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Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.
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Photo by Michelle Shiers Photography
Selecting the perfect bridal jewelry plays a big role in creating a cohesive wedding look. For some brides, statement pieces and bold accessories are must-haves for achieving that dream day-of ensemble. For classic brides, though, there are very few better options than pearls when leaning into the traditional bridal aesthetic. In fact, Brilliant Earth's senior vice president of merchandising and retail expansion, Kathryn Money, says pearl bridal jewelry is one of the most beloved and timeless options for brides-to-be across the globe.
Kathryn Money is the senior vice president of merchandising and retail expansion at Brilliant Earth.
"Pearls are rich in tradition and meaningful in every culture—often associated with representing purity, love, and fidelity," Money explains. "Pearls can also hold emotional value, especially if the piece is an heirloom or given to them by their fiancé, the mother of the bride, or the mother-in-law. Such pieces are ideal for the ‘something old’, ‘something new,’ or ‘something borrowed’ part of the famous wedding rhyme."
Beyond their lovely aesthetic, what makes pearls an especially great wedding choice is the number of options out there. Ranging from natural to cultured to faux, every bride has the opportunity to don the wedding staple on her big day, no matter the budget. And to help you on your search, we've rounded up 25 of the best pearl bridal jewelry options, from the most reputable sellers, that'll help you complete your classic wedding look.
Material: Cultured Akoya pearls | Shipping: Free shipping | Returns: Free 30-day return
Coming in 18k white and yellow gold, Money highly suggests these traditional, 7mm cultured pearl studs for a clean bridal look. "These are the classic pearl earrings that will go perfectly with any wedding style and won’t distract from the full look," she says.
Material: Faux pearl, glass crystals | Shipping: $7.95; free shipping over $49 | Returns: Free 60-day return
If you can't decide between sparkle and luster, opt for both with this pretty arm candy from Olive + Piper. The glittering Raella bracelet features faux pearls and glass crystals that pair superbly with satin gowns and classic crepe dresses.
Material: Freshwater cultured pearl, diamond | Shipping: Free shipping | Returns: Free 30-day return
Simple, sleek, and easy to re-wear, pendants are a special bridal staple that can be seamlessly incorporated into a bride's wardrobe after her wedding day. We particularly love how this 8.5mm to 9.0mm cultured freshwater pearl is elevated by a small mounted diamond for an ultra-luxe touch.
Material: Freshwater pearls | Shipping: $45; free shipping over $200 | Returns: 5-day returns from delivery date
Oversized and extra dramatic, these earrings were made for the bride who wants to marry the classic with the bold. A parade of freshwater pearls dance along the hoops' circumference, adding a splash of elegance to the edgier earring option.
Material: Keshi pearls | Shipping: $8; free shipping over $50 | Returns: Exchanges or credit within 15 days of delivery
The glittering gold coins and captivating Keshi pearls on this dazzling design from Amelia Rose look just like ocean treasure, making this adjustable layered necklace a beach wedding must. If sandy shores aren't for you, the design also works well for boho weddings where gauzy fabric and floaty breezes reign supreme.
Material: Freshwater pearls | Shipping: $10; Free shipping over $250 | Returns: Returns accepted within 7 days of delivery
Whether you're rocking sunnies or simply aren't a fan of contacts, Tarin Thomas's Delmare chain is a multi-wear wonder. Attach the understated, 28" freshwater pearl strand to glasses, a mask, or even wear it as a necklace to complete your day-of look with functionality in mind.
Material: Cultured freshwater pearl | Shipping: Free shipping | Returns: Free 30-day return
While you likely already have a memorable ring to wear on your big day, Money loves adding in this sophisticated piece from Brilliant Earth as a wedding or stacking band. "This is the perfect ring to balance against an engagement ring to create a beautiful and cohesive stack," she explains.
Material: Freshwater pearls | Shipping: $8; free shipping over $50 | Returns: Exchanges or credit within 15 days of delivery
Understated brides adore this adjustable 33" to 35" wrap bracelet from Amelia Rose thanks to its vast versatility and adaptable design. The singular freshwater pearl strand can be wrapped around the wrist, worn as a necklace, or even weaved in the hair for a no-fuss way to elevate any wedding day look.
