Have grandma's pearls hanging around? We say pull 'em right out and put them into rotation. Thanks to the rise of “quiet luxury,” a heavy dose of coastal influence, and a fresh wave of small-batch artisan designers doing their thing, pearls are showing up in unexpected, fashion-forward ways.
Whether you’re a June baby (hey, it’s your birthstone!) or just pearl-curious, consider this your ultimate guide to pearls that feel made for this moment. And if you don't have grandma's, we've got plenty of modern pearls for you to pick from—because pearl jewelry is back in a big way, and it’s never looked cooler.
The ancient it-girl gem: A brief history of pearls
Before we dive into how pearls are making such a comeback, let’s take a second to appreciate just how iconic pearls really are. We’re talking 5,000+ years of main character energy.
Pearls have long been a status symbol—prized in ancient China as early as 2300 BCE and worn by Egyptian royalty (Cleopatra was allegedly out here dissolving pearls in vinegar to flex at dinner). In Rome, pearl jewelry was so tied to wealth that laws were passed to prevent commoners from wearing them. Fast forward to the Renaissance, and pearls were all over Europe’s aristocracy.
But their true pop culture reign came in the 20th century—think Coco Chanel in layered strands, Jackie O’s iconic single strand, and Audrey Hepburn serving breakfast goddess outside Tiffany’s. For decades, pearls have symbolized polish, prestige, and put-together-ness.
Now? Pearls are finally getting the glow-up they deserve. Modern designers are flipping the script, crafting pieces that celebrate their natural irregularities, pairing them with edgy metals and bright colors, and styling them for everyday wear. Pearls are no longer buttoned-up—they’re breaking rules, in the best way possible.
Why pearls are everywhere right now
Blame it on the Succession finale, Sofia Richie’s “quiet luxury” bridal era, the return of the soft girl aesthetic... Whatever the cause, pearlcore is having a full-blown fashion renaissance.
Runways are stacked with pearls—from Simone Rocha’s ethereal accents to Miu Miu’s undone elegance. Celebs like Zoë Kravitz, Harry Styles, and Tracee Ellis Ross have been spotted in modern pearls, proving they're a gender-neutral jewelry choice for any aesthetic.
Minimal, organic, sculptural—today’s modern pearl necklaces, earrings, and bracelets bring just the right amount of glow to your everyday look and can transition seamlessly into wedding season or a night out.
Pearl 101: The June birthstone breakdown
Pearls aren’t like other gems. They’re made by living creatures (mollusks forever!), not mined from the earth. Instead of forming deep underground over millions of years like diamonds and gemstones, pearls grow organically inside oysters and mussels, layer by luminous layer. That natural origin makes each pearl unique, full of character, and just a little bit magical. No two are exactly alike, which is kind of the point.
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Birthstone: June (alongside moonstone, but let’s be real—pearls are the headliner)
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Symbolism: Wisdom, serenity, balance, and femininity
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Metaphysical vibes: Pearls are said to enhance personal integrity, calm the nervous system, and support emotional clarity. Basically, a super-chic therapist.
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Color range: While white and cream are classic, pearls also come in shades like blush, golden, silvery gray, and even deep peacock hues.
- Zodiac signs: Pearls are especially connected to Gemini and Cancer—both June signs. Think of them as grounding for Gemini’s buzzing mind and deeply resonant with Cancer’s intuitive, moon-ruled energy.
How to wear pearls that pop
Forget stiff and stodgy, these are the pearl pieces you actually want to wear:
1. Modern pearl necklaces
Swap the uniform strand for something a little bolder or more sculptural. We love a strand tied with colorful thread, single-pearl pendants on solid gold chains, pearls dotted with tiny glittering diamonds, or chokers made with undulating-sized pearls like a natural wave. They're wearable with a white tee and jeans, or layered up for a dressier moment.
Explore modern pearl necklaces →
2. Statement pearl earrings
Let's go beyond dainty button studs with pearls set in mixed metals, dangling pearls that sway with your every move, pearl and gemstone clusters, or playful pearl hoop earrings. Whether suspended from gold chains or accented by sparkling diamonds, pearl earrings today don't have to be boring—whether for everyday or your big day!
Browse artisan pearl earrings →
3. Pearl bracelets, reinvented
We know you all love a stacking bracelet, and nothing makes a stack more interesting than mixing texture and color. A pearl bracelet adds something sensual and sweet to your tennis bracelets and chunky gold chains that just can't be beat.
Shop minimalist pearl bracelets →
Style tips: How to keep pearls looking modern
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Layer like a pro. Combine pearls with gold chains, charms, or other gemstones. Mixing textures = instant style points.
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Keep the outfit low-key. Pearls pop best against your go-to denim, linen sets, or slouchy button-downs.
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Don’t be afraid to mix metals. Pearls don’t play favorites—they look good with yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, and silver.
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Lean into the imperfections. Baroque pearls and off-round shapes are modern, earthy, and super chic.
Making pearls your own
There's no denying that pearls are totally having a moment, and we’re fully here for it. Whether you're celebrating a June birthday or just in love with their natural, unfussy vibe, pearls are no longer a "safe" choice—they’re a smart one. A little bit rebellious, a little bit refined, and always ready to elevate your look.
Our curated collection of natural pearl jewelry features small-batch, handmade pieces from independent designers who know how to keep things cool and classic—never boring. Whether you want a single perfect pearl or something bold and sculptural, we’ve got just the thing.
Ready to glow up your jewelry box? Shop our full pearl collection, or go straight to what you love: necklaces, earrings, or bracelets.