Mother-of-pearl is the iridescent substance that forms inside the shells of many mollusks (such as mussels and pearl oysters). As a protective mechanism, mollusks secrete nacre against irritants and abrasions that enter the shell.

 

Over time, a layer of nacre forms on the shell’s surface, resulting in the lustrous, shimmering coating known as mother-of-pearl. It is an organic-inorganic composite material made from aragonite—a form of calcium carbonate also found in pearls—making it strong, elastic, and iridescent.

 

No two pieces of mother-of-pearl are alike, which is why it is used to create unique, one-of-a-kind items. Most often, you will find it as a decorative inlay on watch dials or jewelry, and it is soft enough to be carved and engraved, further enhancing its individuality.

 

Pearl and Mother-of-Pearl Jewelry for a Classic Yet Dazzling Look

 

Although jewelry trends come and go, there should always be a moment in every woman’s life for fine quality pearls crafted from precious metals. The beauty of the pearl lies in its endless potential to create a strikingly feminine and refined aesthetic that transcends any faceted gemstone mined from the earth.

 

Fine pearl jewelry can last a lifetime—and through generations. Pearls are the only gemstones that fall into the fine jewelry category, alongside diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. Gemstones such as amethyst, opal, and topaz are semi-precious and do not hold the same intrinsic value.

 

Elegant, luminous, and enchanting, pearls embody femininity and timelessness. From romantic legends to the world-famous La Peregrina pearl, they are the ultimate symbols of power, strength, and wealth.

 

High-quality pearls are extremely durable due to their thick nacre and superior surface quality. The luster and surface condition are especially important when choosing Akoya, South Sea, or Tahitian pearls. Since all are nucleated with beads, the thickness of the nacre determines how durable the pearls are.

 

For example, when you pick up a low-quality strand of Akoya pearls, it may feel very light. In some cases, it may not even feel like genuine pearls. That’s because the nacre layer is extremely thin. Most of the weight you feel comes from the beads themselves. With proper care, high-quality pearls can last for generations.

 

Pearls Are Always Appropriate and Never Go Out of Style

 

There are so many different ways to wear pearl jewelry. For example, a strand of glistening freshwater pearls can instantly add a touch of elegance to your outfit. Layering and building depth and shine can be fun and impactful. Considered the most wearable piece, a pair of pearl earrings is perfect for any occasion.

 

For black-tie evenings, weddings, and anniversaries, exotic pearl jewelry creates depth and drama, making it the ultimate showstopper for marking special occasions.

 

Who and When Should Wear Pearl and Mother-of-Pearl Jewelry?

 

The etiquette for wearing a pearl necklace during the day traditionally suggests wearing a single strand of pearls with a blouse. Over the years, as with so many things, the rules have gone out the window—and pearls are no exception!

 

The joy of owning pearl necklaces is that they truly go with everything, for any occasion. You can never go wrong with classic pearl jewelry.

 

Younger girls tend to prefer and style smaller, more delicate pearl necklaces such as those around the 3 mm range or small rice pearl necklaces.

 

They make wonderful gifts for daughters, bridesmaids, or any younger woman, as they can be worn throughout her life and always look appropriate. A fine, understated pearl necklace will always look beautiful.

 

Pearl necklaces make the perfect “coming-of-age” gifts for 16th, 18th, and 21st birthdays. Traditionally given by a father to his daughter to mark a special birthday, today we see these necklaces gifted by parents, grandparents, and mothers as meaningful presents.

 

Pearls can be worn in the evening or during formal occasions, where larger pearls or pearl earrings are the norm. Larger pearls in a more dramatic setting make the perfect accessory for a cocktail dress or formal evening outfit.

 

Why Are Pearls and Mother-of-Pearl Often Associated with Weddings?

 

Pearls are among the oldest known gemstones, dating back thousands of years. In fact, the oldest pearl ever discovered, found in the United Arab Emirates, is over 7,500 years old.

 

They have been prized since ancient times for their beautiful color and unique luster, unlike anything else on earth. Over time, pearls came to symbolize wealth, prestige, and romance.

 

For the ancient Romans, pearls were a symbol of power and status. Only those who had “earned” the right were permitted to wear them. For the ancient Chinese, pearls were worn by nobility and royalty as a sign of authority and influence. They were often gifted to kings and queens.

 

In ancient Greece, pearls were associated with passion, love, and marriage, believed to strengthen marital bonds, prevent brides from shedding tears, and enhance relationships.

 

In the West, pearls were worn as amulets, believed to be magical stones that could ward off evil. These varied associations placed pearls in a special league—as the perfect gemstone for bridal wear. During the Victorian era, pearls as bridal jewelry became a tradition that continues to this day.

 

What Outfits Pair Best with Pearl and Mother-of-Pearl Jewelry?

 

Pearls are no longer reserved for formal occasions. They look just as confidently beautiful adorning your favorite jeans and T-shirt as they do at a black-tie event.

 

And while they may be glamorous—especially when combined with diamonds or other gemstones—they can also be simple and elegant. If you adore pearls like we do and want to start wearing them more often, our tips will help you make them a style staple.

 

Discover how you can integrate pearls into your everyday wardrobe in a way that feels authentic to you.

 

The Pearl Earring – A Timeless Classic

 

There is nothing more elegant than pearl earrings. From studs to drops, there are countless options to choose from. If you prefer something more understated, pearl studs are always a winner—they complement any outfit.

 

For a sophisticated corporate look, you can opt for a designer pair featuring small diamonds or set in yellow gold. If you’re lunching with friends and want to elevate your look, why not try a pair of pearl drop earrings like those regularly worn by Kate Middleton?

 

It’s a simple way to raise your fashion game and look royally chic at the same time. You might also consider earrings that combine pearls with other metals.

 

This look works beautifully with an updo or very short hair, as it will showcase the earrings in their full effect.

 

Complete Your Look with a Pearl Necklace

 

Diamonds are no longer a girl’s best friend—pearls are! There are so many ways to wear them—from the choker made famous by Audrey Hepburn in *Breakfast at Tiffany’s* to the longer necklaces favored by Sarah Jessica Parker’s character Carrie Bradshaw in *Sex and the City*.

 

For everyday wear, avoid necklaces that are too close to the neck or have multiple strands, like chokers. That style is better suited for formal occasions.

 

If you prefer shorter necklaces, choose a single strand and avoid clasps or accents with embellishments like diamonds or yellow gold—these make the necklace appear more formal.

 

If longer necklaces are your thing, why not go for a single strand of pearls that falls just below your ribs? We don’t recommend going longer, as you may accidentally break them.

 

Brighten Up Your Look with a Pearl Bracelet

 

Perhaps not as popular as earrings, necklaces, or rings, but equally beautiful, a pearl bracelet will surely bring a touch of joy to your everyday life.

 

A major trend today is to combine pearls with other metals such as silver, white, or rose gold. This creates a highly wearable alternative to the traditional single-strand bracelet style.

 

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a functional twist on the traditional bracelet, why not choose a pearl watch? There are some elegant wristwatches that are sure to make a statement. Some watches feature pearls on the strap, while others incorporate the pearly element into the face in a truly timeless way.