Necklaces - Gold Is One Possible Choice

Discovery of Gold Nuggets

Gold was initially discovered in its natural state. They look like yellow nuggets which shines when the sun?s rays touches it. It was one of the earliest metals discovered by humans. The nice thing about it is that gold deposits can be located in different regions of the world. So that gold was discovered by different groups and anyone who saw it was readily impressed with its qualities.

Necklaces in General

A necklace is an object worn around the neck. In different cultures, necklaces can be in the form of clothing, indigenous materials or metal. Variations of necklaces have been created over time so that some of them can be as simple as a regular chain or circular object. It could also be more complex so much so that special designs come with gems or lockets attached to them.

Consumer Use of Gold Necklaces

A lot of people have in one way or another possessed a gold necklace or even several pieces of it. There are several reasons why people purchase them. One reason why people buy them is to wear accessories. Most people would wear accessories when they have some special occasions to attend or host. It somehow makes the wearer look better with it than without it.

Some people, on the other hand, invest in gold necklaces. A number would buy them for their value. Gold prices are bound to go up most of the time and so in a sense it?s like investing in real estate. Buyers are assured that they can wear them and still be able to sell them at a good price if and when they decide to do so.

Some religious groups like the Christians wear gold necklaces with a crucifix or cross attached to it. Although not everyone wears them as a rule, some wear them for purposes of showing their religious affiliations to people they meet without actually saying it.

However, there are some groups who wear gold necklaces with crosses attached to it as a pendant for decoration such as some singers of the hip hop genre. Wearing gold necklaces for the hip hop groups has become part of their distinctive attire. The practice of wearing loud gold necklaces is usually associated with them primarily because of mass media such as the television where the public gets the chance to see them in their full attire a good number of times.

Marketing of Gold Necklaces

Gold necklaces of all types are readily available in the market nowadays. Jewelry shops can be seen in malls, business areas and even online. The public could take their pick of any type they want or find more designs that appeal to their tastes. Gold necklaces are marketed with long or short strands. They also come in various thicknesses and karats. Even the designs of the gold chains are not the same for all gold necklaces. This has opened the marketing of gold necklaces not just to the rich ones but also the average man. Go ahead and get one for yourself too. People will always find uses for them whatever the venue or occasion may be.

Eric Hartwell oversees "The World's Best Homepage" intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions on jewelry, silver and gems and visit our associated site articles for free.

Buying A Gold Necklace

If there?s one alternative to diamonds that would be gold ? and especially gold necklaces. If you are a gold jewelry aficionado necklaces are definitely the hippest. Yet if you want to get only the best gold necklaces you should start setting your standards to get the best quality you can afford.

Though gold necklaces are really head-turning it would be much more satisfying to see that what you acquired was worth all the costs you incurred. Perhaps the 18-carat gold is the most renowned type because of its durable character and its elegant beauty. But they can be made from the flimsiest 18-carat gold. If you settle to purchase a 24-carat necklace chances are you would have a problem because it is naturally soft and effortlessly bends. It needs treating with care and respect. However, gold such as 14-carat gold often has the problem that its composition is a mixture with additional metals which in effect fades its color slightly.

It is only natural that as a consumer we tend to be extremely discerning and fastidious when it come to purchasing our personal belongings, and of course it quite acceptable in respect of gold products including a gold necklace. You would want to follow some guidelines for you not to be deceived by jewelers.

Know which company is trustworthy in terms of their gold products. Make sure that what they are offering suits your needs. It?s much like buying bread in a bakery rather than in a garage. Being critical doesn?t always bear a negative connotation, because in the end your inquisitiveness will prove to have worked to your advantage.

Ask for warranties and guarantees. You are not buying a shirt that would cost you just a dollar. You are buying a gold necklace, it would more or less cost you a thousand dollars depending on the style and type of necklace you would intend to have. It is an investment so in the event that you come across a visible defect be more than certain enough to ask for their policies and procedures. For example, as money-back-guarantee.

Never ever rush. When you rush things, the chances of an effective result are lessened because you become careless and lose focus.

Gold necklaces, as previously mentioned, take into account design, but since the market is now offering a wide array of choices it lessens the problem of buyers especially those new to necklace purchasing. There are snake chain gold necklaces, Italian cable chains, Byzantine necklace and the special panther linked necklace. These are only few samples of the types of gold necklaces, yet at the end of the day it?s your choice that matters, and whether one is suitable for you.

Eric Hartwell oversees "The World's Best Homepage" intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions on jewelry, silver and gems and visit our associated site articles for free

The Diamond Necklace That Marks Time

Nothing is more striking than the diamond necklace. A journey version is even more striking given the meaning of its diamonds in relation to time and commitment.

Over the years, many different types of diamond jewelry have been in vogue. From the large pieces of the early 1900's to the smaller, delicate jewelry of the 1990's and 2000's, there's always been a different type of diamond jewelry that has been the most popular. Recently, one of the most purchased and requested types of jewelry has been the Journey diamond necklace. This necklace is available from many different jewelers ? most of whom make a variety of styles.

Of course, the Journey style of diamond jewelry isn't the only style that has been very popular in recent years. Many people have been seen sporting the three-stone ?Past, Present and Future? diamond jewelry that originally gained popularity in the late 1990's. This type of diamond jewelry typically has three stones ? one each to represent the past, present and future of a romantic relationship. In necklaces, this theme may be seen in the three stone drop necklace ? which uses either three stones of the same size or of gradually larger sizes. Rings usually have a larger center stone and two smaller flanking stones. The sentiment behind this Past, Present and Future jewelry makes it very popular for engagements and anniversaries.

The Journey diamond necklace (as well as other Journey diamond jewelry) has a similar meaning to the three stone jewelry that is popular. Journey jewelry uses a series of graduated stones to show love growing throughout the years. This loving idea makes the Journey diamond necklace an excellent idea for a gift to someone you plan to spend your life with ? such as a wife or fianc?e. There are many different styles of this graduated jewelry, and they come in all different metals (such as yellow and white gold, as well as platinum).

The most popular style of Journey diamond necklace is the ?S? shape. This curved necklace, seen usually in white gold or platinum, has a series of round diamonds curving their way down a pendant in progressively larger carat weights. This type of necklace can be found in all different price ranges, due to the fact that jewelers make this necklace in several total carat weights (ranging from around just .25 total carat weight to several carats). The price for a Journey necklace can be well into the tens of thousands of dollars.

When you want to show your wife, girlfriend or other special lady just how much you love them ? a Journey diamond necklace can be a great way to say that you love them today and your love will continue to grow.

Find jewelry stores near you at JewelryStoresforyou.com.

Necklaces - A Item Of Beauty and Elegance

Necklaces are a great way to accentuate your features and bring out the glow of your skin. Nowadays, there are many kinds of necklaces you can choose from meaning that you may have a difficult time in deciding what kind of necklace you like best. Necklaces can usually be differentiated according to their lengths and widths. For example, the choker is the shortest necklace at fourteen to sixteen inches long, it is followed by the princess necklace which is eighteen inches long. Meanwhile, still another type of necklace is the matinee necklace which is at twenty two to twenty three inches long; this type of necklace is usually above the cleavage area. The last type of necklace is the longest one, the opera necklace; this type of necklace is below the cleavage and is placed at the breastbone.

