Men Wearing Pearls – The Jewellery Trend Redefining Masculinity in 2025

Pearls for Men – Buying Guide for Modern Men

Walk into any coffee shop in Shoreditch, scroll through fashion Instagram, or attend a wedding in 2025, and you’ll notice something striking: pearls aren’t just for women anymore.

They’re adorning the wrists and necks of men who wouldn’t traditionally wear jewellery at all—and they’re wearing them with the same confidence they’d wear a watch or wedding band.

This isn’t a fleeting runway gimmick as men’s pearl jewellery sales surged by 150% in 2023, with search interest spiking dramatically in mid-2025.

The global pearl jewellery market, valued at approximately £17.8 billion in 2024, is projected to reach £57.4 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 13.8%.

Men wearing pearls has evolved from a provocative style statement into something far more significant: a quiet redefinition of what masculinity can look like when it stops performing and starts expressing.

Why Men Are Buying Pearl Jewellery Now

The resurgence isn’t happening in a vacuum. According to the Cultured Pearl Association of America, 44% of men aged 18-35 and 33% of men aged 35-54 are interested in purchasing pearl jewellery.

Online pearl necklace sales increased by 32% compared to average months, whilst pearl bracelet demand more than doubled in late 2022.

Several cultural shifts are converging to make this moment possible:

Masculinity is Being Redefined

The old male image – stoic, unemotional, ornament-free – doesn’t resonate the way it used to, as modern men’s image showcases vulnerability, creativity, introspection, and beauty.

Pearls, with their quiet elegance and organic origins, fit naturally into this expanded version of what it means to be masculine.

The cultural conversation around pearls for men reflects this shift and it’s less about challenging norms and more about expanding what’s possible.

Fashion Has Stopped Policing Gender

The lines between “men’s” and “women’s” accessories have blurred to the point of irrelevance for a growing segment of consumers.

A men’s pearl necklace can feel just as natural with a tailored blazer as it does layered over a vintage band tee.

Celebrity Influence and Social Media

High-profile figures like Harry Styles, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, Timothée Chalamet, and BTS’s V have normalised pearls as a unisex accessory.

Harry Styles’ pearl earring at the 2019 Met Gala sparked widespread media coverage, whilst A$AP Rocky popularised layered pearl necklaces in streetwear contexts.

Instagram and TikTok have amplified these trends, with influencers showcasing how to style pearls in contemporary ways.

Can Men Wear Pearls? History Confirms They Always Did

Let’s clarify something: the idea that pearls are inherently feminine is a modern fabrication, not a historical truth.

For most of human history, pearls were gender-neutral symbols of power. Ancient Roman senators wore them as status markers.

In India, Mughal emperors adorned themselves with pearls as expressions of divine authority.

Chinese royalty adopted pearls as their style symbol as early as 2300 BC. Across the Middle East and Asia, male rulers, scholars, and warriors wore pearls without question.

European kings—Henry VIII among them—practically dripped in pearls. They weren’t making a fashion choice; they were asserting dominance.

Sir Walter Raleigh, consort to Queen Elizabeth I, appeared in his court portrait wearing a large drop-shaped natural pearl earring, with pearl-embellished buttons, cape, and trousers.

The question “can men wear pearls” only emerged in the 20th century, when Western fashion decided to sort everything into rigid gender categories. Pearls got filed under “women’s jewellery,” and for a few decades, that stuck.

What we’re seeing now isn’t men adopting something feminine—it’s men reclaiming something that was always theirs to wear. In many ways, pearls on men aren’t a trend; they’re a return to historical precedent.

What Pearl Jewellery Symbolises (And Why it Matters to Modern Men)

Here’s where pearls become interesting beyond aesthetics. A pearl begins as an irritant, a grain of sand or parasite, that an oyster slowly transforms into something beautiful through patience and time. It’s not a flashy process; it’s quiet, internal, and resilient.

For many men, that resonates deeply. Personal growth rarely looks like a straight line. It’s messy, uncomfortable, and takes longer than expected.

Wearing pearls can feel symbolic of that process—a reminder that transformation happens slowly and that beauty often emerges from friction.

This is partly why pearls for men often carry more weight than other trend-driven accessories.

They’re not about showing off; they’re about intention. Men who wear pearls describe them as grounding pieces—jewellery that feels personal and considered rather than performative.

In a culture obsessed with hustle and surface-level achievement, there’s something subtly rebellious about wearing a gemstone that took years to form and can’t be rushed.

Buying Guide to Pearl Jewellery for Men

Types of Pearls and Pricing

Freshwater Pearls (£50-£300): The most affordable and versatile option. They come in various shapes and colours, making them ideal for everyday wear. Freshwater pearls lead the market due to their accessibility and variety.

Akoya Pearls (£200-£800): Known for their perfect round shape and high lustre. These are classic, elegant choices for men who prefer understated sophistication. Popular for single pearl pendants and stud earrings.

