All You Wanted to Know About Pearls and Pearl Jewellery

Stephen Alan's Jewellers - The Jewellery Blog

Whether worn as a delicate strand or set into a modern ring, pearls have a way of catching the light — and attention — like no other gemstone. They’re steeped in history, yet feel effortlessly contemporary. And here at Stephen Alan’s Jewellers in Leighton Buzzard, we’ve seen firsthand how pearl jewellery continues to capture the hearts of all ages.

In this article, we’ll explore where pearls come from, the different types available, how to care for them, and the beautiful ways they’re used in jewellery today. So, if you’ve ever been curious about pearls — or if you’re thinking of adding them to your collection — read on.

Where Do Pearls Come From?

Unlike other gems, pearls aren’t dug from the ground, they’re created by living creatures.

A pearl begins to form when a tiny irritant, such as a grain of sand or a fragment of shell, finds its way inside an oyster or mollusc. In response, the mollusc produces a smooth substance called nacre and coats the irritant layer by layer, gradually building up the lustrous gem we know and love.

This process can take anywhere from several months to several years, depending on the type of mollusc and the conditions in which it lives. The result? A one-of-a-kind gem that’s truly a work of nature’s art.

The Different Types of Pearls

Not all pearls are the same, and part of their charm lies in the variety of shapes, colours, and sizes they come in. Here’s a quick guide to the main types:

Akoya Pearls

These are the classic, perfectly round pearls you often see in traditional necklaces and bridal jewellery. Cultivated mainly in Japan and China, Akoya pearls are prized for their high lustre and soft white, cream, or pale pink hues. Elegant and timeless.

Freshwater Pearls

These are grown in freshwater lakes and rivers, typically in China. They’re more varied in shape and colour than Akoya pearls, which makes them incredibly versatile. From blush pink to lavender to silvery white, freshwater pearls suit both classic and contemporary designs.

Tahitian Pearls

Often referred to as black pearls, Tahitian pearls come in a stunning range of darker shades, including charcoal, peacock green, and silver. Grown in French Polynesia, they’re bold, mysterious, and perfect for statement pieces.

South Sea Pearls

The largest and often the most luxurious, South Sea pearls are grown in the warm waters of Australia and the Philippines. Their soft glow and creamy tones ranging from silvery white to golden make them highly sought-after. These pearls are the ultimate in understated luxury.

How to Care for Your Pearl Jewellery

Pearls are surprisingly resilient given their soft, organic nature, but they do require a little extra care to stay looking their best. Here are some tips to help protect your pearls:

Here are some tips for preserving the lustre of your pearl jewellery:

• Avoid contact with chemicals: Perfume, hairspray, makeup, and even natural oils from your skin can dull the surface of a pearl. Always put your pearl jewellery on last — after getting ready — and take it off first at the end of the day.

• Gently clean after wearing: A soft, damp cloth will remove any residue and keep the nacre looking fresh. Don’t use ultrasonic cleaners or harsh detergents — pearls need a delicate touch.

• Store them carefully: Pearls can be scratched by harder gemstones, so keep them separate in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box. And never store them in plastic — it can emit fumes that harm the surface over time.

• Wear them often: Surprisingly, wearing your pearls helps keep them hydrated and lustrous. Just be sure to treat them kindly while they’re on.

Popular Styles of Pearl Jewellery

One of the many reasons pearls remain so beloved is their versatility. Whether you’re buying your first pair of earrings or commissioning a bespoke piece, there’s a pearl style to suit everyone.

Below are some popular styles of pearl jewellery:

Pearl Necklaces

A single strand of pearls is a timeless classic, but modern designs may feature mixed sizes, coloured pearls, or asymmetrical arrangements. Perfect for both formal occasions and everyday elegance.

Pearl Earrings

From simple studs to statement drops, pearl earrings are flattering, feminine, and endlessly wearable. We often recommend them as a thoughtful gift or a treat to yourself.

Pearl Bracelets

Delicate pearl bracelets offer subtle sophistication, while chunkier cuffs can create more of a statement. Combine pearls with yellow gold or rose gold for a warm, contemporary finish.

Pearl Rings

Elegant and distinctive, pearl rings can be designed in a range of styles, from vintage-inspired solitaires to modern mixed-stone settings. They’re a wonderful alternative to traditional gemstone rings.

Pearls in Modern Jewellery Design

While pearls have a rich heritage, they’re by no means stuck in the past.

Today’s designers are embracing pearls in fresh, unexpected ways, pairing them with mixed metals, setting them in asymmetrical pieces, and combining them with colourful gemstones.

We’ve seen bespoke commissions that combine heirloom pearls with modern settings, turning something traditional into something uniquely personal.

At Stephen Alan’s, we love working with clients to reimagine pearl jewellery, whether that’s designing something new, or giving vintage pieces a new lease of life.

Pearl Jewellery in Leighton Buzzard

If you’re looking to explore the beauty of pearls, or find the perfect gift for someone special we’d be delighted to help.

At Stephen Alan’s Jewellers, we offer a carefully curated selection of pearl jewellery, including classic styles and bespoke designs made in-house by our experienced goldsmith, Dean Quy.

Whether you're after a timeless strand of pearls, a modern pair of earrings, or something entirely unique, we’re here to help you find (or create) the perfect piece.

Pop into our shop on Leighton Buzzard High Street, or visit us online to book a free design consultation. And if you already own pearl jewellery that needs a little care, we also offer restringing, cleaning, and repairs to help keep your pieces looking their best.