Get Ashley's Expert-Recommended Styles for Every Look and Lifestyle

One of the most frequently asked questions I get when talking with my customers is: “What are the best pearl earrings to buy?” Always, my first instinct is to recommend a pair of classic Akoya pearl stud earrings. However, not everyone has the same tastes or needs.

Whether you’re searching for your first fine jewelry piece, building a more refined pearl jewelry wardrobe, or selecting a meaningful gift, the right pair of pearl earrings can feel like a personal signature. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best pearl earrings to buy based on style, lifestyle, and occasion.

From high quality pearl earrings suited for everyday polish to top rated pearl earrings designed for life’s most memorable events and the studs vs. dangle earrings debate, here are my top takes for you in one simple post.

If you're looking for a single, can’t-miss recommendation, here it is:

The best pearl earrings to buy today are classic White Akoya Pearl Studs, 7.0–7.5mm in size. With over 100+ 5 Star reviews, these are THE most popular pearl earrings our customers

Elegant, versatile, and effortlessly chic, these earrings work for virtually every setting — from office meetings to evening celebrations and special Holiday gatherings. Their versatile size makes them noticeable without feeling overstated, and the signature mirror-like luster of Akoya pearls adds refinement to even the simplest outfit.

At Pure Pearls, our top-rated Akoya studs are hand-selected for their mirror-sharp luster, perfect roundness, and impeccable matching for size, surface quality, body color and Overtone. Whether you’re investing in a forever-piece for yourself or gifting someone special, they represent the best in quality and timeless beauty.

If your jewelry drawer leans toward understated elegance, everyday pearl earrings should feel natural and lightweight — polished, but never fussy.

My top recommendation: Freshwater pearl studs in the 7.0-7.5mm size for young girls and teens, and the 8.5-9.0mm range for women.I also like to suggest a pair classic    pearl dangle earrings for a bit of movement and charm. These styles offer a soft, glowing luster and are easy on both your earlobes and your budget.

Freshwater pearls are an ideal introduction to fine jewelry especially for young ladies as their durability and budget-friendly price points ensure that they’ll survive rough handling and if an earring gets lost it won’t be an expensive tragedy. Combined with their subtle shimmer, these reasons make a pair of Freshwater pearl earrings one of the best pearl earrings for everyday wear. With secure backings and gently rounded shapes, they add just the right amount of grace to your daily look — from tailored blazers to sundresses.

Pearl earrings are a classic gift for a reason: they’re personal without being complicated, meaningful without needing a special size, and elegant at any age.
Here are me and my team's expert picks:

These make some of the best pearl earrings for gifting, whether it’s a Sweet 16, graduation, anniversary, or a thoughtful bridesmaid thank-you. Classic Akoya pearl studs pair effortlessly with any wardrobe and never go out of style, while a pair of lustrous Tahitian drops makes a lasting impression she’ll treasure forever.

For formal events, weddings, and black-tie moments, your jewelry can (and should) rise to the occasion. This is where bolder pearl choices shine.
Me and my team recommend:

These are the best luxury pearl earrings when the dress code calls for high impact. Larger pearls command attention, and their graceful drop silhouettes bring movement, light, and elegance to every turn of the head. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a gala, or your own wedding day, “Statement Pearl” jewelry offers effortless sophistication and head-turning drama.

When deciding between pearl studs and pearl dangle earrings, consider your lifestyle and how you like to feel in your jewelry.

Ask yourself: do I reach for pearls to polish my everyday look? Or do I want a pair that sparks compliments and feels like a conversation piece? The best pearl stud earrings blend seamlessly into your day-to-day, while the best pearl drop earrings are more likely to become your signature on nights out.

If you want to dig deeper into my recommendations on exactly which pearl earrings you should buy (and why), then visit my blog post:

The Best Pearl Earrings For Your Face Shape

Whether you’re seeking your first pair or adding to a well-loved collection, the best pearl earrings reflect your personal style and the way you move through life. At Pure Pearls, every earring pair is curated with care — from soft-glowing Freshwater studs to luminous South Sea drops.

Explore Pure Pearls’ expertly matched Akoya, Freshwater, Tahitian, and South Sea pearl earrings — each hand-selected to reflect the best quality, style, and value available.