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 necklace

Have you ever dreamed about owning jewelry that is both timeless and elegant? If so, then pearl necklaces fit the bill. These beautiful gems have been worn since ancient times and are still associated with luxury and class today—just ask any queen, actress, or style influencer worth her salt.

But here's the thing: you don't need to be royal or rich to wear pearls! As a jewelry expert, I can tell you that they're loved for their natural beauty as much as they are for being fashionable – which they totally are, all the time.

In this guide, we will explore pearl necklace designs because there's more than one! So keep reading if finding out more about classic elegance in adornments interests you.

Classic Pearl Necklace Designs

pearl necklace

Classic pearl necklaces are timeless accessories suitable for a wide range of personal styles and events. To find the perfect one for a gift, consider these types of pearl necklaces:

Single Strand Pearl Necklace

pearl necklace

If you're after a hint of classical elegance, nothing beats a single-strand pearl necklace. It appeals to lovers of minimalist style and can be worn at any age—for that matter, pretty much anywhere.

 

Just look at this beautiful 3.5-4.0mm White Freshwater Pearl Necklace. Work? Yes (especially good for young professionals wanting to add quiet polish to their look). Fancy dinner party? Also yes.

Multi-Strand Pearl Necklace

pearl necklace

The multi-strand pearl necklace is for those who want to make a statement. It suits creative types in the arts as it stands out and can be the centerpiece of an outfit. You'll also want to wear this if you're going for full-on luxury at a glam event like a fancy dinner or wedding.

For example, this White Vintage Multi-strand Rice Freshwater Pearl Necklace is just perfect for those who want to make a real impression.

Princess Length vs. Matinee Length vs. Opera Length vs. Rope Length

•Princess Length: If you're new to wearing pearls, this versatile length is for you. It looks great with almost any neckline and can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

pearl necklace

•Matinee Length: Perfect for office or casual wear, the matinee-length necklace pairs well with high-neck dresses and collared shirts – making it a favorite among mature professionals.

pearl necklace

•Opera Length: A must-have for formal affairs, an opera-length strand can be worn in multiple ways to suit different tastes and occasions – appealing to even the most diehard fashionistas.

•Rope Length: Fun yet sophisticated, rope-length necklaces are ideal for creative types who like to customize their look. This style works well layered and can be doubled up or knotted for both casual and dressier outfits.

pearl necklace

Pearl Choker Necklace

If you have a modern, edgy style, then the pearl choker necklace is for you. It doesn't matter if you're young or just young at heart – if you want to combine timeless beauty with up-to-the-minute fashion, this is the way forward.

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This White Baroque Pearl Choker & Paper Clip Chain is Equally good with high necklines as it is with no necklines at all. You can wear is to cocktail parties, art gallery openings, and fabulous nights out with friends.

Contemporary Pearl Necklace Designs

  pearl necklace

Contemporary pearl necklace designs blend the classic beauty of pearls with modern elements, making them perfect for various styles and events. Take a closer look at these creative designs and find out who they are best suited for.

Pearl Pendant Necklaces

pearl necklace

If you're after something simple and elegant, then go for a pearl pendant necklace. It consists of just one pearl on a delicate chain. People who like their jewelry minimally and with a touch of class will love this style.

 

Let's take this White Freshwater Baroque Pearl Dangling Pendant in Sterling Silver. It works well for young professionals wanting to add a quiet but stylish touch to office wear, as well as for older people who want something low-key yet fashionable.

Pearl Statement Necklaces

pearl necklace

Pearl statement necklaces are created to be noticed, frequently featuring larger pearls or distinctive designs that attract attention. If you enjoy fashion and want to stand out from the crowd, this might be for you.

 

For example, this 4-15mm pearl and Diamond Lavalier Necklace in 18k Yellow Gold could be perfect for a special occasion where you're aiming for a bold, artistic look – think gallery opening or upscale do.

Brides also love these eye-catching pieces on their big day! So, if you need something spectacular, consider this 8.0-10.0mm White South Sea Pearl Necklace.

Layered Pearl Necklaces

pearl necklace

Layered pearl necklaces are perfect for those who want to add some dimension and texture. They mix several strands of pearls at different lengths. Create a bohemian look by pairing this style with other pieces of jewelry.

 

For example, you can wear this White Freshwater Heart Pendant Choker Necklace and match it with a Opal Lavalier Pendant. Dress up a casual outfit with one—it'll look fabulous—or wear it to an evening event with something fancy!

Pearl and Gemstone Combinations

pearl necklace

If you're bored of plain pearls, why not try a necklace that combines them with other gemstones? Colorful and lively, this type of pearl jewelry is perfect for anyone who likes its accessories to be vibrant and eye-catching. Just look at this beautiful 16.0-17.0mm White South Sea Pearl & Diamond Glows Pendant in 18K Gold.

