The standard lengths
| Name | Length | Where it sits |
|---|---|---|
| Choker | 14 to 16 in | Sits at the base of the neck |
| Princess | 17 to 19 in | Just below the collarbone; the most popular length |
| Matinee | 20 to 24 in | Between the collarbone and the bust |
| Opera | 26 to 36 in | Falls to the bust or below |
| Rope | Over 36 in | Over 36 inches; can be doubled |
Length ranges from Pearl Paradise. Princess is the most popular length.
Choosing a length
- Neck size matters. The same 16 inch strand sits higher on a larger neck. Measure a necklace you already like.
- Bigger pearls take up more room. A strand of large pearls sits a little shorter than a strand of small pearls of the same length.
- Necklines: short lengths suit open necklines; matinee and opera lengths sit over higher necklines.
- Rope lengths can be doubled or knotted.
Pearls per strand
Divide the length in millimeters (inches x 25.4) by the pearl size. A 17 inch strand of 7 mm pearls is about 62 pearls before knots and the clasp.
