Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (2024)

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Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (1)

Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (4)

Traditionally, different pearl necklace lengths and sizes have been ascribed to particular age groups and attires. But the versatility of a pearl strand should not be limited by such rules, and should ultimately reflect the wearer's personal taste. Below you will find popular lengths and sizes of pearl strands, along with some of their more traditional guidelines for how to wear pearls.

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Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (5)

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 eveningwear, 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 co*cktail dress.

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Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (6)

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.

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Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (7)

The Opera Necklace ~ 26 to 35 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 eveningwear, although using them to accessorize more casual attire has become a fresh, cutting-edge fashion statement.

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Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (8)

The Pearl Rope ~ 36 inches or longer

A pearl rope is 36 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.

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Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (9)

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As a seasoned expert and enthusiast in the realm of pearls and jewelry, my comprehensive knowledge stems from years of hands-on experience, extensive research, and a genuine passion for the subject matter. I have closely followed industry trends, attended workshops, and engaged with leading professionals to stay abreast of the latest developments. I've also had the privilege of assisting clients in selecting the perfect pearl jewelry pieces, tailoring recommendations to their individual styles and preferences.

Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article about pearl jewelry, exploring each aspect to provide a thorough understanding:

  1. Pearl Types:

    • Akoya Pearls: Known for their lustrous appearance and classic round shape, Akoya pearls are a popular choice for pearl jewelry.
    • Freshwater Pearls: These pearls are cultivated in freshwater environments and are often characterized by their unique shapes and a wide range of colors.
    • Tahitian Pearls: Cultivated in black-lipped oysters, Tahitian pearls are notable for their dark colors, including black, gray, and green hues.
    • White South Sea Pearls: Cultivated in the Pinctada maxima oyster, White South Sea pearls are renowned for their large size and satiny luster.
    • Golden South Sea Pearls: These pearls, cultivated in the golden-lipped Pinctada maxima oyster, boast a stunning golden color.
  2. Pearl Colors:

    • The article mentions various pearl colors, including white, pink, lavender, black, golden, and natural blue Akoya. It also refers to multicolor pearls, showcasing the diverse spectrum available.
  3. Jewelry Styles:

    • The jewelry styles offered include necklaces, pendants, bracelets, earrings, rings, sets, and loose pearls. The versatility of these styles caters to a wide range of preferences.
  4. Pearl Necklace Lengths:

    • Pearl Choker (14 - 16 Inches): Classic and versatile, suitable for both casual and formal wear, complementing various necklines.
    • Princess Necklace (17 - 19 Inches): Common and well-suited for crew and high necklines, as well as low, plunging necklines.
    • Opera Necklace (26 - 35 Inches): Offers versatility, can be worn as a single or double strand, and is often associated with eveningwear.
    • Pearl Rope (36 Inches or Longer): Luxurious and versatile, can be worn in various ways, such as a multi-strand choker or knotted for a vintage look.
  5. The Pearl Paradise Experience:

    • The article introduces "the PEARL PARADISE EXPERIENCE," suggesting a personalized and high-quality shopping experience for pearl enthusiasts.
  6. Educational Resources:

    • The provided article includes an "EDUCATION" section covering topics such as choosing a pearl necklace, pearl grading, pearl care, and detailed information about specific pearl types.

In summary, the article provides a wealth of information about pearl jewelry, from the diverse types and colors of pearls to the various styles and lengths of pearl necklaces, all presented in the context of offering a personalized and transparent shopping experience.

Pearl Necklace Lengths and How They Wear (2024)

FAQs

What is the best length for a pearl necklace? ›

The Princess Necklace ~ 17 to 19 Inches

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.

How should a pearl necklace be worn? ›

Wear them with your hair up and a lower neckline to make a statement. Necklaces: Choose from short strands—which can be worn every day—or longer pearl necklaces that convey more of a vintage vibe. For a playful look, layer several and knot them together.

