A Guide to Pearl Shapes: Perfectly Imperfect

Just like snowflakes, no two pearls are exactly the same, and that's part of their beauty. Each shape tells its own story, from softly irregular silhouettes to perfectly polished rounds. Whether you love organic textures or classic refinement, understanding pearl shapes can help you find the style that truly speaks to you.

Round Pearls

The timeless icon.
Perfectly round pearls are the rarest and most traditional shape. They’re symmetrical, smooth, and polished,ideal for when you want that effortlessly classic, Audrey Hepburn elegance. Think pearl studs, strands, and bridal jewellery. This is as refined as it gets.

Button Pearls

Smooth on top, flat underneath.
Button pearls are rounded on one side and flattened on the other, which makes them sit comfortably against the skin. You’ll often find them in earrings or rings where a low profile is part of the design. Elegant, minimal, and flattering.

Rice Pearls

Elongated and elegant.
Rice pearls (sometimes called Oval Pearls) have a soft, elongated silhouette that adds a graceful touch to any piece. They’re slightly more relaxed than round pearls but still offer a polished feel. Ideal for layering or a more modern take on tradition.

Potato Pearls

Charming and naturally irregular.
Named for their organic, slightly uneven shape, these pearls are beautifully imperfect. They reflect light in interesting ways and have loads of personality. Perfect for laid-back styling, boho pieces, and anyone who wants something less “done.”

Baroque Pearls

Bold, asymmetrical, and one of a kind.
Baroque pearls are known for their freeform shapes,twisted, sculptural, and entirely unique. No two are alike. Their organic curves catch the light from every angle, giving them a luminous, almost ethereal quality. They’re a favourite in contemporary designs for a reason: they're real, raw, and effortlessly cool.

Keshi Pearls

Petite, wild, and nacre-rich.
Keshi (pronounced kay-she) pearls are formed without a nucleus, which means they’re made entirely of lustrous nacre. Often small and irregular in shape, they shimmer with an intense glow. Think of them as nature’s happy accidents,rare and radiant.

Niamh Alexander