Loose cultured pearls compared by colour and size on a millimeter gauge

PEARL EDUCATION

Colour & Size

Compare natural tones and visualize pearl diameters from 5mm to 15mm.

PROPORTION CHANGES EVERYTHING

Choose the presence, not simply the number

Pearls are measured across their diameter in millimetres. A difference of only one or two millimetres can noticeably change the balance of an earring, strand, bracelet, or pendant.

For a versatile first pearl, 7–9mm is an easy place to begin. Smaller pearls feel light and subtle; larger pearls create a stronger, more formal or sculptural presence.

VISUAL SIZE GUIDE

5–15mm at a glance

The circles below are scaled relative to one another. Screen calibration can affect exact physical size, so use them to compare proportion rather than as a measuring tool.

5mm
6mm
7mm
8mm
9mm
10mm
11mm
12mm
13mm
14mm
15mm

NATURAL COLOUR FAMILIES

Colour is a range, not a paint code

Body colour, overtone, luster, and the surrounding light all influence what the eye sees. Natural variation is part of the identity of each pearl.

White & ivory

Classic, luminous, and easy to wear across Freshwater, Akoya, and White South Sea pearls.

Rose & lavender

Soft blush, pink, and lilac tones commonly associated with Freshwater pearls and select overtones.

Peach & champagne

Warm natural tones that sit beautifully beside yellow and rose gold.

Golden

From soft champagne to saturated gold, led by Golden South Sea pearls.

Dark & peacock

Silver, charcoal, green, blue, and peacock overtones associated with Tahitian pearls.

Pearl necklace length guide on model

NECKLACE LENGTH

Where the strand meets the neckline

A 16-inch choker sits close to the base of the neck. An 18-inch princess length is the most versatile. A 20-inch length creates a little more ease, while 24 inches and beyond invite layering and a more dramatic line.

Body proportions and neckline shape matter as much as the stated length. Measure a necklace you already love, or place a soft measuring tape where you want the strand to sit.

Read the buying guide