Pearls are among the softest gemstones, ranking at just a 2.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. They are also quite sensitive to chemicals. However, you can certainly wear them every day as long as you take some easy precautions like putting your pearls on last, to protect them from cosmetics and body care products, and taking them off first. Pearl earrings and pearl pendant necklaces are a particularly good choice for everyday wear as they don't experience much wear and tear.
Real pearls are formed by natural processes inside a living oyster, which results in variations in the luster, color and size of each pearl. The surface of a real pearl also won't be perfectly even. Fake pearls, on the other hand, are typically made of glass or plastic, giving them a smoother and more uniform appearance. Buying from a trusted retailer, like us, will ensure that your pearl jewelry is as authentic as it is beautiful.
There are four different types of cultured pearls available for fine jewelry pieces: Akoya, freshwater, South Sea and Tahitian. Akoya cultured pearl jewelry has a gorgeous white color and high luster, giving it a classic look. Freshwater cultured pearl jewelry is a popular alternative as it has a similar appearance at a less expensive price, while South Sea cultured pearl jewelry is known for pearls of exceptional size and luminous white color. Tahitian cultured pearl jewelry is distinguished by its darker and more modern hues of green, black, blue and purple.
To keep your pearls looking perfect, it's important to clean them regularly. Try to wipe your pearls down with a soft cloth after every wear to maintain their luster. Combine this with semi-regular cleaning using a gentle jewelry cleaner and your pearl jewelry will stay as beautiful as the day you bought it.
Touch is the quickest and easiest way to tell if a pearl is genuine. When you feel a genuine pearl, it should be cool to the touch and warm up when worn. Costume jewelry pearls typically feel warm and can even have a sticky texture.
Natural pearls form in different shapes and sizes, while costume jewelry pearls look very uniform. Genuine pearls also reflect light, unlike their imitation counterparts.
Purchasing your pearls from a trusted retailer, like us, will ensure your jewelry is as authentic as it is beautiful.
Pearls range in cost based on their size and the variety of pearl.
Freshwater Pearls are our most affordable variety, starting at $60 for a stud earring set.
Our South Sea pearls are our most luxurious option, with a pair of studs starting at $1,240.
Pearl jewelry has been at the forefront of stylish jewelry trends for centuries, dating back to ancient Greek and Byzantine cultures. More recently, pearl jewelry such as pearl necklaces saw a popularity boom in the 1950s and 60s and following the release of Audrey Hepburn’s famous movie. That energy has continued today, with everyone from politicians to baseball players sporting pearls.
Whether you’re wearing earrings, bracelets, rings or necklaces featuring this popular gem, you’re sure to be at the height of style when you’re wearing pearl jewelry. Pearls add a touch of sophistication to any look!