Are We Going To Wear Pearl Jewelry in 2026?

At the beginning of each year, jewellers and jewelry designers review jewelry trends for the coming year.  Will we still wear pearl jewelry?  Which styles of pearl jewelry will dominate?  Which pearl colors will be the most popular and searched for?  Will any new styles emerge?  

On the other hand, as well, a consumer wants to understand which jewelry they should invest in,  whether you buy a piece of jewelry for yourself or as a gift.

Actually, there are many questions that I need to respond to, being a jewelry designer.  As a rule, jewelry trends last for years.  However, each year brings something new, a kind of twist, that makes contemporary jewelry fresh and precious.  It transforms a familiar design into something modern, renewed, and appealing.  As a result, the jewelry designer’s creative process becomes more inspiring and efficient.

It goes without saying that jewelry plays a great role in elevating our outfit.  And in 2026, jewelry will have a moment. 

Jewelry trends that we are going to observe in 2026 are multiple.   Of course, pearl jewelry will continue to be worn, but contemporary pearl jewelry will move far beyond classic white pearls.  Surely, classic and timeless white pearl jewelry will always be worn and purchased.  But today we are speaking about new ideas and designs.

Why Do We Like Baroque Pearl Jewelry?

First, we should mention baroque pearls that are so popular in jewelry.  Today, consumers are looking for individuality and uniqueness.  Baroque pearls with their unique organic shapes are chosen by jewelry designers due to their uniqueness and individuality.  Modern pearl jewelry featuring baroque pearls is always uncommon, as each baroque pearl is unique. 

Moreover, perfect symmetry is not something consumers are looking for at present.  Today, we want something irregular and uncommon, like baroque pearls or keshi pearls.  As each of these pearls is unique.

At Jewelry Olga, we frequently use freshwater baroque pearls or keshi pearls, possessing a natural beauty appeal.  These gorgeous real pearls are famous for their unique organic shapes, amazing luster, and intense and rare natural colors.

We have a collection of freshwater baroque pearl jewelry, including fashion-forward pearl charm pendants that make a statement, worn alone or with a pearl necklace. 

Pearl Charms Pendants - A Continuation of the Trend 

This brings us to another favorite trend - charms or pendants.  Indeed, this is a continuation of a popular trend.  But today, we speak about charm pendants with a contemporary twist – charms, including pearl charm pendants, will not be restricted to bracelets only.  We will wear body charms and pearl charm necklaces.  I would like to say a few words about charm pendant pearl necklaces. 

As a matter of fact, Jewelry Olga’s signature jewelry for years was a pearl necklace with a detachable charm pendant.   Pearl necklaces are classic and timeless.  Adding a detachable charm pendant, we make the look unique and personalized, with a contemporary edge.  It demonstrates that, on the one hand, we honor traditions and, on the other hand, admire uniqueness and individuality.

Moreover, a pearl necklace with a detachable charm pendant is versatile – there are multiple ways to wear this modern pearl jewelry depending on the occasion and your mood.  I always say that having a pearl necklace with a detachable pearl pendant, you have a few pieces of jewelry in one – you may wear the pearl necklace in a classic way, without a pendant.  Then, you wear it with a pendant.  In addition, you may wear the pearl charm pendant with a chain or another necklace.  Finally, you may attach it to your bracelet!  Any other ideas?

Contemporary Pearl Jewelry - Minimalism?

At the moment, in general, in fashion, minimalism seems to be gaining at the moment.  We are willing to see simple and pure forms. I call this ‘’classics with a modern twist” – we may finish your classic pearl necklace with a contemporary minimalist clasp, and immediately, the look will change.  Or, we may make a classic white pearl necklace shorter, a kind of choker – again, a different style and look.    Pearl choker necklaces have continued to be very popular for years.  A pearl choker may feature pearls of various sizes, from small to pretty big ones. 

How To Make a Statement?

On the other hand, statement pearl jewelry will be searched for as well.  Large pearls, used to make a pearl pendant, a pearl necklace, or pearl earrings, will definitely look like an unforgettable, luxurious jewelry piece.

Another trend that I personally enjoy is layering and stacking.  Again, this is a continuation of the fashion trend popular for years.  But this year, you are allowed to be even bolder and more inventive: mix and match, pairing pearl necklaces with chunky chains or necklaces featuring gemstones.  The more, the better. 

Or, you may choose edgy combinations of pearls with leather.  To make yourself look unique and versatile, you may layer pearl necklaces of various lengths and chains and wear them over turtlenecks and sweaters or with elegant blazers.

There is a rule of thumb when it comes to layering – three is the magic number when we speak about layering.  It is said that odd numbers work better than even.  And keep it simple.

Do You Like Colorful Pearls? 

As color in jewelry is playing a bigger role, obviously, colored pearls will be worn more and more.  I have to admit that, unfortunately, consumers are aware of and used to white pearls predominantly - our famous “grandma’s pearls”, small round orbs.  Often, when I wear large pearls or colored pearls (particularly stunning freshwater Chinese Kasumi pearls), people are sure that these pearls are not real.

However, it is predicted that in 2026, natural colors, including champagne, pinks, and lavender, will become popular.  Great news! Contemporary pearl jewelry having color will add personality and sophistication.

Wear Your Pearl Jewelry!

As we see, spring and summer styling is about personality, cheerful, versatile, and unexpected.  There should be a feeling of effortlessness and everyday life.  Actually, this is another, a very important current trend – jewelry, including pearl jewelry, is no longer for “formal” events only.  On the contrary, contemporary jewelry is meant to be worn daily and casually,  with any outfit.  Pearl charms on fine chains will elevate your look and express your individuality.  A great fashion accessory!

I think jewellers and jewelry designers should educate the public about pearls, new achievements, and advances in perliculture.

Moreover, today, people are looking for uniqueness in the way they look. 

Obviously, this year we will continue wearing pearl jewelry. What style do you like?