9 Sustainable Pearl Necklaces From Ethical Jewelry Brands
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We’ve researched and worn dozens of sustainable jewelry brands throughout the years — these are our personal favorites for sustainable pearl necklaces, sourced ethically with eco-friendly practices, at a variety of price points.
There are a few jewelry pieces that really stand the test of time, and if you’re looking for something that can walk the line of power and proper, pearls are it. We’re always on the lookout for ethical pearl jewelry brands that prioritize sustainability and thoughtful craftsmanship. From local artisans to woman-owned small businesses, we love discovering makers who focus on responsibly sourced pearls, fair wages, and meaningful give-back initiatives.
What makes a pearl necklace ethical?
An ethical pearl necklace goes beyond beauty — it’s about honoring both the planet and the people behind the piece. Truly ethical pearls are either sustainably farmed or vintage, ensuring that their harvesting doesn’t harm marine ecosystems or exploit workers. Responsible pearl farming focuses on maintaining clean, healthy waters and often supports local communities by providing fair wages and safe working conditions. Some ethical brands even go the extra mile by using recycled metals for clasps or packaging their jewelry plastic-free. So when you choose an ethical pearl necklace, you’re not just adding elegance to your wardrobe — you’re wearing a story of care, consciousness, and craftsmanship.
How do I care for pearl jewelry?
Caring for pearl jewelry is all about treating these natural gems with the gentle love they deserve. Pearls are delicate and porous, which means they’re sensitive to chemicals, perfumes, and even too much moisture — so it’s best to put them on last when getting ready and take them off first at the end of the day. After wearing, give your pearls a soft wipe with a clean cloth to remove any oils or residue. Store them flat in a soft pouch (not hanging) and away from other jewelry to prevent scratches. With just a little TLC, your pearls will stay luminous and lovely for generations to come!
Our criteria:
Our team has fallen in love with dozens of ethical and sustainable jewelry brands over the years. For this review of ethical pearl necklaces, we pooled together our experience, researched the best brands on the market, and scoured thousands of customer reviews. We update this list regularly with emerging favorites that meet our criteria below.
- ETHICALLY SOURCED PEARLS | Each of these necklaces is made with responsibly sourced and ethical pearls. The brands we’ve selected note their traceability, provenance, and origins where available.
- QUALITY/DURABLE | We’ve tested and can confirm that each of these pearl necklaces is made with high-quality pearls, can be worn daily, and will stand the test of time.
- AFFORDABLE | We’ve included brands on the list that are fairly priced at an accessible price point that reflects the true quality of the pearl necklaces.
For the most sustainable pearl jewelry options, look for vintage or heirloom pearls since they’re already sourced and created; here’s a guide on how to look for vintage jewelry, pearls and all. For even more jewelry options, our ethical jewelry guide has you covered!
1. Mejuri
For a standout look, we love Mejuri’s pearl necklaces made with a variety of materials (including 18k gold vermeil, sterling silver, and 14k yellow gold) and freshwater pearls. The brands cultured pearls are responsibly sourced from oysters and mussels since Mejuri is committed to transparency and traceability throughout its supply chain. Mejuri’s collection includes everything from your classic pearl necklace, to minimal pearl pendants, and even more unique options like oversizes baroque pearls, micro pearls, and elongated stick pearls.
Customer Review | “Beautiful necklace! Fits well and looks good on everything!” – Natasha S. (Read all reviews.)
2. Brilliant Earth
For a classic pearl necklace that goes with everything, we love Brilliant Earth‘s pearl jewelry collection. Their ethically sourced pearl jewelry is as elegant as it gets, small enough for everyday wear but featuring a brilliant luster that is truly eye catching. The San Francisco-based brand is certified carbon free, known for its ethically sourced gemstones and recycled precious metals, so you can feel good about your new bling.
Customer Review | “Purchased this as a wedding gift for my fiancé. It is simple, and beautiful, and I can’t wait to give it to her!” – Austin (Read all reviews.)
