The Best Pearl Necklaces to Add to Your Jewelry Collection
From classic strands to contemporary chains and chunky chokers.
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Long a symbol of class, elegance, and royalty, pearls have been a luxury fashion statement in centuries and eras dating back to ancient civilizations. The only gem created by living organisms, the tiny iridescent spheres have become so rare in the natural world that most today are intentionally created or cultured. But thanks to their growing demand, the best pearl necklaces are no longer exclusively accessible to the Marie Antoinettes and Rihannas of the world, nor are they reserved solely for tea time.
Due in part to a summer season of mermaidcore, pearl necklaces are surging in popularity and gravitating toward a top spot in among the best fall 2023 jewelry trends. In fact, nearly all investment-worthy fine jewelry brands offer a collection of pearl jewelry, followed in suit by variations from more affordable brands you may have already tracked across Instagram. Ahead, shop the best pearl necklaces to add to your collection of must-have accessories.
This is a necklace you’re going to wear forever; a long-term fine jewelry investment. Baroque pearls encircled in 18k Siam gold encompass art and style all in one piece.
Wild Fawn’s jewelry is the epitome of the gift that keeps on giving: eco-conscious luxury. And since I’m a sucker for sustainability and products that pay respect to Mother Earth, I’ll be forever pining for these timeless, organic, and ethically-sourced pearls.
Made to mimic the lines and curves of the sea, this ocean-inspired choker is crafted with 8mm pearls and anti-allergy stainless steel plated in 18k gold.
Tiffany’s is one of fine jewelry’s heavy-hitters, so you’ll be able to wear this timeless, traditional string of pearls whether you’re 28 or 82.
These are not your grandmother’s pearls. While it comes with a heftier price tag, this black Tahitian pearl strand is something of a unicorn when it comes to fine jewelry (meaning it also requires careful care).
Simple and refined, this Sophie Bille Brahe necklace elegantly showcases seven pearls in descending sizes loosely placed on a 14k gold chain. You can capitalize on the downplayed grandeur of this piece by pairing it with everything from jeans and an oversized button-down shirt to a satin strapless mini dress.
The characteristic row of baroque pearl gems on this choker are all unique in size, shape, and color—making it a must-have item to dress up a pair of crips jeans or an LBD.
This high-quality lariat drop necklace is available in various colors and rates (including recycled gold), and it’s 30 percent off right now. So I can’t think of one reason not to buy this.
If you’re not ready to commit to the price tag that often accompanies an authentic pearl necklace, start out with this option (which is a personal favorite of yours truly) from Madewell. It’s dainty and casual, and I don’t have to hold my breath every time I wear it out of the house or on vacation.
Get personal. This 15” contrasted combination necklace hosts a favorite letter initial set between teardrop Swarovski pearls and a 14k gold plated chain.
Keep Ming Yu Wang on your radar, because the Taiwanese-American designer has an artistic approach to all of her work that you won’t find anywhere else. Inspired by the idea of “wearable art,” her jewelry spotlights modern longevity. I’ve been thinking about the Penna Mini Earring ever since I first laid eyes on it, and this leaf pearl necklace breathes contemporary life into a classic gem.
Merjuri is not only the brand we deserve but also the brand we need; it offers timeless fine jewelry pieces at an affordable price. This carefully crafted pearl pendant is meant to be a solo statement or part of a stack. “I’m loving the weight of this pearl, its simplicity,” raved one reviewer. “I’ve eyed it for a while...now my summer talisman.”
Merge this handmade necklace with almost any of your fashion essentials, thanks to the classic freshwater pearls and 18k gold exposed chain clasp.
For a teeny tiny take on pearls, choose this 14k gold pavé pendant suspended from a yellow gold chain. It’s so delicate, you can make this an everyday accessory.
This intricate, artisanal pearl pendant necklace proves that Chloé can do more than luxury celeb-loved bags and shoes.
Reminiscent of opulent styles of the 1920s, LAGOS’ 18” pearl necklace overlooks no details with its sterling silver and 18k gold accents, as well as the detachable pearl tassel that allows for added style versatility.
This silk-strung pearl necklace is available in two lengths: 36” and 66”, which means you can wear it in a multitude of different ways. Layer and coil it around your wrist or neck, or let it asymmetrically fall down your back with drapey and backless dresses.
Dubbed an “updated heirloom,” this triple-strand clasp choker is a chunkier statement piece that will dress up the minimal pieces in your fall wardrobe and enable you to carry a little bit of an homage to summer wherever you go.
Vibrant beads thread between the pearls on this Eliou choker add a youthful and refreshing pop of color.
Another quality piece offered at a fair price, this dainty necklace contains solid 10k gold and five freshwater pearls. Plus, Stone and Strand offers you the option to add on a necklace extender to affix to the 16” chain.
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