Selecting the right pair of pearl earrings can be a challenging endeavour, particularly if you're uncertain about what to look for. Pearl earrings have been a popular and classic choice in women's jewellery for centuries. The trend of adorning oneself with these elegant accessories to create a stylish look continues today, placing pearl earrings at the top of the most sought-after jewellery pieces.

However, the question of how to choose pearl earrings can be quite complex. When acquiring a pair of pearl earrings, whether for yourself or as a gift, there are numerous details that make each pair distinct and unique. Here's everything you need to know about choosing pearl earrings.

Know Your Style

There's an array of pearl earring styles to choose from. You might believe the choice should be made between studs and hoops, but there are other types of earrings as well. Depending on your style or the style of the person you're buying for, you can select from a variety of Kyoto Pearl earring styles.

Pearl Stud Earrings

Pearl stud earrings are a timeless classic. They are the go-to option for women who desire a versatile accessory that complements everything from jeans to the little black dress. Pearl studs are quite small, making them suitable for any dress code and occasion.

Pearl Drop Earrings

Pearl drop earrings maintain the simplicity of stud earrings but with a twist. They hang just below the earlobe, with the pearl "dropping" at the base. These earrings are a popular choice for daytime wear, and they also pair well with elegant outfits, lending a touch of sophistication.

Dangle Pearl Earrings

Dangle pearl earrings are similar to drop earrings but are typically longer. The best ones usually feature a single delicate pearl. If you're looking to make a simple outfit stand out, a pair of dangle pearl earrings with several large pearls should be your choice.

Chandelier Pearl Earrings

Chandelier pearl earrings have an elongated drop, resembling a chandelier that dangles below the ear. They are the perfect accessory for formal occasions like weddings, receptions, dinners, and more.

Climbers / Crawlers

These types of pearl earrings give classic pearls a fresh and modern twist. They "climb" up the ear lobe and require only a single piercing.

Hoop Earrings

Hoop earrings come in several different options. They can be round or oval. Depending on their size, they can be worn for both casual and corporate events. Small pearl hoop earrings are very suitable for the office, while large pearl hoop earrings can add a playful touch to any elegant outfit.

Picking the Perfect Pearl Earring for Your Face Shape

The style, size, and colour play a significant role in how you can choose the perfect pair for your face shape. Pearl earrings should highlight the features of your face and accentuate your natural beauty. You should also consider if you are going to wear a pearl necklace. Mixing different styles can often result in a winning combination.

Round Shape

The best earring styles for a round face shape are those that will elongate the face and make it look slimmer. Drop pearls earrings or dangle earrings are ideal for this purpose.

Oval Shape

All earring styles suit this face shape. However, classic pearl studs will best emphasise the natural symmetry of an oval face.

Square Shape

Oval pearls and hoop pearl earrings will flatter and soften a square face shape.

Long Shape

Pearl studs are an excellent option for making a long face look fuller.

With these tips and guidelines, you will be able to make the best choice when selecting the right pair of pearl earrings.

FAQs: How to Choose Pearl Earrings

What should I look for when buying pearl stud earrings?

The surface of a pearl should be brilliant and luminous, not dull; your reflection should clearly show in its depths. Any pearl with chalky or dull tones indicates low quality.

Pearls with a high lustre will reflect light well, creating bright and vivid reflections. Perfect pearls have exceptionally lustrous surfaces that create sharp, distinct images when viewed from different angles (the highest grade). Good pearls are also highly lustrous but less so than excellent—their reflections may seem duller or hazier at times.

What is the most valuable colour of pearl?

Gold South Sea pearls, the most sought-after colour of pearl, are more expensive than white pearls. The darker a gold pearl’s body colour in gemstone markets, the higher its value.

What to ask when buying pearls?

When buying pearl jewellery, ask these questions:

  • Are the pearls handmade?
  • What is the quality of the pearls?
  • Are the pearls dyed, if so, how long for?

Is it safe to buy pearls online?

One way to avoid paying a high markup is by buying your pearls at an online boutique or luxury pearl retailer. Other stores may offer solid quality pearls, but they usually come with sky-high markups, and the consistency in getting what you want can be hit or miss. Kyoto Pearl has years of experience caring for pearls and delivering high quality to its customers.

Oskar Barczak