Find Out All About Pearls

Pearls never go out of style and they have been a traditional wedding choice forever. They are always a classy and traditional wardrobe accessory that will never disappoint you. But this year they are a “front and center” fashion statement! So with more people in the market for pearls now is a good time for some “pearl talk.” - what you need to know!

The pearl has always been a rather prim and proper piece of jewelry – classic and seeped in tradition. The pearl has had a very glamorous make over! Yes, the classic strand still exists as it always will. But we warned we are seeing some vary daring looks from the pearl this season. Extra long lengths, tasseled multi strands, pearls with semi precious stone accents, pearls on gold or silver pearl has been transformed into a fun and fashionable accessory.

So if you’re going to be in the market for pearls this year here is what you should know

The glow or radiance of a pearl is the most important quality.
Avoid pearls that are chalky or dull as they will be weak and may crack or peal.
The surface of the pearl should be blemish free – no bumps or cracks. Baroque pearls are the exception to this rule – their charm is in their irregularities.
Pearls are measured in millimeters. The larger the pearl the higher the cost. A 6 mm pearl is going to be much less than a 12 mm pearl.
The least expensive pearls are the freshwaters which mainly come from China. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Average size is around 7 mm
The best way to care for your pearls is simply to wear them.
Do not put your pearls on until you are done with your cosmetics
Do not wear your pearls in the water – chlorinated and salt water will damage them.
Polish with a soft cloth and never use jewelry cleaning products on your pearls.

Quality pearls are not cheap but they will last a lifetime. Freshwater pearls are becoming very affordable. Not all of us will be in the market for “Real Pearls” and lucky for us there are plenty of options. Swarovski makes a crystal pearl that is of the finest quality and quite difficult to tell from a true pearl for a fraction of the cost and they are available in a variety of colors. There is an endless supply of faux pearls or costume jewelry pearls on the market. They are offered in a wide variety of styles and colors. Great fun at affordable prices.

So you ask what’s “In Style” this season?

Pearl rings get the green flag – from low settings to monster large solitaire pearls, they are all the rave. A pearl ring can go from romantic and simple to sleek and stunning.
The Bib Necklace makes a very dramatic statement. A broad necklace that tapers towards the back just like a baby’s bib [thus the name].They range from extremely wide to as narrow as a ½”. This style works great with a simple black dress or strapless neckline.
The multi-strand necklace is ever so preppy. They range from 12” to 18” and pearls are usually small to medium. The purpose of these necklaces is for every pearl to be in perfect placement. Very versatile and fashionable.
The opera length necklace simply never disappears from the fashion scene. They measure 36” or longer and they can be worn as a long single lean line, doubled up, tied in a knot, wherever the moment takes you. These long strands are terrific for dressing up a pair of jeans or semi casual look.
The tassel necklace from the footloose and fancy free 1920s has made a come back, and rightly so! Today tassels are often made from tiny seed pearls or irregular baroques. They range in length fro short at 16” to navel length at 36”. The tassel necklace swings and sways with your movement making it a must have for those night of dancing.
This season for first time, we are seeing pearls mixed with colored gems such as amethyst, peridot, or topaz. They compliment each other nicely – pearls with their soft and subtle shades mixed with semi precious gems with their vibrant and bold color. icture it – what a fashion statement!
Pearls mixed with silver is also new this season. Long silver chain dangle earrings accented with pearls, or freshwater droplets set on silver.
This season the pearl is all about the color. Pearls are available in many hues but this season the “hot spot” is “lavender” and the lavender family ranging from pale iris to plum.

If you already own a beautiful classic pearl necklace its very easy to transform it into something from this season. Try adding a group of charms or pendants, fastening a vintage brooch or clip[ on earring at the bottom. You could mix various lengths or sizes of pearls together or entwine a silver or gold chain. How about mixing your real pearls with your fake pearls? The options are as endless as your imagination.

Remember when you freshen your wardrobe for the spring, freshen your costume jewelry too and Make Your Fashion Statement!

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.
About the author: Sher from Estate Jewelry International have been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

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Sher Matsen