necklaces - collar, choker, princess, matinee, opera and rope. Collar pearl necklaces are usually 10 to 13 inches in length

and worn casually or in the evening. Choker pearl necklaces are about 16 to 18 inches and suitable for formal wear. Princess

pearl necklaces can be about 17 to 20 inches long. Matinee pearl necklaces are nearly 20 to 24 inches in length and go well

with business suits. Opera pearl necklace are 28 to 34 inches and appropriate for special occasions, formal events or

parties. Rope pearl necklaces are generally 45 inches or above and match well with pantsuits. From elegance, fashionable to

luxury, different looks are created by the versatility of pearl necklace lengths that can be worn on different occasions.

Princess pearl necklaces are 17 to 19 inches, and they are the most popular among necklaces.

Choosing a right pearl necklace depends on many factors such as age and occasion. Pearl necklaces are chosen and worn

differently varying with age. A pearl necklace, like a diamond necklace is available in a variety of styles. A strand of

pearls, or a single pearl on a chain are the two most common types. There are also collar, choker, princess, matinee, opera

and rope pearl necklaces.

When buying a pearl necklace, there are a few things one should keep in mind such as the surface, color, size, luster and

shape of the pearls. Some colored necklaces complement a women’s skin color better than others. For example a woman having a

fair complexion looks better in a light color pearl necklace, as compared to silver, gray or black.

Pearl necklaces come in various colors such as white, white rose, cream, golden, black, silver and gray.

Pearl Wedding Jewelry - Pearl Necklaces

Pearl necklaces are typically divided into six lengths: collar, choker, princess, matinee, opera, and rope. A pearl collar is usually 12 to 13 inches long and is made of at least three strands of pearls. A pearl collar works best if your bridal gown has a plunging neckline, a V-neck or is strapless.

A pearl choker is usually 14 to 16 inches long, and rests at the collarbone. Its classic length makes it the perfect accessory for bridals gowns. At 17 to 20 inches, the princess necklace is the classic pearl necklace length because of its versatility. It works well with both high and plunging necklines.

The matinee pearl necklace is typically 20 to 25 inches, and works well with high necklines. This pearl necklace would be ideal if you’re a bride for the second time, and your gown is cocktail length.

At 27 to 36 inches, the opera pearl necklace drops to the waist, so it can be worn with a high neckline or wrapped into a double strand to form a choker. The pearl rope necklace is longer still, at 40 to 72 inches or even longer. Its sheer length makes this pearl necklace a stunning accessory. It can be looped into a double or triple pearl strand, can be looped and worn at the wrist, or even worn down the back of a backless gown. Both versatile and daring, an opera-length pearl necklace will make a dramatic statement on your wedding day.

Pearl Wedding Jewelry - Pearl Stud Earrings

If the style of your wedding gown doesn’t lend itself to a pearl necklace, consider pearl earrings. Classic stud earrings lend a simple elegance to an ornate gown, while simple gowns call for dangle pearl earrings. Today, there are many settings from which to choose, including hearts, hoops, ribbons, and chains. You can also choose from among single pearl stud earrings or earrings that are designed with several pearls.

Pearl Wedding Jewelry - Bridal Party Gifts

Pearl jewelry is the perfect gift for bridesmaids and groomsmen alike. Pearl cufflinks are a gift that will last a lifetime, while bridesmaids will delight in one of any number of pearl gifts. Pearl jewelry is available at virtually every price point, so you can find both heirloom quality pearl jewelry sets and fashion pearl jewelry. Pearl pendants, bracelets, and earrings - as well as strands - make perfect pearl jewelry remembrances for your special day.

Pearl necklaces are very famous for its natural beauty and white color brilliance. Pearls natural colors and its lustrous appeal bring charm and elegance to any necklines. Women love wearing pearl necklaces. Beauty of pearl necklace is unique in its own way and if diamonds are forever, pearls are timeless fashion statement. High quality pearl necklace truly brings grace and elegance to the wearer. Pearl necklace designed with selective matching colors and size of pearls is indeed a designer art. About 40-50 pearl beads are carefully hand-knotted and string together to make a beautiful and gorgeous pearl necklace. Pearl necklace go very well with all wedding gowns and is a preferred choice of many brides and bridesmaids.

