Freshwater Pearl Necklace 5.5–6mm 16 Inch 9ct Yellow Gold Ball Clasp

There is a confidence to a well-chosen pearl necklace, and this one has it in abundance.

This freshwater pearl necklace features a continuous strand of round white pearls, each measuring 5.5–6mm, carefully matched for size, shape and lustre across every inch of the piece. At this diameter, the pearls have a beautifully rich, luminous quality, each one catching the light with that distinctive soft glow that only a real cultured pearl produces. The 16 inch length sits perfectly at the collarbone, framing the neckline with the kind of quiet authority that pearl jewellery has always commanded.

The strand is finished with a polished 9ct yellow gold ball clasp; a warm, considered detail that speaks to the quality of the piece as a whole. Each pearl is individually knotted in the traditional manner, a technique that protects the nacre, ensures even spacing throughout the strand and gives the necklace its characteristic fluid, graceful movement when worn.

Freshwater pearls are real, natural pearls, cultivated in freshwater mussels and prized the world over for their organic lustre and timeless beauty. A 5.5–6mm pearl is a genuinely substantial stone; present and luminous without tipping into the overtly formal. This is a necklace that works with a relaxed weekend outfit as readily as it does with an occasion dress, and that looks equally beautiful on a woman of twenty and a woman of seventy. That kind of universality is rare, and it is exactly what makes pearl jewellery so enduring.

This necklace is in stock and ready to wear. It arrives in our signature Fogal & Barnes packaging, making it a perfect gift or a very well-deserved treat for yourself.

Product Details

FAQ Section

Are these real pearls? Yes. These are genuine freshwater cultured pearls, real pearls grown in freshwater mussels through a natural cultivation process, not imitation or synthetic. Each pearl has been individually selected for lustre, roundness and consistency across the full length of the strand.

What is the difference between freshwater and Akoya pearls? Akoya pearls are saltwater cultured pearls, traditionally associated with Japanese pearl farming, and are known for their very high lustre and near-perfect roundness. Freshwater pearls are cultivated in freshwater mussels and have a softer, more organic lustre with a slightly warmer appearance. Both are real, beautiful pearls. Freshwater pearls offer exceptional quality and value and are the most widely worn cultured pearl in fine jewellery today.

How will this necklace sit? At 16 inches, this necklace sits at the collarbone, the classic pearl length that flatters most necklines and works across every dress code. The 5.5–6mm pearl size gives the strand a confident, luminous presence at this length, making it as beautiful for everyday wear as it is for formal occasions.

Is this necklace suitable as a bridal or wedding gift? Absolutely. A 16 inch freshwater pearl necklace at 5.5–6mm is a wonderful bridal choice, the pearl size is substantial enough to photograph beautifully and sit with real confidence against a wedding dress, while the collarbone length suits almost every neckline. It also makes a deeply personal and lasting gift for a bride, bridesmaid, mother of the bride, or any milestone occasion.

How should I care for my pearl necklace? Always put pearls on after applying perfume, hairspray and cosmetics, as chemicals can dull the nacre over time. Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth after wearing and store flat or loosely coiled rather than hanging, to protect the silk thread. With proper care, a pearl necklace will retain its lustre for a lifetime.

Does it come gift-wrapped? Yes. Every piece from Fogal & Barnes arrives in our signature packaging, ready to give or to keep.