With so many pearl earring sizes available, it can be tricky to decide what size of pearl earring to buy. Simplistically speaking, it can be a matter of taste; one might want a large pearl earring set as a statement piece or something smaller for everyday wear. Its important to understand that all pearls are sold in 0.5mm or 1mm size increments. Typically small sizes below 9mm like Akoya pearls and Freshwater AK pearls are sold increments of 0.5mm(e.g 6.0-6.5mm), over 9mm as Edison Pearls, Tahitian Pearls and South Sea Pearls are sold in 1mm increments(e.g 9.0-10mm).
The pearl stud earring is a classic piece of jewelry that every woman should have stashed in her jewelry box. The right pair of studs can go anywhere and look absolutely perfect on any occasion.
The most popular pearl stud earring size is within the 7.0-8.0mm size range. The 7.0-7.5mm and 7.5-8.0mm pearls will sit nicely on the earlobe with a demure look, and won't feel too heavy or fall forward on the lobe.
Pearl Earring Sizes on a Model
6-7mm Pearl Earrings:
These are ideal for young ladies from 6 years old up to 16 years old, and women with petite builds. Moving slightly larger, this size is quite lovely for older teens or very young women. For a more petite woman, it can also mimic that classic size typically regarded as size 7mm to 7.5 mm. Women should consider the size of their face as well as their ear lobes; these factors will necessarily influence a selection.
7-8mm Pearl Earrings:
The most popular and versatile pearl stud size for ladies aged 18 to 60. The 7.0-8.0mm size range is the epitome of "Classic Pearls", and is sure to be appropriate and beautiful no matter when or where they're worn. Most often regarded as the ‘classic’ or quintessential size of pearl earrings, this size is popular for any age woman and certainly never goes out of style. A lovely gift for a new bride or new mother, pearl earrings of this size might denote any milestone or special occasion. As the ideal—not too big and not too small pearls—they are usually considered a safe size when gifting for any woman.
8-9mm Pearl Earrings:
Easily our second most popular pearl earring size range, the 8.0-9.0mm pearls are for ladies wanting one step up from "normal". A touch more glamorous without being too dramatic, and still comfortable on the ear. For the “I have arrived” statement piece, pearl earrings of this size reflect sophistication, style, success, and undeniable elegance! As a larger set of pearls, these boast a chic flair that is impossible to mistake. Jackie Kennedy Onassis was known to wear pearls of this size and, as a style icon, her classic pearl look continues to be emulated.
9-10mm Pearl Earrings:
The 9.0-9.5mm is the largest size for our Japanese Akoya pearls, and generally our smallest for South Sea pearls. This size is elegant and beautiful, and also stays within a demure range without getting overly dramatic. For queenly pearls, this is the size to select! Gorgeous pearl earrings of this size are ideal for special occasions and will certainly be regarded as an heirloom piece of jewelry. Pearls of this size are swathed in grandeur, luxury, and immense beauty.
10-11mm Pearl Earrings:
The 10.0-11.0mm pearls are right in the "sweet spot" for luxury pearl earring sizes. You'll find very large Freshwater pearls and smaller Tahitian and South Sea pearls in this size range. These pearls still have a moderate feel and weight, and won't fall forward off the ear. Aditionally only mature women of power would wear such large earrings but today you'll see them on women of all ages. Big and bold most women will reserve their 10-1mm pearl earrings for special events and formal nights out. If you do wear pearls of this size, expect to attract attention.
11-12mm Pearl Earrings:
What women love about 11.0-12.0mm size pearls is that they are unmistakably high-end, luxury pearls. Luminous and luxurious, Angelina Jolie is known for sporting this stud size (and larger!) to many of her red carpet events.
12-13mm Pearl Earrings:
The 12.0-13.0mm pearl size is one of our largest available, and the largest stud size we recommend for women. Consider dangle earring styles for pearls measuring over 13.0mm due to weight issues. The 12.0-13.0mm size range consists of larger, exotic pearl types like the White and Golden South Sea pearls, black Tahitian pearls and in rare cases, Freshwater pearl types.
Choose pearl earrings that are right for you, that complement your every look.
