Most pearl experts agree there are 8 main pearl shape categories, but within those, there are many sub-variations.
Main Pearl Shapes
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Round – Perfectly spherical (rarest and most valuable).
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Near-Round – Very close to round but slightly off.
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Button – Flat on one side, dome-shaped on the other.
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Drop – Tear or pear-shaped.
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Oval – Longer and more symmetrical than drop pearls.
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Baroque – Irregular and organic shapes.
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Semi-Baroque – Slightly irregular but still somewhat symmetrical.
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Circled – Rings or grooves around the surface, usually on baroque pearls.
Other Specialty Shapes you might see:
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Coin pearls (flat and round, like coins)
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Rice pearls (small, oval-shaped)
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Keshi pearls (tiny, freeform, often lustrous byproducts of pearl culturing)
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Mabe pearls (hemispherical, grown against the inside shell)
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Stick pearls (long and narrow)
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Heart, star, or carved pearls (shaped intentionally, often for novelty jewelry)
Think of them like people: some are perfectly polished, some are quirky, and some are downright show-stopping. Let’s dive into a few of the shapes you’ll meet in the wonderful world of pearls.
1. Round Pearls – The Classics
Perfectly round pearls are the Audrey Hepburn of the jewelry world: timeless, sophisticated, and always in style. They’re rare, coveted, and a little more “black-tie” than their wilder cousins.
2. Near-Round Pearls – The Almost-Perfectionists
Just a smidge off from a true circle, these pearls still look round to the casual eye, but with a touch of individuality. Like that friend who’s always slightly late, but still fabulous.
3. Button Pearls – The Easygoing Minimalists
Flat on one side, button pearls are ideal for stud earrings and bracelets because they sit so comfortably against the skin. They’re like your comfiest silk blouse, effortless and chic.
4. Drop Pearls – The Romantics
Shaped like delicate teardrops, drop pearls are graceful, feminine, and perfect for earrings or pendants that want to make a subtle “look at me” statement.
5. Oval Pearls – The Free Spirits
Elongated and elegant, oval pearls have a naturally graceful silhouette. They’re the yoga instructors of the Pearl family, flexible, relaxed, and always a little zen.
6. Baroque Pearls – The Life of the Party
Baroque pearls are wild, wonderful, and unapologetically irregular. No two are alike, which makes them the perfect choice for someone who embraces individuality. Think “boho chic” meets ocean treasure.
7. Semi-Baroque Pearls – The Artistic Types
These pearls fall somewhere between round and baroque, unique, but not too out-there. Great for adding just a touch of artistic flair to an otherwise classic look.
8. Circled Pearls – The Adventurers
Characterized by natural grooves or rings around the surface, circled pearls look like they’ve been on a few exciting voyages. They’re bold, textured, and full of character.
Shop the Petite Biltmore Hoops in Tahitian Pearl
Which Pearl Shape Is Your Vibe?
Whether you’re drawn to the perfection of a round pearl or the personality of a baroque, every shape has its own charm. Pearls aren’t just jewelry, they’re tiny ocean stories, each one with its own curves, edges, and beauty.
