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Searching For The Best Pearl Necklaces
When you think of pearl necklaces, you might think of weddings, galas, and other spectacular events. But they’re actually an understated piece of jewelry that can give any formal outfit an air of sophistication.
They can be created from all different types of pearls. The common kinds are freshwater, Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea. Each type has a set of unique characteristics when it comes to size, luster, shape, and color. They can vary from soft pastels to shiny and bright orbs.
Don’t worry, you won’t have to take a dip into the ocean and disturb any oysters to find your next go-to piece of jewelry. Below, I’ve showcased 10 best pearl necklaces from well-respected brands.
10 Best Pearl Necklaces
Without further ado, let’s explore some choices of the top 10 pearl necklaces from reputable jewelry companies so you get a better sense of what’s hot on the market.
#1 Blue Nile
Blue Nile is an online jewelry store that specializes in engagement and wedding rings for women. While the brand sells its own designs ranging from diamonds, gold, silver, sapphire and pearls, customers have an option to customize their own jewelry as well. They have a collection of over a hundred pearl necklaces.
You can find pearl necklaces in a variety of lengths on their website. The popular lengths are choker, princess, matinee, and opera. You will have to select a length according to how low or high you want the string to sit on your neck and chest, or depending on the necklines of your outfits.
Blue Nile has curated many styles of pearl necklaces, from simple and classic single-strand to more complex multi-strand and layered pieces. Some of them also have diamond accents, if you want to dazzle your party guests.
In this article, I’m going to highlight a classic Dual Sized Freshwater Pearl Strand Necklace by Blue Nile. At a strand length of 16 inches, it features three large central pearls (7-8 mm) surrounded by a string of smaller pearls (4-5 mm) on either side.
The selected metal for this necklace is 14K yellow gold and the necklace has a hook clasp for effortless removal at the end of the day. The chain type is knotted. If you’re a connoisseur of pearls, you might like to know that the specific shade of pearls is White Rose.
Handpicked freshwater pearls are beautiful and also slightly more affordable than other varieties, making them a valuable pick for those on a budget. The Dual Sized Freshwater Pearl Strand Necklace costs $365, but customers are also given a financing option if they opt for the Blue Nile Credit Card.
Blue Nile ships internationally. The brand also offers discrete packaging in case the necklace is a gift for a special someone, and it should be delivered with a certificate of authenticity.
Highlights
- Stunning string of high quality, genuine freshwater pearls
- Eye-catching design with two different pearl sizes
- Reputable online jewelry retailer
- Positive customer reviews
- Jewelry experts available for consultations
- Free shipping and returns
- Sold with a certificate of authenticity
Deals:
- Enjoy up to 50% off jewelry gifts for Mother’s Day
- Free Shipping & Returns
- Use code BLUE2023
#2 James Allen
James Allen offers a stunning collection of freshwater and saltwater pearl necklaces with exceptional luster and shine. Known for their extensive selection and customization options, James Allen handcrafts their pearl necklaces with precision and offers a lifetime warranty, making them a trusted choice for those seeking high-quality pearls.
Highlights
- Offers a stunning collection of freshwater and saltwater pearl necklaces.
- Provides a variety of pearl sizes, shapes, and colors to suit different styles and preferences.
- Hand-selected pearls with exceptional luster and shine.
#3 Brilliant Earth
As a leader in sustainable and ethical fine jewelry, Brilliant Earth offers pearl necklaces that are made with responsibly sourced pearls and recycled precious metals. Their designs highlight the natural beauty of pearls and are known for their elegance and timeless appeal, making them a preferred choice for those who value sustainability and ethical practices.
Highlights
- Known for ethical and sustainable fine jewelry, including pearl necklaces.
- Uses responsibly sourced pearls and recycled precious metals.
- Offers elegant designs that highlight the natural beauty of pearls.
#4 Gorjana
Gorjana blends modern aesthetics with classic pearl necklaces, creating unique and contemporary designs that are versatile for everyday wear. Crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail, Gorjana pearl necklaces exude a minimalist and sophisticated style, perfect for those seeking a modern twist on traditional pearl jewelry.
Highlights
- Blends modern aesthetics with classic pearl necklaces.
- Crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail.
- Unique and contemporary designs that are versatile for everyday wear.
#5 Mejuri
Mejuri offers minimalist and sophisticated pearl necklaces made with high-quality pearls and available in various metal options. Their designs are sleek and refined, making them ideal for those who appreciate a subtle and understated look. With a focus on modern aesthetics and fine craftsmanship, Mejuri is a popular choice among those who value contemporary and minimalist designs.
Highlights
- Minimalist and sophisticated pearl necklace options.
- Made with high-quality pearls and available in various metal options.
- Effortless and chic designs for a timeless and refined look.
#6 Tiffany & Co
Tiffany pearl necklaces are a worthwhile investment, radiating elegance and sophistication with remarkable attention to detail and craftsmanship. They use only the highest quality pearls, making them not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting. With their versatility and range of sizes and colors, they are the perfect accessory to dress up any outfit, making it a must-have for anyone who appreciates exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance.
Highlights
- Timeless and classic accessory
- Highest quality pearls that are durable and long-lasting
- Elevates overall style and perfect for any occasion.
#7 Catbird
Known for their dainty and whimsical jewelry, Catbird offers pearl necklaces that are handcrafted with care and attention to detail. Their designs are delicate and feminine, perfect for layering or adding a touch of charm to any outfit. Catbird‘s pearl necklaces exude a playful and youthful vibe, making them a popular choice among those who appreciate unique and whimsical jewelry.
