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Best Pearl Earrings Under $500

Affordable Pearl Earring Styles We Recommend Under $500

At Pure, we want our pearl earrings to be affordable for everyone. We’ve created this collection to showcase the best pearl earrings under $500 for a fast and easy shopping experience. Choose from a large selection of pearl stud earrings consisting of Freshwater and Akoya pearls, drop-shaped Tahitian dangle earrings and even dainty pearl and diamond earrings for those looking for a touch of charming sparkle. Every pair of pearl earrings in our collections are handmade to order, meticulously matched for color, overtone, size and luster, and mounted in your choice of .925 Sterling Silver or 14K Gold earring designs here at our Los Angeles, CA based workshop. Our dedicated team of pearl specialists and craftsmen are here to make sure each and every pearl earring purchase is absolutely gorgeous and will be a meaningful gift cherished for years to come, without breaking your budget.











How to Buy Quality Pearl Earrings on a $500 Budget

The key to buying high quality pearl earrings under $500 is to focus on finding pearls with the highest luster possible, then look at size and color. In this price range, your options will be primarily Freshwater or mid-range size Akoya pearls, with some Tahitian drops mixed in at the higher end of the $500 limit. Freshwater pearls will offer you the best range of sizes and colors to choose from, delivering beautiful luster and long-term durability, perfect for everyday wear. Akoya pearls will give you that famous mirror-like luster, perfectly round shape and iconic “Mikimoto” look. No matter which pearl earring type you choose, look for high luster, clean surfaces, beautiful matching and secure mountings that are easy to use. By prioritizing craftsmanship and luster you can easily find a gorgeous pair of pearl earrings under $500 that will feel refined and timeless … pearl earrings that are built to last for years to come.

Top-Rated Pearl Earrings Available for Less Than $500

The best pearl earrings under $500 will be primarily in the Freshwater and Akoya pearl types. Our most popular Freshwater pearl earrings are the classic and iconic white pearl studs in the 7.0-8.0mm size range, with the next most popular pearls in the 6.0-7.0mm range. For a more luxurious statement, we recommend going up to the 8.0-9.0mm size; these are pearls made to be noticed! The color-treated black and classic white Japanese Akoya pearl stud earrings in the 6.0-6.5mm up through 7.5-8.0mm range are highly popular, and will give you that iconic "Mikimoto" pearl look, but you may have to step down in quality in the larger sizes. Another unique but gorgeous option would be to focus on either Freshwater or Tahitian pearl drop-shaped dangle earrings, which offer an artistic, romantic look that will always get noticed.

Pearl Earrings Under $500 — Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get high-quality pearl earrings for under $500?

Absolutely. The best course of action is to choose your pearl type, then focus on getting the highest levels of luster possible, and then choose your preferred size, color and mountings. The under $500 price range offers plenty of beautiful, lustrous options to choose from, ensuring you can buy a stunning pair of pearl earrings while still staying on budget. 

  • Freshwater pearl earrings offer the strongest overall value and largest range of sizes in this price range
  • Akoya pearls can also fit within your budget and will display excellent luster and a refined look, but you will be limited to 8.0mm and under sizes and AA+ Quality ranges
  • Focus on your preferred pearl type first, then find pearls with the highest luster you can find and finally size and color
What pearl sizes and styles are realistic under a $500 budget?

Within this budget, we have plenty of options to choose from. Look for classic pearl stud earrings, slim dangles, baroque pearl dangle earrings and a few pearl and diamond earring designs. With Freshwater pearls, you'll have a larger range of sizes to consider, ranging from 6.0-7.0mm up through 8.0-9.0mm pearls. For Akoya pearls, stick with sizes under 8.0mm, and AA+ Quality. 

  • Pearl stud earrings in the 6.0–7.0mm and 7.0-8.0mm range are the most popular and versatile; 8.0-9.0mm Freshwater pearl stud earrings provide a touch of luxury
  • Drop and dangle styles in both Freshwater and drop-shaped Tahitian pearls offer a bigger visual impact and an artistic flair
  • Sticking with simple mountings can maximize your value by prioritizing pearl quality over more elaborate pearl earring designs
Are pearl earrings under $500 better suited for everyday or occasional wear?

Definitely. The most popular choice of pearl stud earrings will always be versatile, elegant and suited for everyday wear or even dressed up for a night on the town. The dangle earring designs in this category are chosen for their modern, versatile looks which transition from a day at the office to more formal occasions easily and beautifully. 

  • Pearl stud earrings in both Akoya and Freshwater pearl types are the most popular and versatile for both day and evening wear
  • Slim and minimalist dangle earring designs offer modern, fashion-forward appeal that can be enjoyed daily or brought out for special occasions
  • Classic pearl earring designs will always be timeless and elegant no matter which style you choose
Do gold or silver settings offer better value under $500?

Both 14K Gold and Sterling Silver offer excellent value; gold is generally more durable and longer lasting, but there is an increased cost associated with this precious metal. Sterling Silver is an excellent alternative to 14K White Gold, but is softer and more malleable. However it can cut down on the costs of the design allowing you to purchase slightly larger pearls.

  • 14K Gold is stronger and more durable, but has increased costs 
  • Sterling Silver allows more budget flexibility for pearl size and quality, but it is softer because its a pure metal
  • Both mounting choices are secure, durable and offer excellent value 
How do I avoid low-quality pearl earrings at this price point?

There are plenty of sites like eBay out there that will offer pearl earrings under $500 but the earrings can be very low quality or even commercial grade. Stick with reputable vendors with a long track record of offering high quality pearls at affordable price points and with a solid return policy. Always focus on bright, reflective luster and make sure your pearls are well-matched and are clean to the eye on the front and sides. 

  • Look for bright, reflective luster rather than flat shine which is indicative of synthetic pearls
  • Avoid poorly matched pairs or visibly blemished pearls
  • Choose pearl vendors that clearly disclose pearl type, pearl grade and materials but also have a solid return policy
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