Pearl Necklace Lengths

When it comes to pearls, have you ever heard of the collar, choker, princess, matinee or opera?  These are various terms to describe the length of pearl necklaces. They are a fun way to incorporate pearl styles with a little but of history.

Starting back in the Victorian era, the collar was very popular. Just like it sounds, the collar is a multiple strand necklace which sits in the middle of the neck. Depending upon the woman’ neck size, this necklace will be around 12 – 13 inches long. It is easy to picture women in portraits with their boatneck or off the shoulder necklines paired with a pearl collar.

A more modern look is the choker, a 14 – 16 inch necklace which sits above the collarbone. It is a versatile piece which, in today’s times, is a favorite of more petit women.

A classic is always a classic and the Princess length, 17-19 inch necklaces, are the go-to length for most women. The Pearl Girls Classic Necklace, at 18 inches, is a princess length. It looks just a good with high or low necklines or a simple crewneck. It is The Pearl Girls most popular length.

Some women just need a little more length which is why the Matinee length is growing in popularity. Historically it has been the choice for semi-formal attire but these days women love pairing this length with business suits. At 20-24 inches, it falls at the top of the bustline.

The opera length necklace, at 24 – 54  inches used to be the essential length for formal attire but, given its versatility, women will wear this necklace in a variety of settings. It is meant to fall just above the midsection but it can be either doubled or tripled for a look similar to a choker or collar. The flappers of the 1920s loved to knot these necklaces or just wear them long. It is also a great choice for women who prefer a double strand look. The doubled version looks great with crew or high necks. We prefer to create our opera length as a more dramatic 54 inch necklace although we can customize any length to suit specific taste or preferences.