top of page
Elise Thompson

What Are My Favorite Types of Pearls to Design With?


cluster of pearl necklaces

When it comes to designing jewelry, pearls hold a special place in my heart. Their natural elegance, rich history, and unique formation process make them an irresistible choice. Here are some of my favorite types of pearls that I love to use in my designs.


Tahitian Pearls


peek a boo hoops with grey Tahitian pearls drops

Among the myriad of pearls available, Tahitian pearls stand out as my absolute favorite. These stunning pearls, known for their enchanting iridescent colors and large sizes never fail to captivate. Dark grrey Tahitian pearls, in particular, are mesmerizing with their mysterious luster and sheen. What makes them even more fascinating are the subtle undertones of purple and green that dance on their surface, adding a touch of magic to any piece of jewelry. The interplay of these colors creates a depth that is simply mesmerizing.




Baroque Pearls

grey baroque and diamond earrings

Baroque pearls are another favorite of mine, whether they are freshwater or saltwater. These pearls are celebrated for their irregular shapes and unique character. Unlike perfectly round pearls, Baroque pearls come with bumps, lumps, and delightful imperfections that give them a distinctive charm. I especially adore large drop-like Baroque pearls. Their unconventional shapes make each piece of jewelry truly one-of-a-kind, offering a sense of individuality and personality.


octopus pearl sketch


Keshi Pearls


Keshi pearls are yet another treasure in the world of pearls. These pearls, known for their natural amorphous shapes, often resemble tiny sculptures crafted by nature itself. The irregularity and unpredictability of Keshi pearls make them a designer's dream. Their organic shapes and lustrous surfaces add an element of surprise and elegance to any creation.


grey baroque and white keshi pearl statement necklace


Peacock Pearls


peacock pearl and rubellite tourmaline fish hook necklace

Peacock pearls are a type of pearl that deserves a special mention. These pearls, with their dark grey body color, exhibit an array of undertones in purple, pink, and green, much like the vibrant colors found in peacock feathers. The play of colors in peacock pearls is simply breathtaking, making them an exquisite choice for adding a touch of drama and allure to jewelry designs.





Pastel Colored Pearls


Cascading pearl and peek a boo hoop convertible earrings

Pastel colored pearls are another delightful variety that adds a soft and ethereal aesthetic to jewelry. Light pink, cream, light blue, pastel green, and peach pearls lend a dreamy quality to any piece. The softness of these colors gives the jewelry an airy vibe and ease of wear. I love mixing different colors of pastel pearls into one necklace, using varying sizes to add interest and individuality. This playful mix of colors and sizes creates a piece that is both unique and versatile, perfect for any occasion.






The Fascination of Pearl Formation



One of the most fascinating aspects of pearls is their formation process. Pearls form in oceans, ponds, and lakes within mussels and large clams. The color of the pearl is derived from the color of the lip of the mollusk, which is incredibly fascinating. The process begins when an irritant is introduced into the mollusk. To soothe itself from the irritant, the mollusk secretes nacre, forming layers upon layers around the irritant. This concentric layering eventually results in the creation of a beautiful pearl. The natural wonder of this process is what excites me about working with pearls. Mother Nature's ability to create such rare and extraordinary treasures is truly awe-inspiring.





Creating Jewelry with Natural Treasures


As a designer, I feel incredibly fortunate to work with these natural gemstones and pearls. Each pearl, with its unique characteristics and formation story, brings a piece of nature's artistry to the jewelry I create. The luster of pearls, their mesmerizing colors, and the incredible process of their formation all contribute to the beauty and elegance of the finished piece. It is a privilege to transform these natural wonders into adornments that you can wear and cherish.


Finally, whether it's the mysterious allure of Tahitian pearls, the unique shapes of baroque and Keshi pearls, the vibrant colors of peacock pearls, or the soft beauty of pastel-colored pearls, each type offers something special. The next time you admire a piece of pearl jewelry, remember the extraordinary journey it has taken from the depths of the ocean to your jewelry box. And as a designer, I am thrilled to be a part of this journey, creating pieces that highlight the natural beauty and elegance of pearls.


Visit the entire Pearl Paradise Collection and shop all pearl jewelry.



white pearl statement necklace

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page