Material: Sweetwater pearls | Shipping: $26; free shipping over $150 | Returns: Returns accepted within 15 days of purchase
Bright gold and luminescent pearls create an eclectic combination fit for any modern bride. The spiral design symbolizes charisma while the sweetwater pearls nod to love, sincerity, and romance—making it a sentimental addition to your day-of ensemble.
Material: Akoya cultured pearls | Shipping: Free shipping | Returns: Free 30-day return
"From Jackie Kennedy to Michelle Obama, everyone should have a proper pearl necklace in their jewelry box," says Money, and this refined Akoya strand will have you feeling most sophisticated on your special day. The necklace comes in 14" or 18" depending on your length preference.
Material: Freshwater pearls | Shipping: $4.50 | Returns: 14 day returns + 15% restocking fee
Coming in at under $20, these highly-rated AAA freshwater pearls from Etsy are beloved by brides on budgets. The style comes in sterling silver, gold, or rose gold, and you can choose from two different pearl sizes depending on your wedding vision.
Material: Freshwater cultured pearls, oval London blue topazes | Shipping: Free shipping | Returns: Free returns with 30 days of delivery
If you want to wear something exceptional as your "something blue," this exquisite bracelet from Angara checks off all the boxes. The head-turning blue topaz and cultured freshwater pearls are offset by polished, 14k yellow gold. Select the size and quality of the pearls to best fit your budget and bridal style.
Material: Cultured Freshwater pearls | Shipping: Free FedEx 2Day® shipping | Returns: Free returns within 45 days of delivery
Darling and delicate, this Grown Brilliance bracelet is a dainty choice for brides who want an accessory that doesn't detract from their cohesive look. The chain is made of 14k white gold and features five 5.5mm to 6.0mm round cultured freshwater pearls that complement any wedding aesthetic.
Material: Faux pearls | Shipping: $45; free shipping over $200 | Returns: 5-day returns from delivery date
Whether you're skipping the veil or want something to jazz it up, this faux pearl comb from KYHA elevates, secures, and impresses. Wide teeth make inserting the comb simple while the 14k gold plating offers some extra shimmer and shine.
Material: Freshwater pearls | Shipping: Free shipping over $50 | Returns: Free returns within 10 days of delivery
Delightful drops featuring five freshwater pearls on each side, these stunning statement earrings are a fan favorite from Lulus. Keep your necklace simple and wear your hair up to really let this dazzling dangle design stand out.
Material: Faux pearls | Shipping: $5 | Returns: Final sale
Feminine and budget-friendly, this simple pearl necklace from Birdy Grey would be great as a chic bridal necklace or as a special bridesmaid gift. The 16" chain is adjustable by three inches, and the triple pearl design puts a trendy twist on the classic pendant look.
Material: Freshwater pearls, cubic zirconia | Shipping: $5; free shipping over $100 | Returns: Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
Quintessential for the summer bride, a spring wedding, or a garden event, these pearl flower studs from Tai Jewelry are a charmingly romantic choice. Just make sure to include the peachy hue of the glass flowers elsewhere in your look to keep your style complementary.
Material: Freshwater pearls | Shipping: $17; free shipping over $120 | Returns: Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
Add an extra touch of glam to your wedding look with this 18k gold plated earcuff from Bruna. Four mini freshwater pearls give the illusion of additional piercings, which seamlessly pair with any other earring style you choose on your special day.
Material: Faux pearls, glass crystals | Shipping: $7.95; free shipping over $49 | Returns: Free 60-day return
There's no reason pearls and drama can't go hand in hand, and Olive + Piper's Avery earrings marry the classic with the captivating. The hypoallergenic statement drops showcase glass crystals, faux pearls, and plenty of shine for the bride that was born to turn heads.
