Post #18 here mention they are the origin of the grain in the sand myth. :confused:
https://www.pearl-guide.com/forum/showthread.php?10920-Pearl-in-an-oyster-and-Lpearls-com-warning/page2
I think it's fine whatever you wear as long as you can pull off the look, or if you like how it looks on you. I usually wear ring/pendant or ring/earrings. I like wearing a small amount of jewelry only but that's a personal preference.
I did the pick a pearl thing in Hawaii and I bought a 14kt gold setting from the store, I didn't set that pearl in it but set one of my own pearl later on. I love my pendant and has great memories of the trip. Maybe you can offer to reset the pieces with better pearls down the track? I'm sure...