Pearl Qualities

When you are purchasing pearls, there are several qualities to keep in mind...

1.  Luster is the term used to describe the luminous quality of the pearl. The luminosity of a pearl is determined by the quality of the nacre that comprises the pearl, and reflects a unique glow from both the inside of the pearl as well as its surface.

2.  Blemishes mark the journey that the pearl endured while forming in the oyster and are completely natural, adding to the unique nature of each pearl and strand. While making the pearl unique, blemishes also contribute to its value.

3.  Due to their rarity, perfectly round pearls often indicate the most valuable pearls. From baroque to round to oval...all have their special look and the preference is up to the person. Pearls should be chosen in proportion to your body size...to complement you...not overpower you.

4.  Color is determined by the type of oyster that produces them, and contributes to the price. Akoya pearls are known for their white and pink tones. Tahitians are known for darker hues of titanium greys and deep blacks with tints of green. South Sea pearls range from bold whites to the rarest tone in the world: beautiful, rich gold.

Freshwater pearls are farmed in freshwater producing a wide variety of shapes and colors. They are less expensive than cultured pearls because of the quantity that can be produced from one mollusk. One mollusk can produce up to 40 pearls at one time compared to a South Sea oyster which produces one pearl. Natural color ranges from peach,lavender, white, and pink ranging from 3mm to 15mm.

Trinkets will be offering designs with a range of pearls including freshwater, Baroque, and 18K gold-plated designs with Kasumi Flameball pearls from Japan this holiday season. These beautiful and rare pearls have a tail that makes them look like a comet.

In my next entry, I will discuss how to best care for your pearls.