White color pearl necklace is very traditional and classic but pearl necklaces are now available in various other colors and sizes as well. Pearl necklace designed with freshwater pearls are very good in quality and very much affordable now. Pearl necklaces come in various other types of pearls also such as Akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls and South seawater pearls. Akoya pearl necklaces are typically more expensive than their cousin freshwater pearls and have always been in high demand for its high luster and nearly perfect round shapes. Black Tahitian and golden south sea pearl necklaces are excellent in quality and generally command higher prices both in domestic and international markets.

When it comes to pearl necklace, usually it’s a white color pearl necklace. White color pearl necklaces are classic, traditional and generally designed with round shape pearls. Pearls come in other natural colors too, like gray, black, golden, light green etc. However, pearls can be colored-dyed to suit fashion and style in lavender, pink, peach, gold, black and blue as well. But natural original color pearl necklaces are always preferred and command higher prices. A typical pearl necklace is hand-knotted with about 40 pearl beads.

Pearl necklaces are not restricted to round shape pearls only. Tear drop, pear, potato, coin and irregular baroque shape pearls are equally popular among women and commonly used by jewelers and designers alike.

Pearl necklaces are designed with various pearl types such as freshwater pearls, akoya seawater pearls, Tahitian and South seawater pearls and their prices vary according type and quality among other factors.

When it comes to pearl size, the most popular sizes are between 6mm to 8.5mm for most pearl necklaces. Small sizes pearl necklaces are very common among younger girls and larger sizes are preferred choice of many women.

Grading South Sea Pearls

Pearl necklaces are graded by the Five S’s: Shine, Surface, Shade, Shape and Size.

Shine (Luster) is the way that light reflects and shines through the pearl. Because a pearl is an organic object, it often has Surface markings such as nicks, scratches, small indentations and discolorations. (A pearl void of such markings is considered perfect and only accounts for 5-10% of the total amount of pearls harvested each year). Pearls have a wide variety when it comes to color and overtone, with different Shades being considered more desirable than others. Pearl Shape can range all the way from Baroque to Perfect-Round, with different shapes being considered more valuable than others due to their rarity. Size is the total circumference of the pearl, usually measured in millimeters. The combination of these qualities factors in to the total grade of the necklace, resulting in a rating of A, A+, AA, AA+ and AAA. The highest grade for a pearl necklace is AAA quality. AAA pearls are the most desirable and valuable. They are impressive gifts to give someone who especially cares about quality and value.

South Sea Pearl Luster

Shine (Luster) is the way that light reflects from the pearl. It is the most important factor in determining a pearl’s value. Luster is what gives the pearl its iridescence and depth. Luster is determined by the thickness of pearl nacre, the coating that makes up the pearl. Very lustrous pearls have a deep-mirror like surface and a bright shine. Pearls with low luster look dull and foggy. South Sea pearls are in possession of thick, creamy nacre and are famous for their rich, silky luster.

One way to examine the luster of a pearl necklace is to lay the strand on a table and look at the pearls from 20 inches away. The sharper and clearer your reflection is on the pearls’ surface, the higher the luster.

South Sea Pearl Surface

As pearls are an organic creation, they often have surface imperfections. Flawless South Sea pearls are very rare and command a much higher price. The surface of a pearl is graded by how many imperfections are visible and to what percentage they are distributed. These marks can range from small and nearly unnoticeable, to quite large and distinct. When buying pearl jewelry, be sure to examine the pearl surface carefully for these kinds of flaws.

South Sea Pearl Color

South Sea Pearls have a wide variety of colors and overtones, ranging from white, silver, yellow and gold with subtle undertones of pink, blue and green.

Among these colors, deep golden or white hues are the most desirable and valuable.

Golden South Sea Pearl Necklace: The deeper the golden color, the more rare and valuable the pearls are. Their beautiful glowing hue creates a sense of warmth; livening the complexion and creating a feeling of luxury.

