#7 - HOW TO CHOOSE PEARL EARRINGS | SIZE, STYLE & QUALITY GUIDE

Mark Seddon • June 24, 2026

Share this article

HOW TO CHOOSE PEARL EARRINGS | SIZE, STYLE & QUALITY GUIDE

Bride wearing classic pearl strand necklace for wedding

Pearl earrings are one of the few jewellery pieces that feel equally at home in everyday wear and life’s special moments. Timeless yet modern, understated yet impactful – they're often the first piece people invest in, and the one they return to most.


But with so many variations in size, style, and pearl type, choosing the perfect pair can feel overwhelming.


This guide breaks down exactly what to look for, so you can choose pearl earrings that feel considered, flattering, and uniquely yours.


Start with Style That Suits Your Lifestyle

Before diving into pearl types or sizing, it’s important to think about how you’ll wear your earrings.


Everyday Essentials

If you’re looking for something versatile, classic pearl studs are the go-to. They pair effortlessly with both casual and elevated looks, making them ideal for daily wear.


Browse our pearl earrings collection here >>


Statement Pieces

Drop earrings or hoops featuring pearls add movement and a modern edge. These styles are perfect for events of when you want your jewellery to feel more expressive.


Layering & Styling

If you have multiple piercings, smaller pearl studs, or huggie styles can be layered for a contemporary look.



Understanding Pearl Types

Not all pearls are created equal – each type offers a different aesthetic, price point, and feel.


South Sea Pearls

South Sea Pearls are the epitome of luxury. Known for their larger size and luminous glow, they make a refined statement and are often chosen for milestone pieces.


Akoya Pearls

Grown in saltwater oysters, Akoya pearls also have an incredibly high lustre. Perfect for petite frames, Akoya pearls are generally smaller than their South Sea Pearl cousins with their colour range including white, cream, blue, and pink.


Fresh Water Pearls

Fresh water pearls are loved for their organic shapes. They’re often more accessible, making them a more affordable option for first-time buyers or everyday wear.


Choosing the Right Pearl Size

Pearl size plays a significant role in how your earrings look and feel.


- Small (5 to 7mm): Subtle, delicate, perfect for minimal styling

- Medium (7 to 9mm): Balanced and versatile for everyday wear

- Large (10mm+): Bold, sophisticated and ideal for statement looks


If you’re unsure where to start, a medium-sized pearl offers the most versatility. If you’re more of a visual/tactile person, we welcome you in-store to try on different pearl sizes to find the perfect piece suiting your unique taste and needs.


Consider Your Skin Tone

Pearls come in a range of natural tones, and choosing the right one can enhance your overall look.


- Cool undertones: White or silver-toned pearls

- Warm undertones: Cream or golden pearls

- Neutral undertones: Most pearl shades will compliment your skin


Please note, this is not a strict rule - just a helpful guide if you are deciding between options!


Pay Attention to Lustre and Quality

The beauty of a pearl is defined by its lustre – the way it reflects light. High-quality pearls will appear bright, sharp, and almost glowing, while lower-quality pearls can look dull or chalky.


When choosing your earrings, look for:


- Strong, reflective lustre

- Smooth surface (with minimal natural markings)

- Consistent shape (unless intentionally baroque)Match Your Personal Style


Ultimately, the perfect pearl earrings are the ones that feel like you.


- If your style leans to towards minimalism, opt for classic studs.

- If you love modern design, explore unique shapes or settings.

- If you favour timeless luxury, invest in South Sea Pearls.


FAQ Section


What size pearl earrings should I choose?

For everyday wear, 7–9mm pearls are the most versatile. Smaller sizes offer subtle elegance, while larger pearls create more impact.


Are South Sea or Freshwater pearls better?

It depends on your preference and budget. South Sea pearls are larger, rarer, and considered more luxurious. Whereas, freshwater pearls are more affordable and ideal for daily wear.


Can pearl earrings be worn every day?

Yes - pearl studs, in particular, are perfect for everyday wear. Just be mindful to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or perfumes; and remove before sleeping or vigorous exercise.


How do I know if pearls are high quality?

Look for strong lustre, a smooth surface, and a consistent shape. High- quality pearls reflect light clearly and appear luminous.


Recent Posts

By Mark Seddon May 11, 2026
The Truth About Modern Pearl Jewellery
By Mark Seddon May 6, 2026
Celebrate Her With Something Timeless This Mother’s Day
Bride wearing pearl pendant necklace with diamonds on white gold chain
By Mark Seddon April 20, 2026
Discover how to choose the perfect pearl bridal jewellery in Australia. Match dress tones, styles & heirlooms with timeless custom pearl pieces.
Jewellery expert showcasing custom pearl necklace over counter in Brisbane shop
By Mark Seddon April 20, 2026
A complete guide to buying pearls in Australia - learn quality factors, pearl types, and expert tips to choose a piece you’ll treasure.
A silver kite-shaped pendant on a dark cord, featuring a black grid design with one large and three small white pearls.
October 29, 2018
Pearling Under the Southern Cross There are numerous and interlocking inspirations that brought this piece to fruition. Many of which, have been floating around in my imagination for long enough. I would like to thank the instigators and motivators behind the Australian Pearl Design Masters in allowing a platform for me to materialise all these ideas into this one special piece. Of which, I am very proud of. Firstly, the frame of the pendant is made of platinum. As well as being the body and frame of the piece, its symbolisms are many. It is the frame of the pearl net panels used to grow the South Sea pearl It houses the 5 round brilliant cut pink Argyle diamonds which represent the Southern Cross constellation a symbol of our National flag. The frame also denotes the Australian continent. With its North and South pointers. To the West is Western Australia, and Cygnet Bay. Represented by a Cygnet Bay grown, lustrous, Keshi South Sea pearl. To the East is New South Wales, and the Broken Bay Pearl farm. Represented by the 3 colours of the Akoya cultured pearl grown there. The frames strength, crafted in the strong, durable and precious metal - platinum - symbolises the Australian Pearl Growing industry itself. An industry by virtue of its essence of being environmentally friendly, sustainable and rare..indeed makes it a strong, durable and precious being. One of which we can all be proud to be associated with - as members of our Jewellery industry and as Australians! A ‘Keshi’ and ‘Nucleated’ pearls were both choose to represent the 2 types of cultured pearls possible as a result of in sighting the culturing process in an oyster. These four pearls together also represent the price points that all pearls in the market now create..meaning everyone, no matter the budget, can afford to now wear an Australian Pearl! The oxidised Sterling silver in the pendant body, twisted into runs of ‘twine’, represents the netting material used to make the Pearl growing nets. The larger, longer ‘rope’ forming the necklace attached to the pendant, signifies the ‘Long lines’. These lines, suspended by buoys, are used on the surface of the bays of the pearl farms, that these cages hang from whilst the pearls grow. The contrast between the ‘aged’ silver and the highly polished vitreous lustre of the platinum shows the juxtapotion between the ‘grunge romance’ that is true pearl farming and the gleaming and dazzling pearl jewellery bestowed to display in our regaled jewellers showrooms around this beautiful country. Always under the eternal and glittering cosmos, crowned by 5 regaled stars that form our ‘Southern Cross’. Mark Seddon August 2018
A gold bangle surrounded by four pearls labeled A (green), B (dark gray), C (gold), and D (white) for a voting campaign.
July 21, 2018
Decisions in life are always there, everyday, we face them, make them, and are affected by them. Some are fun..like this one...What 2 pearls do I choose to set on this bangle?