What size pearl studs should I get? A size guide

Choosing the right size pearl studs can make all the difference. Whether you love something small and understated or prefer pearls that make a little more of a statement, there's a size to suit every style and occasion.

At The Courthouse Collection, we offer beautiful freshwater pearl studs in a range of sizes, from delicate everyday pearls to larger statement styles. Here's our guide to finding the pair you'll love wearing.

Quick answer: Which pearl stud size is best?

For everyday wear, 7-8.5mm pearl studs suit most people. Choose 4.5-6mm for a subtle look or second piercings, and 9mm or larger if you love a more noticeable statement.

Pearl stud size guide

Our white pearl stud collection offers a range of sizes, from petite 4.5mm pearls to larger 11.5mm options. Here's a quick guide to help you compare them.

Pearl size	Available sizes	The look
Small	4.5-5mm, 5.5-6mm	Delicate and subtle; lovely for second piercings
Small to medium	6-6.5mm, 6.5-7mm	Classic and understated
Medium	7-7.5mm, 7.5-8mm, 8-8.5mm	Versatile and beautiful for everyday wear
Medium to large	8.5-9mm, 9-9.5mm, 9.5-10mm	Noticeable, elegant and polished
Large	10-10.5mm, 10.5-11mm, 11.5mm	Bold and eye-catching statement pearls

Prices are displayed on each product page and vary depending on the selected pearl size. Please check the current price before purchasing.

How are pearl sizes measured?

Pearl sizes are measured in millimetres (mm), referring to the diameter of the pearl.

For example, a 5mm pearl is relatively small and delicate, while an 11.5mm pearl has a much more noticeable presence on the ear.

Even a small difference in size can change the overall look of your earrings. Our freshwater pearls are natural gems, so slight variations in shape, colour, and lustre are part of their individual charm.

Which pearl stud size suits my face and ears?

There isn't one perfect size for everyone. It comes down to your personal style, ear size and how noticeable you like your jewellery to be.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Small ears: 4.5-7mm pearls can look beautifully balanced without overwhelming the ear.
• Medium-sized ears: 7-8.5mm pearls are a lovely everyday choice.
• Larger ears: 8.5-10mm pearls create a beautiful, balanced look.
• If you love staement jewellery: Try 10-11.5mm pearls for a more dramatic finish

These are simply suggestions. The most important thing is choosing a size that makes you feel lovely when you wear it.

What size pearl studs should I choose for a bride or bridesmaids?

Pearl studs are a beautiful choice for weddings. They're timeless, elegant and can be worn long after the special day.

For brides, we love 8-10mm white pearl studs. They offer a lovely balance of elegance and presence, particularly with an updo or a simple wedding hairstyle.

For bridesmaids, 6-8.5mm pearls are a wonderful option. They're classic without drawing too much attention away from the bride.

For something a little different, our naturally pink pearl studs can add a soft touch of colour to a wedding outfit.

What size pearl studs are best for second piercings?

If you have multiple ear piercings, smaller pearl studs are usually the easiest to style.

We recommend looking at 4.5-6mm pearls for second or additional piercings. They sit beautifully alongside a larger first pair without competing for attention.

You could also combine white and pink studs for a lovely mix of colour and texture.

Does a bigger pearl cost more, and why?

Generally, larger freshwater pearls can cost more because suitable pearls become less comon as their size increases.

However, size isn't the only factor that determines a pearl's value. Lustre, surface quality, shape, colour and overall quality all play a part.

The setting and materials also affect the price. For example, sterling silver, gold-plated sterling silver and solid 9ct gold earrings will have different price points.

At The Courthouse Collection, we offer a variety of styles to suit different tastes and budgets.

From our studio in Broome

Here at The Courthouse Collection, we love helping customers find pearl earrings they'l treasure for years.

When customers visit us at the Broome markets, we often suggest starting with a 7-8.5mm pearl. It's a lovely middle ground: noticeable enough to appreciate the pearl's natural lustre, while remaining comfortable and versatile for everyday wear.

If you prefer something more delicate, we'd suggest trying our smaller white or pink pearl studs. And if you love a little more impact, larger pearls are always worth a look.

Some of our favourite styles include:

• White Pearl Stud Earrings - A timeless classic, perfect for everyday wear and every occasion.
• Pink Pearl Stud Earrings - Naturally coloured pearls with beautiful variations in soft pink tones.
• Keshi Pearl Studs - Loved for their beautiful lustre and naturally organic, individual shapes.
• 9ct Gold Pearl Ball Stud Earrings - Featuring 8.5mm genuine cultured freshwater pearls set in solid 9ct gold.

Every pair has its own character, and that's part of what makes pearl jewellery so special.

Explore our collection and find the size that feels just right for you.