Timeless, Versatile Pearl Jewelry Pieces That Are Worth the Investment

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When it comes to jewelry, there are the seasonal novelty pieces and then there are the classics. Some of the most precious gems have the power to span generations and remain covetable for decades, and pearl jewelry fits firmly into that sartorial realm. Timeless and traditional but also unique and dynamic, pearls have long been beloved by politicians, celebrities, influencers, and grandmothers alike. These days, we’re accustomed to seeing a wide range of pearl-wearing luminaries, like Harry Styles in his single pearl earring or Madam Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris in her signature strand of pearls.

Jeweler Mizuki Goltz attributes much of the pearl’s long lifespan and versatility to expert, singular styling. As she explains, “Icons like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis each wore them differently in their own way, creating their own style.” Goltz adds, “Balancing the pearl’s organic beauty with minimal decoration gives a sense of modernity.” When buying your own pearls, Goltz says to look for “luster, color, size, and shape,” as much as the craftsmanship and design of the jewelry. And always remember, she notes, that “the pearl [is] the only gem made by a living organism...every pearl is different.”

Below, some of our favorite pearl jewelry designs perfect for anyone, anytime, anywhere.

Necklaces

Instant classics beyond the double strand.

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Éliou bolo gold-tone pearl necklace

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Irene Neuwirth gumball link necklace

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Harwell Godfrey foundation pearl and 18-karat gold necklace

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Sophie Bille Brahe Peggy pearl and 14-karat gold necklace

Simple Statement Pieces

Simple designs give the pearl space to show off.

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Wwake collage pearl necklace

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Mejuri pearl hoops

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Maria Tash trinity pearl and 14-karat gold single earring

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Tiffany Elsa Peretti Pearls by the Yard bracelet

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Monica Rich Kosann pearl stackable poesy ring

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Mikimoto cultured pearl station bracelet

Earrings

A perfect pairing: everyday hoops elevated with super special pearls.

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Yutai slide earrings with akoya pearls

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Monbouquette Trois bubble drops

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Anita Ko pearl, round diamond, and baguette diamond huggies

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Of Rare Origin spritz flower button earrings

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Chanel Bouton de Camélia transformable earrings

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Presley Oldham icicle earrings

Rings

Easy and clean alternatives to diamonds and colored gemstones.

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Mizuki 14-karat gold pearl ring

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Delfina Delettrez 18-karat white and yellow gold two in one diamond ring

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Selim Mouzannar enamel, diamonds, and pearl ring

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Mateo pearl orbit ring