What
we know as a "pearl" is the result of the buildup
of layer after layer of nacre, enveloping the
intruder. Nacre is the same substance that forms
the lining within the shell. The prismatic effect
creates a rainbow-like glow across the pearl's
surface -- a soft iridescence -- which is referred
to as the pearl's "orient." This lustrous glow
and soft iridescent quality produced by the nacre
is what gives a fine pearl its unique beauty and
character. The thicker the nacre, and more perfectly
aligned each crystal layer, the more beautiful,
rare,and costly the pearl.
Pearls
are available today to meet every occasion, every
personal style, and every budget; some are rarer
than others, some much costlier than others.
You
may wonder how you will ever be able to balance
quality, beauty and value, but it will come more
easily than you can imagine, especially if you
follow some simple guidelines:
First
you must take time to think what type of pearl
you want and the price range, you must decide
how to best meet your own needs.
Second
what quality you are looking for? Common, good,
better or best. Quality is determined by a combination
of luster, shape and size.
Most
of all, lustrous pearls will give you many years
of pleasure and enjoyment. The shape and size
of pearls are
personal preferences. Qualities to look for in
pearls are high luster, clear surface and good
shape.
It is also important to think of the color and
shape of the pearls. To be sure the color of the
pearls suits your skin, eye and hair coloring.
Pearls come in a variety of natural colors such
as white, cream, peach, pink, lilac and plum;
their color depends on the trace elements they
contain. Pearls can also be black, brown, green,
grey and blue when they are Coloured with special
treatment.
Pearls
can be divided into four basic shape categories:
round, off-round, semi-baroque and baroque. When
pricing pearls, you should take into consideration
the length of the strand as well as the diameter
size of the pearls.
Here are the names for necklaces of different
lengths.
Choker
14 to 16 inch
Princess 16 to 20 inch
Matinee 20 to 26 inch
Opera 28 to 36 inch
Rope 40 inch
How to care for your pearls
Once
you've selected your pearls, proper care is required
to protect their lustrous beauty so you can pass
your treasure to future generations.
1.
Store in a separate pouch to prevent scratching
the pearl's surface on sharp metal edges or prongs,
or against harder stones.
2.
Avoid contact with these substance - vinegar,
ammonia, chlorine bleach of any kind, inks, hairspray,
perfumes, toilet water and cosmetics.
3.
Wipe the pearls gently with a hot damp towel before
putting them away to remove body oils and perspiration,
which are particularly harmful to a pearl's color.
4.
Periodic washing is recommended. Wrap them in
a thin, clean and damp cotton towel to dry.
5.
Avoid storing pearls in an excessively dry place
or extreme heat.
6.
Remove your pearls prior to doing strenuous exercise
or work.
7.
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, and restring pearls
periodically.
8.
Repolishing a damaged pearl may restore its former
beauty.
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