Pearls, in their refined and simple way, are timeless accessories. Recently, pearls have become a must-have accessory for high-profile trendsetters this year.
People usually think of pearl chains first, but now pearls are beginning to appear in accessories, clothing and even footwear. Because they never really go out of style, pearls are considered one of the best style investments you can make.
If you are going to add pearls to your jewelry collection, we invite you to read this buying guide. We will introduce the basics of pearls and share tips on how to design them. Finally, we will include some of our favorite pearls, from simple beading to elegant bracelets and earrings.
Natural pearls are the result of irritants infiltrating mollusks. It lives in the mantle tissue, and the mollusk secretes a substance called nacre to wrap it. After a few years, the irritant was completely wrapped in the nacre and turned into a pearl.
Freshwater pearls are produced by mollusks in non-salt water (also called freshwater). These occur naturally and usually come in various shapes and sizes. Because they are not as round as natural pearls, they are usually cheaper.
Unlike natural and freshwater pearls, cultured pearls are not produced naturally. Instead, they are produced in mollusk farms, and pearl farmers put stimulants into mollusk farms. This helps to "nurture" or trigger the creation of pearls.
Artificial pearls are often called fake pearls, artificial pearls or imitation pearls. They are made of plastic, glass or crystal. Some clothing pearls look real, and in some designs, a tiny amount of weight is added to the inside of each pearl, making the beads heavier and more realistic.
Real pearls have slight blemishes, which can cause differences in luster, size, and color. As a general rule of thumb, if a string of pearls is too uniform, they are likely to be fake.
The weight helps distinguish real pearls from fake pearls. Real pearls have considerable weight, while fake pearls feel very light and somewhat fragile.
The classic "dental test" is also effective. If you rub your teeth with a pearl and feel a slight grit, it is true. If the pearl slides over the tooth without resistance, it is not true.
Real pearls come in many colors, but they are usually divided into white, yellow and black series. There are many color differences between the pearls in these groups. For example, black pearls include purple, blue, and even cyan pearls.
Since artificial pearls are made synthetically, they have a wide range of colors. They have shades similar to true pearls, and eye-catching colors such as neon pink or bright red.
If you have any accessories on your pearl chain or clasp, instead of just stringing on the silk rope, choose jewellery with the same finish.
For silk pearls, choose a finish that matches the color of the rope. Ivory cords usually look better with golden finishes, while gray cords look better with silver tones.
Diamonds and pearls often complement each other, presenting an elegant or romantic appearance. Pearls can also be layered and mixed with other jewelry, such as chain necklaces or layered necklaces.
The price of clothing pearls is about US$10 to US$150, but some high-end clothing pearls can be as high as US$500. The price of freshwater and cultured pearls ranges from US$150 to US$6,000 or more.
EFFY Cultured Freshwater Pearl Station Necklace: Macy's is priced at $490. This modern and minimalist classic pearl chain is available in gold, silver and rose gold finishes. 18 inches, elegant work station design is suitable for most necklines.
Belle de Mer freshwater cultured pearl chain: Macy's priced at $450. This 22-inch chain has a rich, soft luster and classic design. It has a gorgeous 14-carat gold buckle inspired by pearls that blends with the chain and has a unique design.
COACH imitation pearl puff heart-shaped layered necklace: Macy's $95 tiny artificial pink pearl adorns the center of this lightweight and airy design. This necklace has an adjustable lobster clasp that can be extended to two inches to provide a variety of lengths.
Anne Klein Gold Imitation Pearl Flower Necklace: Macy's Price $55 This personalized necklace combines artificial pearls and rhinestones to add personality and charm to any outfit. The golden chain is easy to match with any golden accessories.
Tory Burch Swarovski Crystal Pearl Logo Stud Earrings: Saks Fifth Avenue is priced at $78. These iconic pearl earrings feature crystal pearls and 18K gold Tory Burch logo for a shiny upgrade. They are sophisticated and charming, but at the same time full of fun and modernity.
Betsey Johnson Celestial Pearl drop earrings: Macy's $28 These art deco earrings are decorated with iridescent rhinestones set in golden stars. Gorgeous glass pearls capture light and give the pair a noble charm.
David Yurman Solari Pearl Bracelet with Diamonds: Saks Fifth Avenue is priced at $625. This twisted silver bracelet with faux pearls is practical and elegant, and goes well with the watch, even on the same wrist. The flexible design provides a comfortable fit throughout the day.
Belle de Mer freshwater cultured pearl bracelet: Macy's priced at $250. This attractive two-row design is a popular personality bracelet. The silver buckle is inlaid with cubic zirconia, transforming a simple design into a high-end, formal single product.
Alfani gold chain link and imitation pearl bracelet: Macy's is priced at $25.87 (original price $34.50). This thick link bracelet combines vintage and classic. The hinged closure makes it easy to put on and take off, which means you don’t have to fuss if you are in a hurry.
Sian Babish is a contributor to BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company whose mission is to help simplify your buying decisions and save you time and money.
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