How to Make a Pearl Pendant - Step-by-Step Guide

Selecting the Ideal Pearl for Your Pendant

When creating a pearl pendant, one of the most important choices is selecting the perfect pearl. You'll want to consider the pearl's shape, size, color, luster, surface quality, and more when determining if it will work well in a particular pearl pendant setting.

Pearl Shapes

Round and symmetrical pearls tend to look best in solitaire pendants where the pearl is the sole focus. Baroque and irregularly shaped pearls can add interesting visual dimension to more elaborate multi-pearl or pearl and gemstone pendant settings. Make sure to match pearls of a similar shape within a single pendant so they coordinate.

Pearl Sizes

Standard pearl pendant settings often accommodate pearls between 5mm to 10mm. However, you can find settings made for larger South Sea pearls over 10mm as well. The setting you choose needs an opening and depth suitable for your pearl's diameter to avoid squeezing or rattling. A pearl should fit comfortably with some extra space around the edges.

Pearl Color

White and cream colored pearls suit any jewelry wardrobe and match with other jewelry you own. Black Tahitian pearls and naturally colorful freshwater pearls add gorgeous pops of color. Select pearl colors that appeal most to the wearer or coordinate with an outfit. Mix warm and cool toned pearls together for interest.

Pearl Luster & Surface

Look for pearls with high luster, reflecting and refracting light brightly. Clean surface quality without visible flaws or blemishes will also ensure your pearl makes the best impression in a pendant. Low luster pearls with very visible imperfections tend to look best in non-focal areas where they aren't the center of attention.

Choosing a Pendant Setting for Your Pearl

The style of the pearl pendant setting impacts the overall look considerably. So weigh design, metal, and structural factors when selecting a setting for your special pearl.

Pendant Style

Modern minimalist pearl pendants like a solitaire setting on a sleek chain create an everyday luxe feel. Vintage inspired designs with filigree embellishments or gems lend a romantic flair. Pearl drops offer movement and add visual intrigue. The style should align with the wearer's personality and preferences.

Metal Types

Sterling silver's affordability and brilliance enhance pearls beautifully. Yellow or rose gold metal delivers a warm, welcoming glow suiting traditional tastes. Platinum's elegance could appeal to sophisticated sensibilities. Metal allergies may also help narrow optimal metal color choices.

Structural Supports

Examine the setting for sturdy structural prong supports, bail hardware, and links connecting any chain. Delicate areas should reinforce stress points adequately to protect the pearl. Try to avoid thin unsupported prong setting construction at the risk of future loosening over time.

Positioning Pearls Properly Within Pendant Settings

Once you select the perfect pearl and pendant setting combination, you can finalize assembly for wearing. Follow tips below to complete your pearl pendant successfully.

Insert Pearl Properly

Gently press the pearl into place within the setting, taking care not to scrape or dull its surface. The setting's prongs or structure should cradle the pearl's form without squeezing too tightly. There should be no sharp digging points into the pearl's body.

Check Security & Comfort

Confirm all setting clasps close securely and that prong settings have evenly spaced gaps with no pinching points. The pendant bail and chain connections should also move freely without catching. Everything needs to lay comfortably against the skin with no irritation or poking.

Examine Alignment

Hold the pendant up toward a bright light and use a magnifying glass or loupe if needed. Verify that the pearl hangs centered without veering off to one side. The bail and chain mechanism should also suspend properly so the pendant displays as level as possible.

Caring for Your Pearl Pendant

Once completed, pearl pendant care involves a few key steps to help it last and retain beauty through years of wear.

Proper Storage

Keep pearl pendants in a dedicated compartment or jewelry box slot to avoid damage when not being worn. Velvet lined drawers provide an ideal cushioned surface protecting from scratches or tangles.

Regular Cleaning

Use a gentle jewelry polishing cloth 2-4 times per year to buff away dirt, skin oils, makeup, hair products and other residue that dulls pearl luster. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or scrubbing that degrades nacre.

Delicate Wear & Handling

When putting on or taking off a pearl pendant, grasp the metal setting rather than the pearl itself to minimize unnecessary touching and pulling. Exercise care near heat, household chemicals, and during physical tasks where pendants could catch on objects.

By selecting an ideal pearl, finding the perfect pendant setting match, assembling properly, and caring over time, your special pearl pendant will deliver lasting enjoyment and style. Follow the tips in this guide and exercise some patience creating your meaningful heirloom piece of jewelry.

FAQs

What is the most secure pendant setting for pearls?

Prong or bezel settings typically provide the most security for pearls in pendants. Prongs cradle the pearl all around or bezel wire surrounds the edges. Both keep pearls firmly in place better than open basket designs that rely solely on adhesive.

Can I wear a pearl pendant daily?

With proper care, you can wear pearl pendants daily. Just be gentle putting them on and taking them off to avoid strain on the pearl. Clean them regularly so skin oils and debris do not build up. During active tasks, tuck pendants inside clothing for protection.

How do I measure a pearl for a pendant?

Use a digital caliper device to precisely measure the pearl's diameter across its widest point. Or wrap a thin paper measuring tape carefully around the pearl's circumference then match against a ruler for the diameter in millimeters. This ensures proper pendant sizing.

Should pearl pendant prongs cover the top of pearls?

No, pearl pendant prongs should not squeeze down and cover the crown of a pearl. Prongs mainly provide support by gripping the pearl's lower sides. Visible pearl tops allow maximum light reflection and beauty while still keeping them secure within settings.