6 Pitfalls to avoid when choosing pearls
Pearl Guide - Things to know & Follow
Pearls are a must-have classic for every jewelry box, so how do you go about choosing the perfect pearl for you? When buying pearls, there are some pitfalls to avoid when trying to choose the best.
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Buying Fake Pearls
Though fake pearls look real sometimes, they are not as appealing as natural or cultured pearls. Here’s why: Their coating eventually wears off, and they have no intrinsic value. See our blog on How to Tell if a Pearl is Fake.
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Assuming all Real Pearls are White
People tend to think that colorful pearls are fake pearls. The truth is that these natural sea gems come in a variety of colors. From orange to grey to pink, mother nature has creativity and color when it comes to pearls.
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Paying more for Japanese Akoya Pearls
Japan is actually the world's largest importer of Chinese Akoya pearls, where they are processed and re-exported.
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Choosing Low Luster Pearls
Luster makes or breaks pearls as a gemstone. It describes the way light reflects off the pearl surface. The sharper and more highly reflective the Luster, the more valuable the pearl.
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Choosing Pearls with a Lumpy Surface
Pearls with smooth, clean surfaces are more highly valued than those with multiple inclusions.
Paying More for pearls with Blemishes
Though natural pearls can have blemishes, this does not increase their authenticity, nor their value. For higher quality pearls, choose natural or cultured pearls with fewer blemishes.