How to choose pearl jewellery that feels like you

Choose a sentence before a size

Write one sentence: ‘I want this to feel quiet every day,’ ‘I want one luminous detail,’ or ‘I want the room to notice.’ That sentence is more useful than beginning with millimetres.

Small pearls create texture; larger pearls create punctuation. A short strand frames the face, a longer one moves with clothing, studs hold light close and drops introduce movement. None is automatically more elegant.

See the glow on you

Try the piece near a window and take one front-facing photograph from a normal distance. Compare white, cream, silver, golden, grey or dark pearls without forcing an undertone rule. Skin, hair, fabric, makeup and metal all alter the impression.

Look away, then look back at your face first. If your eye goes only to the jewellery, decide whether that was the intention.

Construction is part of style

Check the clasp with your own hands. Feel the weight for several minutes. Look at drill holes, knots, earring posts, backs and metal fineness. Online, ask for daylight video, dimensions, total weight, returns and an exact description.

For a gift, do not guess identity from age. Choose adjustable length, an easy clasp or a simple form with a generous exchange policy.

• Everyday: comfort and secure closure.
• Event: movement and visibility in photographs.
• Gift: exchangeability and clear description.
• Online: daylight video, measurements and returns.