Pearls are one of the oldest gems known to man and have been worn as jewelled adornments since antiquity. However, what makes them even more seductive is their air of mystery. Nowadays, pearls are seeing a resurgence. Pearls are a popular choice for jewellery accessories, worn by both the political elite and those seen on fashion runways. In actuality, though, our happily-ever-after relationship with pearls continues just as it did in the past.
Pearl necklaces are the perfect piece to start your pearl jewellery collection. Selecting your first pearl necklace can be both thrilling and intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be so. This comprehensive guide will take us on a tour of the pearl world.
TYPES OF PEARLS
Natural Pearls
Natural pearls are priceless gems that develop naturally in molluscs like oysters. Because these pearls are so rare, they are extremely precious. They are all different from one another in terms of size, shape, and shine. To safeguard these priceless jewels, the trade in natural pearls is strictly regulated.
Cultured Pearls
Cultured pearls are created with human assistance. To encourage the creation of a pearl, a tiny irritant—typically a bead or piece of tissue—is placed into the mollusc. These pearls come in various shapes, including round, oval, and baroque.
Freshwater Pearls
Freshwater pearls are produced by raising mussels in freshwater environments such as lakes and rivers. Their low cost and variety of colours and forms make them a favourite material for jewellery, particularly pearl jewellery.
Akoya Pearls
The round shape, high shine, and traditional white or cream hue of Akoya pearls, which are made by the Akoya oyster, are well-known characteristics. Elegant pearl necklaces and earrings are frequently made with these pearls.
South Sea Pearls
Pearls from the South Sea are some of the biggest and most expensive pearls on the market. They are produced by the Pinctada maxima oyster and are famous for their impressive size, smooth surface, and exquisite lustre. They can range from creamy white to golden and even silvery shades.
Tahitian pearls
Tahitian pearls, often referred to as black pearls, are cultivated in French Polynesia, particularly Tahiti. In contrast to their name, they are available in an amazing range of dark shades, such as purple, green, and grey.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pearl Necklace
The next important step is to select the right design and size for your pearl necklace. You should take into account some elements while selecting a design.
Size, Shape, and Color of Pearls
The size of the pearl can affect the overall look and style of the necklace, while the shape and color can influence its elegance and sophistication.
Pearls come in a variety of shapes, including button, oval, semi-round, round, and baroque. As for size, they can range from 4mm to 20 mm in diameter. You can also select from a variety of colours, including white, pink, blue, and green.
Type of pearl Necklaces and Length
The length and kind of necklace have a big influence on how the pearl necklace looks and feels overall. The following are the most common pearl necklace styles and lengths of pearl necklaces:
- Choker: 16 to 18 inches
- Princess: 18 to 20 inches
- Matinee: 22 to 24 inches
- Opera: 28 to 38 inches
- Rope: 40 to 45 inches
You should think about where you will wear your necklace and the type of neckline it would go with before choosing its length. Selecting a pearl necklace length guide for the occasion is crucial because every length can go well with various necklines and styles of clothing.
Clasp and Metal
The clasp and metal utilized to create a pearl necklace can have an immense impact on its longevity, beauty, and security. To ensure that the necklace isn't easily misplaced or taken off, you need a sturdy closure.
Your pearls will have a classy edge that is affordable if you add metals like gold, silver, or platinum to match their colour! Therefore, to ensure the protection and opulent beauty of your pearl necklaces, make sure the materials you choose are of the highest calibre.
Matching of Pearls
Perfectly matching pearls are essential if you plan to make a necklace with multiple ones. But you may also add a contemporary touch by mixing and matching the colours and sizes of the jewels!
However, if you're going for a timeless and classic design, you should choose for pearls that have the same qualities.
You need to consider each of these factors when choosing the ideal pearl necklace and choose a style that goes well with your taste. You may choose the perfect necklace that will leave a lasting impact by keeping all of these things in mind.
Precautions and Common Problems
If you are going to be wearing your pearl necklace for a long time, it’s important to take proper precautions.
