Why Do Pearls Come in Different Colors? How to Choose
Here’s the simple takeaway:
Pearl color is shaped by the pearl type + growing environment + overtone.
When choosing, match your skin tone and occasion first, then your budget.
Why are pearl colors different?
Short version: Many pearl colors are naturally occurring — not all color means “dyed.”
Three main reasons:
1) Different oyster/mussel types
Freshwater, Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian — each has its own natural color range.
2) Water and farming conditions
Temperature and minerals in the water can influence the final tone.
3) Overtone (the glow you see on the surface)
That soft pink, silver, gold, or bluish sheen is often what makes a pearl look expensive —
not just the base body color.
The easiest way to choose color (without making mistakes)
Pick what suits you first, then refine the quality.
For daily wear / your first pearl
Go with:
White or creamy white with a gentle pink or silver overtone.
It’s the safest, most versatile choice.
To look brighter and more radiant
- Warm/olive/yellow undertones:
Try creamy white, champagne, or golden tones. - Cool/pink undertones:
Try bright white, silvery white, or slightly cool-toned pearls.
For statement style & personality
Choose deeper or moodier tones like:
lavender, gray, chocolate, peacock, or other dark hues.
Perfect for date nights, parties, and fashion-forward looks.
A simple gifting formula
- Unsure of their taste? Classic white wins.
- They love bold styling? Lavender or gray is a great pick.
- Want “luxury feel”?
A clean white pearl with beautiful overtone and strong luster
is often better than a rare color with average shine.
Quick “don’t get fooled” tips
- Don’t rely on the color name alone.
Two “white pearls” can look totally different depending on luster and surface quality. - Be cautious with ultra-cheap, overly uniform colors.
Some may be treated. - Remember: you’re buying the glow.
A truly beautiful pearl should look lively and luminous, not flat.
One-line summary
For everyday: choose white. For flattering your skin: match warm vs cool. For standout style: lavender/gray/deeper tones. Within the same color, luster and overtone are what separate “nice” from “wow.”