Material: Cultured Keshi pearls, baroque pearls | Shipping: $17; free shipping over $120 | Returns: Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
This unique twist on the classic pearl strand is ideal for brides who want to honor tradition while still showcasing their sense of modern style. Combining dainty Keshi pearls and bolder baroque ones, this look nods to both conventional and unique aesthetics.
Courtesy of The Pearl Source
Material: Tahitian South Sea pearls | Shipping: Free shipping | Returns: Free returns
South Sea pearls are admired for their unique color, high luster, and extreme quality, which makes them a favorite for one-of-a-kind brides who like to turn tradition on its head. Coming in black, green, or silver, these 9mm pearl studs are an edgy bride's dream come true.
Material: Freshwater pearls | Shipping: $17; free shipping over $120 | Returns: Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
Whether you're rocking heels, flats, or bare feet on the big day, this darling anklet from Bruna adds a special touch to an oftentimes ignored bridal accessory area. The multisize pearls give the strand a modern touch, and since the anklet is pretty well concealed, you won't have to worry about it clashing with your other jewelry.
Material: Keshi pearls, freshwater pearls, crystals | Shipping: Free shipping | Returns: Final sale; exchanges accepted
Swapping the veil for a bridal halo is becoming more popular, and we can't help but covet this pearl-adorned headpiece from Etsy. The floral accents, crystal details, and all-over pearls look just as stunning at a ballroom wedding as they do at seashore "I dos."
Material: Cultured freshwater pearls, lab-grown diamonds | Shipping: Free shipping | Returns: Free returns within 45 days of delivery
Looking for some special bridal jewelry that can be passed down for generations? These linear drop earrings from Grown Brilliance will stand the test of time thanks to their heirloom quality freshwater pearls, sparkling diamond accents, and ageless silhouette.
Material: Freshwater pearls, baroque | Shipping: $17; free shipping over $120 | Returns: Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
Mini freshwater pearls dot the wispy chain of Bruna's Modella necklace before dropping down to dangle a single baroque pearl. Chic in its understatement, this simple yet current accessory will continue to rake in compliments long after your wedding celebration is over.
As you're looking through different pearl jewelry options, one thing you'll probably notice is the lack of "natural" pearls. These are pearls found in the wild and are exceedingly rare—so much so that in order to get them, you'd likely need to invest in an extremely pricey vintage piece. That said, cultured pearls are still real pearls, Money explains, with the difference being that they require human intervention to form. "[Cultured pearls] are also formed in water but aren’t naturally occurring," she says. "They are cultivated in pearl sacs within laboratories and are carefully monitored for uniform size and shape ... [They're] a popular alternative to natural pearls for their symmetry and their value."
One of the most popular types of cultured pearls used in bridal jewelry is the Akoya, thanks to its high luster and luxe quality. Freshwater pearls are also common due to their symmetrical shape and more budget-friendly price point. But whatever pearl type you select, Money notes that size will be one of the biggest determining factors when choosing your piece, as will texture. "Both natural and cultured pearls have textured surfaces due to their layered structure. So when you rub the pearls lightly against each other or on your front teeth, they feel a little gritty. Fake or imitation pearls, however, usually feel smooth or glassy."
Depending on the type of pearls you choose—from natural to faux—the price of your jewelry can vary greatly. The good news is that there are plenty of budget-friendly options that look stunning on brides-to-be.
While pearls are a traditional bridal staple, that doesn't mean modern and trendier brides can't opt for pearls as well. "Pearls can be worn any way you like, from more classic styles to more modern styles that mix pearls with yellow gold," explains Money.
While faux pearls might sound less-than, the reality is they're a completely acceptable (and beautiful!) option for both brides and bridesmaids. Just consider selecting a style you can return in case the craftsmanship isn't up to your quality standards.
Pearls are a classic gift for brides-to-be, but before investing in a timeless piece for someone's wedding, chat with the bride to see if she already has her day-of accessories picked out. Some brides prefer pearls while others don't, so getting an idea of her style—and gifting in advance of the wedding day—will ensure you get her an accessory she'll adore.
Contributing Expert Writer Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.
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