Pearls are among the most precious gemstones on this earth. From their shape to the way they elevate your outfit, everything about them is captivating. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.
The global pearl jewelry market was valued at $12.8 billion in 2021, and projected to reach $42 billion by 2031. Even though buying such magnificent jewelry is a risky endeavor, the process of finding the perfect pearls can be fun and exciting.
If you’re looking to purchase quality pearls, choosing the most beautiful ones isn’t enough. There are many factors you need to consider, including where to buy pearls, the size, and appearance, as well as the method of growing. Whether you want to buy pearl earrings, necklaces, or pendants, you need to find the right vendor and then decide on the design that best suits your style.
To learn more about the most important tips on buying your pearl jewelry, continue reading below.
Real Vs Fake Pearls: Learn the Difference
With so many different types of pearls on the market, it can be difficult to tell the difference between real and fake pearls. Knowing how to identify real pearls from fakes is important to ensure you get the best value for your money when buying this type of jewelry.
Real and fake pearls can be distinguished by their material. They are usually made from plastic, glass, or other artificial materials. Natural and cultured gems are both 100% real. There’s no difference between the two, except in their formation.
The process of making a pearl begins when you put a small piece of shell or a grain of sand inside an oyster. The oyster produces a shiny substance called nacre, which coats each grain of sand. Then, the nacre layers accumulate to form pearls. The process takes place deep in the ocean, but it can also be done in a lab. This is how we get two different types of pearls.
Keep in mind that natural pearls may be more expensive because they’re naturally formed inside a mollusk, but they look identical to cultured pearls. However, cultured pearls are much more affordable than natural ones.
Select the Right Type of Pearl
Understanding the differences between the four types of pearls, including Akoya, Freshwater, Tahitian, and Golden/White South Sea pearls, and their respective value will help you to better appreciate each. You’ll also know what to expect when buying pearls, especially if you buy them online. Freshwater pearls are the most common type of pearl, and it is the most affordable and comes in a variety of colors and shapes.
The Akoya pearl is the one that we most commonly see on single pearl strands. These pearls are slightly smaller than those of freshwater and come in white or cream colors. South Sea pearls are large and come in white, gold, cream, and black colors. The Tahitian pearl is the most distinctive of all the pearls; with dark colors ranging from metallic gray to dark black, these pearls can be described as the most fascinating pearl variety, which is very rare and exotic.
Recognize Their Qualities
Examining the qualities of pearls is important to ensure you are buying the highest quality pearls available. From color to luster, many factors make up a pearl’s unique beauty. By understanding these characteristics, you can choose the perfect pearl for your collection.
Color
You should be aware that the gem’s color will differ depending on the type of pearl, but also consider the color of the body and overtone. The body color is the primary hue, and the overtone is the sheen on the surface. When purchasing a string of pearls, use diffused full-spectrum light to check the color and then compare the color of each pearl with the one next to it.
Luster
The luster of a pearl is an important factor that determines its quality and value. It can also indicate how long the pearl will last and how well it will maintain its beauty over time. The luster of the pearl can be determined by how much the reflection looks like a mirror, and what light it reflects. Check the pearl’s luster thoroughly to make sure it is consistent.
Surface
Minor surface imperfections are common in most pearls. Other foreign objects within the oyster can cause small marks, lumps, or grooves on the surface of the pearl. You must ensure that the pearl has not been sanded to remove any imperfections. Some pearls are sanded down to remove surface imperfections, which reduces their value. If you notice a difference in texture or a change of luster, the pearl has likely worked.
Final Thoughts
It can be difficult to buy pearl jewelry but it shouldn’t feel overwhelming. By following these tips and understanding the criteria used to evaluate their beauty and value, you can find the perfect pearls for you. Just make sure you consider their quality and how it fits your style.
