June Birthstone - Pearl

Buying and Caring tips

---

Tips for Buying Pearl Jewelry

The only sure way to separate a natural from a cultured pearl is by X-ray. Rubbing the pearls across the teeth, by candling them, or using tests such as specific gravity can not make such separations. Several factors influence the value of pearl and these include color, luster, iridescence, shape, and size. Large, spherical pearls are the most desired and fine examples can command very high prices.Popularity of pearl colors varies from place to place and culture to culture. Cream rose' and light rose colors are almost universally liked and pure white or pure yellow pearls are almost universally disliked but the many shades in between enjoy higher or lower status in various places in the world. Oblong, tear drop or flat pearls usually command lower premiums. Semi-translucent pearls with high luster are more desired than opaque pearls with low luster. Orient or iridescence are also very important in grading pearls. Strings of pearls are graded not only on the above criteria but also how well the colors and luster of the individual pearls match in the total piece. Pearl substitutes have been made from various resins and plastics and some are quite attractive though nearly valueless. These usually have a much lower specific gravity than the natural or cultured pearl.

Tips to take care of Pearl Jewelry

Wipe clean after each use with a soft, dry or damp cloth. Mild soapy water is fine. No mechanical cleaners, heat or chemicals. Pearl is a soft gem and is easily prone to getting scratched when rubbed against harder substances. While storing , make sure it is kept in a separate enclosure. If it is set in sterling silver, do not use silver polish for cleaning the jewelry.

Back to June Birthstones Summary Page