Necklaces have been popular since ancient civilizations; you have probably already encountered the image of Cleopatra, the Egyptian queen, wearing different kinds of jewelry. But in fact, necklaces have been used even before that time because there are some discoveries that suggest that necklaces were used even during the time when the Israelis evacuated Egypt. Also note that from the painting of Thebes, necklaces have been used by people in that era. Both men and women from the ancient civilizations used necklaces whether as a sign of their religion or for cultural purposes.

Right now, necklaces are still being used by both men and women but it is no longer for any religious or cultural purpose; rather, necklaces are being used more as a fashion accessory to be trendy and stylish. In line with this, manufacturers of necklaces have come up with all sorts of designs to suit their varied clientele. For example, one necklace can be made from diamonds and gold while another can be made by simple stainless steel. Meanwhile, pearl necklaces are especially popular to corporate users because it provides a sophisticated and chic appeal that is especially suited for the workplace. However, the pearl necklace can also be worn for gala events and concerts so the flexibility of this necklace is countless. But, whatever material the necklace is made from, it is sure to be appreciated by its wearer.

Precious gems can also be placed in a necklace setting to give a sense of luxury and elegance to the user. The gems can come in all shapes and sizes and the necklace will give the background it needs to make things even more beautiful. On the other hand, fashionable and individual style choices should not be left out in selecting beautiful necklaces; there are bead necklaces, pearl necklaces, and even fake necklaces to suit a multitude of moods. There is no limit to the innovations being made to the once traditional necklace. It is really no wonder then that aside from the ring, the necklace is the most preferred type of jewelry being given to your special someone when an occasion arises.

Eric Hartwell is involved in The World's Best Home Page (please visit to read and share opinions) and Jewels To Love

Freshwater Pearl Necklace - Choice of Millions!

Unlike akoya seawater pearls, freshwater pearls are grown in ponds, lakes and rivers and most of these pearl farms for freshwater pearls are found in China. With the new improved techniques of culturing pearls, China farms have been able to produce not only large quantity of pearls every year but its quality of freshwater pearls are becoming as good as akoya pearls.

Freshwater pearls are very much cultured pearls. Freshwater pearl necklaces are designed with matching size pearls in many lengths and styles. Most popular length size is princess length (16?-18?) designed with pearl size between 6mm to 9mm (millimeters) of different shapes. One doesn?t have to spend fortunes to buy these freshwater pearl necklaces. Large freshwater pearls production has not only helped the pearl jewelry industry in boosting sales but customers can now buy at much affordable prices. Quality of freshwater pearls is excellent and pearls are really attractive.

Tahitian pearls are known for its black colors and South seawater pearls come in light golden natural colors but these types of pearls command very high prices. Next lines of pearl types are akoya pearls and freshwater pearls. Akoya pearls or seawater pearls are typically expensive than their cousin freshwater pearls. More and more designers are making freshwater pearl necklaces since they can play with multi colors available in freshwater pearls than any other pearl types. Majority of pearl jewelry sold here or abroad are made of freshwater pearls. Freshwater pearls are genuine cultured pearls and undoubtedly, freshwater pearl necklaces are choice of millions all around the world.

Freshwater pearl necklaces come in wide array of colors such as white, pink, peach, lavender, pink and black. Among most popular sizes for freshwater pearl necklaces, young girls often go for small size freshwater pearl necklaces whereas others prefer to wear higher pearl size freshwater pearl necklaces around their necklines. Pearls natural beauty and its lustrous appeal have always attracted women of all age. Brides love wearing freshwater pearl necklaces and have often gifted their bridesmaids with all types of pearl jewelry to appreciate their love and friendships. Its very common among men to present their loved ones with freshwater pearl necklaces on their marriage anniversaries. Freshwater pearl necklaces are the perfect gifts for graduation or for valentines.

Kheri http://www.pearlprincess.com/freshwater-pearl-necklaces.php

Fashion Jewelry - A Necklace Can Help Your Appearance

Nowadays being trendy doesn?t only mean wearing the hippest clothes or the top of the line branded ones. Most especially if you want to stand out from a crowd of women, then fashion jewelry is the best solution to your problem. Whether you are to attend a special occasion or you would just want to stroll at the mall, fashion jewelry would spice up your attire. Its popularity could possibly be rooted to the practicality of modern fashion mongers, wherein the notion that spending too much on clothes is way beyond the fashion industry. People these days prefer to accessorize their outfits instead of fumbling around for stylish apparel.

Necklaces are one of the fundamental fashion jewelry items that can trim the appearance of the neckline. Moreover it also improves the appearance of your top or any other blouse you are wearing by adding intensity and attractiveness. It can also aid in making your upper and lower body look slimmer depending on the specific type of necklace you use. If you have a solid colored shirt, you could wear a necklace with medium length that dangles on a v-shape. The effect of the v-shape is that it would make your arms and shoulders less noticeable. For the chubbier people or for larger ones it would be the most stress-free option to take in order to appear slimmer.

Shirts with a v-shaped neckline with emphasis on a round appearance would appear to be more pleasant. Opposite styles are also applicable it terms of a necklace - if you have a plunging neckline try using a necklace that would be placed near the neck to have a more slender look. Fashion jewelry should always complement your outfit so it is better pick out the ones suitable for your clothing and your physique.

Eric Hartwell oversees "The World's Best Homepage" intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions on jewelry and visit our associated site Jewelry To Love.

Pearl Necklaces - Luster is the Key

Luster is the hallmark of any pearls quality. Pearls are grown in lakes, rivers and sea. When it comes to buying pearls or for evaluation, be it freshwater pearls, Akoya pearls or Akoya seawater pearls, Tahitian pearls, South sea pearls, pearl luster is the prime and one of the key dominating factors. Pearl size, pearl type and how clean is pearl surface are other evaluating considerations.

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.

Pearl necklace comes in various lengths and each pearl necklace length has very fancied name given by pearl jewelry industry:

Pearl Collar ~ 12 ? 13 inches,

Pearl Choker ~ 14 ? 16 inches,

Princess Necklace ~ 17 ? 19 inches,

Matinee Necklace ~ 20 ? 25 inches,

Opera Necklace ~ 26?36 inches,

Pearl Rope ~ Over 37 inches

Large majority of the pearl necklaces sold by pearl jewelers are Princess Necklace length types.

Pearl Jewelry Store - http://www.pearlprincess.com/pearl-necklaces.php

Cultured Pearl Necklace - Quality Cultured Pearl Jewelry

Often natural pearls and cultured pearls come to mind when looking for cultured pearl necklace. Both natural and cultured pearls are identical when it comes to formation of pearls. Both type of pearls are comprised of nacre layers. Natural pearls are formed when a small foreign object, such as a parasite or a grain of sand enters in the gonad or mantle tissue of a mollusk or oyster. In case of cultured pearls this mantle tissue is implanted surgically. After that process of formation of pearls is the same. In a defensive response to the irritant, the mollusk secretes nacre as a smooth, protective coating around the irritant and with multiple concentric layers of nacre, eventually pearl is formed.

The principle difference between natural pearls and cultured pearls is the thickness of nacre. Premature harvesting leads to thinner nacre and pearl farms constantly try to get the best quality cultured pearls every harvesting season. Since natural pearls are rarity now, all type of pearls are cultured pearls and cultured pearl necklace is made with various types of pearls such as freshwater pearls, akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls, South sea pearls. Cultured pearl necklace come in various necklace lengths, sizes and colors. Pearl luster and the quality of any cultured pearl necklace are paramount and priced accordingly.

