Susan Miller

·Master of Fine Arts in Jewelry Design, Pratt Institute, 2012

·Bachelor of Arts in Gemology, University of California, Los Angeles, May 2005

·Editor-in-Chief, White Victoria (2018 - present)

·Write and research feature articles and profiles for print and online publication

·Contributing Writer, Modern Jeweler and Ornament

·Write and publish freelance articles for IGS and WSJ Magazine

·Jewelry Appraiser (2012 - 2020)

pearl brands

In the sphere of jewelry, few things can beat pearls for their combination of natural beauty and timeless elegance. Whether it's a modern design or a classic string, pearls add something special to any outfit.

But not all pearls are created equal. If you want quality, craftsmanship, and styles that will look good in years to come, it's important to pick the right brand.

This article presents our pick of the top 10 pearl brands for those looking to elevate their jewelry collections in 2024. Choose the refined classics from Mikimoto. Consider White Victoria's seductive take on luxury. Or take Tasaki's innovative designs and new ways of setting gems.

There is something here for everyone. And if your style veers more toward avant-garde creations than timeless sophistication? 

Don't worry! We've got you covered with Vivienne Westwood, too. We hope our list proves an invaluable resource when searching out pieces for your own collection!

Top 10 Pearl Brands

pearl brands

If you're looking to take your jewelry collection up a notch, pearls are a classic and elegant choice. In 2024, there are several standout brands. They differentiate themselves with their exceptional craftsmanship, distinctive styles, and high-quality pearls. 

Here are the top 10 pearl brands worth considering:

Mikimoto

pearl brands

Founded by Kokichi Mikimoto in 1893, Mikimoto is renowned for creating the world’s first cultured pearls. The brand is known for producing beautiful cultured pearls. They have exceptional surface quality, shape, and luster.

Mikimoto combines traditional Japanese jewelry-making techniques with European craftsmanship. They create pieces that are both timeless and elegant. Its range includes Akoya, South Sea and Tahitian pearls, with styles available at various price points.

Signature designs include the Akoya Pearl Necklace, as well as collections such as Cherry Blossom and Morning Dew. The latter features an iconic necklace style.

Prices for Mikimoto jewelry range from $1,000 up to more than $100,000. Items can be purchased at authorized retailers worldwide as well as through its own boutiques.

Paspaley

pearl brands

For more than 75 years, Paspaley has been selling Australian South Sea pearls. These pearls are so rare and precious that they don’t really need an introduction.

When designing jewelry collections, the brand often looks to the ocean itself for inspiration – no surprises there.

What makes Paspaley pearls special? In addition to coming from one of the largest producers of Australian South Sea pearls, these ones have exceptional size, luster, and color.

Prices start at a few hundred dollars and go up into the tens of thousands. Classic designs include pearl strand necklaces and stud earrings. But they join contemporary styles, including those from the Pearls in Motion range.

Thick nacre giving superb luster is a feature of Paspaley pearls. You can buy them online. Alternatively, consider visiting boutiques in major Australian cities. There are stores in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane or at select international locations.

Tasaki

pearl brands

Boasting a proud heritage rooted in pearl farming and jewelry making, Tasaki is a famous Japanese brand. It is celebrated for its commitment to excellence and ethical practices. The company is transparent about the origins of its pearls, which are sourced from its own farms.

When it comes to shining (aka luster), roundness, smoothness, and color, few can beat Tasaki’s Akoyas and South Sea pearls. They’re top-notch. Meanwhile, the house’s designs are both innovative and elegant. You’ll see traditional Japanese artistry combined with modern style in every piece.

Prices run from moderate to expensive. Classic strand necklaces and versatile pearl studs will always be available at various price points. One collection that breaks the mold a bit is Balance. It’s worth checking out if you prefer your jewelry box staples with a side of innovation.

In addition to their own boutiques, Tasaki pearls can also be found at fine jewelers worldwide as well as online shops.

Yoko London

pearl brands

Yoko London is a well-known brand for beautiful pearl jewelry. They offer both classic and modern styles of jewelry. The company uses top-quality Akoya, Freshwater, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls that have an amazing shine and shape.

Their designs are made to show off the pearls’ natural beauty. They blend timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style well.

Prices start at medium range but go up to very expensive. This reflects the fact that their pieces are exceptionally well-made and stunning, too.

