Pearl Etiquette: All You Need To Know - 1883 Magazine (2024)

Pearl Etiquette: All You Need To Know - 1883 Magazine (1)

Photo by Tim Mossholder from Pexels

Pearls can make a woman of any age look fashionable and sophisticated when worn properly.

It is a common misconception to think that pearls can make one look old-fashioned. Leading fashion stylists and designers will all agree with the right knowledge and etiquette, pearls can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe.

Whether it is a busy day at the office, a trip to the supermarket for errands to a night out in the town with your special someone – pearls are a versatile and timeless item to add to your jewelry collection because of how well they work in both casual and formal occasions.

To help we have listed below helpful pearl etiquette tips to update your style.

When to wear pearls

A pearl necklace or a set of earrings, rings, or bracelets can come in a variety of shapes, colors, and designs. This is why pearls can serve as both a statement piece and as an understated addition to your wardrobe. A lustrous set of Akoya pearls, whether worn as a necklace or as stud earrings, can do wonders for your appearance.

It is essential to choose pearl jewelry according to what occasion you will wear them for. An elegant one-strand necklace or a dainty pair of stud pearl earrings can lift any work outfit or your go-to weekday choice of jeans and a plain t-shirt. For special occasions like a night at the opera, go with larger statement pieces, oversized pears, or multi-layered necklaces that should be worn with understated outfits. On basic days, keep your pearl accessories simple so as not to interfere with the demands of your day.

Pick the right color, size, and length for your body type

In any combination we decide to wear, choosing the right color to match our skin tone is apparent in any fashion choice. The hues you pick for the fabric are dependent on what looks best on your skin tone. When choosing the right pearls to update your style, the basic rule is pale skin tones pair well with rosy tones, darker or olive skin tones pair great with cream or golden tones. Pure white pearls are fabulous with any skin tone and can bring a chic and contemporary feel to any outfit.

Select pearls that can flatter your body type. A choker pearl necklace, for example, works better for women with a tall, slim build. Fuller frames may need to move away from small pearl pieces and go for larger pearls and of a longer length to produce a more slimming silhouette. The princess-length pearl necklace, which ranges from 42 to 45 cm, is a flexible accessory to have because it invariably suits most occasions and changing dress necklines.

The length of your pearl necklace

If you are about to attend a special matinee the standard length of your pearl necklace should be between 50 – 70 cm. You’ll look spectacular at a night at the opera with a longer set of pearls that go from 76 – 92 cm. Go shorter for a more open-neck or off-the-shoulder look.

An office outfit will need a one-strand necklace that should not fall past your bust line. At work, you would want your pearl necklace to compliment your office outfit and not overpower it. It is important to also consider style and function while picking out a pearl necklace that you can wear every day to the office. Consider a pearl pendant with a simple gold or silver chain if you want a more modern and chic look.

Small pearls for the younger

Pearls make a great coming-of-age gift for young girls between the ages of 16 to 21. A younger girl will appreciate a smaller, and more delicate pearl necklace or pair of pearl stud earrings that can range from around 3 mm to the dainty rice pearl necklaces. These kinds of pearls also make great gifts for your goddaughter, bridesmaids, or any younger girl in your family which she can cherish for the rest of her life.

Larger pearls work better as we age, and set in more ornate designs combined with other precious stones which can be effectively used to accent your outfit as a necklace, bracelet, or pair of dangling earrings, or even as a multi-layered pearl bracelet.

Pearl Etiquette: All You Need To Know - 1883 Magazine (2)

Photo by Kat Jayne from Pexels

Mix and layer it up

Wear your pearls in unusual ways by mixing them up and layering them with your other jewelry. Pearls look great when combined with gold, diamond, and even Swarovski crystals. Use your creativity and ingenuity by making your own unique look. Explore by transforming your pearl necklace with a silver chain that can be wrapped around your wrist and serve as a chic bracelet.

Don’t be afraid to mix different design aesthetics, colors, sizes, and types of pearls to achieve a unique bohemian look. Long knotted pearl necklaces do not only look spectacular with a black dress but can also be worn closer to the neck or unraveled and knotted around one’s waist. The combinations are endless!