Freshwater cultured pearls are grown in mollusks that live in freshwater lakes, ponds and rivers rather than in the sea. Freshwater pearls are produced in mussels and saltwater pearls that are commonly known as akoya pearls are produced in oysters. China and Japan are the major producers of these cultured pearls ? freshwater pearls and akoya pearls. Tahitian pearls come from Tahitian island and its neighboring areas. South sea pearls are grown mainly in Australia and Indonesia.

Because these cultured pearls come in a variety of shapes, colors and overtones they are very versatile and look very graceful and alluring. Elegant beauty of cultured pearl necklace is well recognized by all women around the world and demand for these cultured pearl necklaces is increasing every season. Besides classic white color cultured pearl necklace, pink and black are the other preferred choices for many women when it comes to buying cultured pearl necklace to suit their fashion and styles.

http://www.pearlprincess.com/cultured-pearl-necklace.php

Kheri

Akoya Pearl Necklace - Akoya Pearl Jewelry

Akoya Pearl necklace is best known for its high luster and color brilliance. Akoya Pearls are commonly known as cultured saltwater pearls. Akoya pearls are the classic cultured pearls of Japan. In early nineteenth century, a Japanese man named Kokichi Mikimoto introduced to this world his bead-nucleating technique of culturing pearls in seawater - oyster's naturally occurring process of forming the pearl with human help thereby stimulating the process by producing the initial irritant or nucleus. Akoya oysters are small mollusks, so the pearls they produce range from sizes 3mm to 9mm. The oyster secretes nacre to cover the bead with layer upon layer of nacre. Thicker the nacre better is the quality. Akoya pearls are produced by Pinctada fucata oyster type.

In recent years China has come up with equally high quality akoya pearls. Every harvesting season, pearl farms growing akoya pearls often find small to medium size pearls of varying quality and it takes lot of efforts to choose the best quality pearls. The pearls are hand sorted, processed, and strung into hanks. Akoya pearl necklace made with quality pearls typically command higher values than freshwater pearl jewelry but comparatively cheaper than Tahitian and south seawater pearls.

With the new improved technologies and constant monitoring of pearl growth in pearl oysters, freshwater pearls often come in good quality and are available in wide array of colors and sizes but akoya pearls still typically command higher value. There is great demand for akoya pearls both in U.S and foreign markets. All akoya pearls are cultured pearls.

Higher grades quality akoya pearls that are known for their brilliant luster and nearly perfect round shapes make the perfect akoya pearl necklace. Each pearl is hand knotted and stringed together to make a beautiful akoya pearl necklace. Akoya pearl necklace is the preferred choice for many women and adorned all over the world. Although akoya pearls do come in cream, pink, rose overtones etc, yet white color is the standard classic color when it comes to buying akoya pearl necklace. It is always good to buy akoya pearl necklace with matching akoya pearl earrings and or bracelet. Akoya pearls are indeed very alluring and make excellent luxurious gifts.

http://www.pearlprincess.com/

Kheri

Guide On Buying South Sea Pearl Necklaces

Of all the pearls around the world, one is revered above all others: the South Sea Pearl. Grown in the deep seas off Australia's coast, the South Sea pearl is prized for its brilliant gold or white shine. Shopping for South Sea pearls can be confusing. An informed shopper should gather as much information as possible so as to make an educated decision.

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.

Where to Buy

When buying South Sea pearl jewelry, compare prices from both online sellers and local stores. On average, local dealers tend to charge considerably more than online sellers. It is best to buy from a trusted online source. Make sure to check the sites? return policy, customer support, and customer reviews.

About the Author: Yan Berry is a seasoned pearl expert and designer from http://www.premiumpearl.com, a leading online pearl jewelry retailer.

Jewelry Boxes - How To Choose The Right Style For Necklaces

If you are looking for a jewelry box that will accommodate numerous necklaces, we recommend a standing chest with a necklace carousel or necklace hooks. The tall chests range in height from 13 to 18 inches. We prefer the necklace carousel because it allows you to store more than one necklace on a hook and it will not diminish your ability to view your necklaces easily. The carousel also twirls allowing you to find what you are looking for quickly. The 2nd is a basic style with 3 to 5 hooks on each side of the box. You can also store more than one necklace on each hook with this style, but you loose the ability to view the necklace towards the back. The height of these chests will allow the necklaces to fully hang without a lot of "bunching" on the bottom.

We do not recommend a smaller jewelry box which allows necklaces to hang in the lid or in the back of the jewelry box. If you have a few necklaces, this style will be fine, but if you have a large necklace collection, this style will quickly become inconvenient. Mele Companies offers a great selection of jewelry boxes that will accommodate large or small collections of necklaces.

Another alternative is an Omega Necklace jewelry case. This type of case offers safe storage for your necklaces in the drawers. Each drawer can accommodate 1 to 4 necklaces, depending on thickness. The necklaces are secured by leather straps which snap into place. Wolf Designs offers a very nice leather Omega Necklace Jewelry Case.

Another alternative is to purchase a style with "open" trays. The "open" tray will allow you to lay your necklaces flat on the tray. You should be able to store approximately 5 to 10 necklaces per tray with this style. This is a great alternative for someone that prefers a smaller jewelry box.

TopShelf MarketPlace provides weekly updates and information on selecting the jewelry box that is right for you or your gift recipient.

Through my online business, TopShelf MarketPlace, I have been selling and marketing jewelry boxes since April 2003. I am knowledgeable in the various styles, finishes and woods, and in the art of choosing the right box to suit our customer's needs. A jewelry box is a piece that will last a lifetime and helping our customers make the right selection is our business.

http://www.topshelfmarketplace.com

Celebrate Pregnancy by Creating a Birth Necklace

Creating a birthing necklace is a beautiful way to honor yourself and Baby during pregnancy. There are so many ways and of course no 'right' or 'wrong' way of designing a piece of art to symbolize what is most important to you. I like to encourage mothers to create their own piece or to take part if they choose to have an artisan make the jewelry for them. Maybe there is a particular color you have been drawn to during your pregnancy or a color that represents this child to you which could be the color focus of the necklace. Maybe you have a pendant you would like to have as your focus. One of my birthing necklaces was created during our blessingway. Each friend was asked to bring two beads. One was to represent Baby and the other myself. As we gathered in a circle each friend took their beads and presented them to me as they were placed on the string. The night I birthed, the beads were hanging above me on the wall as a visual focus for the birth.

My last birthing necklace I created during our blessingway day. I chose a goddess pendant which was to represent myself and the divine feminine. To the sides of the pendant were two beads for the Baby and for each of my other five (yes 5:) children. Each had their own unique color and style. In between each were seven small rainbow beads which in numerology is Spirit. Each bead was deliberately placed and blessed as I strung them. I wore the necklace the last several weeks of pregnancy and it was placed above me the night I gave birth.

However you choose to design your birthing necklace or jewelry may it be an expression of the beauty of this journey into Motherhood.

Lisa R. Marshall is the facilitator of Path to Nature...honoring life through whole health, natural living, herbal healing, sacred celebrations & journeys. She is also a mother & doula. Lisa is a facilitator to those who want to make changes in their lives.

Please visit http://www.Pathtonature.org for further information or to contact the author

Making A Beaded Necklace Or Bracelet For Beginners

I make all my beaded jewelry by hand, on my website I give many genuine gemstone beads to choose from so people can customize their necklaces (also bracelets & earrings). Whatever beads you might use the technique is the same, I personally use only sterling silver parts & genuine beads such as black onyx, turquoise, red coral, aventurine, amazonite (very popular), rhondonite, mother-of-pearls, freshwater pearls, etc...

