Pearls are formed in oysters and mussels. They could be cultured, but most are formed naturally. They can be found in both fresh and natural waters.

In order to choose the best quality pearls, cultured or natural, you must carefully consider the nacre thickness, texture, size, color, luster, and shape.

Luster

To check their luster, you must observe pearls in different lights. Luster is the pearl’s intense brightness. Pearls, especially freshwater pearls, can shine in some types of lights or are faint in other types. The pearl luster is best checked using fluorescent lamp. You would know the highest quality pearls because they glow regardless of what type of light you use to examine it with. The more intense the gleam of the pearls is, the higher the worth. These pearls have a fine warm radiance, while low quality pearls look dull.

Color

In choosing your pearls, check their color. They come in different colors, white, golden, and cream. You must choose the color which best suits you or the person you’re giving it to. You must also check the skin or texture of the pearls as well. Make sure the pearls are perfectly round and smooth. Check if there are blemishes, wrinkles, large pits or flaws. An important factor in determining the quality of the pearls is their nacre thickness. This also determines the length of time your pearls would last. Thick nacre pearls are high quality pearls.

There are four kinds of pearls: Akoya, Tahitian, south sea pearls. These are all cultured pearls. The most popular of these is the Akoya pearls.

Pearls can be bought from jewelry stores or online shops or auctions. Remember to buy your pearls from high-quality stores because they grade their pearls carefully. You can be assured that the pearls are genuine and you can avail of their refund policy if you find anything to your dissatisfaction.