This is a question that first-time pearl buyers often struggle with. Although it is an important consideration, it is not as crucial as you might think. Pearls have the ability to flatter almost all wearers, regardless of the color of the pearl. It is more important to consider your personal preferences and style when choosing pearl jewelry. Pearls also absorb colors from their surroundings due to their reflectivity.

That said, there are a few considerations you might want to keep in mind:

Generally, lighter pearls (white, pink, peach, cream) work well with lighter skin tones.

Darker complexions go well with gold and cream colored pearls.

Olive skin tones and white pearls with silver undertones are a good match.

Black or white pearls, on the other hand, suit almost everyone.

SOME SPECIFIC GUIDELINES

If you buy real pearl jewelry as a gift and you don’t know what that person’s color preferences are; White is a safe bet as it suits all skin tones. Although peach flatters all complexions, not all wearers are too fond of this color, so unless you’re sure peach is on someone’s wish list, stay away from this color.

Here are some specific guidelines to follow. For more details

BROWN SKIN TONE | BLACK OR BROWN HAIR | BROWN EYES

Pearl colors that work well with this complexion are black and those with silver, gold, bronze, and copper undertones.

OLIVE/TANNED SKIN | BLACK OR BROWN HAIR | BROWN EYES

Silver undertones work well with this complexion, while purple and bronze can bring out the best in your appearance.

CLEAR SKIN | BLONDE HAIR | BLUE EYES

Purple tones and golden/tan undertones suit this complexion well, while peacock-colored pearls accentuate the eye color.

CLEAR SKIN | DARK BLONDE HAIR | BROWN EYES

Bronze and copper pearls complement the brown tones of this complexion, but purple and peacock colors can work wonders too.

CLEAR SKIN | BROWN HAIR | GREEN EYES

Some of the best pearl colors for this skin/hair/eye combination are bronze, gold, peacock, and dark gray. The last two are great for drawing attention to green eyes.

CLEAR SKIN | ASH BLONDE HAIR | BROWN EYES

Purple, silver, gray and peacock colored pearl jewelry look magnificent with this complexion.

CLEAR SKIN | RED HAIR | BLUE OR GRAY EYES

Pearl jewelery with silver undertones highlights the eyes, while bronze, purple and copper pearls complement skin tone and hair color.

CLEAR SKIN | RED HAIR | GREEN EYES

Peacock pearls go perfectly with green eyes, while gold and coppery pearls complement fiery hair.

CONCLUSION

When choosing pearl jewelry, what matters most is your instinct. No matter the color, pearls always flatter. An exquisite design that you fall in love with will do more for your self-confidence than the perfect shade.