or pearl earrings for yourself or someone else, there
are a few things to consider: color, size, luster, surface and shape.
As you decide on the color of your pearl necklace, keep in mind
that each type of pearl has different colors. Akoya pearl necklace
will be typically white or with rose undertones, Freshwater pearl
necklace is usually white with rose undertones, Southsea pearl necklace
are white with silver or rose undertones, and a Southsea Tahitian
pearl necklace is usually black with green or pink undertones. Color
preference depends on the person's coloring. Those who have fair
coloring would look best in light colors and those who have a darker
coloring would look best in darker or golden pearls. Complement
the woman's skin tone by buying the best looking pearl color.
Size of the pearl depends on the pearl type. Freshwater pearls are typically the smallest pearls with sizes
ranging from 5 to 6.5 mm, Akoya pearls are medium sized pearls with
sizes from 6 to 8 mm, and Southsea and Tahitian black
pearls are typically large. South Sea and Tahitian pearls are
usually from 11 to 13 mm. When picking out pearl size, think of
the size of the person. If the woman is petite, she may look overpowered
with a large pearl necklace and smaller pearls, such as Akoya pearls
may look best.
Luster shows the quality of the pearl necklace. Luster is the
mirror-like finish on the surface of the pearl. Cultured
pearls are made up of layers of calcium carbonate called nacre.
The larger the pearl is, the more nacre, which makes the pearl necklace
more lustrous. Southsea and Tahitian pearls are more lustrous than
a Freshwater pearl because they are larger and have more nacre.
GIA grades pearls from Fair to Excellent. When choosing a pearl,
look for the grades Excellent to Good. Some stores have their own
grading system of A to AAA, with AAA being the best. Be wary of
stores with their own gradings and make sure they are reputable.
When looking at the luster of a pearl necklace, check out the
surface. There is rarely a perfect pearl with a smooth surface,
but you can look for pearls that are near-perfect. Blemishes that
may appear, but not are non-damaging include spots, bumps, pits,
and wrinkles. Non-damaging surface marks can lower the price of
the pearl. Damaging flaws include cracks, holes or chips. Those
flaws may worsen and ruin the pearl.
Also important when picking out a pearl is the pearl shape. The
favored shape is perfectly round, but that shape is rare. Preferred
pearl shape for jewelry is round to mostly round. Freshwater pearls
are mostly round to off-round. Find a pearl that is as near to round
as you can find.
When choosing a pearl necklace, keep in mind that there are six
types of pearl necklaces; collar, choker, princess, matinee, opera
and rope. Collar is 10 to 13 inches in length. Great for casual
to evening wear. Choker is 16 to 18 inches. An elegant piece that
is wonderful with formal wear. Princess is 17 to 20 inches. Perfect
for work or an elegant night out. Matinee is 20 to 24 inches, a
professional look that completes your business suit or dress. Opera
is 28 to 34 inches and looks ideal for formal events or special
occasions. Rope is 45 inches and up and is a versatile piece. Looks
wonderful with dresses or pant suits.
A perfect pearl is hard to find, but if you remember to look at
the four important aspects of pearls, you may find a wonderful gift.
Keep in mind that color, size, luster, surface, and shape all affect
pearl's price. Freshwater pearls are a good value, but you may sacrifice
size, luster and shape. Akoya pearls are beautiful pearls that have
a good size, luster, and shape. Think about what is most important
to you when buying a pearl and choose your lovely pearl from that
information.
As with all jewelry purchases comparison-shop and see how much
different retailers are selling the same item. Research information
on pearls to make sure you get the best value for your purchase.
Care
As with most fine accessories, keep your pearl necklace away from
household cleaners and beauty products, such as hairspray, perfume
and lotion. Pearls with strong nacre last longer because they are
thicker. The best way to keep your pearls beautiful is by wearing
them. Your body's natural oils can keep pearls lustrous. Wipe your
pearls with a soft cloth and keep them away from any other jewelry
in storage.
