May 18, 2010
I'm looking to buy a natural pearl strand, but am confused as to which length strand I should get. What are the different pearl strand lengths? And how are they called?
June 1, 2011
I don't know if this applies specifically to pearls, but I have a diagram of necklace lengths (standard lengths that necklaces and necklace chains come in). Each length has a name (16" is choker, for instance), but I can't find the names of some of the lengths! Anyway, for what it's worth, here are the "standard" sizes (of course, pearl necklaces and all jewelry can come in all shapes, just like photos can come in all shapes and sizes even though there are "standard" sizes). The shortest is 16" (choker), 18", 24" (sometimes 20" is included, and these three are often interchangeably referred to as "princess" length, I think), then 30" which might be called "matinee"? Then comes 36", "opera" length. Pearls longer than that are called rope, and are often made so that if the necklace is doubled or tripled up, the shorter length is one of the above-listed lengths (in other words, the super-long pearl rope's length is divisible by 20, or 24, or whatever). Most of the fun of a rope-length pearl necklace is that it is so versatile, and can be made to be shorter or longer according to the outfit or occasion, and can give a multi-strand look when desired.
May 27, 2010
Pearl necklaces are measured in relation to how close they are worn to the neck. Pearl necklaces' lengths include:
• Pearl collar – measuring between 10-13 inches. A pearl collar is worn tight against the throat.
• Pearl choker – pearl chokers measure from 14-16 inches. They are worn right at the base of the throat.
• Princess length – measures at 17-19 inches. Princess length pearl necklaces are worn just shy of the collarbone.
• Matinee length – measures at around 20-24 inches. Reach just above the breasts.
• Opera length – measures in at 28-35 inches. Opera length pearls are worn down to the breastbone.
• Pearl rope – measures more than 45 inches. Pearl ropes are worn longer than opera length and can be as long as the wearer chooses.