I personally use only Beadalon wire which is extremely solid, it comes in many colors & variety some ticker & more solid... Much more expensive then most other wires but this is worth it if you want to make a necklace or bracelet that will truely last. Beadalon can be found in most jewelry findings online stores, Ebay, etc...

Also, you need crimps (can be found in sterling silver, plated silver & other metals) and crimps covers (to hide the crimps & give it a nice professional look). There are special pliers sold to use with crimps & crimps covers which makes the job easier but I have done it before with regular pliers well.

Start by measuring the correct height of wire you want cut it with about 2-3 inches extra to what you need. The extra will be cut at the end but will make it easier to work with & do the tips. Always have a ruler with you, it will be helpful many times. So if you want a 16" necklace cut about 18-19" long of wire.

I always start in the middle, so if you have a pendant or a centerpiece for the necklace put it on now. Make sure the bail or loop is solid. Usually I put a sterling silver ball on each side of the pendant large enough to stop the pendant from moving. Look at the bail or loop, make sure the beads you add on each side are larger. Now is time to add all the beads you want, using the ruler make sure you stop at the desired height. Also don't forget that there will be a clasp at the end which will add some height.

For the clasps, there are many on the market. I usually use sterling silver lobster clasp or spring clasp. Also you need a jump ring soldered to fit with your clasps.

So once you are done adding all those beads start ending the tip on one side. insert a crimp, then the clasp loop, then fold your wire back into the crimp. Tighten the wire so there is no loose wire between the crimp & clasp. Then squeeze the crimp shut with some pliers. Once that is done it should be solid. I always pull a little on it to double check.

Ok now you cut the extra wire on that side leaving about 4-5mm. Using the pliers you fold it over the crimp. Now grab a crimp cover open it wide enough using your finger & set it on top of the folded 4-5mm wire, covering it & the crimp. Close the crimp cover using your pliers delicately. Once that is all done one side is totally finished. Do the same on the other side using once again a crimp but of course a jumpring instead of a second clasp! Then a crimp cover again. Don't forget it must be tight at the end. You shouldn't see any of the wire. Then again don't make it too tight or the necklace will be stiff.

I hope this is easy to understand. It is quite easy to do but the first pieces you make might need a little work redone later when you get better at it.

Shop around before you buy any findings, some places are making way to much profit on people. Search for "jewelry findings" in search engines, and take a look on Ebay also, compare before you buy!

I usually use sterling silver beads of size 2mm, 3mm & 4mm. And for my stone beads I use 4mm & 6mm.

Thank you, It you think this is too much trouble visit my website! My prices are very reasonable. www.sterlingsilverart.com

Blue Crockatt silversmith artist showcases her art at http://www.sterlingsilverart.com

Jewelry Making Books Are Ideal To Show You How To Make Your Own Necklaces

If you?ve ever considered making your own jewelry, you can learn all you can on this beautiful art by buying jewelry making books. You can find jewelry books to make all sorts of jewelry, from necklaces to earrings to bracelets and more. Jewelry making books are great if you want fabulous looking jewelry but you don?t want to spend the money it takes to actually buy it.

When you buy jewelry, materials aside, you are being charged for the labor it took to make that jewelry. If you could eliminate the middle man and just make your own from the lessons you received from jewelry making books, you could save a lot of money.

Where Can You Get Materials?

You can get materials for making jewelry in many hobby stores or even online. You can even find many materials for making jewelry inside the jewelry making books. Jewelry making books not only give you instructions for making jewelry, but they also tell you where you can get the various materials you?ll need to make the jewelry that you are most interested in. Whether you?re interested in making gold jewelry, silver, platinum, hemp or any other type of jewelry, there are jewelry making books out there for you and your jewelry preferences.

How Hard Is It?

Making jewelry isn?t hard, it all depends on the type of jewelry you?re looking to make and also the quality of the jewelry making books that you are using. If, for instance, you shop around and take a look at the various jewelry making books on the market, you should be able to find a jewelry making book that makes designing and producing your own necklaces, pendants and more with ease.

In fact, you can even look at reviews people send into bookselling websites to determine if the jewelry making books are worth your time and money. If you can?t trust the company who publishes or sells the books to tell you the truth, you can definitely trust the consumer to tell you which jewelry making books make the cut.

If you?re interested in making your own jewelry, you can just wing it and hope your creations match what you see in your mind?s eye or you can buy jewelry making books and do it the right way. The instructions are easy, as long as you have the materials and chances are you?ll have a blast in the process.

Ann Marier has written many articles on family life and different general health issues. Her latest articles tell you all you need to know about jewelry making as a hobby perhaps even a part time business

A Crystal Necklace Can Make An Outfit

As any woman knows, accessories make the outfit; any savvy dresser understands that it?s the distinctive bracelet, fetching purse, or understated earrings that really bring an ensemble to life. If you choose wisely, a piece of jewelry not only reflects your personality, but defines your style for all the world to see. A beautiful and unique necklace can accentuate the neckline of a dress, complement a haircut, or take center stage as the star of your outfit. A crystal necklace, especially, can be a versatile and timeless piece of jewelry suitable for any occasion.

Crystal, because of its lead content, can be easily manipulated into unusual shapes and cut to reflect light in a variety of ways. A crystal necklace can be both lovely in its simplicity and extraordinary in its complexity. Crystal draws the eye to its sparkle and easily complements whatever outfit with which it is paired.

An added benefit of crystal of course is its affordability. A crystal necklace while looking extravagant is actually quite reasonably priced and because of this the buyer can comfortably purchase a variety of styles to complement a variety of outfits. You never need to be concerned that a crystal necklace may be lost or broken as it is easily and affordably replaced; the same can not so easily be said for diamonds or precious gems that are rare or expensive.

You can find a crystal necklace anywhere from a high-end department store to a local jewelry store. You can also easily shop online where you can find a variety of styles from which to choose with the added convenience of having your purchase shipped straight to your door.

Another resource to investigate for a crystal necklace is antique stores. You can find lovely and unique pieces at an antique store that will elevate your outfit to new heights of elegance. Pairing the contemporary with the vintage is a sophisticated style that has continued to reach new heights of popularity.

A crystal necklace can give new life to an old outfit or elevated elegance to a new outfit. It can be the perfect accompaniment to jeans, a business suit, or evening gown.

For easy to understand, in depth information about crystal necklace visit our ezGuide 2 Crystals

Making A Tri-Strand Beaded Necklace

If it's true that a cord of three strands is not quickly broken, this easy, tri-strand beaded necklace ought to last forever! The simple pattern is a dream to make, the perfect project for beginners, and yet it has an elegance and sophistication to it that beginner's projects typically lack.

To make the tri-strand beaded necklace, you'll need:

Craft thread (quilting thread works well if you don't have craft thread on hand)
A needle
A pair of sharp scissors
A necklace clasp, of any kind; I like to use the barrel closures
3 packages of 11/0 seed beads, or similar beads; I like 11/0 Rocaille beads, but any seed beads will work.

Once you've made the necklace, and gotten the hang of it, you may wish to experiment with different beads. For example, using three different sizes of seed pearls, with the smallest on top and the largest on bottom, gives a stunning layered look. Or, make two strands out of pearls and one out of cloisonn?. For now, however, stick to the simplest of beads forms; the seed bead, a fun, elegant, yet inexpensive choice.

A word about your needle: the eye should be large enough to thread easily, but small enough to slip through your beads. Always test the needle, by sliding it through two or three of the beads, to make sure that it fits easily through the hole.

