Pearl Earrings

Pearl earrings stopped being formal about ten years ago. Freshwater pearls here as studs, chunky hoops, dainty hoops, pavé circles and drops — set in 18K gold vermeil at 3 microns over solid sterling silver, or gold plated. Gold, silver and rose gold across most styles, several sold as singles as well as pairs, from $25.

Pearl Earring Questions

Are pearl earrings still in style?

Yes, though not the matched formal pair people picture. What's selling is irregular baroque shapes, pearls set into hoops rather than hung below them, and single pearls worn mismatched with something else. The stiff bridal association is what dated — the material didn't.

Can you wear pearl earrings every day?

Yes, with one habit: take them off before anything wet or scented. Pearls are nacre — organic, porous, and softer than everything else you own. Perfume, hairspray and chlorine dull them permanently. Last thing on, first thing off, and they'll outlive most of what you wear them with.

Can pearl earrings get wet?

Briefly, yes. Repeatedly, no. Shower water alone won't destroy them but shampoo and soap film will strip the surface shine over months. Never an ultrasonic cleaner — it's the fastest way to ruin a pearl there is.

Are pearl earrings expensive, and are freshwater pearls worth anything?

Freshwater pearls are real pearls and are not rare, which is why they're affordable — ours start at $25. Natural pearls, formed without human help, are the expensive ones and are essentially auction-only. Anyone selling you a natural pearl for $50 is selling you a freshwater pearl.

Are pearl earrings old-fashioned?

A single round white pearl on a post is genuinely classic and reads formal. If that's not what you want, the same material in a chunky hoop or a baroque drop reads completely differently. It's the setting that dates, not the pearl.

Are pearl earrings a good gift?

One of the safest, because they suit nearly everyone and carry no romantic obligation. They're also the traditional gift for a 30th anniversary and for bridesmaids. If she already owns a classic pair, a pearl-set hoop is the version that doesn't duplicate.

See also pearl jewelry, pearl drop earrings, pearl necklaces and stud earrings.