit a rainbow of colors. The most popular is dark green.
Tahitians are saltwater pearls grown in a large oyster called the black lip. The large shell has a dark, effervescent color on the inside rim of its shell. The pearls it produces range from 7 mm to 15 mm, and typically exhibit the same, dark exotic colors found on the rim.
South Sea Pearl Necklaces
If you’re looking for a South Sea pearl necklace, chances are you’ve already done a bit of pearl research and you’ve likely purchased pearls in the past. South Sea pearls are not what I would typically recommend for a first strand of pearls - unless you’re the type who starts at the top.
South Sea pearls are the largest and most valuable of all saltwater pearls farmed today. They are produced in remote areas of Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia and a few other countries. The pearl oyster that grows these gems is the largest used in pearl farming. It’s the size of an American dinner plate, and the pearls are the size of marbles.
There are two types of South Sea pearls: those grown in the silver-lip and those grown in the gold-lip pearl oyster. You guessed it. White and silver South Sea pearls grow in the former and the ultra-valuable gold South Sea pearls in the latter. They make some of the most beautiful and most valuable South Sea pearl necklaces in the world.
These are statement pearls. If you’re the wearer, you’re making a statement. If you’re the giver, you’re making a statement. It’s impossible to wear a strand of South Sea pearls and not be noticed.
Choosing the Right Length
The length of a pearl necklace is a personal preference. What look are you going for? If you plan to wear your pearls more casually, you’re probably better suited to a shorter strand. Longer strands are considered more formal, although this is not a hard rule.
The most popular lengths are 16 inches and 18 inches. Strands as long as 35 inches and even 50 inches are also very popular because they can be worn long or doubled up.
Necklace Lengths
Versatility of a pearl strand should not be limited by rules, and should ultimately reflect the wearer's personal taste.
The Pearl Choker 14 to 16 Inches
A pearl choker is 14 - 16 inches long. This classic and versatile piece is appropriate with everything from casual to formal evening wear, and complements almost any neckline. The perfect length to add subtle elegance to your workday paired with a button-down shirt, yet just as stylish with a cocktail dress.
The Princess Necklace 17 to 19 Inches
The princess necklace is 17 - 19 inches in length. The most common length for pearl necklaces, it is well suited for wear with crew and high necklines. It also complements low, plunging necklines. Because 18 inches is considered the classic length for pearl necklaces. This is an excellent choice if you are not certain which strand length is most appropriate.
The Opera Necklace 26 Inches
The opera length necklace is 26 - 35 inches long and offers many attractive options. It can be worn as a single strand with high necklaces or doubled to create a fashionable two-strand choker. It can be knotted at the neckline or above the bust to create a stylish vintage look that is gaining popularity as a contemporary fashion trend. Traditionally, opera length necklaces are worn with evening wear, although using them to accessorize more casual attire has become a fresh, cutting-edge fashion statement.
The Pearl Rope 36 inches or longer
A pearl rope is 35 inches or longer. This luxurious length can be both elegant and sexy. It can be made with several clasps, enabling it to be broken down into different necklace and bracelet combinations, or doubled and even tripled to create a stunning multi-strand pearl choker. This versatile length may also be tied in a knot for a charming modern look reminiscent of the height of 1920s flapper fashion. A very popular way to wear pearls, ropes may also be knotted and slung over the shoulder to accentuate the beauty of a backless dress. We would be happy to create a pearl rope over 35 inches with any of pearl strands by special request.
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