To begin, cut three strands of your craft or quilting thread. One should be 21 inches, one should be 17 inches, and one should be 13 inches. You may wish to play around with these lengths once you've made this first necklace.

Gather the threads, with one end even, and attach the even ends to one half of your necklace clasp. I typically slip the threads through and tie them; a drop of glue on the knot adds strength. You should now have half a necklace clasp with three threads of three different lengths hanging from it.

Beginning with the shortest thread, the 13 inch, thread your needle and string your beads. Ideally, you should stop at least 2 inches short of the end of the thread; this will give you room to tie off your thread.

You want to be very careful at this stage. Without losing any of the beads, thread the end of the 13 inch strand through the second half of your necklace clasp, and tie it on. This will keep your beads from slipping off the smallest strand while you do the other two.

Repeat the procedure with the 17 inch and the 21 inch threads, again, stopping 2 inches short of the end and tying them onto the necklace clasp. Once each strand is finished, add a drop of glue to the second half of the clasp, just as you did to the first, to add strength to the knots.

When you're finished, you should have three swags of beads, roughly 18, 14, and 10 inches, respectively.

Because these necklaces are so simple and easy to make, they make great crafts for kids 8 and older, and great party favors or gifts. Teens can make and exchange these necklaces, and children will find they make great Mother's Day gifts. Children will probably want to work with larger beads, which are easier to work with. A nice 05/0 or 06/0 bead is generally best for kids 8-12, and some adults may prefer the larger sizes, as well! Tri-strand bead necklaces can be made with any kind of bead, in any kind of colors, and a pendant can be added to the lowest strand, making these the most versatile of all bead necklaces.

Article by webmaster of an information, advice and tips website about Charms and Things where you can be advised on how to choose different charms for your own charm bracelets

How To Mount A Stone So That It Can Be Used For A Charm Necklace

I am assuming this is a tumbled stone, not cut as a jewelry stone with a flat back and definite shape. If so, let me know and we will go one more time.

Here is the answer for a tumbled freeform stone.

The kind of jewelry part (called "findings" in the trade) you want is a bell cap. There are different styles of this. You should be able to find these at crafts stores and if you want gold or perhaps sterling, a jeweler should be able to order for you. A few crafts stores will have sterling findings but most will have only plated items.

To attach the stone to a bell cap, a good adhesive should be used. There are two primary types of adhesive for this purpose. The first is 2 part epoxy cement and the second is a thick single part craft glue. There is a difference in the two: Epoxy takes more set-up time, meaning the cap must be set-up in place on the stone while the epoxy cures. The cement has no strength until some time has passed after the two parts are mixed. The epoxy has the advantage of curing with an almost unseen line and is a neater application.

The thick craft cement will hold the cap in place even when uncured and all may be set aside for a day while the cement cures. The disadvantage of this glue is the thickness and it will show a bit. Still, many crafters like the thick glue because it holds quite well in many kinds of cementing jobs.

BASIC PROCEDURE

Take the bell cap and press onto the part of the stone where you want it fitted. Try to fold the "arms" of the cap to match the contour of the stone fairly closely. Then when cement is applied, all is already fitted to the shape of the stone.

With either cement, do what many folks skip and help insure a good lasting bond. Simply clean the metal cap and the stone with alcohol (household medicine cabinet variety is fine) to remove any traces of oils from the surfaces. Allow to dry and then apply the cement.

Brands recommended: Should be available at crafts stores.

If not, a good craft store should have suitable alternative brands. I do not recommend the 5min cure types since working time is very short. You are better off to support the stone with the cap fitted and set aside for a couple of hours and get a stronger bond. Keep the leftover epoxy mix on the same scrap baggie or whatever you mixed it on, along with the toothpick (or whatever mixing tool). When the leftover cement is cured and the tool is stuck to it firmly, you know the cement is cured. This tells you your jewelry item is ready without having to mess with it while the cement cures.

E6000 crafts cement. This is the one part thick glue. Apply sparingly since it will squeeze out a bit and will settle down to a smoother surface. Be careful of "stringers" of cement on the application tool (again, toothpick or what is handy) since these stringers are messy getting on the wrong places. When cured, the cement may be peeled off of places it should not be.

You will need a "jump ring" (wire loop) or "snap on bail" to hang the stone from a chain. These are also available at crafts stores or at a jewelry store(generally not in mall chain stores, try local folks).

Just do a dry run first and then cement away! Use as little cement as appears needed for a neat and less "crafty" looking finished job.

Victor Epand is the owner of http://www.JewerlyGift.biz, a huge online jewelry superstore featuring the greatest selection of jewelry including personalizable items. Clearance Sale items are here: http://www.jewelrygift.biz/collection/clearance-sales.html

The Myth and Mystique of a Black Pearl Necklace

Since recorded history, man has coveted the luminous white gems we call pearls. Revered the world over for their rare beauty, otherworldly sheen and understated elegance, pearls are as popular in modern society as they were with European royals and Egyptian princesses centuries ago. Today, pearl jewelry connoisseurs have a new love: black pearls. Exotic, luxurious and rare, a rich black pearl necklace presents a striking picture?the gems definitely lack the demure, chaste image of their classic white counterparts. For the woman who has everything, a black pearl necklace, whether showcased alone in a pendant or in a perfectly matched strand, makes a wonderful addition to her jewelry collection. Think of how lovely a black pearl necklace will look on any skin tone!

Where do jewelers get the pearls they use in a matched black pearl necklace?

?Black? pearls are also known as ?Tahitian cultured pearls,? but both names are misleading. Not only are Tahitian cultured pearls not exclusively black, they?re also not grown in Tahiti. Called ?black? because of their exotic dark colors, Tahitian cultured pearls can be gray, blue, green and brown. And they?re grown in the lagoons of small islands that are part of a group known as French Polynesia. Tahiti, the largest island, serves as the group?s center of commerce, and not as a pearl growing mecca. Interestingly, fine Tahitian cultured pearls have only been on the market since the 1970s. Yet they have become quite popular in that short time.

Growing Tahitian pearls

Tahitian pearls are cultivated for around two years in Pinctada margaritifera cumingi, a large saltwater mollusk that is native to French Polynesia. One of the ways this unique oyster differs from other species is that its interior shell color is dark. This so-called ?black lipped? oyster also has black mantle edges?the ?lips? that give the animal its descriptive name. Due to overfishing, adult wild oyster populations aren?t as plentiful as they used to be. In an effort to reverse this trend, the government protects the animals; pearl farmers in French Polynesia who wish to culture the black lipped oyster must raise the oysters from spat (baby oysters). If the farmer is successful in nurturing the spat to adulthood, at around two and a half to three years old, the oysters are implanted with mantle tissue and a mother-of-pearl bead to start the pearl growing process. This delicate operation is performed by specially trained workers called nucleators; even so, according to the Gemological Institute of America, more than 50 percent of the oysters die or reject the nucleus.

Literature from GIA says, ?Add those oysters to the ones that don?t meet the implantation criteria: The farmer?s potential pearl-producing stock is less than half the number that lived long enough to be considered for nucleation. When the pearl growth period begins, after three years of work, the farmer has only 20 percent of the oysters he collected as spat.? No wonder a fine quality Tahitian cultured pearl is so rare!

Tahitian pearl growth generally takes place in a closed lagoon that is ringed by coral reefs. Such a setup offers protection and a stable environment for the implanted oysters to complete the pearl-growing process. After the oysters have been submerged for 22 to 26 months, they?re hauled to the surface, where any pearls they managed to grow are harvested. The farmers then clean and lightly buff the gems prior to offering them for sale. Farmers also sort the pearls by color, shape, etc. and grouped with like pearls.

