When you settle on buying a pearl earring, the next decisions come up. One of the major decisions you need to make when buying a pearl earring is what size to buy. If you are looking online, it’s hard to envision them on your ears.
A pair of pearl earrings should be proportionate to your facial features and the type of statement you are making. For example, if you want to make a statement, you will be looking at larger sized pearls.
In this article, we will discuss the most common sizes of pearls. We will talk about which occasions and face sizes they accommodate best. This will give you the perfect idea of how big a pearl should be for you. We will also talk about the shape and size of pearls and how that may change the size you want!
The Average Sizes of Pearl Earrings
The size of pearls can vary greatly. The typical size pearls will be between 6mm to 14mm. Depending on the store you visit, you will have different increments to choose from. For example, some may simply have 6mm, 7mm, and beyond. Others will have 6mm, 6.5mm, and more.
Pearl sizes can go from 2mm all the way to 20mm. It depends on the size of the pearl and the craftsmanship of the pearl as well. However, the typical ranges of pearls are 6mm to 14mm.
If you are purchasing online or like to be prepared before you go to the store, read our guide below. We will talk about each size and when you typically would wear them.
6mm Pearls and Below
Pearls that are 6mm or smaller are ideal for young adults, teens, and depending on how small the pearls go—even children! While it’s hard to visualize, these will show all your earlobe around the earring as they are small.
When to Wear 6mm Pearls
If you’re a petite person or young adult, these are great choices for everyday wear. They do not stand out in a way that makes them a statement piece. However, small pearls are a classic staple for minimalists or younger wearers.
7mm and 8mm Pearls
These are the most typical size for pearl stud earrings. These are great for everyday wear and can transition to classic pieces for nightwear. They are perfect staple pieces for people looking for the perfect middle ground between statement and classic.
When to Wear 7mm and 8mm Pearls
These pearls are perfect for every day or for more formal events. They are the perfect pearls to wear if you are going to a formal event that doesn’t require too much of a statement piece, or if your statement piece is another accessory.
For petite women or young adults/teens, this could be the perfect size for a statement piece!
9mm and 10mm Pearls
These sizes exude confidence and luxury. Wearing this size is perfect for special occasions and formal events. If you have pearl earrings of this size in your family, consider them a blessing!
When to Wear 9mm and 10mm Pearls
You can wear these as an everyday wear if you make a statement in your everyday wear or if you have larger features and want your earrings to stand out. They are a great statement piece and can be worn and noticed in any formal event as a statement piece.
11mm Pearls or Bigger
These pearls are a way to make a statement. Not too long ago, they would be reserved for women of power. However, statement pieces and bold jewelry choices are now being chosen by many women of all ages.
When to Wear 11mm Pearls or Bigger
When you want to make a bold statement, wearing large pearl studs will do the job. You will attract attention from everyone. Your earrings will be envied and admired!
What Colors Do Pearl Earrings Come In?
Pearls come in all sorts of colors. Natural pearls come from saltwater or freshwater mollusks. They can be created and cultured by humans now, but still are considered a natural pearl. There are manufactured pearls that are much cheaper and come in all sorts of colors. We will focus on natural pearls.
Commonly, when you think of “pearls” you think of the round, milky-white earrings that have been associated with this word. However, pearls can come in many colors! They are commonly found in the following colors:
- White
- Cream
- Gray
- Soft pink
- Soft purple
- Blue
- Gold
- Multicolored (rare)
Depending on the mollusk the pearl came from, the color will vary. A human can also enhance or change colors by treating them.
Choosing pearl earrings does not need to be a mystery! The sizes they come in can accommodate any facial feature, occasion, or statement. Using our guide, you have hopefully learned more about the statement each size makes and what facial features will match which size best.
It’s important to think about size before you purchase a pearl earring. This will ensure you are extremely happy with your purchase and look fabulous!
