Introduction to Pearl Stringing
Pearl stringing started way back, and it’s still trendy today. These gemstones are one of the most elegant and timeless jewelry that most women delight in while accessorizing.
It so happens that most people cannot identify the faux from the natural pieces, their grading scale, and value. That can be risky if you plan to buy a gift for your mom or yourself without the know-how of these precious gems. Before you take the plunge, you should read this informative article to the end to get enlightened;
What you should look out for when buying pearl jewelry
There is a notable difference between physical and faux pearls. Cultured and natural pearls have a successive layer of nacre, an organic substance made of aragonite and conchiolin.
However, simulated pearls do not have nacre. Their material is either glass, plastic, or shells. The shells are dipped in the ground up scales of fish and then coated with a lacquer.
Pearl Stringing
Cultured pearls; are the best alternative to natural pearls, which are very rare and expensive. They include;
Akoya pearls: These are a type of saltwater pearls quite famous for their luster and appeal.
Black Tahitian: They flaunt their colored hues that are natural and most sought after by those who want to stand out.
Freshwater pearls: takes less time to form; cultured in lakes and rivers, and are readily available. Although they are not as lustrous as Akoya and others, they are quite affordable.
Saltwater South Sea: These pearls are available in gold and white color and are the most prestigious of them all. The white south sea is a classy symbol, while the gold flaunts a sophisticated appearance with its glamorous hue.
Does size matter?
If the diameter size of the pearl is large, it will impact the cost of the gem. So, yes. The size matters. The larger their size gets, the more their prices increase.
Popular sizes range from 7.0-9.5mm. These are traditional and most versatile sizes that people buy. The younger girls will look great on smaller pearls, while adults will look elegant flaunting the bigger sizes.
Pearl length:
the ideal pearl stringing length of a necklace is considered an 18″, commonly known as “princess length.” It falls an inch or two below the hollow of the throat. Suitable for a variety of most outfits with a neckline.
Check the color:
It is always better to go for natural hues while considering the main body’s color. The orient means there will be light interference across the surface or beneath the pearl, while its overtone will include other shades of color such as gold or rose-pink on top of the white pearl.
Although the natural color symbolizes the real elegance in pearls, people dye them in various colors to fit their style.
Check the nacre:
the thickness of the pearl determines the quality of the pearl. Nacre gives the inner glow of this stone. The natural saltwater and cultured freshwater are both solid nacres.
Nevertheless, the cultured saltwater has a nucleus surrounded by some nacre layers. The satiny sheen and luster will influence the value of the pearl.
Pearl grading scale:
Although pearl grading can be subjective, alexandcompany.com/.com, and a few others use the A-AAA scaling based on specific percentages.
These attributes to luster, blemishing, how the sharpness of reflection appears on the pearl, color, and shape. A-AAA is the scale used in Akoya and Freshwater pearls, but they also easily convert to others.
Pearl texture:
Pearls have a Mohs grading scale of 3 to 4, a stone measurement in resistance to scratching. That means they are susceptible to cracks and are porous. And if they get any chips, they lose their value, while those without blemish demand a high premium.
Choose your ideal shape:
while pearl stringing can include several shapes and sizes, the round and spherical are the most common and desirable. However, any form will be beautiful as long as they match your style.
Further visit: Netflix 5 Essential for Fashionistas
Get them appraised:
many people have pearls in their family history that pass from one generation to another. That means they are well-maintained to last for that long.
However, valuable pieces of jewelry like this need insurance. Therefore, it is crucial to ask your jeweler to evaluate and provide you with a jewelry appraisal document, which the insurance company demands to have before they cover your jewelry.
Pricing
The pearl type will dictate the pricing of each jewelry. For example, freshwater pearls are the most affordable, saltwater Akoya has mid-range pricing, black Tahitian has a mid to high pricing, and the South Sea is the priciest of all.
However, the pearl size will also impact the cost. The bigger the diameter, the more the price will exponentially increase.
Quick Dos and Don’ts of buying a pear jewelry
Do’s
- Always buy from a reputable jewelry specialist.
- Check if they have a flexible return policy.
- Research pearl grading to understand what you are buying.
Dont’s
- Get confused by the inflated pearl grades.
- Focus on the price only
- Concentrate much on brands
In Conclusion
Pearls are pure organic of the sea and are versatile, and each piece has its uniqueness. Pearl stringing can be colorful or natural white, whichever suits your style or resonates with your personality.
They should touch the heart. However, ensure to choose the right pearls for your jewelry since it’s a valuable investment. But with this guide, I am sure you will.