In the end, only one to two percent of the Tahitian cultured pearl crop consists of fine quality round cultured pearls.

Color

Today, the most sought-after Tahitian cultured pearls are dark green-gray to blue gray with ros? or purple overtones. But how do pearls get their color? No one is completely sure, but we do know that pearl colors are determined by several factors, including variations in the host oyster, color variation of the implanted donor mussel tissue, the number and thickness of nacre layers, and variations in growing environment such as temperature and water quality. Tahitian pearls are most often variations of gray, black, green and blue, but other colors exist. Search on the Internet for Tahitian cultured pearl images, and you will see they are not all black!

Buying a black pearl necklace

At an average size of 8mm-14mm, Tahitian cultured pearls?especially those specimens that are gem-quality and round?are very expensive. (GIA estimates that one first-quality, unusually large Tahitian cultured pearl will set you back thousands of dollars!) If only one to two percent of the harvest produces a fine quality round Tahitian cultured pearl, imagine how long it takes to make a matched strand! No wonder a black pearl necklace is so costly. Choose carefully, keeping in mind that pearls with a desirable overtone (secondary color) and pearls that are larger than typical will be more expensive. Look for pearls that are well-matched, not pitted or marked in any obvious way (minor surface characteristics are acceptable). Be sure to check return policies up front, too, in case you have a problem. Ask your retail jeweler for his or her store policy or, if buying online, check the site?s guarantee prior to making a purchase. Once you receive your pearls, be sure to examine them closely. After wearing, store your pearl necklace away from other gems; while fairly durable, pearls are prone to scratching and their nacre will erode over time, especially if exposed to harsh chemicals like bleach, perfume and chlorine. Black pearl necklaces in modern fashion

Although slow to catch on at first, thanks in part to publicity from stars such as actress Elizabeth Taylor, a renowned jewelry collector who wore a striking black pearl necklace in publicity photos for her Black Pearls perfume launch, Tahitian cultured pearls are wildly popular today. It?s not hard to find examples of fine black pearl jewelry in modern society. Look around and you?ll see black pearl necklaces on everyone from businesswomen to moms to Hollywood A-list actresses, models and celebrities. Take Kiera Knightly, for example, who wore a stunning black baroque Tahitian cultured pearl choker at the premier of her movie, The Black Pearl. Stars like Christy Turlington, Naomi Watts, Heidi Klum, Michael Michelle, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Shalom Harlow are also pearl fans.

Perhaps black pearls? popularity is why designers like David Yurman, Elsa Peretti and Paloma Picasso (for Tiffany & Co.) are incorporating stunning black pearls, and even black baroque and black keshi pearls, into modern designs like long chain necklaces, brooches, chokers and charm bracelets. Black pearl drop earrings and pendants are also favorites, as they require little matching?or none at all. Whimsical designs on cufflinks and in popular frog, dragonfly and other animal pins incorporate black pearls as well.

Black pearl necklace alternatives

When most people think of black pearl jewelry, they naturally think of Tahitian cultured pearls. But prices are high for these rare gems, in part due to their large size, unusual colors, and the high cost of producing them. If you want to wear real Tahitian cultured pearls, one way to do so without breaking the bank is to choose a pendant-style necklace with a single pearl; black pearl stud earrings; a single black pearl ring, or black baroque (non-symmetrical) pearls. These designs are every bit as exotic yet much more affordable than a matched black pearl strand.

For customers for whom Tahitian pearl jewelry is beyond reach, there are some inexpensive yet beautiful alternatives to the classic black pearl necklace. Today, freshwater pearls?round, drop, button and baroque?are color-treated to produce a look that closely resembles the hue of Tahitian cultured pearls. The natural-looking result is beautiful and looks great in such pieces as a baroque black pearl bracelet, black pearl drop earrings or black pearl necklace. Every bit as real as their Tahitian cousins, black freshwater cultured pearls? color is man-made, but keep in mind that nearly all pearls are treated somehow (bleaching is the most common enhancement).

If you?re after not only the color but the size of fine Tahitian pearls, consider a black ?pearl? necklace made from black mother-of-pearl beads. Their generous size, lustrous sheen and affordable price make them a popular alternative to a fine Tahitian pearl necklace.

A graduate of the Gemological Institute of America?s Graduate Pearls program, Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for http://www.moonriverpearls.com She welcomes your questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com

At Christmas Time A Black Pearl Necklace Makes A Stunning Gift

Christmas is the time for giving! Whether you've decided to purchase a black pearl necklace to treat yourself during the holidays or give that special necklace to a loved one, this article will give you a few suggestions for the Christmas season. Let's look at the 24-inch turquoise necklace extender. If you're looking for a brilliant rush of color, such as red beads separated by brightly-hued turquoise stones, you're going to love what this necklace can do for your wardrobe. The genuine turquoise nuggets are patterned with red beads, along with fluted sterling silver beads on both ends of the necklace which is 24 inches long. The 4 inch extender chain of .925 market sterling silver has turquoise nuggets that measure approximately 3/8" in diameter, and close with a lobster claw clasp. Now, that's a classy piece for the holidays! This necklace extender comes in numerous styles including a bright, silver-plated, brass curb-chain necklace design that you can attach to your jewelry. This silver-plated extender is a very popular item. All you do is attach one of these to the end of your necklace using a jump ring or split ring. You can fasten the clasp to any part of the chain, and voila, you automatically have an adjustable necklace. What a great Christmas gift.

Why not make Christmas a very special time for that very special lady in your life, gentlemen! Have a look at the black pearl necklace. This time of year is especially good for purchasing online as there are many Internet retailers with some great buys. Cultured black pearls are stunning and will complement just about any wardrobe your wife may have. The classic pearl necklace is usually 16 inches long, with cultured pearls that exhibit a very vivid black color. Each one is exquisite, an individually crafted work of art. This great christmas gift features AAA-quality, solid nacre, fresh water cultured pearls that are carefully matched for color, shape, luster, and size. Finished with a .925 sterling silver clasp plated with 18k white gold, the pearls are available in 6.5 or 7.5mm. The black pearl necklace, complete with multicolors that shimmer and shine with colors of the sea, will bring out your wife's eye color like never before!

For another Christmas gift idea during the holidays, how about the 14k gold necklace extender? This is an excellent solution for ladies who are just fed up with tight or short necklaces. You can attach this extender to your chain and make it up to 3 inches longer. One excellent feature about the extender is it's not permanent. You can use it on different chains and also adjust for shorter extension by just clasping to a link and letting some of the chain dangle. Or, you may want to have a look at the versatile gold-filled extender with a clasp on each end, so it can be multipurpose. This great Christmas gift can be used to convert your bracelet to an anklet or use it as a necklace extender. You can also use it as a safety chain for that special necklace or bracelet you don't want to lose and the chain comes in a beautiful, delicate filigree design which will enhance almost any piece of jewelry you own. The chain comes in 3 mm wide and 1 ? inches long. From clasp to clasp, it will add 2 1/4 inches and is a great way to dress up any piece of existing jewelry. So whatever piece of jewelry you have in mind for gift-giving during the holidays, you may want to consider the black pearl necklace or a necklace extender. It will help add to an existing necklace collection in both a dressy and economical way!

Terry Price is a successful publisher and author on the topic of jewelry at: http://www.diamond-silver-necklace.com/pearl-necklace.html. Christmas gift giving doesn't have to be expensive! http://www.diamond-silver-necklace.com/gold-necklaces.html. Did you enjoy this article? http://www.digg.com/about.

