Pearl-accented jewelry has always been a favorite among accessory lovers. Even since Princess Diana’s era, pearls have been widely worn. Pearls add a classic and elegant touch to jewelry, making them a timeless choice for various styles. But are all pearl-adorned pieces made with real pearls?
Princess Diana wearing a pearl necklace.
Source: Pinterest
The answer is no. Not all beautiful pearls in jewelry come from the sea or real oysters. There are several types of pearls commonly used in fashion jewelry, each with unique characteristics. Here are the three main types of pearls you’ll often find in jewelry.
1. Shell Pearls
Often called “shell pearls,” these are man-made pearls crafted from real oyster shells. The shells are ground into a fine powder, shaped into pearls, and coated to achieve a lustrous, durable finish. As a result, shell pearls have a flawless appearance, whether round, oval, or other shapes, and feel heavier than imitation pearls.
Pros:
More “luxurious” and weighty than synthetic pearls due to their natural shell base.
More durable than imitation pearls.
Affordable compared to freshwater pearls, yet still offer a premium look.
Ideal for:
Formal events, party jewelry, or anyone seeking elegance without investing in natural sea pearls. Shell pearls are widely used in mid-range fashion jewelry, including MODAN’s collections, which prioritize aesthetics and uniqueness.
Are shell pearls real?
No. Though made from natural shells, they’re human-made replicas of sea pearls.
2. Imitation Pearls (Faux Pearls)
Source: houseofgems.com
Imitation pearls (or faux pearls) are synthetic pearls typically made from glass, plastic, or resin, coated with a pearlescent finish. They’re popular in fashion jewelry due to their affordability and wide range of colors.
Pros:
Budget-friendly.
Available in diverse colors and sizes.
Cons:
Less “premium” than natural or shell pearls.
Prone to scratches and peeling over time.
Ideal for:
Everyday wear or experimenting with bold styles.
3. Freshwater Pearls
Freshwater pearls are natural pearls farmed in freshwater mussels. They come in varied colors (white, peach, lavender) and often have organic, imperfect shapes—proof of their natural growth.
Pros:
More affordable than saltwater pearls but equally luxurious.
Each pearl is unique, adding personal symbolism.
Ideal for:
Those who appreciate organic beauty and understated elegance.
Are freshwater pearls real?
Yes! They form naturally in freshwater mollusks.
Understanding the differences between shell pearls, imitation pearls, and freshwater pearls helps you choose jewelry that matches your style, needs, and budget. At MODAN Accessories, we curate pearl jewelry that balances beauty, quality, and affordability—whether you’re dressing up for an event or adding grace to your everyday look.
Which pearl type suits your style best? Explore MODAN’s collections to find your perfect match!
