# Pearl necklace: how to choose

> Guide to choosing a pearl necklace: cultured, freshwater, Akoya, South Sea and Tahitian pearls; size, luster, shape, length and care.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/pearl-necklace-how-to-choose/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-08-31
- Updated: 2026-08-31
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/collar-de-perlas-como-elegir/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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The pearl necklace is a classic. Pearls are told apart by origin and type: Akoya, freshwater, South Sea and Tahitian. Luster, shape and surface cleanliness determine their quality.

## Types

- **Akoya:** round with great luster; 6-9 mm.
- **Freshwater:** inexpensive, of varied shapes.
- **South Sea:** large, golden or white.
- **Tahitian:** dark, with green and blue overtones.
See [pearls](https://www.711grados.com/en/pearls/).

## What to look at

The **luster** (mirror-like shine), the **shape** (round or baroque), the **surface** (no blemishes) and the **uniformity** of size and color.

## Lengths

Princess (45 cm), matinee (50-60 cm) and opera (70-90 cm). See [what length to choose](https://www.711grados.com/en/necklace-length-guide/).

## Care

Put them on last and take them off first. Clean them with a soft cloth ([how to clean pearls](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-clean-pearls/)) and restring every few years ([stringing](https://www.711grados.com/en/pearl-stringing-and-knotting/)).

## See also

- [Pearls](https://www.711grados.com/en/pearls/)
- [Pearl stringing and knotting](https://www.711grados.com/en/pearl-stringing-and-knotting/)
- [How to clean pearls](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-clean-pearls/)