Tahitian Pearls (£400-£2,000+): Dark grey to black pearls with masculine appeal. Their unique colouration works exceptionally well for men’s jewellery, particularly when paired with leather or oxidised metals.

South Sea Pearls (£500-£3,000+): The largest and rarest pearls, typically white or golden. These are statement pieces for special occasions or milestone celebrations.

Baroque Pearls (varies): Irregularly shaped pearls that have become increasingly popular in men’s fashion. Their organic, imperfect forms create striking, contemporary pieces.

Pearl Sizing and Proportion Guidelines

For men, pearls proportions are critical. A well-designed pearl necklace should feel balanced on your frame:

• 7-9mm pearls: More versatile and understated for everyday wear
• 10-12mm pearls: Make a bolder statement, ideal for evening events
• 13mm+ pearls: Strong statement pieces, typically single pendants

Pearl Quality Indicators to Look For

When purchasing pearl jewellery, focus on these quality factors:

Lustre: The most important factor. High-quality pearls should have a mirror-like shine that reflects light clearly. Poor lustre looks chalky and dull.

Surface Quality: Examine for blemishes, spots, or irregularities. Some imperfections are natural, but excessive flaws reduce value and aesthetic appeal.

Nacre Thickness: Particularly important for cultured pearls. Thicker nacre means better durability and lustre. Quality pearls should have at least 0.4mm of nacre.

Colour: Should be even throughout. Look for natural colours without artificial dyes or treatments unless specifically marketed as enhanced.

How Men Are Styling Pearls in 2025

Forget long, classic strands—the way men wear pearls today looks completely different.

Short Pearl Necklaces

The most popular style right now is the short pearl necklace that sits just below the collarbone.

These typically feature smaller, uniform pearls (7-9mm) with subtle lustre, nothing too shiny or costume-like.

They’re designed for daily wear, not special occasions. Well-crafted men’s pearl necklaces in this style strike the balance between understated and intentional.

Pearl Bracelets

For many men, a pearl bracelet is the entry point into pearl jewellery. Less visible than a necklace and easier to experiment with, pearl bracelets work alone or stacked with leather bands and metal cuffs. They transition seamlessly from casual coffee meetings to formal dinners.

Single Pearl Pendants

Particularly popular with baroque or Tahitian pearls suspended on leather rope or simple chains.

The contrast between earthy textures and lustrous pearls creates a masculine, contemporary aesthetic perfect for everyday wear.

Pearl Earrings for Men

Single pearl stud earrings have gained traction since Harry Styles wore one to the Met Gala.

Typically smaller (6-8mm) and more subtle, they’re becoming increasingly mainstream amongst fashion-forward men.

Mixing Materials – The Modern Approach

One reason pearls have resonated with men is how well they pair with other materials to upgrade your style. Designers increasingly combine pearls with:

• Oxidised silver and blackened metals
• Raw leather cords and woven bands
• Brushed or matte gold
• Stainless steel and industrial materials
• Coloured gemstones for added dimension

This juxtaposition mirrors something many men are navigating in their own lives: how to be strong and vulnerable, ambitious and grounded, polished and authentic. Pearls offer a visual language for that balance.

Styling Pearl Jewellery by Occasion

Everyday Casual Wear

Pair a simple pearl bracelet or single pendant with a crew neck jumper, jeans, and trainers. Keep it minimal—one piece is sufficient.

Smart Casual

A short pearl necklace (7-8mm) works beautifully with an Oxford shirt (top button open) and chinos. Layer with a simple leather bracelet for added texture.

Business Professional

Opt for Akoya pearl studs or a subtle pearl bracelet under your shirt cuff. The key is discretion—pearls should complement, not dominate, professional attire.

Formal Events

This is where larger pearls (10-12mm) or statement pieces shine. A Tahitian pearl pendant on a silver chain with a dark suit creates sophisticated impact. Pearl cufflinks offer another elegant option.

Weddings and Milestones

More grooms are choosing pearl necklaces as part of their wedding-day look—often layered subtly with an open collar or paired with a tailored suit.

Pearls symbolise longevity, wisdom, and harmony, which align naturally with wedding values.

Beyond weddings, men purchase pearls to mark personal milestones: birthdays, career transitions, recovery anniversaries, creative breakthroughs.

In these contexts, pearls function less as fashion and more as personal artefacts—tangible reminders of specific moments or transformations.

Where to Buy Quality Pearl Jewellery for Men

Specialist Pearl Retailers

Look for retailers with expertise in pearl quality and grading. Reputable sources like The Pearl Source offer collections specifically designed for men’s proportions and styling.

Luxury Jewellery Houses

High-end brands like Mikimoto, Tasaki, and luxury fashion houses (Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dior) have expanded men’s pearl collections with contemporary designs. Expect premium pricing but exceptional quality.