In Closing

Pearls are a precious gift to us from the ocean that has characterized beauty, wealth, and femininity throughout history. Pearls have been worn by many famous women and are now readily accessible to more women across the globe. Pearls have a wonderful way of being able to complement one’s skin tone, hair, and eye color regardless of your nationality.

Be it a simple pearl necklace, a chunky bracelet, or a dainty pair of pearl earrings there is a design and variety that will work for any occasion. A pearl’s versatility can complement and brighten even the dullest wardrobe when worn correctly. All you need is a bit of patience and ingenuity to explore what best looks good on you and reflects your personal taste and style.

Pearl Etiquette: All You Need To Know - 1883 Magazine (2024)

FAQs

Who should not wear pearl necklace? ›

Astrology says that the people whose zodiac signs lords are Mercury, Venus, Saturn and Rahu should never wear pearls. Pearls harm the natives of these zodiac signs. This means that people of Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn and Aquarius ascendant should not wear pearls.

Can you wear a pearl pendant everyday? ›

Is it OK to wear pearls everyday? Absolutely. Pearl jewelry should be worn and enjoyed frequently, so avoid leaving your pearls in a security box for long periods of time. But as many jewelry, pearls are beautiful, but they are delicate and should be worn with care.

Is it OK to wear pearls at night? ›

Pearls can be worn in the evenings or at formal occasions where larger pearls, or pearls and dimaond earrings, are all the norm. Larger pearls in a more dramatic setting will make the perfect accessory to a co*cktail dress or small formal outfit.

What are the rules for wearing pearls? ›

How to wear a pearl? The pearl in the form of a silver ring should be worn on the little finger on a Monday night of Shukla paksha. Some people are advised to wear this during the full moon (purnima). Wear pearls only after washing with the sacred water (ganga jal) and offering it to Lord Shiva.

What should you not put on a pearl? ›

Acetone will not harm pearls, but never use ammonia, vinegar, or chlorine bleach near your pearls. These harsh liquids will react with the pearl coating and dissolve them. Wearing your pearls often and exposing them to moisture, your body oils, and heat also helps keeps them shiny.

What happens to pearls if not worn? ›

While pearls may appear hard and shiny, the surface of a pearl is actually quite porous, and will absorb the natural oils from your body. If pearls are not worn every four months or so, they can dry out and become dull and yellowed.

Can you take a shower with pearls? ›

Take Proper Care of Your Pearls

Conversely, you should always remove your pearls first before getting ready for bed or going to sleep. Do not sleep, shower or bathe while wearing your pearls.

Should pearls be worn next to the skin? ›

Your natural oils keep your pearls moisturised. The lustre (glow) of your pearls will improve when worn next to your skin. To keep them hydrated. A dry/airless atmosphere (like a sealed plastic bag in a safe) will dry them out, their surface will crack and they will turn yellow.

Where should a pearl necklace sit? ›

The Pearl Choker should gently encircle the base of the neck, running over the collarbones and coming to rest just below the hollow of the throat. For petite frames, this length may hang slightly lower, looking more like a princess length necklace instead.

What to do before wearing pearl? ›

Before you wear the ring, you need to energize and purify the pearl stone by dipping it in raw cow milk and then washing it with the Gangajal. After doing so, the wearer should chant the following mantra of the Moon 108 times and then put on the pearl ring on the correct finger.

Are pearls too old-fashioned? ›

It is a common misconception to think that pearls can make one look old-fashioned. Leading fashion stylists and designers will all agree with the right knowledge and etiquette, pearls can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe.

Is it old-fashioned to wear pearls? ›

In conclusion, pearls are far from being old-fashioned. They are a timeless classic that has evolved to fit into the modern fashion landscape. With the right styling and a touch of creativity, pearls can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit, proving their enduring charm and versatility.

Can you wear pearls and sneakers? ›

A two-stand pearl necklace is great for a dressed-down look. It adds a touch of glamor to a modern pair of sneakers, jeans, midi dress or leather jacket.

Can I wear pearls with a white dress? ›

You can wear white to a wedding when it comes to pearls! In fact, they are exceptionally exquisite with a velvety winter dress, black-tie attire, or a summer sundress.

