Pulling Off Pearls: Style Tips for Modernizing Your Pearl Jewelry

Pearls are a timeless classic, so it makes sense that they’re having a moment of popularity in fashion. These classy, organic gemstones are appealing for a lot of reasons — they’re iridescent, they match with so many things — but you might associate them with an older generation or extremely fancy occasions. Don’t worry; we’ve come up with some really trendy, modern ways to style these pieces of pearl jewelry that feel fresh and exciting so you can partake in pearl mania. 

About Pearls

Pearls often get lumped together with all other gemstones, but did you know that they’re actually harvested from living organisms? While most gemstones are mined from the ground, pearls are grown from the nacre of a mollusk (like an oyster or a mussel), a secretion that they emit when they sense an irritant or a danger to their shell. Their origin is probably why pearls are associated with protection and the tranquility of the ocean. 

When you think of pearls, white, iridescent spheres might come to mind. However, pearls come in all different kinds of shapes, sizes, and even colors. If you’re looking for something edgier, for example, you can opt for a piece of jewelry that features a black, organically shaped pearl — not everything has to be a traditional strand of white pearls on a thread! 

The Pearl Trend

Recently, pearls are everywhere. Not just on jewelry, but on bridal veils, home decor, and even clothing. They’ve become very trendy, but perhaps the most important element of their recent revival in modern fashion is the use of them in unexpected ways. Because pearls are often associated with antique, older fashion, pairing pearls with other modern fixtures is a way to refresh the look. While the minimalist pearl strand necklace and pearl stud earrings will always be a classic look, incorporating pearls into statement rings, dangling earrings, and as accents to gold pieces takes them to a different level. 

Unique Pearl Style Tips

Want in on the pearl trend? We’ve got you covered. Here are just a few ways to teach an old pearl new tricks:

• Pearl Necklaces: Still want to use your great-grandmother’s strand of pearls? You can make it look new when you pair it with another gold necklace, leaning into the layered necklace trend. This makes the look a bit more interesting while keeping the pearls involved. Another way to incorporate pearls into your necklace is to find an organically shaped pearl pendant — this makes a really fun focal point for other layered necklaces if you want, or solo for a minimalist statement. 
• Pearl Earrings: Similarly, if you still want to rock your classic pearl studs, try putting them somewhere unexpected, like your second piercing if you have one. This makes the look more varied and complex, and like an intentional choice. You can put any other earring in your first piercing to complement the pearls, like a dangling option or a hoop. If you’d rather spice up your pearl earring choice, try choosing a funky pearl shape for a statement earring, or go with a black pearl. You can find all sorts of interesting pearl earrings now, with big bold gold shapes studded with pearls, or even long strings of dangling pearls. 
• Pearl Bracelets: Have a pearl strand bracelet you want to modernize? Try stacking it with a mix of other gold bracelets. The layered look can provide some dimension and make the pearls look like a fun addition to your thoughtful arm candy selections. You could also look for more of a statement piece for a bracelet that features a pearl, like a big cuff bracelet with a pearl centerpiece. This is a fun way to incorporate a classic gemstone in a totally modern way. 

No matter how you style your pearls, be sure to take good care of them so that they last a lifetime. Since they’re super fragile, it’s important to treat them like the delicate gems of the ocean that they are. Take your pearl jewelry for a proper, professional cleaning twice a year to ensure that they keep their opalescence. Reach out to our team of jewelry experts to take care of your pearls — you can send them to us by mail and get them back (sparkling!) in no time.