Highlights
- Known for their dainty and whimsical pearl necklaces.
- Handcrafted with care and attention to detail.
- Features delicate and feminine designs that are perfect for layering.
#8 Maison Birks
With a long history of craftsmanship and expertise, Maison Birks offers exquisite pearl necklaces in classic and modern designs. Known for their exceptional quality and elegance, Maison Birks pearl necklaces are a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Their designs are timeless and refined, making them a preferred choice for those who appreciate traditional and high-end jewelry.
Highlights
- A trusted name in luxury jewelry with a long history of craftsmanship.
- Offers exquisite pearl necklaces in classic and modern designs.
- Known for their exceptional quality and elegance.
#9 Monica Vinader
Monica Vinader offers contemporary and stylish pearl necklaces with a modern twist. Their designs feature unique and eye-catching elements, combining classic pearls with modern aesthetics. Crafted with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, Monica Vinader pearl necklaces are known for their fashionable and statement-making designs.
Highlights
- Offers contemporary and stylish pearl necklaces with a modern twist.
- Uses high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship.
- Unique and eye-catching designs that make a statement.
#10 Stone and Strand
Stone and Strand is known for their trendy and fashion-forward pearl necklaces, offering a wide range of designs that cater to different styles and occasions. Their pearl necklaces combine classic pearls with modern elements, creating fresh and youthful looks that are perfect for those who want to make a statement with their jewelry. Stone and Strand’s designs are on-trend and versatile, making them a popular choice among fashion-conscious individuals.
Highlights
- Known for their trendy and fashion-forward pearl necklaces.
- Offers a wide range of designs that cater to different styles and occasions.
- Combines classic pearls with modern elements for a fresh and youthful look.
What Is A Pearl Necklace?
A pearl necklace is a type of necklace that is generally composed of a string of pearls on a cord or thread, secured with a clasp. The type of pearl can vary depending on many factors. Some pearl necklaces also simply feature a solitaire pearl.
Who Are Pearl Necklaces For?
Pearl necklaces can really be worn by anyone and everyone. Even Harry Styles is known to sport one from time to time. It’s a timeless piece of jewelry to have in your boudoir, especially for special occasions that don’t come around everyday.
If you appreciate the elegance of a string of pearls and your fashion sense leans towards classy or traditional, pearl necklaces might be for you.
How to Shop For The Best Pearl Necklace
Shopping for any piece of jewelry may seem intimidating at first, but having a simple checklist in mind might take the guesswork out of the task. When you’re looking for the best pearl necklace, consider the following points:
- Set a budget: Before you start shopping, decide on how much you are willing to spend on a pearl necklace. Pearls can range in price from affordable to very expensive, so having a budget in mind can help narrow down your options.
- Type of pearl: Decide on the type of pearl you prefer, whether it’s Akoya, freshwater, Tahitian, or South Sea.
- Consider luster: High-quality pearls have a bright, sharp luster. Look for pearls that have a consistent luster throughout the strand.
- Consider size and shape: Do you like round pearls or do you find yourself gravitating towards something a bit out of the ordinary? Pearls can also come in unique shapes such as oval, teardrop, baroque, and more. When it comes to size, generally the bigger the pearls are, the more valuable the necklace is.
- Consider the color: Pearls come in a variety of colors, including white, black, pink, and gray. Choose a color that complements your skin tone and personal style.
- Check the clasp: Make sure the clasp is secure and easy to use. A high-quality clasp should be made of precious metal and match the style of the necklace.
- Purchase from a reputable dealer: It’s important to purchase pearls from a reputable dealer who can provide a certificate of authenticity and guarantee the quality of the pearls.
FAQ
Who makes the most desirable pearls?
Japan is known to produce high-quality Akoya pearls, which are known for their high luster, brightness, and round shape. However, there are various other countries and regions that also produce the best pearl necklaces.
Australia and The Philippines produce South Sea pearls, which are some of the biggest in the world. Did you know you can even find a black pearl? And no, I’m not talking about the Pirates of The Caribbean franchise.
French Polynesia is also another contributor to pearl necklaces on the global market. They produce Tahitian pearls known for their exotic colors and impressive sizes.
Lastly, China is a major player, offering freshwater pearls in all kinds of sizes, colors, and shapes.
Which quality pearls are the best?
When you’re considering adding a pearl necklace to your collection, the quality of pearls is important. Quality is determined through factors such as luster, surface quality, shape, size, thickness, and color. Many experts would say that the best quality pearls are round, have high luster, a smooth surface, and thick nacre.
Are Akoya or Freshwater pearls better?
Both Akoya and freshwater pearls are gorgeous in their own way and offer interesting characteristics. In terms of which one is better, it really depends on personal tastes.
If you prefer round, highly lustrous pearls, then Akoya pearls may be for you. If you are looking for more variety in size, shape, and color, then freshwater pearls are the better option to explore.
Final Thoughts
I hope you found this article on the best pearl necklaces useful! To summarize, the quality of the pearls used in the necklace correlates with its value and longevity. Pearls are graded on a scale based on their luster, surface quality, shape, and size.
An expensive string of high-quality pearls can act as a heirloom piece that grandma passes down to younger generations. In another case, a teenager might opt for a necklace with a single small seed pearl to wear on prom night. Pearl necklaces are appropriate for an array of special occasions.
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