What Size Pearl Necklace Should I Buy?
Short answer: for most women, a 7–7.5mm pearl necklace in 18 inches is the safest choice. It looks classic, is not too small or too large, and works for both day and evening. Choose 6–6.5mm for a petite or young wearer, and 8mm or larger for a bolder look.
Pearl size chart
Pearl size is the diameter of each pearl in millimeters (mm). Sizes are sold in half-millimeter ranges, such as 7–7.5mm.
| Pearl size | Look | Best for | Pearl types |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5–6mm | Delicate | Girls, teens, first pearls, petite frames | Akoya, Freshwater |
| 6–7mm | Subtle, elegant | Everyday wear, graduation, young women | Akoya, Freshwater |
| 7–8mm | Classic (most popular) | Brides, work, anniversary gifts | Akoya, Freshwater |
| 8–9mm | Noticeable | Evening, mature wearers, a confident look | Akoya, Freshwater, Tahitian |
| 9–11mm | Bold | Statement pieces, taller frames | Freshwater, Tahitian, South Sea |
| 11mm and up | Luxurious | Heirloom and milestone gifts | Tahitian, South Sea |
The sizes we carry: Akoya 5–11mm, Freshwater 3–17mm, Tahitian 8–15mm, South Sea 7–19mm.
Necklace length chart
| Length | Name | Where it sits | Wear it with |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16" | Choker | At the base of the neck | Open necklines, strapless wedding dresses |
| 17–18" | Princess | Just below the collarbone | Almost everything (most popular) |
| 20–24" | Matinee | Above the bust | Business wear, higher necklines |
| 28–35" | Opera | At or below the bust | Evening wear; can be doubled |
| 36" and up | Rope | Below the bust | Knotted, doubled or wrapped |
How to choose
By age
- Girls and teens: 5–6mm, 16 inches
- 20s and 30s: 6.5–7.5mm, 17–18 inches
- 40s and up: 7.5–9mm, 18–20 inches
By occasion
- Wedding: 7–8mm Akoya, 16–18 inches, depending on the neckline
- Office and everyday: 7–7.5mm, 18 inches
- Evening: 8mm and up, or a longer opera strand
By frame
Larger pearls look balanced on taller or fuller frames, while smaller pearls suit a petite frame or slender neck. If you are between two sizes, choose the smaller size for everyday wear and the larger size for a statement piece.
Does pearl size change the price?
Yes. Each half millimeter adds noticeably to the price, because larger pearls take longer to grow and are rarer. For the same budget, you can often choose either a larger Freshwater strand or a smaller Akoya strand. See our pearl type comparison to decide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular pearl size?
7–7.5mm. It is large enough to be noticed and small enough to wear every day.
Is 6mm too small for a pearl necklace?
No. 6–6.5mm pearls are elegant and understated, and are a popular choice for young women and first pearls.
Can you make a custom length?
Yes. We make our own jewelry in San Francisco, so we can adjust the length of most necklaces. Call 1-800-801-3280 or email info@premiumpearl.com.
How do I measure my necklace length?
Lay a necklace you already like flat and measure from end to end, including the clasp, or wrap a string around your neck where you want the pearls to sit.
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