Wednesday, December 3, 2008

How To Find The Right Pearl Necklace

By Tim Olson

Let us show you how to buy a pearl necklace that will flatter you. Before we begin, lets talk about how a pearl is formed. When a particle invades the shell of an oyster, the oyster produces a substance called nacre to form layers around the particle to protect itself from this irritant. These layers build up one upon another resulting finally in the creation of a pearl. Pearls are renown for their classic elegance and timeless beauty.

When you're choosing a pearl necklace, it is important to know the basics of pearls. There are naturally produced pearls, cultured pearls and synthetic pearls. These range from the highest in value to the lowest (in that order). Because natural pearls are rare, cultured pearls are a popular choice as it is very difficult to tell a natural pearl from a cultured one. Pearls can be formed in saltwater or in freshwater with saltwater versions being more expensive.

With 3 different shapes, symmetrical, round and baroque, you can find a pearl necklace to suit any style and physical body type. A commonly chosen shape is the round or spherical pearl. Irregularly shaped pearls are classed as baroque and can look like sticks or crosses, for example. Symmetrical pearls come in oval, button and drop shapes.

Because collar necklaces are the shortest at 10 to 13 inches long, they are worn high on the neck and are great for evening as well as casual wear. Choker is slightly longer and worn at the base of the neck. One of the most flexible lengths for a pearl necklace and suitable for almost any neckline, is the princess. These tend to be 17 to 20 inches in length.

Collar necklaces are the shortest to be found and can easily be used for both evening and casual wear. Typically worn high and above the base of the neck while chokers are worn around the base of the neck and range from 16 to 18 inches in length. One of the most popular lengths for a pearl necklace is the princess, which comes in 17 to 20 inches lengths and can be worn with almost any type of neckline.

If you're choosing a pearl necklace to wear with corporate or business outfits, or for semi-formal events, then the matinee length is ideal. The rule-of-thumb goes that people with short necks should wear necklaces that sit at least 2 inches below the collarbone while people with longer necks should wear necklaces that sit at the base of the neck.

Mikimoto pearls are known the world around for their excellent quality, brilliance and sheen. With fans that include members of the British and Japanese royal families, this brand of pearls are highly sought-after by women wanting to stand out with timeless elegance.

Beautiful black, gray and green-black pearls are known as Tahitian pearls, named after the island of Tahiti. These are grown from black-lipped oysters and how to buy a pearl necklace made of Tahitian pearls is to look out for their luster, clarity and mirror-like sheen as well as for any flaws like discoloration, spots, scratches, bumps and other irregularities.

A couple of pearl necklace buying tips include buying a set with a pearl necklace, earrings and bracelet or ring. This will increase the probability of you scoring a discount on your jewelry. Another way to buy a pearl necklace on a budget is to try finding an original supplier. Although these suppliers usually prefer to sell in large quantities, you may try to find people who are willing to combine their purchases with you so that you can all enjoy discounted rates on your timeless accessories. - 15485

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