White South Sea Pearl Necklace: Famous for their rich, creamy color, White South Sea pearls can have rose or silver overtones. While pearls with silver tones are more popular, South Sea pearls with rose overtones are considered to be rarer and more valuable.

When buying a White South Sea pearl necklace, keep in mind that pearls with white body color are more valuable than those with ivory or cream. Use caution, as some sellers may sell cream South Sea pearls as white ones for a higher price.

When choosing color, keep in mind the complexion of the wearer. For example, if the wearer has a dark complexion, the golden color would be a good choice. If the wearer has a fair complexion, a white or silver hue would be nice.

When examining the color of a South Sea pearl necklace, it is best to view it under natural light. Pearl color will look slightly different under various types of lighting. Pure morning light is the ideal time. Florescent light tends to give pearls a more bluish or yellowish hue, while incandescent light lends pearls a more reddish hue.

South Sea Pearl Shape

South Sea pearl shapes include perfect round, semi-round, circle, oval, button, drop, and baroque. Because symmetry is rare in nature, round shapes are the most highly valued. While a strand of round South Sea pearl necklace is the most classic and valuable, a nearly round necklace can create a similar look at a significantly reduced price. Another option to consider is a baroque necklace. Stylish and fun, it can be worn with everything from a pair of jeans to a Gucci bustier.

South Sea Pearl Size

The most common sizes for South Sea Pearls are 10mm – 15mm. South Sea pearls in 16mm - 20mm are very rare and extremely valuable. Ultimately, the size of a necklace is a personal preference as it reflects individual style and personality. When choosing a size, you should consider the wearing purpose of the necklace. Generally, larger necklaces are more extravagant and create a statement; while smaller necklaces are more for everyday wear.

South Sea Pearl Necklace Matching and Workmanship

It is important to examine the workmanship of a pearl necklace. Poorly matched pearls with obvious color differences will lessen the beauty of your necklace, causing its value to drop dramatically. When you receive your necklace, examine it by letting it hang off the tip of your finger. Examine whether the line of the necklace is straight, the knotted tie too tight or too loose and whether the finish is beautiful.

South Sea Pearl Necklace Graduation

Graduation means that the pearls are strung from smallest to largest, starting at the clasp and ending with the largest pearl in the center of the necklace. This is traditionally done to capture the elegant, interesting look it creates.

South Sea Pearl Necklace Length

When choosing pearl necklace length, keep in mind both the size of the wearer and the effect you wish to create. Traditionally 16 inches, or choker necklace length, is considered the classic look, while longer lengths are ideal for casual, business, or evening wear. It is an ideal choice for those with high necklines as well. The most popular length for a pearl necklace is 17 inches; a length that is not quite a choker yet does not drape extravagantly low on the wearer.

Millimeters Vs Inches

Pearls are measured in millimeter. 1 inch is equivalent to about 25mm. Therefore, a 10mm pearl is equal to 0.4 inches.

South Sea Pearl Necklace Pricing

Due to their size and rarity, South Sea pearls can be expensive. Here are some quick tips to help you in the decision making process: When selecting a necklace it is wise to choose quality over size.

High quality South Sea pearls are a statement of perfection and sophistication. Also, they are rare and have investment value. A high quality South Sea pearl necklace can last for generations.

Pearl Necklaces are one of the most romantic jewelry gifts. If diamonds are forever, pearls are timeless fashion statement. Pearl necklaces are classic and traditional. Pearl necklaces bring true sophistication and grace to feminine charm. As compare to other precious metal jewelry and gems, pearl necklaces, which were once the domain and royal possession for rich, famous and affluent have become affordable now.

Since cultured pearls are graded from A to AAA, obviously the AAA quality is the best of all because of their perfect spherical round shapes, no blemishes and high lustrous quality. Pearl necklaces designed with akoya seawater pearls are typically are very popular among American customers for their brilliant shine and lustrous appeal.