Popular items include pearl earrings (you’ll find everything from simple studs to fancy drop designs). Besides, they specialize in making classic strand necklaces, which has made the brand known.

You can buy Yoko London collections at their flagship store on Sloane Street in London. Also, consider visiting boutiques and authorized retailers worldwide. Or order online with global shipping available.

The Pearl Source

pearl brands

The Pearl Source is an online jewelry store known for selling beautiful pearl jewelry at great prices. The company has high standards and checks all its pearls for quality, including their shine and shape.

Customers can choose from a range of Akoya, Freshwater, and South Sea pearls. So there’s something for everyone’s style and budget.

Because it operates online only, The Pearl Source doesn’t have as many overheads. This saving is passed on to customers who may pay less here than elsewhere for the same elegance.

The Pearl Source does not offer collections per se. Still, its classic pieces are popular with shoppers wanting timeless elegance. Examples include simple pearl stud earrings that go with everything or a traditional strand of pearls worn around the neck.

Rather than stocking physical stores worldwide, The Pearl Source sells directly via its website. However, some products can be bought through authorized retailers, too.

White Victoria

pearl brands

White Victoria is a jewelry brand that sells pearl jewelry. They make their jewelry using Akoya pearls, South Sea pearls and Freshwater pearls, which are known for being very shiny and having no marks on them.

The style of White Victoria jewelry is simple and modern, so people notice the pearls themselves. If you want something special made just for you, they can do that too. Prices start at medium and go up because the jewelry is well-made.

White Victoria offers not only classic pearl necklaces and pearl stud earrings (perfect for daily wear or dressing up), but also bold statement pieces featuring Baroque pearls, each one unique. They support online orders for custom pearl jewelry.

You can buy White Victoria’s jewelry from select shops worldwide. Or visit their website to shop online, where worldwide shipping is available.

MIZUKI

pearl brands

Created by designer Mizuki Goltz, MIZUKI blends the feeling of Japan with an up-to-date look that focuses on pearls’ natural beauty. Whether they’re saltwater Akoya or South Sea pearls or freshwater ones, all have superb luster and shape.

The brand’s jewelry is modern and minimalist, often with inventive design elements that don’t detract from the pearl itself. Prices are in the mid-range to high-end because of their craftsmanship.

Pieces to look out for include asymmetric drop earrings and delicate pearl studs. Also, consider layered chokers and its signature item, the Petite Pearl Cuff.

Authorized luxury retailers, department stores as well as select boutiques stock MIZUKI jewelry. There is also a curated shopping experience online where customers can buy directly from the brand.

Chanel

pearl brands

Fashion pioneer Coco Chanel established Maison Chanel in 1910. It is a brand that would go on to transform the industry with its stylish yet practical creations.

Among her many loves were pearls. And it was this affection that gave rise to one of her most famous jewelry styles. Layering necklaces made from both real and imitation spheres for an innovative look.

The house’s enduring sophistication can be found in its pearl jewels today, too. Think earrings and necklaces by Virginie Viard. Craftsmanship is exceptional across a range of price points from mid- to high-end.

Highlights consist of classic Chanel sautoirs dripping with pearls or the Les Perles de Chanel collection. It is often using fine natural gems throughout. Discover exquisite pieces at Chanel boutiques around the world as well as online.

Tiffany & Co

pearl brands

An American brand loved worldwide, Tiffany & Co. is the place to go for beautiful jewelry that will stand the test of time. When it comes to pearls, they select only the best. Akoya, Freshwater, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls are known for their luster and individuality.

Their collection features pearl bracelets, necklaces, and earrings in classic and contemporary styles. Sometimes, with Tiffany design signatures such as a gauge link alongside the pearls.

Among the ranges are pieces inspired by Jazz Age elegance (Ziegfeld Collection). And its own best-known motif reimagined with pearls (Return to Tiffany).

Prices start at several hundred dollars but reflect both quality and exclusivity. You can buy Tiffany pearl jewelry from its stores worldwide, selected authorized retailers, and online.

Vivienne Westwood

pearl brands

Vivienne Westwood is a British fashion designer known for her rebellious style. In her pearl jewelry line, she manages to make the traditional gems feel both luxurious and edgy.

