How to Buy Pearls

Tips on buying pearls

1. Know the different types, sizes, colors, and shapes of pearls. Types include imitation, natural, and cultured. Cultured pearls will be your most worthy option, Imitations are practically valueless and mainly used in theatrical costuming. Natural are very difficult to find in stores and simply don’t match cultured pearls in overall quality. Size will be the biggest factor in determining the price of your pearls. The bigger they are, the more expensive. Pearl colors are white, yellow, black and gray. Be sure to ask if your selected pearl color are natural or dyed. Pearl shapes include baroque, round, symmetrical, and irregular.
2. Decide whether or not you want to purchase a double strand of smaller-sized pearls or a single strand of larger-sized. Option A will cost you less, while option B will cost you a bit more.
3. When you find a set that you like, it’s time to go in for a close inspection. Make sure you place the pearls down on a flat, clean white surface that’s well lit for an examination. Try to determine the overtone of the pear. This is the pearl’s secondary tint to it’s main color. Pinkish overtones are good, greenish or bluish tints indicate cheap pearls. Pick through each pearl on the strand to check its luster. Look for high contrasts between the pearl’s light and dark areas, sharp reflections, and a shiny, smooth surface. Also check for the “orient” in the pearl. The orient is the rainbow of colors you can see in pearls, indicators of high quality.
4. It is extremely important that you examine every pearl on a strand for quality! Take note of each pearl’s smoothness, shape and luster.

Caution

If you are unsure about how to tell if pearls are fake, shop at a dealer or store where you can be guaranteed quality. You could also quickly run a pearl from the set in question along the edge of your teeth. If it feels perfectly smooth, you’ve got fake pearls in your hands!

Where to buy pearls

Ready to try some online shopping for pearls? There are sites out there that can guarantee you appraisal certificates with your purchase, so you know you’re getting high quality pearls. Check out these sites below for starters:

Pearls Of Joy Jewelry & Necklaces A leading online retailer of cultured pearls. All orders come with a certficate of authenticity, 3rd party appraisal and a 90 day return policy.

Blue Nile A highly respected online jewelry company offering pearl earrings, strands, pendants, necklaces and bracelets. The Web site offers a section where you can learn all about pearls, as well as great gift ideas.

Pearls “Classic, timeless, luxury” pearls for sale, including freshwater, South Sea, Akoya, and Tahitian pearls. Free appraisals, a 90-day return policy, and free shipping are just a few of the reasons to shop at Pure Pearls.