Pearls have a way of making even a simple outfit look finished. A pair of studs works with a work blouse, a pendant softens a black party dress, and a strand of pearls adds instant polish to a knit jumper. With the festive season approaching, they are also one of the easiest jewellery gifts to get right.
UK jeweller Philip Jones sells a range of affordable pearl jewellery, and its product pages say clearly whether each piece uses freshwater pearls or shell pearls. This guide explains the difference, compares six pieces and helps you choose. Prices were checked on philipjonesjewellery.com on 4 November 2026 and may change.
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In this guide
Six Pearl Pieces at a Glance
| Piece | Pearl type | Metal | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18k Gold Plated Shell Pearl Earrings | Shell pearl, 6mm | 18k gold plated brass alloy | 8 (was 10) |
| Sterling Silver Pearl Earrings | Freshwater pearl, 7.7mm | Sterling silver, stamped 925 | 11 (was 14) |
| 18k Gold Plated Pearl Drop Set | Shell pearl, 7mm, with Zircondia crystals | 18k gold plated brass alloy | 16 (was 19) |
| Sterling Silver White Pearl Drop Necklace | Shell pearl, oval 12 x 10mm | Sterling silver, stamped 925 | 21 (was 26) |
| Sterling Silver Freshwater Pearl Strand Choker | 62 baroque freshwater pearls, 6-7mm | Sterling silver, stamped 925 | 22 (was 27) |
| Sterling Silver White Shell Pearl Set | Shell pearl, 8mm pendant and 6mm studs | Sterling silver, stamped 925 | 27 (was 33) |
Specifications and prices are as listed on the Philip Jones website on the date checked. “Was” prices are the retailer’s own comparison prices.
Freshwater vs Shell Pearls: What Is the Difference?
Freshwater pearls are grown inside freshwater molluscs, usually on pearl farms. Because they form naturally around an implant, each one is slightly different in shape and surface. That is why Philip Jones describes the pearls on its strand choker as “baroque”: irregular rather than perfectly round. Many people love this organic look because no two necklaces are identical.
Shell pearls are made from the inner layer of a shell, which is shaped and coated to give an even lustre. They tend to be more uniform in size, shape and colour, and they are usually cheaper. If you want perfectly round, matching pearls on a budget, shell pearls are a sensible choice. If you prefer natural character, freshwater is the one to look for.
The Freshwater Strand Choker
Our featured piece is the Sterling Silver White Freshwater Pearl Strand Choker. According to the listing, it uses 62 baroque freshwater pearls measuring 6mm to 7mm, strung on a 41cm choker with a 2.5cm extender and a spring ring clasp. At 22 GBP on the date checked, it is a classic strand for less than many people expect to pay. It sits high on the neck, so it pairs best with crew necks, open collars and strapless dresses.
Matching Sets: The Easy Gift
The Sterling Silver White Shell Pearl Set combines an 8mm shell pearl pendant on a 43cm cable chain (plus a 5cm extender) with 6mm stud earrings on butterfly backs. The listing says it comes with two gift pouches. A matching set takes the guesswork out of gifting, because the pieces are designed to be worn together.
Pendants: Subtle Everyday Elegance
The Sterling Silver White Pearl Drop Necklace features a single oval shell pearl of 12mm by 10mm with a Zircondia crystal detail above it. The pendant measures 23mm by 10mm and hangs on a 43cm chain with a 5cm extender. A single drop pearl is understated enough for the office, yet it catches the light nicely at an evening event.
Pearl Studs: The Wardrobe Staple
If you buy just one pearl piece, many stylists would suggest studs. The Sterling Silver Pearl Earrings use 7.7mm freshwater pearls on butterfly backs and, at 11 GBP on the date checked, are one of the most affordable sterling silver options in the range. They work with almost anything, from jeans to a wedding outfit.
Gold Tones for Warmer Looks
Prefer gold? The 18k Gold Plated Pearl Drop Set pairs a pendant with French-hook drop earrings, each combining a 7mm shell pearl with small Zircondia crystals. The base metal is brass alloy with 18k gold plating, which keeps the price at 16 GBP for the set.
For the smallest budget, the 18k Gold Plated Shell Pearl Earrings are 6mm studs listed at 8 GBP, a simple stocking filler that still feels thoughtful.
Sterling Silver or Gold Plated?
Sterling silver pieces are stamped 925, meaning 92.5% silver. Gold plated pieces have a thin layer of gold over a base metal, here brass alloy. Plating can wear over time with heavy use, so for everyday pieces like studs, sterling silver may last longer. For occasional party jewellery, plated pieces offer the look of gold at a lower price. Philip Jones describes all six of these pieces as hypoallergenic.
Caring for Pearl Jewellery
- Put pearls on last, after perfume, hairspray and make-up, as chemicals can dull the surface.
- Wipe them with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.
- Store them separately in a pouch so harder stones do not scratch them.
- Avoid wearing pearls in the shower, pool or sea.
Final Thoughts
Choose freshwater pearls if you love natural, slightly irregular character, and shell pearls if you want uniform, budget-friendly shine. For a gift, a matching set is hard to beat; for yourself, a pair of studs will be worn constantly. Browse the full range at Philip Jones Jewellery.
With prices starting from 8 GBP on the date checked, a little pearl elegance is within almost any budget at Philip Jones.
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices and product details were taken from philipjonesjewellery.com on 4 November 2026 and may change.
Theo Louse
I am Theo Louse. My skills are dedicated to the field of technology information and try to make daily lives more enjoyable. With more than 12 years of experience with BM, we are particularly famous for 100% self-developed ideas. Over these years, we have worked to make everyday life more convenient for the fast-paced world we live in.