Lustrous pearl earrings bring charm and polish to any look. Our real pearl earrings are hand-selected and meticulously matched for glistening pearls that are both stylish and sophisticated. Choose straightforward pairs of pearl studs, dramatic dangling designs or sparkling diamond and pearl earrings. We offer gold and silver pearl earrings with Akoya, freshwater, Tahitian or South Sea pearls.
The best pearl earrings are ones that fit your style and budget. Most of today’s jewelry-quality pearls are cultured, meaning they are still made in mollusks but there is human intervention that helps encourage their formation. Cultured pearl earrings are just as real as designs with natural pearls, the main difference is their affordability and availability. Our real cultured pearl earrings are stylish and priced for many budgets.
Quality pearls have a strong luster, which refers to how the pearl reflects light. But pearls aren't one size fits all—they come in many shapes, sizes and colors, from baroque black pearls to pastel pink and everything in between. As with any jewelry, the best pearl earrings for you depend on your personal style.
Are pearl earrings classy?
Yes, earrings with real pearls are considered classy jewelry for any occasion. This natural gemstone offers a unique shine and energy, making pearl earrings a timeless style.
Fun fact: pearls are considered the world's oldest gemstone and pearl earrings have been fashionable for centuries. From the sultry elegance of the Jazz Age to the glamour of today's red carpet, pearl earrings make a chic pairing that never goes out of style.
How can you tell if pearl earrings are real?
Fake pearl earrings are made from plastic, alabaster, glass or shells that have a pearly sheen to give them the appearance of real pearls. Real pearls will be cool to the touch, have tiny irregularities and feel heavier in your hand than artificial pearls. Freshwater, Akoya, South Sea and Tahitian are all types of real pearls.
The base metal of your pearl necklaces, bracelets or earrings can help indicate if your gems are authentic. Typically, pearl earrings made from solid gold or silver will have authentic gems. Buying from jewelers you trust is the best way to ensure you’re purchasing real pearl earrings.
How much do real pearl earrings cost?
Fine pearl earrings can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, with pricing dependent upon the color, size, gemstone accents and settings. Pearl and diamond earrings will typically fetch a higher price tag than a pearl-only pair of studs. Rarer pearl types, such as baroque styles, will have a higher price than other styles of pearl earrings.
Simple pearl studs are generally priced lower than more complex hoops or pearl earrings with added gemstones and drop designs. Luckily, there is a pair of pearl earrings to suit any budget.
How can you tell good-quality pearl earrings?
High-quality, real pearl earrings bring luster and durable designs. They’re most commonly set in precious metals such as silver or gold. Purchasing from jewelry stores you can trust is the best way to ensure you’re choosing quality real pearl earrings.
You can visit our pearl education guide to learn more about the factors to consider when shopping for these lustrous earrings.
What kinds of pearls are best for earrings?
Cultured pearls are a wonderful fit for real pearl earrings, bringing affordability and complementary pearls for matching pairs. Natural pearl earrings offer unique styles as well. Freshwater, Tahitian, Akoya, and South Sea pearls are all perfect for earrings.
Are cultured pearl earrings real?
Yes, cultured pearl earrings are real pearls. They’re an affordable option for stylish earrings and pair perfectly with pearl necklaces or pearl bracelets.
Are these earrings good gifts?
Real pearl earrings are timeless, chic and forever fashionable. They’re the perfect gift for any occasion including birthdays, graduations and celebrations that call for a June birthstone gift.
Are pearl earrings in style?
Yes, earrings with pearls are in style. They're a classy addition to simple outfits, formal looks and everything in between.
Which designs are popular for real pearl earrings?
Some of the most popular pearl earrings include simple studs with just two pearls, dangling designs with contrasting yellow gold and iconic hoop earrings with multiple pearls set together. The organic beauty of these unique gems allows for creative jewelry designs.
Choose from sleek modern pearl earrings or vintage-inspired jewelry styles with pearl pairs that evoke 1920s Art Deco designs.
How do you care for this jewelry?
Pearls are sensitive gemstones that can require a little extra care to look their best. Do not expose your pearl earrings to harsh chemicals, cosmetics or perfumes. It's best to follow the last on, first off approach. Your pearl earrings should be the last thing you put on when getting ready, and they should be the first jewelry you remove when you get home. Doing so will help keep your pearls looking their best.
Are cultured pearl earrings worth it?
Cultured pearls are the most common option for earrings and all jewelry styles with pearls. This is because they are more plentiful and affordable, making them an excellent jewelry choice.
Who offers real pearl earrings?
At Blue Nile, we offer a leading selection of real pearl earrings. Our freshwater, Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea pearls are authentic gems.