Everything You Need to Know in Choosing White Pearl Necklaces

White pearl necklaces are always a beautiful, classic gift and will fit right in with any occasion, whether it?s a wedding, a birthday, anniversary or just about any day that calls for giving. White pearls have an elegance and quiet beauty that is appreciated by any woman of any age. When cared for properly, they can last for years and years, which is no wonder that in any heirloom, pearls are one of those which stand out.

Traditionally, white pearls were given during weddings. It was believed that a gift of pearls ensured the happiness of married couples. Nowadays, white pearls are worn anywhere ? in board rooms, parties, family get-togethers, bars ? in just about any special occasion that calls for dressing up without dressing too much.

Natural vs. Cultured

Natural pearls, as their name implies, are produced naturally by oysters or mollusks. They start off as irritants (a grain of sand, piece of food or a parasite) that enter the shell of a living oyster. As a reaction to this invasion, the oyster produces nacre to contain the irritant. This coating is put over it in multiple layers until the irritant is completely covered and a shining pearl is born.

Since natural pearls are made ?accidentally? and therefore quite difficult to come by, cultured pearls were developed to meet the growing demand for pearls and to protect pearl oysters from over-harvest and extinction. Cultured pearls are also real pearls, except that instead of waiting for an irritant to invade an oyster, pearl farmers introduce a ?nucleus? to stimulate the production of a pearl.

Choosing the right length

White pearl necklaces come in varying lengths for different styles and occasions. When buying one, it?s worth remembering that a white pearl necklace is an accessory and can enhance or affect the entire look of the wearer.

Longer strands are used to make short necks appear longer, while shorter strands flatter longer necks. The most common lengths that white pearl necklaces come in are: the collar, choker, princess, matinee, opera and rope.

Collar pearls are the shortest at 14 to 16 inches long and may be worn with formal or semi-formal evening wear or semi-formal day wear. Chokers are 16 to 18 inches long and are the common choice for dances and balls. Princess necklaces are the most popular length at 18 to 20 inches long and look great on any outfit.

Matinee pearl necklaces are 20 to 24 inches long and can be worn for work because it goes well with work and business suits. Opera pearls are 28 to 34 inches long are often worn during formal parties.

Rope pearls are the longest, starting at 37 inches, although they don?t necessarily need to be worn just hanging from the neck. Like opera pearls, rope pearls may be knotted or doubled and may even be worn as a wide pearl bracelet.

Choosing the right style

Pearls are quite adaptable and will work well with almost any kind of gemstone. Alone or in combination with another gem, white pearls look stunning. White pearl necklaces come in several major styles: the bib, dog collar, graduated and uniform.

The bib is made of several strands, usually three or more, that varies in length and fall over the chest like, well, a bib. The pearls on the strands may either be graduated or uniformly-sized.

The dog collar, like its name, is made of several strands and is worn to fit above the base of the neck, right in the middle of the throat. The pearls that make up the strands are uniform in size and may either be small or medium-sized.

The graduated necklace is made up of either a single strand or several, with pearls of graduated sizes. Usually, the middle pearl is the largest in the strand. The uniform necklace uses the same size pearls in its strands and is probably the most common.

Choosing the right size

White pearls come in different sizes, with the most commonly used and sold ranging from 6.5mm to 7.5mm, while really small pearls measure 1mm or less. Some of the bigger pearls are in the 14 to 18mm range.

Generally, smaller pearls are best for younger women and children while medium to bigger pearls are flattering for older women. One of the reasons for this is tradition. In the past, the size of the pearl reflected the woman?s maturity and social status and so she wore the kind of pearls that were deemed appropriate for her.

The other reason is aesthetics. Younger women tend to have younger necks and the best way to show this off is to wear smaller pearls. Pearls of this size also do not look borrowed and women don?t seem to be playing ?dress up? with their mother?s jewelry. Older women are better off with medium to bigger-sized pearls, which also imply that she has reached a certain status in life.

For more information go to: http://www.unlimitedpearls.com, http://www.bestpearlnecklaces.com, or http://www.bestpearlearrings.com

Some Things to Remember When Buying White Pearl Collar Necklaces

White pearl collar necklaces have been around for centuries. This style reached its peak during the Victorian era, where women of high birth wore them to accentuate their necks or over their high-collars to accessorize their clothes. White pearl collar necklaces have recently been making a comeback and enjoying a new popularity with stylish women of all ages.

White pearls are a favorite of women in the U.S. In Asia, women prefer silver-colored pearls. White has always been the color associated with pearls, even though they do come in a variety of shades and tones. White has remained a favorite over the years because of their simple and understated elegance.

Choosing pearl quality

One of the rarer pearls and the more expensive are natural pearls, produced ?by accident? when underwater irritants enter the shell of an oyster. Cultured pearls are the more common, since they are created using artificially planted ?nuclei?. They are in no way inferior to natural pearls and in fact are quite valuable; they are just produced differently.

When choosing fine white pearls, remember several factors that contribute to its beauty and value: the nacre thickness, luster, surface texture, size and shape.

Nacre thickness is probably the most important factor to consider when buying white pearls. Nacre is the crystalline/organic substance that is excreted by the oyster or mollusk when an irritant or nucleus enters its shell. This substance coats the irritant in layers, until it becomes thick. This coated irritant or nuclei becomes the pearl.

Nacre thickness differentiates a high-quality pearl from a low-grade one. The thicker the nacre coating, the more durable and long-lasting the pearl is. Pearls with thinner nacres usually do not maintain their luster over the years and may in fact chip off.

Luster refers to the reflective quality of the pearl. The pearl has a mirror-like surface and the quality of its luster is directly affected by the thickness of the nacre. The thicker it is, the deeper the shine. High-quality white pearls reflect light and the surrounding objects best.

Surface texture refers to the clearness and smoothness of the pearl. It is the near absence of imperfection on the surface. No pearl has the perfect surface, but minimum and nearly imperceptible flaws affect its overall look and value. Pearls are graded depending on its imperfections, like spots, bumps, discolorations and other irregularities that show on its surface.

The size of the pearl is determined by its diameter and is measured in millimeters. Tiny pearls measure from 1mm and under while bigger pearls can reach a diameter of as much as 20mm, just below an inch. With all things being equal, size can mean a huge difference in the value of a pearl. The bigger ones, of course, fetch the higher price.

Pearls are never perfect. If one such is found, it is probably the rarest and the most expensive. Because pearls follow the general shape of its irritant or nucleus, it can come in a variety of shapes, from the spherical to the symmetrical to the baroque. Which one you pick for your pearl collar will depend on your preference.

Color and overtone

White pearls are white, right? Well, not quite. Aside from the similar silver color, there are also white pearls whose main body color is affected by its overtone. Overtones are hints of color that lie on top of the main body color of the pearl. Think of a pearl as a tiny white sphere and its overtone like a slightly colored clear plastic that is wrapped tightly and smoothly over it and you can imagine how slightly different the white would appear.

White pearls could have one or more overtones. These can enhance the beauty of white pearls and provide a unique glow to its iridescent quality. Some white pearls, for example can have pink or yellow overtones. Which one you choose is really just a matter of personal taste.

Why collar necklaces?

Collar necklaces have an old-time charm. If you look at paintings and illustrations that date back some centuries ago, you will find collar necklaces adorning the necks of women, even queens and princesses.

