Are you one of the many pearl lovers who barely knows how to discern a high quality pearl from one which isn't?
First you need to learn about pearl quality, and what kind of pearl quality you would like to have based on how much you are willing to spend. By learning about the different kinds of pearls available in the market today, and what your options are, this will be much easier.
The different kinds of pearls to choose from include classic Akoya pearls, large exotic black Tahitian pearls, large South Sea Pearls or decorative Freshwater pearls each different from the next, especially regarding cost. Whatever your choice may be, rest assured that they're all elegant and appropriate for any occasion or celebration.
After deciding on the type of pearl you favor most, its time to learn about the pearl quality factors to help you distinguish what gives a pearl its value.
There are six major factors that greatly affect the value and quality of all types of pearls, pearl luster, nacre thickness, shape, surface texture, size and color. Each of these values serves as a guide to help you purchase the finest pearls available today.
Luster- the intense brilliance or glow of a pearl and often considered as the essence of pearl beauty. It is often said that you should be able to clearly see your reflection on the surface of a pearl for it to be considered as having great luster.
Nacre thickness- the surfaces of the pearls are composed of thick layers of calcium carbonate commonly called nacre. Nacre determines the lustrous quality and durability of each pearl. Pearls with thick nacre will have a smoother surface and will often last for a longer period of time.
Color- some of the common colors of pearls include shades of white, cream, pink, peach, gold and black. It is important to perfectly match the color of the pearls to your skin tone and complexion.
Shape- as a natural organic Gem, pearls shape varies widely from perfectly round pearls, near round, oval, button, teardrop, and to a highly irregular shape baroque. Highly desirable are perfectly round pearls, but because they are very difficult to gather among seashells, they are the most expensive among the other shapes of pearls.
Surface texture- a highly valuable pearl comes with a smooth surface with very few blemishes and an absence of uneven color throughout the pearl surface. Make sure that there are no large cracks, wrinkles or pits on the surface as these are often considered as characteristics of poor quality pearls.
Pearl size- pearls are measured in millimetres ranging to as small as a 1mm seed pearl to as large as 20mm which is commonly charged with a higher price. Choosing your appropriate size of pearls should be based on the purpose they are to be used and the wearers body built. Smaller pearls are suitable for young girls and petite ladies while larger pearls are for women with medium to large body frames.
Aside from the above factors, it is important for you to know that pearls usually have four grades: A, AA, AAA, and AAA+ quality.
When buying pearls perfect for gifts to loved ones, often preferred are AAA and AAA+ graded pearls which are the highest quality because of their radiant, mirror like shine and very smooth surface.
Not as much shiny with very minor surface blemishes, the second grade available among pearls is AA quality pearls. These kinds of pearls are often less and the best bet for many modest shoppers.
With the lowest quality available among pearls, A-grade pearls have lower luster, and often have medium surface imperfections. This is the least favored pearl among many shoppers.
If this is your first time buying pearls, it is essential that you have adequate information on the quality and characteristics of pearls worth purchasing. There are unfortunately some pearl sellers that may deceive you with their claims that they sell high quality pearl products, even though they don't.
Buying pearls should be taken seriously as pearls are something that should be able to be passed on through the generations. A high quality pearl should be able to last a lifetime assuming that they are taken care of properly.
Looking Online For Pearls, The wide Selection of Pearls Necklaces Available Online is a great place to start.
