A pearl engagement ring is a unique choice and one that many brides are increasingly becoming interested in.
While pearls are sometimes typecast as being old-fashioned, modern designers are creating contemporary, sophisticated and stylish pearl engagement rings that change how we typically view pearls.
Pearls provide a wide range of choice, from colors to shapes, making each pearl engagement ring unique and special. What’s more, a pearl ring will always be timeless and a classic choice, much like diamonds, because pearl jewelry always cycles back into fashion.
Be that as it may, it’s important to ask ourselves whether a pearl engagement ring is a good idea and if it can hold up to the daily grind that engagement rings are exposed to.
In this article, let’s take an honest look into pearl engagement rings and whether it’s a good choice for you.
Engagement Rings – The Two Most Important Features
When it comes to engagement rings, there are two main features that you need to look for. One is beauty and the other is durability.
A pearl engagement ring is a truly beautiful choice and when paired with the right materials, can look simply stunning. A pearl’s opaque, lustrous appearance is enhanced and accentuated when paired with a brilliant gemstone like diamonds. It also suits perfectly with any colored metal, whether rose, white or yellow.
However, the downside of this stone is that it’s extremely fragile. Like all organic gemstones, pearls are very soft, ranking at only a mere 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale. An engagement ring should be durable because it’s meant to be worn frequently and to last for decades. Ideally, an engagement ring should be of heirloom-quality, a piece of jewelry that can be passed down the ages. Pearls don’t tick that box.
However, while we don’t recommend pearl engagement rings, if your heart is set on it, there are some ways to go about it.
How to Find the Right Pearl Engagement Ring
So you really want a pearl engagement ring and no other durable stone will do. That’s fine. But here’s what you need to get right.
1- The Ring Setting
This is the most important feature of your pearl engagement ring as this will determine how well your pearl is protected. Choose an engagement ring setting that provides a buffer between the pearl and exposure and holds it securely.
The halo and bezel are examples of two ring settings that provide protection for the gemstone. From the two, halo is typically more favored as the glittering diamond melees that surround the pearl add to its beauty.
A bezel setting, on the other hand, can tend to hide the size and look of the pearl with its ring of metal if not crafted well.
Avoid solitaire ring settings where the pearl sits protruded into the air, as these are more prone to getting knocked out, damaged or chipped.
Example of protective setting for pearl ring. See this here.
2- Choose Your Metal
Because of the neutral color of pearls, any metal color pairs well with the stone. Yellow and rose gold gives a vintage look to pearl jewelry, while silver-hued metals have a modern, chic look. It’s best to invest in a precious metal for your pearl ring as this will add durability, value and strength to your ring.
3- Choose Your Pearl Color
Say the word pearl and the first image that’s likely to pop into your mind is a perfect, milky white orb. However, pearls come in a range of colors, including black and gold. When choosing the color of your pearl, consider the following factors:
- Does it suit your skin tone?
- Is it a color you can see yourself wearing all the time?
- Does it match the rest of the design?
- Is it a natural color or has it been dyed?
Most people opt for white, cream or pinkish pearls as these are rather neutral and blend in well with any outfit. However, some prefer the modern, arresting look of black pearls.
4- What’s Your Pearl Shape?
No, pearls aren’t always perfectly spherical. In fact, the majority of harvested pearls aren’t perfect and display irregular shapes, bumps and ridges. These are typically known as baroque pearls, which in and of themselves are becoming increasingly popular.
While a perfect pearl is a traditional choice, an irregular pearl allows for more design options and is a modern choice.
5- Consider the Design
Rather than a single large pearl, consider having a cluster of smaller pearls, perhaps set flush against the band or arranged in a pretty design together. This will minimize the risk to a single stone.
Pearls also look stunning in vintage designs or eternity rings. While eternity rings are typically chosen for wedding rings, some modern couples opt for this as an all in one ring.
Gorgeous pearl and diamond ring by Artemer. See it here.
6- Choose Your Pearl
There are many varieties of pearls available, including Akoya, freshwater, golden south sea and Tahitian. However, possibly the best variety for an engagement ring is a freshwater pearl.
Not only is this the most affordable option, but non-nucleated freshwater pearls are made of nacre all the way through, unlike most other nucleated pearls. This results in a higher luster and a better durability.
Keshi pearls are also similar, although they’re rarer. These pearls come in various sizes and shapes and refer to pearls that grow without a nucleus.
Can I Wear a Pearl Ring Daily?
We’ve already alluded to this but let’s go over it again in detail. No, wearing a pearl ring daily is a recipe for disaster. Most chemicals your pearl ring comes into contact can potentially strip its nacre away.
For example, washing your hands frequently with hand soap can cause abrasion to the nacreyou’re your ring comes into contact with vinegar, the vinegar will eat into the nacre unless you wash it off straight away. You would have to constantly be aware of the ring and take care of it.
However, one option is to keep your ring only for special occasions and have another engagement ring for daily wear. That way, you get to have two engagement rings and can alternate.
Another option is to understand that your pearl is going to get damaged at some point, so be prepared to replace it. This means that you can wear it regularly and simply have the pearl changed when required. Just ensure that the ring setting is one that allows you to make modifications and changes to it. While some might find this a nuisance and others might get emotional at the idea of replacing their beloved pearl, some couples find this a ritual that brings back memories of their wedding and engagement.
Tips to Keep Your Pearl Engagement Ring Lasting Longer
If you already have a pearl engagement ring, then taking care of it the right way is an important step. Here are some basic care tips to keep your pearl lustrous:
- Never let your pearls come into contact with chemicals, including household detergents, chlorine, cosmetics (hairspray, makeup, perfume).
- Always put your pearl ring on last after getting dressed and applying makeup. You wouldn’t want to slather moisturizer all over your pearl ring.
- Store it carefully and separately in a fabric lined box or a soft pouch when not wearing it.
- Avoid direct sunlight when storing your pearl ring as this can cause fading and discoloration.
While it might seem like pearl engagement rings aren’t worth the trouble, some couples think they are. There are many modern happy couples who’ve chosen pearl rings and don’t regret their choice.
A simple search on the internet will yield results of a diverse range of pearl ring collections, showing that there is a demand for engagement rings featuring this organic gemstone.
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