Along with diamonds and precious metals, pearls have long been considered amongst the most luxurious of natural substances for use in the making of fine jewellery. During the 13th and 14th centuries, the use of pearls became very fashionable in Europe. Clothing worn by the wealthy was frequently embroidered and decorated with pearls.

Almost all the pearls available today are cultured pearls. These are produced by pearl farmers giving nature a helping hand. Cultured pearls may be derived from either saltwater or freshwater molluscs. The pearl farmer introduces a small bead of shell into the farmed oyster or mussel. The mollusc then deposits several layers of what is known as ‘nacre’ all around the shell bead. This eventually forms the cultured pearl that is used in jewellery making today. The colour of freshwater cultured pearls is governed by the type of host mollusc. Freshwater cultured pearls may be most commonly white or pink, though other colours are possible, including black. This variety of colours enables jewellery makers to introduce variety and pattern into their pearl necklaces, bracelets or earrings.

The pearl necklace has been a particularly popular adornment worn by royalty, titled ladies and most recently, rich and famous women the world over. Film Director Alfred Hitchcock did a great deal to make pearls popular in the 1960’s. His leading ladies frequently sported pearls along with perfect hair-dos and immaculate outfits. For his film ‘The Birds’ Hitchcock famously dressed Tippi Hedren in expensive furs, pearls, and high heeled shoes for the famous scene at the beach. Another of his leading ladies, Grace Kelly, was rarely seen without her pearls. This trait continued long after she became a member of the Monaco royal family.

When considering buying pearl necklaces, it is worth looking upon this as an investment purchase. Unlike items of costume jewellery, pearl necklaces are things you will want to cherish and hopefully pass on to future generations. They are also items that you will want to wear for years, so avoid being swayed into purchasing a necklace that is too fashionable or current. Look instead for the more classical style of jewellery that will still look good in years to come.

The style of pearl necklaces you choose will largely depend on your body type and personal taste. As with your choice of clothing neckline, the type of necklace you choose can accentuate your best features and draw attention away from others. If you tend to wear very detailed or patterned clothing, simple styles of pearl necklaces are best. If, on the other hand, you prefer simple, plain outfits, then you can afford to be more adventurous in your choice of pearl necklace.

For some, the traditional round, white pearls are a perhaps a little too conservative. Oval or irregular pearl shapes may be a more appealing option in such cases, Multi-stranded pearl necklaces or those that combine pearls with gold, sterling silver or semi-precious stones can also be very attractive and give a more modern feel to what would otherwise be a traditional piece of jewellery.