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The Best Pearl Earrings

Last updated on January 11, 2024

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Pearl earrings have a classic appeal that is loved by many people, no matter their preferred fashion style. You can wear pearl earrings with a ball gown, little black dress or even with a pair of jeans and a blouse. They add a sense of timeless beauty to any outfit and make you feel elegant and sophisticated.

Types of Pearls

Freshwater pearls are the most affordable variety, which makes them very popular. They are available in different sizes and shapes in addition to different colors such as white, lavender, peach and pink. Plus, freshwater pearls can also be treated to take on different colors such as black, blue and dark brown. In terms of quality, there is a wide range in freshwater pearls.

Akoya pearls are a saltwater pearl that are grown mostly in Japan. They are rarer than freshwater pearls, which also makes them more costly. These types of pearly are usually lustrously white, but they also come in a cream or subtle rose color. If you’re looking for a stud earring, akoya pearls are a good choice because they are always perfectly round.

Tahitian black pearls are an exotic type that have a metallic dark shimmer. They are highly coveted, making them expensive. However, these pearls don’t just come in black. You can also find them in brown, purple, pistachio and peacock blue. If you want something incredible rare and valuable, then you’re going to need to check out South Sea pearls. These have a satiny luster and come in large sizes, making them incredibly unique.

Our Picks For The Top Pearl Earrings

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

The Pearl Source Hypoallergenic Stud Freshwater Pearl Earrings

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The Pearl Source

Hypoallergenic Stud Freshwater Pearl Earrings

These classic pearl earrings are made with freshwater pearls. They have the highest quality grading available. The earrings are 14 karat gold.

Overall Take

Classic OptionThese pearl earrings are made with hand-picked freshwater pearls.

 Top Pick

PAVOI Freshwater Cultured Pearls Leverback Pearl Drop Earrings

PAVOI

Freshwater Cultured Pearls Leverback Pearl Drop Earrings

This pair of premium quality, handpicked AAA+ freshwater cultured pearl earrings have a hypoallergenic 925 sterling silver rhodium-plated setting and lever-back closures. They are American-made and come in sizes 6 through 10 millimeters.

Overall Take

A Classic, Traditional StyleYou’ll love how this pretty jewelry accents your ears and neck and can rest assured that all the metals used are free of nickel and lead.

 Runner Up

JORA Solid 14K White Gold Posts Pearl Earrings

JORA

Solid 14K White Gold Posts Pearl Earrings

These hand-picked pearls make for stunning earrings. They are almost perfectly round with minimal blemishes. The earrings have silicone backs which are safe for sensitive skin.

Overall Take

Hand-Picked OptionThese earrings are made from high-quality pearls.

 Also Great

RONLLNA Hoop Drop Dangle Artificial Pearl Earrings

RONLLNA

Hoop Drop Dangle Artificial Pearl Earrings

These lightweight pearl earrings don’t burden your ears when worn. They are hand-crafted and hypoallergenic. The earrings look great with formal or casual wear.

Overall Take

Light and StylishThese pearl earrings don’t burden your ears.

What to Look For

  • There is a lot of variety in earring styles. Pearl stud earrings are a classic option for those who are looking for something timeless that goes with everything in their closet. If you want to try something new, opt for drop earrings which hang below the lobe. They look great with elegant outfits. Dangle pearl earrings are longer than drop earrings and bring a sense of glamor. You can find them with a single pearl or with multiple pearls. Chandelier pearl earrings are immediately eye-catching. They look great at formal events, such as weddings and galas, but you can also use them to add a fashionable touch to more casual outfits. Another option is climber earrings. Instead of going down like regular earrings, they “climb” up the ear – but only require one ear piercing. These are unique and typically made with small pearls. Hoop earrings with pearls add a playful touch to a classic outfit, and can also be appropriate for the corporate world.
  • Pearls come in different sizes. Small pearls, which are between six and 77 millimeters, are ideal for dainty earrings. Medium-sized pearls which are between seven and eight millimeters are the most common, and the ideal size for studs. If you’re getting pearls between eight and nine millimeters, they will stand out and look great on any outfit – but they will be rarer and harder to find.
  • When you think of a pearl, you likely think of a spherical round shape. However, did you know that they also come in other shapes? While round pearls are the most iconic, they are not the only ones available. Oval pearls are popular because they look great in teardrop earrings and are very flattering for all face shapes. If you’re interested in irregular shapes, then opt for baroque pearls, which are asymmetrical and can have bumps and lumps. Button pearls are like their namesake – in the shape of a flat button.
  • If you want to keep your pearls in good shape, be sure to apply your cosmetics, perfume and hairspray before you put on your pearl earrings. This will minimize the amount of residue that gets on them. After wearing the pearls, you can wipe them down with a soft, clean cloth.

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