As anyone who spends time with opposite sex knows, jewelry is designed to subtle remind you of a female’s attractiveness while not being a distraction from her clothing or hair style.  Many times we can forget that jewelry is to accessorize, not be the whole show.  This is no truer than when it comes to a pearl necklace, and the pearl choker necklace.

First, a quick review of the pearl choker necklace; the definition of a “choker” is a piece of jewelry that fits somewhat tightly around the neck.  While most pearl necklaces will float down to hang around the collar bone, or even lower, the choker does not.  Without offense, a perfect fit for a pearl choker is almost like a collar.

Historically, the choker necklace may have come about as an extension of women wearing ribbons around their neck.  There are many who believe the first ribbons worn around the neck were during the height of the French Revolution.  It is said that many young women in England and other European countries wore red ribbons around their necks to show their solidarity with those being killed in France.  In fact, the first pearl choker ever made could have been a testament to those who lost their lives at the guillotine.

Today the pearl choker necklace is a simple, yet classy, piece of jewelry that is acceptable in most formal occasions.  Many times a pearl choker can be seen on the bride at weddings, or at funerals as a piece of light in a crowd of black.  It has also been said that the most sensible use of a pearl choker is to highlight a slender and attractive neck, and calling attention away from other bodily defects.

When having to learn how to choose a pearl choker, keep these simple tips in mind. First, know that most chokers are between 14 and 16 inches long, and should hug the neckline above the collarbone, but not in a dangerously tight fashion.  Must upper end jewelry dealers can fit a pearl choker necklace to a neck based on comfort and desire of location.

It is also important to know what color or “overtone” of pearl you should select.  While most pearls are white, many have different hints of pink, yellow or even light green.  If you are looking for a pearl choker to go with a pink bridal gown, a hint of pink may make the necklace match, but yet stand out, from the gown.  You can also find a black pearl necklace, some that have been dyed and faux pearls in multiple different hues.

In looking for different prices and deals on pearl necklaces, pearl chokers and more, keep in mind the concept of group discounts.  Many national retailers such as Nordstrom, Macy’s and others will offer tremendous discounts on pearl necklace earrings and other sets.  If you are searching for several of the same kind of pearl chokers, think about wholesale dealers as well.

You can read more about the cultured pearl necklace options on another of our pages, but please make sure you don’t buy faux pearls if you are looking for something authentic.  Make sure you learn plenty about the akoya pearl necklace, what a floating pearl necklace is and whether you are looking for a freshwater pearl, or one from a saltwater oyster.