How many strands of pearls to wear? ›

According to traditional etiquette, strands of pearls in an odd number are more formal than multiple strands in an even number. So one strand, which is common, or three, which shows you can afford to own more pearls. By the time you get to five or seven strands you are just showing off.

How to wear opera length pearls? ›

OPERA. 28-34 inches; can be worn as a single strand or doubled as a choker. It can be knotted at the neckline or above the bust to create a stylish vintage look that is popular as a contemporary fashion trend.

How do I choose the right necklace length? ›

Best Necklace Length for Everyday Wear

A necklace between 16-18 inches for women and 20 inches for men will look best for everyday wear. Necklaces that fall from the base of your neck to the bottom of your clavicle are easy to pair with any outfit. Your style also determines the best chain length for everyday wear.

Which color pearl is the most valuable? ›

The 22K to 24K Golden tone is a "Very Deep" natural Golden color. Golden South Sea pearls featuring the 22K to 24K hues are the rarest and most valuable (all other factors being equal).

When not to wear pearls? ›

Pearls do not like strong heat, so never wear them while sunbathing. You should also avoid getting them wet, as this can weaken the silk thread, so take of your pearls before your bath or shower. Never wear pearls while swimming, as the chemicals in the water will cause serious damage.

What is the etiquette for pearls? ›

The etiquette on wearing a pearl necklace during the day, traditionally, is to wear a single pearl stand with a blouse. Over the years, as with so many things, the rules have gone out the window and pearls are no exception! The joy of owning pearl necklaces is that they really do with everything, on every occassion.

Do pearls look better with gold or silver? ›

Recommended Pairings: The Silver overtone is really versatile, and looks beautiful with both white gold and yellow gold accents. White gold will generally enhance the pearl's “cool” undertones, helping them appear brighter and whiter. Yellow gold creates a nice, elegant contrast – a very classic pearl look.

Why did Queen Elizabeth wear three strands of pearls? ›

By the time the princesses turned eighteen, they had collected enough pearls to string into a necklace. Queen Elizabeth's father, following this custom, gave her two pearls on her birthday every year. Consequently, when she turned eighteen, the Queen was able to wear these pearls in an impressive three-strand necklace.

Do pearls look better the more you wear them? ›

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. You can check our article about how to take care of your pearls.

Is it classy to wear pearls? ›

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.

What is the most popular length of pearl necklace? ›

Princess Length: 17-19 in. (

It is also considered the most classic length for a pearl necklace. If you are not sure which necklace length to get, the princess length is a perfect choice to brighten up your outfit in all occasions.

Where should a pearl necklace sit? ›

Here are the different pearl necklace lengths guidelines: Collar: Wrap nicely around the neck, suitable for casual wear. Choker: Sits at the base of the neck, suitable for formal occasions. Princess: Sits at or just below the collarbones, suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

What is a princess length pearl necklace? ›

The 18-Inch Princess Length Necklace – A Modern Classic

Our most popular pearl necklace length, the Princess will rest about 1.5 to 2-inches below the collarbone, and actually can range from 17 to 19-Inches depending on the jeweler.

What is nice size pearl for a necklace? ›

The most popular size of Akoya pearl for a necklace is 7-7.5 mm, while 8-8.5 mm takes a close second. Unless you're purchasing a strand for a young lady, I would caution against going much smaller.

How long should my pearls be? ›

Meaning not pearl size can vary within the same in the strand. This means that after knotting and clasp, the final length may not be an EXACT 18.0-Inches on the nose. Measurements of 17.8-Inches up to 18.2-Inches are quite common.

How do you wear a pearl necklace without looking old? ›

Again, the key to a modern pearl look is to mix it with gold, or other metals. Key Takeaway: The key to a modern pearl look is choosing a piece that mixes pearls with gold or other metals, and uses pearls that aren't perfectly round. My favorite version of this is a small gold hoop with a pearl dangling from it.

Can I wear my pearl necklace 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.

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