Natural Pearl Necklace Fetches $42 Million at Auction, Outperforming Art

The pearl necklace—once seen as a symbol of classic, old-money elegance—has undergone a dramatic transformation in 2025. From record-breaking auction prices and supply chain shocks caused by Japan’s wastewater release, to a surprising Gen Z fashion revival on TikTok and Instagram, the pearl necklace is making headlines across markets, culture, and social media. Whether you’re tracking investment-grade strands, spotting red carpet trends, or watching live-streaming sales in China’s pearl capital Zhuji, one thing is clear: the pearl necklace is no longer just an accessory—it’s a global phenomenon. Below are the latest headlines covering the pearl necklace boom, from price surges and scandals to style revolutions.