How to buy pearls

Steps

1. Size: This depends on how long the pearl was inside the oyster, and the type of oyster that produced it. They are measured by diameter in millimeters. Larger pearls are usually more expensive. The classic size is 6 millimeters.


2. Color: The classic creamy-pinkish white is supposed to be flattering to lighter skin tones. Black or gray is stunning, and usually more expensive. Colored pearls are typically much more expensive.


3. Surface quality : Make sure it doesn't have bumps, scratches, or variations in color.


4. Type: The three main types are the classic Akoya which are creamy pinkish-white and usually 6-8 millimeters in size, the freshwater pearl which is more cream-white and anywhere from 2-6 millimeters in size, and the black Tahitian and silvery-white South Seas pearls which range in size from 6-12 millimeters.



Tips

* To the untrained eye, freshwater pearls look just like the classic Akoya pearls.


* Until recently, freshwater pearls looked like misshapen rice and were very inexpensive.

* Perfectly round pearls are rather difficult to farm.

* Akoya pearls are grown inside the oyster until harvested and then only the round ones (a small %) are selected for premium sale.

* In contrast, young freshwater pearls are removed from the oyster, sanded down to round, then tucked back into the oyster for another layer of nacre (nay-ker: the stuff pearls are made of) to be added on the outside. This process continues until the freshwater pearls are finally harvested.

* This process can only create rather small to mid-size pearls, up to 6 or 7 millimeters.

* While the freshwater pearls may not be as durable as the Akoya, and they may not be as pretty when compared next to the Akoya, to your benefit, the price difference between the freshwater pearl and the Akoya pearl is generally one decimal point (Ex. Akoya $500, freshwater $50).

* Never wear a strand of Akoya and a strand of freshwater at the same time.

* For an artistic look, consider baroque pearls which are formed in variedorganic shapes. Because they are not artificially round, the nacre pools in certain areas as it would in nature. Therefore they can be very high quality while at a much lower price. Do not be afraid to buy baroques.


Warnings

* Dipped or dyed pearls should be relatively inexpensive compared to pearls with true color. Look for a statement of authenticity or a reputable brand.
* Before you make your decision, ask to see several strands of pearls with different surface qualities to help you understand the benefits and trade-offs.