Besides pearls shape and size, pearl necklaces come in various unique stylish lengths: The most popular cultured pearl necklaces are princess length style of 16″ to 18″ in lengths Buying complete set of necklace, earrings and bracelet not only you get the ultimate trios but savings on money. A typical pearl necklace is hand-knotted with about 40 pearl beads.

Pearl necklaces are designed with various pearl types such as freshwater pearls, akoya seawater pearls, Tahitian and South seawater pearls and their prices vary according to type and quality among other factors. Akoya pearls are typically more popular in U.S.A

Pearls are measured in millimeters through their diameters. Smaller size does not mean they are always cheaper than the larger ones. Very good quality pearl necklaces made with small size pearls may command higher price than the lower quality of 8mm or more. Sizes 6mm-7mm are generally preferred by young girls and are very popular. Sizes 7mm-8mm are equally popular in demand and are preferred choice of many working and career women alike. Size 8mm or bigger usually are in higher price range.

Synthetic Pearls – Necklaces made of synthetic pearls are usually sold at discounted rates because they’re overflowing in the market and they’re not as in demand as cultivated or cultured pearls. Synthetic pearls also come in a range of colors, designs, and sizes, so take your time choosing which pearl necklace appeals to you the most and ensuring that you’re buying a jewelry piece that people you know are unlikely to own as well.

Wholesale Markets – If you want something to occupy your time and help you earn money at the same time, consider entering the pearl industry as a buyer and seller of pearl necklaces. Search for jewelry wholesale markets in your area and you’ll be surprised at the discount rates supplies are offering if you express your intention to purchase their products wholesale.

Of course, your buying trip doesn’t have to be 100% about business. Once you’ve finished choosing and purchasing pearl necklaces, you certainly deserve the right to select one from the lot for your personal use. At times, if you’re purchasing a huge quantity of products, you might even be able to persuade the seller to part with a pearl necklace for free, depending on what you have your eye on and how great your persuasive skills are.

Befriending Jewelry Shop Owners and Assistants – The only way to befriend jewelry shop owners and employees is by building a solid reputation as a jewelry buyer. If they see and transact with you often, they’ll soon think of you as one of their most loyal customers.

When this happens, they’ll soon be willing to offer you discounted rates for their pearl necklaces and contact you ahead of time as well if they’re planning to have a sale. That way, you get first pick on everything!

Joining Jewelry Associations – Jewelry associations accept members who are extremely interested in owning, selling, or crafting jewelry pieces. Members of such groups are usually given discounted rates when purchasing all sorts of jewelries – including pearl necklaces of course. These rates are of course lower than what are being offered to non-members.

Buying a Set – You’ll have more chances of obtaining a discount for your pearl necklace if you choose to buy a whole set of pearl earrings, necklace, and bracelet. Once you do, the jewelry retailer will be more willing to reduce his price for you.

Direct to the Source – Instead of purchasing pearl necklaces at jewelry boutiques and other distributors, find a way so you can buy pearl necklaces from the original supplier. Be warned however that suppliers mostly sell by the bulk. Nevertheless, if you do find a way to do so, you’ll most probably benefit from discounted rates.

Going Online – There are various ways for you to take advantage of discount pearl necklaces in the Internet.

Auction Houses and Bidding Sites – Visit these websites regularly to be the first to know when there’s a discounted pearl necklace up for grabs. You may have to register an account in such sites first if you wish to participate. Once you become a long-standing member, the owner of the site may be willing to give you special privileges and first dibs on hot items like discount pearl necklaces.

Jewelry Selling Sites – There are more sites and promotions offered online than in land-based stores so just be patient in browsing the Internet, and you’re sure to find a site that’s selling discount pearl necklaces.

When buying online, it’s imperative that you personally meet with the buyer first to see for yourself if the quality of the necklace is exactly as indicated. If this is impossible, check what type of guarantee the seller is willing to offer in the event that the appearance of the discount pearl necklace doesn’t meet your approval.

