Pearl length:
Choker Necklacesb - 14 to 16 Inches
- Versatility: Ideal for both casual and formal settings.
- Complements: V-necks, boat necks, and off-shoulder tops.
- Styling Tips: Pairs well with layered necklaces for a boho-chic look.
Princess Necklaces - 17 to 19 Inches
- Versatility: A go-to length for everyday wear.
- Complements: Turtlenecks, scoop necks, and strapless tops.
- Styling Tips: Great for adding a pendant or charm for personalization.
Opera Necklaces ~ 26 to 35 Inches
- Versatility: Perfect for dressing up or down.
- Complements: Sweaters and high-neck dresses.
- Styling Tips: Can be layered with shorter necklaces for a dynamic look.
Rope Necklaces ~ 36 inches or longer
- Versatility: The ultimate statement piece.
- Complements: Evening gowns and casual maxi dresses.
- Styling Tips: Experiment with knots and loops for a unique style.
The Pearl Choker - 14 to 16 Inches
A pearl choker is 14 - 16 inches long. This classic and versatile piece is appropriate with everything from casual to formal evening wear, and complements almost any neckline. The perfect length to add subtle elegance to your workday paired with a button-down shirt, yet just as stylish with a cocktail dress.
The Princess Necklace - 17 to 19 Inches
The princess necklace is 17 - 19 inches in length. The most common length for pearl necklaces, it is well suited for wear with crew and high necklines. It also complements low, plunging necklines. Because 18 inches is considered the classic length for pearl necklaces. This is an excellent choice if you are not certain which strand length is most appropriate.
The Opera Necklace - 26 to 35 Inches
The opera length necklace is 26 - 35 inches long and offers many attractive options. It can be worn as a single strand with high necklaces or doubled to create a fashionable two-strand choker. It can be knotted at the neckline or above the bust to create a stylish vintage look that is gaining popularity as a contemporary fashion trend. Traditionally, opera length necklaces are worn with evening wear, although using them to accessorize more casual attire has become a fresh, cutting-edge fashion statement.
The Pearl Rope - 36 inches or longer
A pearl rope is 36 inches or longer. This luxurious length can be both elegant and sexy. It can be made with several clasps, enabling it to be broken down into different necklace and bracelet combinations, or doubled and even tripled to create a stunning multi-strand pearl choker. This versatile length may also be tied in a knot for a charming modern look reminiscent of the height of 1920s flapper fashion. A very popular way to wear pearls, ropes may also be knotted and slung over the shoulder to accentuate the beauty of a backless dress.
Understanding Pearl Grades
The most important thing to understand when comparing pearl grades: Every company in the world that sells pearls uses a grading system that they themselves arbitrarily created. There is no standardized system. When pearls are purchased wholesale, a range of quality and price is always presented. Buyers determine which pearls fall into their respective grading categories. One buyer’s AAA grade can be another’s A or AA grade simply because one is selecting from a more expensive, higher range of pearl. The highest-rated pearl from one seller might not meet the minimum threshold of another seller’s lowest grade—even if the presented letter grades are identical. The result of this unregulated system is sheer confusion! Once you understand this about pearl grading, the most important thing to remember when shopping for pearls is finding a reputable company, one with many years of experience and the ability to back what they sell.
The Pearl Paradise Grading System
Pearl Paradise has a stringent approach to grading that we’d like to share with you. Understanding where your pearl is from and it’s unique qualities is one of the joys of owning a beautiful pearl, surely making it a piece to be treasured forever.
Grading Chart for South Sea Pearls
Their large size, limited culturing area, and extended growth period all combine to make South Sea pearls the rarest of all pearl types. Found in colors ranging from optic white to a deep, honey gold, these pearls are prized by collectors and designers alike. Their luster, whether white or golden, is soft and luxurious. Golden South Sea pearls are among the rarest and most sought-after pearls in the world.
| GRADE FACTORS | Top Gem | AAA | AA+ | A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rarity | less than 1% annual yield | 1-3% annual yield | 10% annual yield | 20% annual yield |
| Luster | excellent | very high to excellent | medium to high | low to medium |
| Surface Quality | 98-100% blemish free | 90% blemish free or better | 80% blemish free or better | 70% blemish free or better |
| Color | South Sea Pearls are found in colors ranging from optic white to honey gold. | |||
