Pearls Add Luster to the Bride and Her Bridesmaids

Cultured pearls are a beautiful, traditional accompaniment to any bride's wardrobe. They are also a perfect wedding gift for the bridesmaids and for the mother of the bride. And while there are a wide range of pearl choices to pick from for that important day, one doesn't have to "break the bank" to find the right style. Freshwater pearls are much more affordable than their saltwater akoya counterparts -- and they can be found in most mall jewelry chains and department stores.

For the bride, a traditional pearl choker or multi-strand collar is an elegant, classic choice that she can wear long after her wedding day. She can also opt for something a bit more modern, such as sweeping shoulder-length earrings or a pearl lariat. Here are some other popular looks for the bride and her bridal party according to several major pearl jewelry manufacturers.

Basic pearl necklace strands of standard sizes (5.5 mm to 6 mm) and lengths (18 in. to 21 in.) are traditional favorites. However, some brides are opting for slightly larger sizes (8 mm to 8.5 mm) as well. In bridal jewelry, white pearls will always reign. But some brides prefer rose-colored pearls as well.

Freshwater pearl trio sets that include a "starter" necklace (with only one or a few pearls on a strand that can be added to on future occasions) along with a matching pearl bracelet and earrings are a big trend right now -- both for the bride and as a gift for her attendants.

Basic pearl stud earrings are a popular choice for brides and their bridesmaids, because of their simple elegance and versatility. Other styles, including pearl hoops, dangles and leverbacks (all alone or with diamond accents) are gaining popularity as well.

Pearl bracelets are another strong category this season. Either single- or multi-strand, a bride can't go wrong with this style as an accessory for her or her attendants.

Three-stone pearl styles -- which represent past, present and future -- are another important current category. Although this style originated with diamond jewelry, the romance and enduring love and commitment suggested by the look makes it a perfect fit for pearl bridal jewelry as well. The three-stone pearl look is also available in matching sets of necklaces, bracelets and earrings at many mall jewelry counters.

Meanwhile, pearl solitaires -- on a traditional strand or a thin, clear nylon "invisible" strand, which produces a "floating" look -- are another affordable choice.