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14k white gold pendant featuring two sapphires surrounded by diamond halos.

Pearl Jewelry

Pearls are lustrous luxuries from the sea, bringing unique beauty to any jewelry collection. 
Explore the timeless appeal of pearl jewelry including stud earrings, classic pearl strand necklaces, 
solitaire pearl pendants and bracelets. Pearl jewels are classic accessories brimming with 
undeniable sophistication. These gems of the Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian and freshwater 
variety are available in a wide range of jewelry designs including strand and pendant 
pearl necklaces, elegant pearl bracelets, pearl earrings and unique rings.

WHAT IS A PEARL?

A treasure born from rivers, lakes and seas, pearls form in the bodies of certain mollusks when an irritant like sand enters their shell. Over time, the mollusk coats the irritant with layers of protein, called nacre, to create a beautiful, lustrous jewel.
Pearl jewele

Only at Blue Nile

When it comes to celebrations we strive to make your experience as
brilliant as our jewelry with the perfect pieces for every occasion.

Meet our personal jewelers, explore bestselling styles, pick up an online order, arrange to preview something from our online collection and so much more.
Book a fun and interactive appointment with a diamond expert and get up-close views of diamond and jewelery options from the comfort of your own home.
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The highest-quality design at a great price.
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The original online jeweler since 1999.
Inspiring Assortment
The perfect pieces for every occasion.

Top Questions and Answers About Pearl Jewelry

Can you wear pearl jewelry every day?

Pearls are among the softest gemstones, ranking at just a 2.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. They are also quite sensitive to chemicals. However, you can certainly wear them every day as long as you take some easy precautions like putting your pearls on last, to protect them from cosmetics and body care products, and taking them off first. Pearl earrings and pearl pendant necklaces are a particularly good choice for everyday wear as they don't experience much wear and tear.

How can you tell if a pearl is real?

Real pearls are formed by natural processes inside a living oyster, which results in variations in the luster, color and size of each pearl. The surface of a real pearl also won't be perfectly even. Fake pearls, on the other hand, are typically made of glass or plastic, giving them a smoother and more uniform appearance. Buying from a trusted retailer, like us, will ensure that your pearl jewelry is as authentic as it is beautiful.

What are the different types of pearls?

There are four different types of cultured pearls available for fine jewelry pieces: Akoya, freshwater, South Sea and Tahitian. Akoya cultured pearl jewelry has a gorgeous white color and high luster, giving it a classic look. Freshwater cultured pearl jewelry is a popular alternative as it has a similar appearance at a less expensive price, while South Sea cultured pearl jewelry is known for pearls of exceptional size and luminous white color. Tahitian cultured pearl jewelry is distinguished by its darker and more modern hues of green, black, blue and purple.

How to clean pearl jewelry?

To keep your pearls looking perfect, it's important to clean them regularly. Try to wipe your pearls down with a soft cloth after every wear to maintain their luster. Combine this with semi-regular cleaning using a gentle jewelry cleaner and your pearl jewelry will stay as beautiful as the day you bought it.

How can I tell real pearls from costume jewelry?

Touch is the quickest and easiest way to tell if a pearl is genuine. When you feel a genuine pearl, it should be cool to the touch and warm up when worn. Costume jewelry pearls typically feel warm and can even have a sticky texture.

Natural pearls form in different shapes and sizes, while costume jewelry pearls look very uniform. Genuine pearls also reflect light, unlike their imitation counterparts.

Purchasing your pearls from a trusted retailer, like us, will ensure your jewelry is as authentic as it is beautiful.

How much do pearls cost?

Pearls range in cost based on their size and the variety of pearl.

Freshwater Pearls are our most affordable variety, starting at $60 for a stud earring set.

Our South Sea pearls are our most luxurious option, with a pair of studs starting at $1,240.

Is pearl jewelry in style?

Pearl jewelry has been at the forefront of stylish jewelry trends for centuries, dating back to ancient Greek and Byzantine cultures. More recently, pearl jewelry such as pearl necklaces saw a popularity boom in the 1950s and 60s and following the release of Audrey Hepburn’s famous movie. That energy has continued today, with everyone from politicians to baseball players sporting pearls.

Whether you’re wearing earrings, bracelets, rings or necklaces featuring this popular gem, you’re sure to be at the height of style when you’re wearing pearl jewelry. Pearls add a touch of sophistication to any look!

What do pearls symbolize?

The lustrous June birthstone often symbolizes purity, humility, modesty and trust. They can also symbolize wisdom and are believed to bring positive energy to their wearer.

Can pearl jewelry make a good gift?

Yes, pearl jewelry is a wonderful gift for any occasion. Consider gifting pearls to the new mom of a June baby in your life. Pearls can also be given as gifts for graduations, anniversaries and any other occasion.

Are there any rules about wearing pearl jewelry?

When it comes to pearl jewels, the only imperative rules are ones regarding the protection of the gemstone. Follow the last on, first off rule when wearing pearl jewelry. This means putting on your pearls last and taking them off first when you’re done with the day. Following this rule will protect your pearls from getting damaged by beauty products.

Can men wear pearls?

Yes, anyone can wear pearl jewelry! We offer men’s and women’s pearls for sale in all types of pieces fit for any style.

What metals are available?

Strand pearls for sale are often set along silk, while most other types of jewelry featuring pearls includes precious metals. We offer pearl jewelry in silver, white gold, yellow gold and rose gold.