Pearl jewelry is considered by many to be something of a classic—so much so that at one time, a strand of pearls was the quintessential everyday piece of jewelry for many middle class American women.

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Long a symbol of class, elegance, and royalty, pearls have been a luxury fashion statement in centuries ...

An 11-year-old Elizabeth sported pearls at her father’s 1937 coronation. Queen Elizabeth II often wore pearl necklaces over the course of her reign, and lent them to Princess Diana and Kate Middleton.