Jewelry Shopping Tips, Save Yourself A Fist Full Of Paper
There are millions of people all over the world who don’t know how to recognize a quality pearl when buying among many jewelry stores.
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.
There are a variety of pearls are available today, which will give you many options to choose from depending on your personal style and budget. Each kind of pearl has their own unique characteristics. Akoya pearls are known for their classic style, Tahitian pearls for their exquisite shiny black color, South Sea pearls as the largest available, and Freshwater pearls as the most affordable. All of pearls are elegant and stylish perfectly worn for a wide range of events and occasions.
Once you have decided on what type of pearl to buy, you need to learn about the signs of quality that you need to look for when shopping for pearls.
For you to buy a high quality pearl worth your hard earned dollar, you have to keep in mind that there are six major factors that contribute to the value of the pearl such as pearl luster, nacre thickness, shape, surface texture, size and color.
Luster- refers to the soft sheen of reflected light on the surface of the pearl which often identifies the true beauty and quality of pearls. A pearl is considered to have good luster when there is a mirror like reflection.
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- ranging from shades of white, cream, pink, blue, gold, and black, pearls have diverse set of colors that will appropriately match with any wearers skin tone and complexion.
Shape- pearls shape range from perfectly round pearls, to near round pearls, coin, potato, teardrop and baroque which is irregular in shape. Highest quality pearls are perfectly round, they are both rare and expensive.
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- when it comes to quality pearls, like most things, size does matter. A key factor in a pearl’s value is its size, with the larger pearls generally being the more prized. Pearl size are measured in millimetres ranging from 1mm seed pearls to as huge as 20mm. Large pearls are suitable for women with a large build, while smaller pearls are suitable for petite ladies and children.
The search for your perfect pearl jewelry doesn’t end with the six factors associated in determining the pearl quality. Pearls usually have four grades (A, AA, AAA, AAA+ grades).
AAA and AAA+ quality are the highest quality which makes them most desirable for gifts as they have the highest luster and very clean surface.
The second grade is AA quality pearl with average shine and brilliance and some minor surface imperfections. However, they are still great for many shoppers who want to have a fabulous look for a less expensive price.
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.
Before selecting and buying your pearls at any jewelry store, it is highly advised that you’ve learned some basic information such as the types and quality grades of pearls and pearl jewelry to prevent you from buying low quality pearls from unreliable pearl jewelry stores.
Often considered a wise investment, buying pearls is a very serious undertaking. When you successfully buy high quality pearl jewelry, you are assured that they will last for many years to come as long as they are cared for appropriately.
Are you looking for a pearl restringing company who does the work neat and tidy? Do not hesitate to take your jewelry pearls get fixed by them and be satisfied.