Over the last few years, pearl jewelry has made a resurgence. Pearls have been rediscovered for their adaptability and refinement, hitherto reserved for classic styles. Pearl necklaces have been increasingly popular among celebrities, and these distinctive gemstones are now being seen outside of Hollywood as well.
However, not all pearl jewelry is created equal. While varied sizes and colors provide some variety, there are basic guidelines to follow when wearing pearls.
Pearls in many forms
Each pearl bead in a pearl necklace or bracelet is white or off-white in hue and nearly the same size. Some modern pearl jewelry, on the other hand, deviates from the norm:
Asymmetrical and natural: The majority of pearls seen in the wild aren't exactly spherical. Rather, elliptical or oval shapes – known as baroque or conch pearls – are more common, and they frequently have texture. As a result, today's pearl jewelry frequently incorporates these natural differences to achieve an asymmetrical or organic appearance.
Color: A widespread misunderstanding is that all pearls are white or slightly yellow. From white tones to champagne hues and even brown shades, there is a vast range of options. It's crucial to know which tints match your skin tone and which metals accentuate their natural hue, much as it is with gemstones.
When to Wear Pearls and How to Wear Them
Over the second part of the twentieth century, dress norms regarding wearing pearls began to erode. However, there are still some fashion guidelines to follow, such as when and how to wear a pearl necklace:
Daytime: A single strand of pearls that falls around the collarbone or a pearl bracelet is appropriate if you're going to the office and the dress code is at least business casual. Larger pearls might make a statement if you're breaking from tradition. Pearls should be used as an accent rather than overpowering the rest of your clothing at this time of day.
Casual: Although most people do not consider pearl jewelry to be casual, less formal settings offer an opportunity to wear a longer or two-strand necklace. Pearl pendants, chokers, lariats, and other less frequent pieces are also more appropriate for everyday use.
Formal Attire: Black-tie events necessitate the use of your finest jewelry. Multistrand necklaces, as well as matching earrings and bracelets, are designed for such occasions as long as the pearls match your clothing. Just make sure your jewelry matches your outfit so there aren't too many visual components.
When Worn With Other Jewelry: Pearls are a neutral foundation unless you're using a dark or bright yellow tint. As a result, gemstones with intense colors, such as rubies or sapphires, stand out against this backdrop. Simultaneously, if you're using many stones, make sure they're all set in the same metal for consistency.
Lengths of Pearl Necklaces
Pearl necklaces are available in a variety of lengths, making them suitable for a variety of occasions:
A choker necklace is 14 to 16 inches long and should be worn just below the collarbone.
Princess: The length of these necklaces should not exceed the collarbone. Princess necklaces are the most popular single-strand pearl necklaces, measuring 17 to 19 inches in length.
Matinee: Matinee necklaces range in length from 22 to 24 inches and are perfect for daytime office use.
Opera: For more formal occasions, opera necklaces are at least 30 inches long.
Anything longer than 35 inches counts as a rope. To stretch the body, this length can be doubled over or knotted in the middle.
Hannoush Jewelers of Connecticut has a wide selection of freshwater and Tahitian pearl pendants. Today, browse our website or come to one of our convenient locations to begin your search.
Published by Hope Sparks