Pearl necklace buying tips
Choosing a pearl necklace begins with understanding how a pearl is formed. This precious ’stone’ is born from the formation of nacre within an oyster. With the class and elegance that a pearl necklace brings, there is little wonder why this piece of accessory is highly sought-after by women the world over.
There are different types and grades of pearls: from the rare and naturally formed pearls to the popular cultivated pearls and finally, the cheaper variation - synthetic pearls. It is often difficult to tell the difference between natural and cultured pearls unless you have a trained eye. Spherical, symmetrical and baroque are three main shapes of pearls. Spherical pearls are round in shape and are the most popular of choice. Symmetrical pearls tend to be oval, button or teardrop shaped while baroque pearls are irregularly shaped and can come in the form resembling sticks or even crosses.
With 3 different shapes, symmetrical, round and baroque, you can find a pearl necklace to suit any style and physical body type. A commonly chosen shape is the round or spherical pearl. Irregularly shaped pearls are classed as baroque and can look like sticks or crosses, for example. Symmetrical pearls come in oval, button and drop shapes.
Important pearl necklace buying tips lie in choosing the right length for the wearer’s neck length and shape, age and overall physique. In general, a long necklace will elongate the neck while a shorter necklace will flatter longer necks. A pearl necklace can come in a range of lengths from the longest rope length (at least 37″) to the shortest: collar (10″ - 13″). A pearl necklace of between 18″ to 24″ will generally suit everyone.
If you’re wondering how to buy a pearl necklace for semi-formal or corporate wear, then the matinee (20″ - 24″) will be ideal. Remember the rule-of-thumb; longer thinner necks are flattered by shorter necklaces that sit at the base of the neck while shorter necks look best with longer necklaces - at least 2 inches below the collarbone.
If you’re choosing a pearl necklace to wear with corporate or business outfits, or for semi-formal events, then the matinee length is ideal. The rule-of-thumb goes that people with short necks should wear necklaces that sit at least 2 inches below the collarbone while people with longer necks should wear necklaces that sit at the base of the neck.
Pearls come in a range of colors like white, cream, pink, silver, gold and yellow. Gold and yellow tones work well with darker skin while other lighter colors suit almost any skin color. If you’re looking for pearls of unrivaled beauty and brilliance, then a Mikimoto pearl necklace is just for you. The highest grade of these pearls are known to possess a brilliant, mirror-like reflective quality and has captured even fans from royalty.
Pearls can even be found in black, gray and green-black. These are Tahitian pearls grown from black-lipped oysters. Choosing a pearl necklace of this sort will include looking out for its grades as well as its flaws. Graded from A through to D, grade A Tahitian pearls should be clear in color with a metal-like reflective sheen while flaws include looking out for discolorations, bumps or scratches.
A couple of pearl necklace buying tips include buying a set with a pearl necklace, earrings and bracelet or ring. This will increase the probability of you scoring a discount on your jewelry. Another way to buy a pearl necklace on a budget is to try finding an original supplier. Although these suppliers usually prefer to sell in large quantities, you may try to find people who are willing to combine their purchases with you so that you can all enjoy discounted rates on your timeless accessories.