The most common and popular Freshwater pearl sizes found today range from 6.0-7.0mm up through 10.0-11.0mm. Exotic black Tahitian pearls are naturally larger-sized pearls, ranging from 8.0-9.0mm up to 15.0-16.0mm and larger. The most common and popular size range is from 9.0-10.0mm up through 13.0mm.
Pearls in the 5.5 – 6.5 mm range are worn by young women between the ages of five and 16. 7.0 – 7.5 mm pearls are worn by women who are 30 and above. Pearls in the 8.0 – 8.5 category are traditionally worn by women age 35 and above.
It's often recommended that younger women go for smaller pearls, while older women choose ones on the larger end. Yet it's really more to do with style. Smaller pearls convey a more feminine, understated and girlish look, while larger pearls are highly glamorous and perfect for people who want to command attention.
10 - 11 mm pearls are the size of a Tylenol tablet and a common size for a freshwater pearl necklace as a single or multi strand necklace, often combined with gems creating a statement necklace. Pearl necklaces at this size priced ~ $2K and under are typically freshwater pearls.
For Freshwater pearls, mid-range sizes, ranging from 6.0 – 7.0 mm to 8.0 – 9.0 mm, are very popular among pearl lovers. These sizes work wonderfully for Freshwater pearl necklaces, bracelets, and as well as earrings.
We consider Small pearls the 5mm size. We use these for our Little Girl jewelry although this size is great for women who prefer petite jewelry.
Pearls below 7mm in size are considered to be on the smaller side, while 7-8mm and 8-9mm are among the more popular sizes selected for necklaces in Freshwater pearls. Anything sized from 9-10mm and above is considered to be above average in size, and such pearls are more rare and valuable.
The 7.0-8.0mm size range is the epitome of "Classic Pearls", and is sure to be appropriate and beautiful no matter when or where they're worn. Most often regarded as the 'classic' or quintessential size of pearl earrings, this size is popular for any age woman and certainly never goes out of style.
Pearls with particular brand names will also retain (and even increase) their value over the years; vintage Mikimoto Akoya pearls that still have their original clasp, box and papers to establish provenance are very highly sought after today and continue to fetch premium resale values.
Pearls can make a woman of any age look fashionable and sophisticated when worn properly. It is a common misconception to think that pearls can make one look old-fashioned. Leading fashion stylists and designers will all agree with the right knowledge and etiquette, pearls can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe.
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.
Size: When other value factors are equal, larger pearls are rarer and more valuable than smaller pearls of the same type. Shape: Round is the most difficult shape to culture, making it the rarest cultured pearl shape and—if all other factors are equal—also generally the most valuable.
Freshwater pearls range in size from as small as 5mm to as large as 13mm. Pearls below 7mm in size are considered to be on the smaller side, while 7-8mm and 8-9mm are among the more popular sizes selected for necklaces in Freshwater pearls.
When compared to other varieties, such as Tahitian and South Sea, Akoya pearls definitely offer good value for money without compromising on beauty. Freshwater pearls lack the deep, beautiful gleam of an Akoya. However, the palette of colors and attractive pricing makes them a great option for many people.
Pearl Size
Tiny seed pearls can be smaller than 1mm, while South Sea pearls, as large as 20mm, have been found. If all other quality factors are equal, the size of a pearl will determine its value.
While rarely round, the finest freshwater pearls are nearly indistinguishable from more expensive akoya pearls. Traditionally, freshwater pearls range in size from 6 to 10 mm, but recent innovations in freshwater pearl farming have given birth to a new generation of pearls that grow as large as 15 mm.
The cleaner the surface of the pearl, the more valuable it is. Look for an absence of disfiguring spots, bumps or cracks on the surface of a pearl, also known as "cleanliness." Notice that the highest quality pearls have a sharp, mirror-like reflection.
Price of Pearls
$1,000 to $100,000: These showstoppers are the largest pearls available. Typically sourced from the South Sea, they come in vibrant white, gold, and pink. $500 to $25,000: Incredible luster. Usually Tahitian pearls, which come in dark colors from black-lipped oysters.
Pearl necklaces should always be strung very tightly, as their thread will stretch with use. After your jewelry is worn for a while (the “break-in” period), the thread will gradually relax, allowing your pearl jewelry to lie perfectly against the skin.
Akoya Pearl Value
They were the first pearls ever to be farmed, and are a little bit smaller. A strand of Akoya pearls can cost from $300 to more than $10,000. Generally, these are the smallest type of cultured pearl on the market.
Pearl jewelry is affected by very dry conditions. Dry conditions have been known to shrink and crack pearls. Best bet? Sprinkle that cloth bag that you store them in with a few drops of water, and put in a zip-lock bag or store pearls in a container with a glass of water.