Pearl Buying
Pearls are a classic, timeless gift choice for weddings, graduations, "push" gifts and anniversaries. With the great varieties in size, shapes, color and budget there is truly something for everyone.
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In the wild, only one in several million oysters will ever produce a pearl. Most pearls today are derived from oysters that are farmed to produce pearls of all kinds.
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Baroque Pearls
Types of Pearls:
Classic Akoya Pearls
South Sea Pearls
Black Tahitian Pearls
Freshwater Pearls
Coin Pearls
Sea of CortezPearls
Baroque Pearls
Circle Pearls
Mabe Pearl
Pearl Quality
Luster
The more shiney and reflective the surface of the pearl is, the more valuable it is. The more dull the surface the lower the quality.
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Surface Blemishes
The smoother the surface, in general, the higher the quality of the pearl. The exception to this rule would be baroque, keishi, and Circle pearls that are expected to have a certain pattern or uneven texture.
Matching
Pearls of a similar color often have undertones of up to two other colors because of their "orient" which is the way the light refracts when it hits the pearl. Because of this it can be a challenge to get a full strand or even a pair of earrings that are well matched. Look through the strand from several angles to make sure that the body color as well as the orient are well matched.
Mismatched
Enhancements
South Sea, Cortez and Tahitian pearls are typically untreated once harvested, however, most Akoya pearls have been bleached and polished to enhance color and luster. Often freshwater pearls are dyed as well to produce many different colors. We do disclose any treatments that we are aware of so that you can be confident about your purchase.
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