Pearl Necklace Comparison: Vivienne Westwood, Mikimoto & Joey Baby
Ever find yourself enchanted by a gorgeous pearl necklace or a statement-making pearl choker and wonder why are pearls so expensive in the first place? Maybe you’ve browsed iconic designer brands like Vivienne Westwood and Mikimoto, only to be hit with sticker shock or doubts about overall quality. Let’s talk through three popular options:
By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of which one fits your lifestyle—and your budget.
Vivienne Westwood Mini Bas Relief Pearl Choker
You might be wondering, are Vivienne Westwood pearls real? This specific choker is actually made with glass-based pearls, which explains why they’re perfectly round. The chain is gold-plated brass, meaning it can tarnish over time, especially with frequent wear. Priced around $240, a big part of that cost goes toward owning a Vivienne Westwood piece and flaunting the brand’s edgy orb logo.
If you simply can’t resist that iconic design, or you’re a die-hard fan of Vivienne Westwood, you might decide it’s worth it. Just keep in mind that while the look is undeniably statement-worthy, a Vivienne Westwood pearl necklace made with glass might not satisfy the desire for genuine pearls in the long run.
Mikimoto 18" Akoya Cultured Pearl Strand Necklace
On the opposite end of the spectrum is Mikimoto, often hailed as the pinnacle of pearl quality. When you think “luxury pearls,” Mikimoto probably tops the list. These Akoya pearls are known for their near-perfect roundness and mesmerizing luster, which is why people consider them heirloom-quality jewelry. Even though this 18" strand goes for about $4,700—and is one of Mikimoto’s more affordable offerings—the brand has pieces that range from a few thousand all the way to several hundred thousand dollars.
If you want a classic, meticulously matched pearl necklace that could become a family treasure, Mikimoto is your go-to. But that premium price also means you might hesitate to wear it every day—especially if your routine involves dashing from the office to errands to social events. There’s no denying the beauty or prestige of a Mikimoto strand, but it’s a serious investment.
Joey Baby Carrie Necklace
Finally, we land in the sweet spot with the Joey Baby Carrie Necklace. At $225, it’s actually more affordable than the Vivienne Westwood choker—and these pearls are the real deal. The Carrie Necklace features AA-rated freshwater pearls, which means they have a nice shine and minimal surface flaws, though they’re not perfectly round like glass or the ultra-premium Akoya variety. That little bit of shape variation is part of their natural charm.
The chain is gold-plated stainless steel, so it’s tarnish-resistant and built to handle your busy lifestyle. Plus, the piece is handmade in the USA, which adds a personal touch you might not get with larger brands. If you’re looking for something that’s easy to wear any day—without a four-figure price tag—it’s hard to top.
Which One’s Right for You?
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Vivienne Westwood: Perfect if you love that punk-chic orb logo and don’t mind glass pearls or potential tarnishing. You’re paying for brand recognition and fashion cred.
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Mikimoto: Ideal if you’re after near-flawless pearls, don’t mind spending thousands, and want an investment piece that can become a family heirloom.
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Joey Baby: Great if you want authentic freshwater pearls and a durable design, but don’t want to break the bank. It’s the sweet middle ground between brand name hype and stratospheric luxury.
Our (Totally Biased) Pick: Joey Baby
We’ll admit it—we’re biased, but we’re also incredibly proud of the Carrie Necklace. It’s crafted with genuine pearls, a stainless steel base that actually lasts, and a price that doesn’t require a second mortgage. If that’s not a win for the modern, style-conscious woman, we don’t know what is.
Sure, Mikimoto offers a level of roundness and luster that’s practically otherworldly, and Vivienne Westwood brings that bold runway flair—but for everyday wear at a reasonable price, we think Joey Baby is the best choice for most pearl lovers. We might be partial, but can you blame us? When you love what you create, it’s easy to believe it’s the perfect fit for anyone who wants a beautiful pearl necklace without all the stress.
So if you’re searching for a pearl choker or a necklace that’s both stunning and practical, why not give the Carrie Necklace a shot? After all, a touch of genuine pearl magic can make ordinary days feel downright special.