Take, for example, her Pearl Drop Earrings. They are based on a style from her fall 1987 Harris Tweed collection. These earrings feature silver-tone plated brass orbs. They are studded with crystals that appear to float below glass-based pearls.

They’re fancy, alright—and definitely different. That is why they’re considered part of her “Mini bas relief” collection. Prices vary greatly within Westwood’s range. But regardless of what you pay, expect superb craftsmanship and design innovation.

While many pieces use faux pearls rather than ones made from shell or enamel-covered beads, it’s their look that matters most here. These are not designs for pearl purists!

Shop the complete pearl jewelry collection on Vivienne Westwood’s official site. Or buy via one of her authorized retailers.

Which Pearl Brand is Right for You?

pearl brands

Selecting the right pearl brand can vary based on factors such as your age group, the event, how you intend to wear them, and your budget. Here’s a look at which brands cater well to different requirements.

Age Groups

pearl brands

Young Adults (18-30)

pearl brands

If you’re a young adult looking for jewelry that combines luxury with rebellion, Vivienne Westwood is perfect for you. The British designer uses glass-based pearls to create bold pieces like the Pearl Drop Earrings. Ideal if you want your jewelry to do the talking.

Alternatively, MIZUKI strikes a chord between youthful sophistication and refined Japanese tradition. It has many contemporary designs featuring pearls that are perfect for youngsters.

Middle Age (31-50)

pearl brands

This demographic typically wants a mix of contemporary and timeless styles. Tasaki works well for them because its inventive designs fuse pearls with other precious materials. For those after up-to-date sophistication, it offers just that.

Yoko London has an extensive selection of rare pearls in vibrant hues to cater to all tastes within this bracket. It offers both classic and modern pieces.

Older Adults (51+)

pearl brands

If you want something that’s always stylish and sophisticated, consider Mikimoto or Tiffany & Co. For example, Mikimoto makes beautiful Akoya and South Sea pearl jewelry. Their classic pieces, like the Morning Dew necklace, would never go out of style.

At Tiffany & Co., you can find pearl bracelets and necklaces that are ageless and elegant. Perfect for someone who likes things that are luxurious but also kind of traditional.

Occasions

Everyday Wear

pearl brands

Need an accessory that adds a touch of class to any outfit? Look no further than The Pearl Source or White Victoria.

At The Pearl Source, you can find inexpensive yet top-notch pearl jewelry perfect for everyday use. But if you prefer understated elegance, check out White Victoria’s simple styles. They let the pearls’ natural beauty take center stage!

Special Occasions

pearl brands

If you’re getting married or going to a fancy party, Paspaley and Chanel are good choices. The Australian brand is known for its stunning South Sea pearls.

While Chanel’s classic double (or triple!) pearl necklaces always look elegant. Chanel’s Les Perles de Chanel collection has beautiful pieces that will stand out if you want to make a statement.

Combinations

Classic and Modern

pearl brands

Yoko London and Tasaki combination classic and elegance with a modern twist perfectly. The former offers traditional strands alongside more up-to-date designs. Meanwhile, Tasaki uses pearls in a way that no one else does. Think of geometric settings that create something totally fresh.

Luxury and Rebellion

pearl brands

Vivienne Westwood is known for blending luxury and a punk attitude. If you’re after something different, check out her range. Think extravagant necklaces studded with faux pearls or oversized drop earrings.

Budgets

Affordable Luxury

pearl brands

If you’re looking for affordability, consider The Pearl Source or White Victoria. With a vast selection and prices to suit every budget, The Pearl Source has something for everyone. Alternatively, White Victoria offers slightly cheaper rates without compromising on elegance.

High-End Splurge

If investing is your thing, then Mikimoto and Paspaley are the places to go for top-of-the-line pearl luxury. 

The pearls selected by Mikimoto and the South Sea pearls sold by Paspaley are both rare finds. Ones you won't regret buying these because they promise elegance that will never fade, as well as great quality.

Conclusion

pearl brands

Selecting the perfect pearl brand is important if you want quality and fashion-forward choices. No matter whether you love White Victoria for its classic pieces or prefer something edgy from Vivienne Westwood. All these top brands have got you covered.

Investing in good pearls not only elevates your jewelry collection. It also adds sophistication to any outfit. When you're next looking to buy pearls, consider one of these respected names for a beautiful piece that speaks to your individual style. And it will last forever.