Is Dawn dish soap safe for pearls? ›

If your pearls are visibly stained, you can mix a solution of lukewarm water and mild dish soap, dip a soft cleaning cloth in it and wipe the pearls. Do NOT submerge a pearl necklace in water, as it will weaken the silk thread.

What can ruin pearls? ›

Natural cleaners often contain strong acids like vinegar that will destroy pearls, and jewelry cleaners often contain chemicals like ammonia or alcohol which will also damage pearls. Never get pearls hot. Heat can destroy pearls and their settings. Always protect your pearls from scratching.

Why can't pearls get wet? ›

Wetting pearls is never a good idea, as it begins to destroy the jewel. Pearl necklaces are damaged when they get wet, because the water damages both the thread and the pearl . When wet, the thread that holds the beads together begins to stretch and lengthen, so it quickly loses the desired shape.

What is the superstition about buying pearls? ›

Additionally, there is a superstition that pearls should not be given as gifts because they will bring the wearer great sadness and bad luck. To counter this, the recipient of the pearls should give the person gifting them the pearls a penny or small amount of money to 'purchase' the pearls from them.

Why do pearls have no resale value? ›

Pearl jewellery and pearls are not traded like gold or silver. They are considered elite gemstones and do not have a high resale value, at least as of now. Used pearl jewellery, which is sold for higher prices, is usually that which has been worn by celebrities, queens or antique pieces.

Can you wear pearls with jeans? ›

You can absolutely pair your favorite, popular pair of jeans with a gorgeous set of pearls. In fact, pearls and a nice pair of jeans can be a combination of classy and casual that can be perfect for meeting up with friends, going shopping, running errands, or anything along those lines.

How long do pearls last? ›

Worn often and properly cared for, pearls can look as good in 50 years as they did the day they left the store. Pearls are not the most durable of gems. Most everyday items at home and in the office are tougher than pearls, so careless contact can cause damage them over time.

Is it OK to sweat in pearls? ›

The natural acids contained in body oils and perspiration can also damage pearls in the same way. It is best to put your pearls on at least 30 minutes after applying any personal care products, and to take your pearls off before getting ready for bed.

What skin tone do pearls look best on? ›

Generally, lighter pearls – white, rose, peach, cream – work well with fairer skin tones. Darker complexions go well with gold and cream-colored pearls. Olive skin tones and white pearls with silver overtones are a good match. Black or white pearls, on the other hand, suit just about everybody.

How many strands of pearls to wear? ›

While it may be considered too much to pair it with a business outfit, three strands of pearls are just the necessary amount of chicness for a formal event.

What outfits do you wear pearls with? ›

The softness of pearls always looks great with sumptuous fabrics like cashmere, velvet, and silk, so you can easily pair pearls with a work blouse or favorite sweater. Don't feel like you have to match your pearl necklace with your earrings or bracelet, since too many pearls can feel “matchy-matchy”.

How tight should a pearl necklace be? ›

Pearl necklaces should always be strung very tightly, as their thread will stretch with use. After your jewelry is worn for a while (the “break-in” period), the thread will gradually relax, allowing your pearl jewelry to lie perfectly against the skin.

Should pearls be kept in a box? ›

Pearl strands should be stored separately from other jewelry because the surface of a pearl is soft and easily scratched by other gems. A silk bag, velvet-lined box or pearl folder--a satin-lined leatherette envelope with snaps to hold a strand in place--are all good places to store pearls.

What is feng shui about pearl? ›

Pearls are symbols of purity, faith, innocence, and integrity. They are connected to the energy of the moon and have been used to increase fertility and create more ease in childbirth. They are very sensitive, both physically and energetically.

What is the mantra for wearing pearls? ›

So to receive all the goodness of your natural moti, activate it by placing it on a clean cloth and reciting the auspicious mantra 'Om Son Sonmay Namaha' or ॐ सों सोमाय नमः। for 108 times. Subsequent to this process you can wear your pearl jewelry.

What happens after wearing pearl? ›

Pearl strengthens the weakened moon and brings peace to its wearer, along with peace it also brings calmness, courage and is worn especially by those with star signs of Pisces, Leo, and Sagittarius.

Can you wear pearls while washing hands? ›

First things first – Remove those pearls.

