Pearls never go out of style – they are always a classy and
traditional wardrobe accessory that will never disappoint you.
But this year they are a “front and center” fashion statement!
So with more people in the market for pearls now is a good time
for some “pearl talk.”
The pearl has always been a rather prim and proper piece of
jewelry – classic and seeped in tradition. Well things they are
a changing! The pearl is has had a very glamorous make over!
Yes, the classic strand still exists as it always will. But we
warned we are seeing some vary daring looks from the pearl this
season. Extra long lengths, tasseled multi strands, pearls with
semi precious stone accents, pearls on gold or silver chains.
The pearl has been transformed into a fun and fashionable
accessory.
So if you’re going to be in the market for pearls this year here
is what you should know. • The glow or radiance of a pearl is
the most important quality. Avoid pearls that are chalky or dull
as they will be weak and may crack or peal. • The surface of the
pearl should be blemish free – no bumps or cracks. Inspect under
a bright light. Baroque pearls are the exception to this rule –
their charm is in their irregularities. • Pearls are measured in
millimeters. The larger the pearl the higher the cost. A 6 mm
pearl is going to be much less than a 12 mm pearl • The least
expensive pearls are the freshwaters which mainly come from
China. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Average size
is around 7 mm • The best way to care for your pearls is simply
to wear them. The natural skin oils keep them moisturized. Do
not put them on until you are done with your cosmetics. This
includes hair, facial, and perfume. The residues from these
products will ruin your pearls. Do not wear your pearls in the
water – chlorinated and salt water will damage them. Polish with
a soft cloth and never use jewelry cleaning products on your
pearls.
Quality pearls are not cheap but they will last a lifetime.
Freshwater pearls are becoming very affordable. Not all of us
will be in the market for “Real Pearls” and lucky us there are
plenty of options. Swarovski makes a crystal pearl that is of
the finest quality and quite difficult to tell from a true pearl
for a fraction of the cost and they are available in a variety
of colors. There is an endless supply of imitation pearl or
costume jewelry pearls on the market. These are offered in a
wide variety of styles and colors. Great fun at affordable
prices.
So you ask what’s “In Style” this season? Well I’m glad you
asked! • Pearl rings get the green flag – from low settings to
monster large solitaire pearls, they are all the rave. A pearl
ring can go from romantic and simple to sleek and stunning. •
The Bib Necklace makes a very dramatic statement. A broad
necklace that tapers towards the back just like a baby’s bib
[thus the name]. They range from extremely wide to as narrow as
a ½”. This style works great with a simple black dress or
strapless neckline. • The multi-strand necklace is ever so
preppy. They range from 12″ to 18″ and pearls are usually small
to medium. The object of these necklaces is for every pearl to
be in perfect placement. Very versatile and fashionable. • The
opera length necklace simply never disappears from the fashion
scene. They measure 36″ or longer and they can be worn as a long
single lean line, doubled up, tied in a knot, wherever the
moment takes you. These long strands are terrific for dressing
up a pair of jeans or semi casual look. • The tassel necklace
from the footloose and fancy free1920s has made a come back, and
rightly so! Today tassels are often made from tiny seed pearls
or irregular baroques. They range in length fro short at 16″ to
navel length at 36″. The tassel necklace swings and sways with
your movement making it a must have for those night of dancing.
• This season for first time, we are seeing pearls mixed with
colored gems such as amethyst, peridot, or topaz. They
compliment each other nicely – pearls with their soft and subtle
shades mixed with semi precious gems with their vibrant and bold
color. Picture it – what a fashion statement! • Pearls mixed
with silver is also new this season. Long silver chain dangle
earrings accented with pearls, or freshwater droplets set on
silver. • This season the pearl is all about the color. Pearls
are available in many hues but this season the “hot spot” is
“lavender” and the lavender family ranging from pale iris to
plum.
If you already own a beautiful classic pearl necklace its very
easy to transform it into something from this season. Try adding
a group of charms or pendants, fastening a vintage brooch or
clip[ on earring at the bottom. You could mix various lengths or
sizes of pearls together or entwine a silver or gold chain. How
about mixing your real pearls with your fake pearls? The options
are as endless as your imagination.
Remember when you freshen your wardrobe for the spring, freshen
your costume jewelry too and Make Your