Beware of Fake Pearls
When buying pearls, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution because phoney pieces are frequently offered for sale as real. A trustworthy dealer should be your only source, and you should be aware of the telltale indicators of legitimacy, like weight and feel.
Pearls can also be substituted with glass or plastic beads, so it's crucial to keep trying new things and not get comfortable with your purchases.
Use the "tooth test" to determine if a pearl is genuine by softly rubbing it against your teeth. It is probably a genuine pearl if it feels grainy.
Matching Issues
Obtaining a perfectly coordinated set of pearls is essential, particularly when buying pearl necklaces with multiple strands. It is imperative to ensure that the sizes, shapes, and colours of each pearl in the necklace are similar to provide an exquisite and constant look.
Proper Care and Storage of Pearl Necklaces
Pearls are delicate and can easily scratch, so should not be exposed to heat, chemicals, or abrasive materials. After wearing them, gently wipe them clean with a cloth. Store them in a soft pouch or jewellery box, away from other jewellery that may scratch them.
Potential Issues with Shipping and Returns
There is always a chance that pearl necklaces you purchase online can arrive damaged during shipment or have other problems. It’s essential to check the return policy carefully and ensure that the seller offers a guarantee or warranty. Check the necklace carefully when it comes in the packaging to make sure it fits the description and is in good shape.
STYLING WITH PEARLS
Pearls are quite adaptable and look well in a variety of styles.
Classic elegance
Consider wearing a fitted suit or a little black dress with a strand of white or cream pearls for a classic and elegant look. For special events, pearl bracelets, earrings, and necklaces can enhance your ensemble.
Modern chic
Mix pearls with contemporary fashion by opting for unique pearl necklace design. Experiment with asymmetrical earrings, layered necklaces, or pearl-adorned accessories to add a modern twist to your style.
Bohemian beauty
Baroque pearls, with their irregular shapes and natural charm, are perfect for bohemian-inspired looks. Wear them with flowing garments and airy silhouettes for a glamorous yet carefree look.
Casual cool
Don't reserve pearls for formal occasions. Wear delicate pearl studs, a plain pendant, or a watch with pearl accents to add a bit of casual elegance to your regular outfit.
Baroque pearls
A fascinating subclass of pearls called "baroque pearls" are distinguished by their asymmetrical, non-spherical forms. These pearls can be utilised to make unique, artistic pearl jewellery items, embracing their organic, natural beauty.
How to Wear Pearls:
You can never go wrong with pearl jewellery. Pearls are timeless and lend sophistication to any ensemble. Here are some of our favourite ways to wear them:
Pearl Necklace:
Pearls are a timeless piece of jewellery which adds elegance to any outfit. Wear a single pearl necklace for a simple yet attractive look.
Pearl Earrings:
Elevate your jewellery with a pair of Dainty Pearl Hoop Earrings Choose from our freshwater ivory pearls or tiny midnight blue seed pearls.
Pearl Bracelet:
Our freshwater pearl Twist Pearl Bracelet will add sophistication to any ensemble.
Pearl Colors and Rarity
Pearls are available in an array of hues, ranging from traditional white to more unusual tones like pink, gold, and black. For instance, due to their rarity, black pearls are usually worth more than white pearls.
To obtain a particular hue, pearls can be dyed in addition to their natural colours. Although coloured pearls have their beauty, it's vital to remember that they are not as priceless as natural pearls and can fade over time.
Pearl Shapes
Pearls can be found in many different forms, such as button, drop, oval, round, and baroque.. Round pearls are the most classic and popular shape, while baroque pearls are more irregularly shaped and can be used to create unique and latest pearl necklace designs.
In conclusion, pearls have an enduring appeal that transcends time and fashion trends. There is a pearl to fit every style and occasion, whether you go for traditional white pearls or venture into the world of coloured and baroque pearls. Embrace the elegance of pearl jewellery and make it a part of your own unique fashion story. If you're in the market for beautiful handcrafted pearl jewellery, be sure to browse the range available at ABdesign. With a wide selection of pearl necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more.
