Who was the first person to open an oyster and see a perfectly round, lustrous pearl? Whoever she or he was, it was most likely thousands and thousands of years ago. Pearls were one of the first stones to be valued by people because it was, and still is, one of the only gemstones that require no cutting or polishing. Its beauty is evident the moment it's removed from the shell.
The pearl has always been a rather prim and proper piece of jewelry - classic and seeped in tradition. Well, things they are a changing! The pearl is 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 chains. The pearl has been transformed into a fun and fashionable accessory.
Today, pearls symbolize purity and innocence, and are considered to be the wedding gem, even more so than diamonds are. If you would like to see, a quick look at any bridal catalog or magazine will show photos of real and fake pearls adorning hats, gowns, gloves, veils, purses, and ring-bearer pillows. Pearls are the essential wedding gem, and now more and more men are wearing pearls, as they did before.
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. Inspect under a bright light. 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 6mm pearl is going to be much less than a 12mm 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. The natural skin oils keep them moisturized. Do not put them on until you are done with your cosmetics. This includes hair, facial, and perfume. The residues from these products will ruin your pearls. 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 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 imitation pearl or costume jewelry pearls on the market. These are offered in a wide variety of styles and colors. Great fun at affordable prices.
Pearls never go out of style - they're always a classy and traditional wardrobe accessory that will never disappoint you.
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