Picking Beautiful Pearls or Your Wedding

Pearls are among the world's most elegant pieces of jewelry and long have been traditionally worn at weddings. In fact, some brides believe wearing a pearl necklace brings bliss into their marriage. Not everyone knows, however, how to find the perfect pearl necklace.

Pearls may look similar, but there are really four different types: Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea and freshwater. The most valuable of these types are Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea, all of which are found in oceans. They are more rare than freshwater pearls and have greater luster. The most popular of these pearls are Akoya, as they offer a rich color, mirror-like finish, and alluring roundness.

Determining the Value of a Pearl

Six criteria are used in judging the quality and value. They are luster, nacre, surface, color, shape, size and matching. Like diamonds and rubies, the value of a pearl is determined by its quality. Pearls are measured in grades, which are A, AA, AA+, AAA and AAA+. The highest quality grades are AAA and AAA+, making them the most valuable. A pearl with an 'A' grade would cost just a fraction of another pearl of the same size that had an 'AAA' grade.

Picking a Pearl You Love

When buying a pearl necklace, keep your personal likes and dislikes in mind.
Most pearl purchasers pay closest attention to the nacre thickness, which is the coating around the pearl's nucleus that is put there by an oyster. It is a vital element in determining how long a pearl will last. The most desired pearls have a nacre thickness over 0.4mm.

Luster is the measure of light that is reflected from the pearl. Pearls with high luster are the most desired and most valuable. The color you like is a matter of personal taste. Experts recommend buying a pearl necklace with a color that complements your skin tone and the color of the clothing you plan to wear.

The size of the pearl mostly is based on affordability. Buyers tend to select the largest pearls they can fit into their budget. Prices for pearls larger than 7 mm vary greatly. When considering shape, round pearls are considered to be the best and most valuable.

Matching is the measure of whether all of the pearls in a necklace are similar. It is very difficult to find pearls that match each other to use in the same necklace. So, when they do match, the necklace becomes very valuable.

Choose the type of pearl that you want and then consider the color, size and quality. Try to find a pearl that meets your desires and fits into your budget. Shop around and find the pearl necklace that will be a perfect fit for your wedding day.