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3. GLDN
GLDN crafts freshwater pearl necklaces that have tons of customization options, so you can build the necklace of your or your loved ones dream. Each handcrafted style gives you the option of selecting the number of pearls, chain length, and choice of material (which includes options like rose gold fill and 14k solid gold!). GLDN even takes special requests if you want to up the ante of your custom piece. Once your order is placed, you’ll have the option of donating 1% of your order to a nonprofit of your choice, at no additional cost.
Customer Review | “The pearls’ organic shapes and necklace’s handmade design offer a more modern take on an ever tasteful style. The pearls are delicate without feeling dainty, and the unexpected texture of the piece is disarming without being showy. Love!” – Shelley J. (Read all reviews.)
4. Yam
Chokers are back, baby! Yam’s Pearl Choker necklaces are made with vintage and ethically sourced pearls as well as gold. Chokers are handmade in Astoria with a one- to two-week turnaround time, and you can choose from two length options and between gold fillings or plated. We love the idea of layering this piece with a pendant necklace for a sophisticated and fun twist to your outfit.
5. Aurate
Aurate’s parl necklaces are the epitome of delicate and dainty. Available in white, rose, or yellow 14K gold, each chain comes with the highest quality AAA-rated freshwater cultured pearls with the best luster and smoothness. Like most Aurate pieces, necklaces are made-to-order in New York City, and they come with a certificate of authenticity, a lifetime guarantee, and insurance.
Customer Review | “Absolutely lovely my dainty pearl necklace. It is exactly what I was looking for and after few months of wearing it I can finally say it was the best decision ever. I now want to get more in a bigger size too!!” – Kala G. (Read all reviews.)
6. Ana Luisa
For an ethical, sustainable, and affordable pearl necklace, Ana Luisa checks all the boxes. Their versatile necklaces are outfitted with high-quality freshwater pearls and hypoallergenic tarnish-free materials, and we love that they can be paired with almost any outfit. Produced in small batches to minimize waste, the Ana Luisa team also invests in carbon-neutral practices, including environmental initiatives and recyclable packaging.
Customer Review | “I wear it everyday and love it. I wear it in the shower and never take the it off. Favorite necklace ever” – Anonymous (Read all reviews.)
7. Catbird
From colorful pearls, to one of a kind charm and gemstone combos, Catbird pushes the boundaries of how creative a natural pearl necklace can get. The brand features designers like Stacey Nishimoto and WWAKE alongside their own collections, and every piece is built as a heirloom quality gem that’s made to last. Catbird gives back through their Giving Fund, which has raised $1.9 million for their non-profit partners like Planne Parenthood and the ACLU.
Customer Review |“Love this necklace!!! Very sweet and beautiful piece!!!” – Nancy B. (Read all reviews.)
8. Wolf Circus
Vancouver-based brand Wolf Circus makes bold and colorful pearl necklaces with freshwater pearls, handcrafted with care in the brand’s in-house studio. Chain options include a delicate beaded chain that compliments a unique freshwater pearl pendant, or an illuminating snake chain with a pearl pendant that’s both illuminating and chic. This demi-fine jewelry is available for delivery to Canada and the US.
9. Wild Fawn
Wild Fawn‘s made-to-order freshwater pearl necklaces are ethically handmade in London, using sustainably sourced freshwater pearls, solid and recycled precious metals, and plastic-free packaging. The women-owned and LGBTQ-led brand proudly displays their jewelry in their naturally-dyed signature packaging that’s handmade in Bali using 100% post-consumer recycled paper collected from schools, offices and hotels. Even more impressive, Wild Fawn gives back proceeds of their capsule collections to organizations like Endometriosis UK.
Customer Review | “I purchased an item for my wife’s birthday, typically it was last minute by me but Wild Fawn went the extra yard and arranged the gift I wanted for next day delivery, at no extra cost. Lovely product and great service!” – Stuart C. (Read all reviews.)
