How to choose fine quality pearl jewelry

In the world of jewelry, pearls are competing with finest diamonds and other fine gemstone jewelry. It is very important to determine difference between fine quality pearls and average pearls. Quality of pearls depends upon luster, thickness & quality of nacre, surface quality, color, shape and size.

Luster: Luster of pearl is the most important value-determining factor of pearls. Fine quality pearls has intense bright luster that illuminates from within. You can check the luster of pearls by examining it under fluorescent light. Never examine pearls against black background.

Color and overtone: There are two colors of pearls, body colors and overtones. White colored pearl with ‘rose’ overtone is most rare and desirable. Cream-colored pearls are not so expensive. Value of pearl depends upon intensity of color. Darker toned pearl are more expensive than lighter toned pearls. Common natural colors available are white, gray, black, blue, gold, pink and green. Always make sure that pearls you are buying are not artificially dyed, especially golden and black pearls are often dyed.

Surface of pearls: Always examine surface for any imperfection. Such imperfection of surface of pearl are called as surface blemishes. Finer quality pearls have very less surface blemishes. It is almost impossible to get pearl without any surface blemishes.

Shape: Next thing to consider while choosing pearls are shape of pearls. There are three significant shapes of pearls symmetrical, spherical and baroque pearls. Perfectly round pearl is rarest and most desirable. Teardrop or pear shaped pearls are symmetrical pearls. Symmetrical pearls are most commonly used for making jewelry. Baroque pearls are pearls without any shape. These pearls are least expensive but they are gaining popularity because of their natural look.

Size: Last but not the least, size of the pearl. Larger pearls are rarer and most expensive.

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