She suggests to remove pearl jewelry from the hand-sanitizing process entirely. Sanitized skin should not come into contact with your pearls until completely dry and evaporated—wait about five minutes before putting on your pearls.

Were pearls worn in the 80s? ›

Pearls, beautiful and classic, were used in bold designs during the 1980s. With Princess Diana leading the way, pearl jewelry was and will always be a winner. Large pearl earrings set in bold, metal (gold or silver) frames are a wonderful jewelry fashion accessory.

What size pearls to wear? ›

Pearls in the 5.5 – 6.5 mm range are worn by young women between the ages of five and 16. 7.0 – 7.5 mm pearls are worn by women who are 30 and above. Pearls in the 8.0 – 8.5 category are traditionally worn by women age 35 and above.

Is it OK to give pearls as a gift? ›

Pearls symbolize love in its purest and most essential form, as well as loyalty towards a person. For special occasions, such as mothers day, birthdays, graduations, or anniversaries. Pearls are always a great gift choice!

What kind of dress does pearl wear in pearl? ›

In the third act of the film, after killing her mother and ransacking her closet, Pearl dawns a blood-red, traditional 1918-style dress as she auditions for a traveling dance troupe and axes her sister-in-law to death. Red is a key color in horror, representing death and corruption.

Can you mix pearls with other jewelry? ›

Layer your pearls with other necklaces for contrast. For a collar effect, layer chunky necklaces that rest right on top of each other. Try mixing pearls with different materials, like shells, beads, turquoise and chunky gold chains. Add edgy influence with spikes or leather.

What fabric goes with pearls? ›

Pearl is perfect for medium-weight, drapey knit fabrics with at least 20% stretch. Look out for Hacci knit, sweater knit, jacquard knit, stretch velvet, ponte, interlock, lighter weight French terry.

What color clothes goes with pearls? ›

They work well with white, grey and other pastel shades, but they can also be worn with darker hues. For the office, pair a single strand pink pearl necklace with a crisp white blouse and a grey blazer for a sophisticated look that balances the warmness of these coloured pearls.

Can you wear a pearl necklace with floral dress? ›

Necklaces. Add a simple, delicate gold or silver chain to any floral dress look to accentuate your neckline without taking away from the fun floral pattern. Pair your fit and flare floral dress with layers of strands of pearl necklaces for a classic and timeless accessorized look.

Can you wear perfume with pearls? ›

Not only can pearls suffer discolouration as a result of exposure to perfume, but they can also lose their texture and shine. Hence, it is considered best if, pearls are worn only after a substantial time gap from the use of perfumes.

Can you wear pearls with boots? ›

Pearls are a perfect daytime accessory that can be worn with absolutely anything you have in your closet. For instance, pearls look great with jeans so why not wear them with boots!

Are pearls OK to wear to a wedding? ›

Wedding guests can wear pearl jewelry as part of their outfits. If you're a wedding guest, you might be considering choosing pearl jewelry. It's best to choose more understated pieces, such as a simple pendant or stud earrings. As pearls represent eternal love, they're the perfect accessory for wedding days.

Can you wear pearls with a co*cktail dress? ›

Pearls can be worn in the evenings or at formal occasions where larger pearls, or pearls and dimaond earrings, are all the norm. Larger pearls in a more dramatic setting will make the perfect accessory to a co*cktail dress or small formal outfit.

How to wear pearls in 2023? ›

The Pearl Edit: 7 ways to wear them in 2023 and the coolest ones to shop now
  1. Pearl and Gold Necklaces. ...
  2. Pearl Statement Earrings. ...
  3. Pearl Statement Bags. ...
  4. Pearls to Elevate Clothing. ...
  5. Pearl Hair Accessories. ...
  6. Pearl Drop Earrings. ...
  7. Pearl sunglasses chains.
May 31, 2023

What is the rude meaning of pearl necklace? ›

(vulgar, slang) A sexual act whereby sem*n is ejacul*ted onto a partner's upper chest, breasts and/or throat. quotations ▼

Can anyone wear pearl necklace? ›

The short answer is: everyone. But if you continue reading this blog post, you'll discover that some people may gain extra-special benefits from pearls and absolutely need a cultured pearl necklace in their jewelry wardrobe.