Online Marketplaces

E-commerce has become the fastest-growing distribution channel for pearl jewellery, with online sales now representing a significant market segment. Look for:

• Detailed quality specifications (lustre grade, nacre thickness)
• Clear return policies
• Authentication certificates for high-value pieces
• Customer reviews with photos

Custom and Artisan Jewellers

For unique pieces, consider working with independent jewellers who can source specific pearl types and create bespoke designs tailored to your preferences.

Pearl Jewellery Care and Maintenance

Pearls are organic gemstones requiring specific care such asL

• Wear them often – Body oils help maintain lustre
• Put them on last – After cologne, aftershave, and styling products
• Wipe after wearing – Use a soft, damp cloth to remove residue
• Store separately – Pearls are soft and can scratch against harder gemstones
• Avoid chemicals – Remove before swimming, showering, or cleaning
• Professional restringing – Have pearl necklaces restrung every 2-3 years with silk thread

Why Pearl Sustainability Matters

Cultured pearls are increasingly marketed as eco-friendly alternatives to mined gemstones.

According to the International Labour Organization, the cultivated pearl business is growing at 15% annually, with responsibly sourced pearls expected to reach £3.9 billion by 2025.

When purchasing, look for:

• Transparent sourcing information
• Sustainable pearl farming practices
• Fair trade certifications
• Brands committed to ocean conservation

Many contemporary buyers, particularly Gen Z and Millennials who drive 20-25% of pearl jewellery sales, prioritise ethical production and environmental consciousness in their purchasing decisions.

Are Men’s Pearl Jewellery Worth of Investment?

Quality pearl jewellery holds its value remarkably well:

• Natural pearls – Exceptionally rare and valuable, often appreciating over time
• High-grade cultured pearls – Maintain value, particularly rare varieties like large South Sea pearls
• Designer pieces – Can appreciate if from prestigious houses with strong brand recognition
• Vintage pearl jewellery – Often increases in value due to rarity and historical significance

However, pearl jewellery should primarily be purchased for personal enjoyment rather than pure investment.

Unlike diamonds, pearls don’t have standardised resale markets, though quality pieces from reputable sources retain substantial value.

Why ‘Pearl for Men’ Trend Isn’t Going Away

Most fashion trends burn bright and fade fast, but pearls feel different. They’re not driven by hype or novelty; they’re gaining traction because they align with deeper cultural values: authenticity, individuality, and rejection of outdated definitions of masculinity.

The numbers support longevity: men’s jewellery searches grew by 150% in 2020, with specific searches for men’s pearls rising by 17%.

The men’s jewellery market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% from 2024 to 2032. By 2026, men’s pearl jewellery could account for 20% of the global pearl market, driven primarily by Gen Z and Millennial consumers.

As jewellery becomes less about decoration and more about identity, pearls stand out for their history, symbolism, and adaptability. The fact that they’ve been worn by men for centuries only adds to their credibility.

For a deeper look at the cultural evolution behind this movement and why it continues to resonate across generations, exploring perspectives on pearls for men offers valuable context into what’s driving this shift beyond fashion.

Men Wearing Pearls – FAQ

Are pearls too feminine for men?

This is a modern myth. Historically, pearls were worn by kings, emperors, and warriors as symbols of power and wealth. The association with femininity only emerged in the 20th century. Today’s cultural shift recognises pearls as gender-neutral accessories that complement masculine style when chosen and styled appropriately.

What size pearls should men wear?

7-9mm pearls work well for everyday wear and offer versatility. 10-12mm pearls make stronger statements suitable for evening events. Single pendants can feature larger baroque pearls (13mm+) for dramatic effect.

Can you wear pearls to work?

Absolutely. Choose subtle pieces like pearl bracelets, small stud earrings, or thin pearl necklaces that sit under shirt collars. The key is keeping it understated and professional.

How much should I spend on my first pearl piece?

Start with quality freshwater pearl pieces in the £100-£300 range. This allows you to experiment with the style without significant investment. Once you’ve determined your preferences, consider upgrading to Akoya or Tahitian pearls.

Do pearls suit all skin tones?

Yes. White and cream pearls suit most skin tones. Those with darker complexions often find Tahitian black or golden South Sea pearls particularly striking. Experiment to find what works best for you.

What Men Wearing Pearls Really Means

In 2025, men wearing pearls isn’t about breaking rules—it’s about ignoring them entirely.

The men who wear pearls today aren’t trying to redefine masculinity from the outside; they’re reshaping it from within.

They’re choosing jewellery that feels personal, meaningful, and true to who they are, regardless of who wore it before them.

Pearls have always represented patience, transformation, and quiet strength. That those values resonate with men now says less about pearls and more about what masculinity is becoming: something more expansive, more thoughtful, and far less concerned with approval.

Whether you’re drawn to a simple freshwater pearl bracelet or a striking Tahitian pendant, the key is confidence and authenticity.

Choose pearls that resonate with you personally, not because they’re trendy but because they feel right. And that shift? It’s not going anywhere.