Add-A-Pearl Gift FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

By Patti Dechter
Jul 23, 2025

cute toddler girl wearing her Add A Pearl necklace

Looking for a meaningful, heirloom-quality gift? Whether you're starting a necklace for a newborn, a first birthday, or a baptism, the Add-A-Pearl tradition offers a beautiful way to give a gift that grows with her. Below, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand how this sentimental gift works—and why so many families cherish it.

What makes Add-A-Pearl a meaningful baby gift?

Add-A-Pearl is more than just jewelry—it’s a lasting tradition. It begins with a single pearl on a delicate chain, symbolizing love and new beginnings. Over time, additional pearls can be added for birthdays, holidays, and milestones, creating a cherished keepsake that grows with her.

Is this a good gift for a baby girl’s first birthday or baptism?

Yes! Many families start an Add-A-Pearl necklace for milestone moments like a first birthday, christening, or naming ceremony. It's a timeless and elegant way to celebrate early childhood while building a necklace she’ll treasure forever.

Can I personalize the necklace?

Absolutely. You can add:

An engraved gold or silver charm with her name or initials
A luxurious clasp upgrade
Gold accents for a decorative addition

These personal touches make your gift even more special and uniquely hers.

Can I add pearls later on?

Yes! That’s the heart of the Add-A-Pearl tradition. You can add pearls any time, and we’ll keep track of them for you using our Necklace Tracker feature if you’re logged into your account. You can also use Pearls on Hold to purchase pearls now and have them added later.

Is this something she wears as a baby or later in life?

Most families begin building the necklace in babyhood, and she’ll start wearing it for special occasions as she grows. Eventually, it becomes a full strand of pearls she can wear proudly as a teen or adult, often on important days like graduations, weddings, or birthdays.

Can more than one person contribute to her necklace?

Yes! That’s one of the most meaningful parts of the Add-A-Pearl tradition. Parents, grandparents, godparents, and family friends can all participate by adding pearls over time. It’s a beautiful way to connect generations through one special gift.

What if I want to give the gift but don’t know her size or chain length?

You can start with pearls only and keep them on hold at Add-A-Pearl until you're ready to build the necklace. This is especially helpful for gift givers who want to surprise the family or let the parents decide on chain style and fit.

How do I get started?

You can browse our starter necklaces here. Choose your chain, pearl size, and any custom touches. If you’re unsure where to begin, we’re always happy to help—just reach out!

Still Have Questions?

We love hearing from customers and are happy to offer personal guidance. You can contact us here, or give us a call at 855.392.6640. We still personally answer the phone because we enjoy helping you create meaningful moments.