These varieties include authentic pearls, cultured pearls, and simulated. Obviously, natural pearls will cost significantly more than those that are simulated. Some natural pearls are a creamy white while others are black, gray, pink, or iridescent. When buying natural pearls a bride should try on her wedding dress to make sure the color of the natural pearl perfectly complements the dress. Cultured pearls are refined to be more even toned. Most cultured pearls are a creamy, iridescent color, which adds a softer appeal. Simulated pearls range in color and while some look quite natural others are obviously artificial. As a result, it is best to ask questions before making a final purchase.

Keep in mind that pearl bridal accessories are not limited to brides only. In fact, some jewelry dealers specific sell pearl earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and also tiaras for bridesmaids. Pearls are most effective when worn modestly, so be careful not to over accessorize. Although pearls are elegant, classic, and tasteful, wearing too many pearl accessories can become a distraction.

Whether a bride’s gown is garnished with pearls or not, they are an appropriate choice for almost any wedding gown. Choosing pearl bridal jewelry is not only an elegant choice for a bride, but it is a smart choice. Pearls are timeless treasures that are here to stay. They make wonderful bridal accessories as well as family heirlooms. Just think, you are getting married this year or maybe next, but in years to come, your daughter may wear your pearls down the aisle on her special day!

Pearls are said to be the queen of jewels and pearl necklaces go with any outfit, on any occasion, on any person, regardless of age. A pearl necklace looks stylish on youngsters while it looks elegant on the elderly. It creates an aura of its own, depending on the person adorning it. Until 1900, royalty, church dignitaries, and the very wealthy people exclusively used pearl necklaces. This continued until cultured pearls were invented. Some of our very first designs date back more than 2000 years.

Pearl necklaces can vary in price from the very cheap to the very expensive depending on the rarity and quality of the pearls used. Pearl necklaces made from freshwater pearls are cheaper than saltwater pearls, as they are cultured pearls. These are of a wide variety and various colors are available. While the pink, blue, and black pearls are suitable for youngsters, the cream-colored pearl necklaces lie in the mists of tradition like beautifully delicate balls of beauty and are preferred by the older women. Black pearl necklaces are the most expensive as black pearls are very rare.

The traditional single strand of pearls has given way to a huge range of necklaces. Jewelry designers are always striving to add a new twist to their creations, while retaining the legendary classic beauty of the pearls. The classic strand of pearls being timeless, pearls are also set in silver, gold or platinum. Pearls, when mixed with precious gemstones create a beautifully unique effect.

When buying a pearl necklace, there are several things that should be taken into consideration, such as the luster, surface, shape, color, and size of the pearls. The inner glow and the surface brilliance make for the luster of the pearls. Low quality pearls are too white and dull. The surface should be smooth without any breaks or blemishes. With round pearls are more expensive, since the rounder the pearl, the more valuable it is - although, it is rare to find very round pearls. There are several colors available and black Tahitian pearls are costlier than other colors. Pearl necklaces are made from the tiniest pearls that are cheaper, to the larger ones.

Pearl jewelry with more designs is also a fashion trend in 2007. These designs take a classic style and make it even more sophisticated.

Below is a list of this year’s trends in pearl jewelry:

• Pearl earrings accented with diamonds, sapphires, or rubies. Gemstones add color brilliance to pearls, while bringing out their warmth and softness.

• Dangling pearl earrings or dramatic pendants. They move with you and are always eye-catching.

• Pearl jewelry in two-tone white and yellow gold settings.

• Pearl necklaces with diamond gold clasps, showing off the sparkle of the clasp and adding a distinctive look.

• Pearls in heart-shaped pendants or earrings, showing your love.

• Exotic South Sea or Tahitian pearl necklaces, white, golden, and multicolor, are simply breathtaking.

• Freshwater pearl necklaces with the look of South Sea or Tahitian Pearls are more affordable than ever.

• Black pearl necklaces showing the coolness and mysterious beauty.

• Necklaces or bracelets made of pearls and gold links are always luxurious and fashionable.

• A single pearl or several pearls on a gold chain prove yet again that less is more. A black Tahitian pearl on a leather chain looks wonderful on men.

Signature pearl jewelry, fashionable and irresistible, can express your individuality, and have made the 2007 fashion year one of the most exciting ever.