8 factors to value Cultured Pearls.

There are eight factors or variables you want to consider if you want to spend a lot of money on a beautiful strand of cultured pearls. First, you want to consider the Mollusk’s Source. south sea pearl, or a saltwater pearl or a freshwater pearl. These different mollusks produce different sizes and different colors depending on the shell color of the mollusk. Size. All culture pearls are measured in millimeters. Shape. Round is the traditional shape However; most pearls come out irregular shapes these are called baroque. Only freshwater pearls can men create various shapes such as a cross. Body Color. The body color or base color of the pearl traditionally is white however many pearls take on the color of the shell of the mollusk. So there can be yellows pinks grays blues and blacks. Be aware most contemporary pearls are treated for color they are dyed like we dye cloth. Luster. Luster is determined on the regular mineral deposition onto the pearl so if the microscopic layers are very even, then the pearl will have a mirror like finish. Look to see your reflection. If the reflection is hazy and blurry the luster is poor. Orient. Orient is the word for the metallic or rainbow colors a pearl may or may not exhibit. Only a few pearls will have an orient that is metallic in color and shine. Nacre is the thickness of the outer mineral layer. It can only be seen or measured in a drilled pearl or by x-ray. Blemishes. Blemishes nobody wants blemishes on a Pearl.