Can pearl be worn by anyone? ›

According to Indian or Vedic astrology, astrologers recommend Pearl stone for the Cancer zodiac sign. However, anyone can wear a Pearl ring or jewelry after being consulted by an astrologer. However, ascendants of Leo, Aries, Scorpio, Sagittarius, and Pisces can also wear this astrological gemstone.

Can you wear a pearl necklace with anything? ›

Pearls make a statement all on their own, but their simplicity means they can be layered with other necklaces. It also means you don't have to think too much about accessorising. A pearl necklace, whatever style you opt for, can elevate any outfit. Think about the type of dress or top you're wearing too.

Why do the royals wear 3 strands of pearls? ›

Royals have worn pearls as "mourning jewelry" in a tradition that dates back to Queen Victoria. After the death of her husband Prince Albert, the Queen famously wore black for the rest of her life, accessorizing only with black, colorless, or pearl jewelry.

Why do guys keep wearing pearl necklaces? ›

What does it mean when a male wears a pearl necklace? It's not a new concept for guys to wear pearls. For centuries, Indian Maharajas and British and European kings have worn pearl necklaces. A pearl is a sign of power that endures timelessly elegant while also being fun.

What is the pearl necklace everyone is wearing? ›

Most recently, you may have noticed a specific pearl choker that's doing the rounds on social media, spotted on the necks of so many famous influencers and celebrities it's been dubbed the TikTok Necklace. The design in question is Vivienne Westwood's Bas Relief Choker.

Can you wear a pearl necklace to a funeral? ›

Pearls can be a good option. Small sterling silver, gold, or jeweled pieces are also usually a fine choice if they are not distracting. Religious jewelry, such as a simple cross, would also be appropriate. But, it's best to avoid any jewelry that might swing, clank together, or cause a disturbance to others.

Do I have to wear pearl earrings with a pearl necklace? ›

Don't feel like you have to match your pearl necklace with your earrings or bracelet, since too many pearls can feel “matchy-matchy”. Pearl necklaces always look great with diamond stud earrings or a simple gold or silver bangle.

Can you wear pearl necklace with jeans? ›

Elevated Weekend Wear

Pair your pearls with jeans and a sweater for a soft look to grab brunch or run errands. We recommend subtle colors for your clothing, such as light pink or beige, to keep things sweet and simple. Add a bit of beauty with an accessory like this Cultured Freshwater Pearl Bracelet.

Which zodiac should wear pearl? ›

The cancer sign is ruled by planet moon so pearl is the gemstone assigned to the zodiac. Since the moon is the fastest moving planet amongst others, it affects the lives of people but in short intervals. So in order, to reduce the effect of a debilitated moon or stabilise it, one needs to wear pearl.

On which hand should pearl be worn? ›

Pearl should always be worn on the small finger of the right hand. Although silver is mostly recommended with pearl as it is much more effective with silver, one can also opt for gold. The weight of the pearl should be at least 1200-1400 mg, whether it is worn as a necklace or as a ring.

Is it OK to gift pearl? ›

Is it OK to Give Pearls as a Gift? Yes! Pearls are a versatile and timeless gift choice that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a special gift for your friend, girlfriend, fiance, wife, mother, grandmother, daughter or your sister, pearl gifts are always a wise choice.

Can pearls be worn casually? ›

The reason pearls work so well with casual attire is because their formality provides an interesting contrast. Wearing one special piece, like a pearl necklace, elevates the everyday into what we like to call 'Smart Casual'. A polished but relaxed look that's elegant, comfortable and always ladylike!

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Tyson Zemlak

Last Updated:

Views: 5705

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (63 voted)

Reviews: 94% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Tyson Zemlak

Birthday: 1992-03-17

Address: Apt. 662 96191 Quigley Dam, Kubview, MA 42013

Phone: +441678032891

Job: Community-Services Orchestrator

Hobby: Coffee roasting, Calligraphy, Metalworking, Fashion, Vehicle restoration, Shopping, Photography

Introduction: My name is Tyson Zemlak, I am a excited, light, sparkling, super, open, fair, magnificent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.