Lots of creative people fall into this group – sometimes, all an outfit needs is a hit of color, after all! These necklaces can be worn with just about anything, from jeans to ballgowns, so if you want to look fabulous and have fun with your style choices, they could be ideal for you.

Ethnic and Cultural Pearl Necklace Designs

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Ethnic and cultural pearl necklace designs are more than just beautiful jewelry. They embody the histories and traditions of their places of origin, meaning wearers receive something one-of-a-kind when they choose such styles.

For those who appreciate beauty as well as a connection to their culture, these designs are ideal additions to your collection.

Traditional Japanese Akoya Pearl Necklaces

pearl necklace

Akoya pearl necklaces, a traditional Japanese style, are famous for their roundness and brightness. If you like things that are well-made and beautiful, this kind of necklace might be for you.

 

When people think of them, they often think of elegance and class – which means they're great for work or any fancy occasion when you want to look put-together. You may consider buying this 4.5-5.0mm White Akoya Pearl Necklace or modern 8.0-9.0mm Blue-grey Baroque Akoya Pearl Necklace.

South Sea Pearl Necklaces from the Pacific Islands

pearl necklace

If you're after a necklace that makes an impact, look no further than one made from South Sea pearls. Renowned for their impressive size as well as their warm golden or white hues, these pearls are perfect for those who like their jewelry to do the talking.

Just look at this beautiful 8.0-10.0mm White South Sea Pearl Necklace or 9.0-11.0mm Golden South Sea Pearl Necklace. They're pure elegance!

Whether it's a big birthday bash or an important black-tie dinner, celebratory events with a luxury dress code appeal to statement style lovers - and the creamy richness of South Sea pearls fits the bill perfectly.

Tahitian Black Pearl Necklaces

pearl necklace

With their deep, mesmerizing hues and air of intrigue, Tahitian black pearl necklaces make a bold statement. Those who gravitate toward this style are often fashion-forward trailblazers who enjoy donning pieces that pique curiosity.

 

You may want to check this 8.0-10.0mm Multicolor Tahitian Pearl Necklace to make an impression. The dark pearls' reflective quality also imbues evening wear with both lavishness and fascination—the perfect conversation starter.

Indian Kundan Pearl Necklaces

pearl necklace

The Indian Kundan pearl necklace is known for its detailed patterns, which incorporate gold, pearls, and occasionally other gems. It captures the essence of India's artistic tradition like no other piece.

 

People who love elaborate, energetic fashions are especially drawn to this type of necklace — often donning one for weddings and big celebrations.

When paired with saris or other classic attire, these necklaces help wearers create an ensemble that reflects both their individuality and customs from home.

Customized and Personalized Pearl Necklace Designs

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Catering to a range of tastes and events, custom pearl chokers provide an exclusive mix of classic grace and personal style. By incorporating meaning into their jewelry, wearers can make more than just a fashion statement—they create a symbol for themselves.

Name Initial Pearl Necklaces

pearl necklace

Name initial pearl necklaces are characterized by a charm or pendant that showcases an individual's first letter, occasionally adorned with little pearls.

 

This kind of design is great for people who like understated jewelry with meaning. A lot of teenagers and young adults wear it because they want something minimalistic but special.

 

For instance, someone who just finished college might use her pearl-covered initial as a stylish way to show off who she is—and that she did well—when meeting potential employers or networking in her chosen field.

Birthstone Pearl Necklaces

pearl necklace

Bringing together the smooth shine of pearls with a birthstone's individualized charm, these necklaces carry great significance. Within the traditional pearl arrangement, every month's gem adds not only color but also personal value.

 

Those who want to give presents that are truly unique and individual should consider this type of necklace. It can be customized to make the wearer feel extra special.

 

For example, a mom might select both pearls and her children's birthstones for a necklace—a lovely piece that works well at both fancy affairs and Sunday night dinners with relatives.

Pearl and Monogram Necklaces

pearl necklace

Pearl and monogram necklaces combine the elegant beauty of pearls with carefully crafted monograms. They appeal to those who adore timeless luxury and wish to display their initials with pride.

 

Brides might choose these necklaces as a way to personalize their wedding-day finery, while executives may wear them with business attire for an extra polished look.

 

Think about a lawyer donning her monogrammed pearl necklace when she goes before a judge—it's one more way to show who she is without saying a word about it!

Bottom Line

pearl necklace

With so many different types of pearl necklaces available – from traditional styles with elegant pearls to contemporary designs that make a statement, and even custom-made ones – there really is something for everyone.

If you like timeless pieces, check out Akoya pearl necklaces. For something more unusual, go for black Tahitian pearls. Or if it's personalization you're after, why not get a necklace made with your initials?

All these necklaces can help you show off your style and make any outfit look special. Pearls never go out of fashion: they always add class to whatever you're wearing.

So enjoy looking at all the beautiful pearl necklaces on offer. There will be one that's perfect for you – which will allow your individuality to shine through when you wear it!