Collar necklaces are about 12 to 13 inches long and may be composed of three or more strands of pearls. These are worn to fit the middle of the neck snugly. They are best worn during semi-formal to formal occasions when they can accentuate a slender neck and draw a stop to a pointed chin.

Choosing the right-size pearls

When buying white pearl collar necklaces, it?s a good idea to consider the age, face shape and body composition of the wearer. Generally, smaller pearls look best for children and teens, medium pearls for women in the 20s to the 30s while older women may look best in bigger pearls.

A good thing to remember is that the pearl collar is worn as an accessory and thus should not overwhelm the face. Otherwise, nobody will notice the wearer anymore. It will only be the pearls that they will see. Worse, if the size isn?t right, it will look like your pearls are borrowed from someone else.

For more information go to: http://www.unlimitedpearls.com, http://www.bestpearlnecklaces.com, or http://www.bestpearlearrings.com

Guide to Choosing Pearl Necklaces

Pearl necklaces never run out of style. They are always classy, elegant and quite flexible as wardrobe accessories. They are one of the most popular gift choices for weddings, being the birthstone of June and they have a lasting, mystical appeal that has been celebrated for thousands of years.

Pearls are rarer when they are produced naturally but while cultured pearls are quite affordable, their quality is in no way inferior to that of natural pearls. To an untrained eye, it is very difficult to tell a natural pearl from its cultured cousin. The only way to differentiate is probably to use x-ray where a ?nucleus? will be spotted in the cultured variety.

Some of the more common types of pearls used in necklaces are Mikimoto, Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea Pearls. Mikimoto is the highest quality pearls and come in different colors. Akoya pearls often come in white, cream or silver while Tahitian and South Sea pearls have darker colors. Saltwater pearls are more expensive than freshwater pearls.

Choosing pearl necklace lengths Choosing the right length of pearl necklace depends upon the wearer?s age, neck size and overall body composition. In general, long necklaces tend to elongate the neck and draw attention away from it, as opposed to shorter-length ones which flatter longer necks. Here are the different lengths of pearl necklaces recommended for every woman?s unique need:

Collar ? typically 10 to 13 inches long and are quite flexible either for evening wear or casual day wear. These are worn high on the neck, above the base. Another style is the dog collar, which is made of several strands, quite popular in the Victorian era and slowly making a comeback.

Choker ? 16 to 18 inches long, chokers surround the base of the neck. A good choice for ladies with long, thin necks because chokers can de-emphasize the throat?s length.

Princess ? at 17 to 20 inches long, this is the most popular length, classic enough to match any outfit or neckline.

Matinee ? 20 to 24 inches long. These work well worn with dresses, business suits and corporate wear and are a great choice for occasions requiring semi-formal wear.

Opera ? 28 to 34 inches long, usually worn during formal events and occasions. Because of its length, this pearl necklace may be doubled to form two strands. When worn as is, it should ideally reach below the bust line.

Rope or sautoir ? the longest, starting at 37 inches, worn best with pantsuits. Rope-length pearls don?t have to hang from the wearer?s neck alone. They could be doubled or knotted for more style flexibility. Some even come with multiple clasps, which allow the wearer to use the necklace in shorter lengths.

Short necks will do well wearing pearl strands that sit at least 2? below the collarbone while thick or heavy necks will look good in graduated chains with lengths beginning at 18?. Long thin necks are flattered by shorter lengths, especially those that sit at the base of neck, following the curve of the throat.

Fleshy necks look better in necklaces that lie below the base, especially if the strand is segmented or comes with a square, rectangular or any pointed pendant. Necks that are wide at the base need necklaces that are at least 1? below the collarbone or longer strands.

Other pearl necklace styles

Other styles of pearl necklaces are the bib which, as the name implies, covers the base of the neck and the upper part of the chest in several strands of varying lengths. Another option is the graduated necklace which consists of pearls in graduated lengths, usually with the biggest pearl/s in the middle. A popular style is the uniform necklace where pearls of similar size are strung together.

Choosing pearl colors and size

While white, cream, pink or silver pearls generally will look good on anyone, they can best enhance fairer skin. Gold or yellow pearls will look best on darker-toned skin.

Generally, younger women should wear smaller pearls. At this point in their lives, they could show off their youthful necks with smaller-sized chains and pendants. Older women may want to use longer-length pearl necklaces to draw attention away from their necks. They can also wear bigger pearls with wider, double- or triple-strand chains.

Pearl necklace sets

One of the best ways to buy matching jewelry is to get ones that come in a set. This way, you have a necklace, a pair of earrings and either a ring or bracelet that come in matching styles. However, if you prefer just the necklace, some jewelers will allow you to buy one off a set.

For more information go to: http://www.unlimitedpearls.com http://www.bestpearlnecklaces.com or http://www.bestpearlearrings.com

Buying Guide for a Mikimoto Pearl Necklace

The highest quality cultured pearl necklaces are those produced and created by Mikimoto. These pearls are known for their unparalleled beauty and brilliance. It is said that once you wear Mikimoto pearls, any other kind of pearl will seem second-rate. Mikimoto pearls are so refined in quality that its fans include the royal families of Britain and Japan, Marilyn Monroe and Monaco?s Princess Grace.

Here are some information on what Mikimoto cultured pearls are, where they came from and how to buy them.

How pearls are formed

A pearl is the result of an oyster or mollusks? reaction to an irritant that invades its shell. To try to protect itself, the mollusk secretes a crystalline substance called nacre which builds up in layers upon layers, surrounding the irritant. When this happens, a pearl is born.

Pearls have been cultured for centuries not just in Japan, but in other countries as well. Much of the products result to semispherical pearls, also called mabe pearls from the oyster that grew them, and not in the more coveted spherical pearls. It was Kokichi Mikimoto who developed a special technique to induce oysters to create a round pearl.

The man behind the name

Cultured pearls as we know them, owe a lot to Kokichi Mikimoto, the man who perfected the pearl culturing method that is still used today. Contrary to popular belief, he did not invent the industry although he did play a very significant role in advancing the techniques which contributed to the improvement in cultured pearl quality.

Mikimoto, the son of a noodle restaurant owner, was born in 1885 in Toba City, Japan. He was first introduced to pearls when he started raising oysters. Around this time, Japan was already trading pearls with other countries and pearl oysters were in danger of becoming over-harvested. Mikimoto decided to concentrate on experiments in seeding oysters and producing pearls.

The first endeavors were failures. Mikimoto and his colleagues repeatedly encountered disappointing results, due in part to uncontrollable factors like water temperature and red tide. But this did nothing to dissuade Mikimoto from his dream.

His efforts paid off eventually. On July 11, 1893, with his wife Ume, he discovered a beautiful pearl in one of his oysters. He never looked back since. By the time he died in 1954, the highly honored Mikimoto had successfully advocated and promoted cultured pearls and opened markets all over the world. Today, his name is synonymous to the highest quality cultured pearls.

Buying your Mikimoto pearl necklace

Pearl necklaces come in several lengths. From the shortest to the longest, they are: collar (10?-13?), choker (14?-16?), princess (18?-20?), matinee (20?-24?), opera (28?-34?) and rope (37? and longer). The length of the pearl necklace will depend on the woman?s age, body composition and neck size, although an 18 to 24-inch pearl necklace is a good length for anyone. Generally speaking, the longer the necklace, the more it ?elongates? the neck.

The mark of ?M?

Every jewelry created by Mikimoto including pearl necklaces, has an ?M? stamped on its setting. This is a guarantee of quality. However, in some cases, the mark of ?M? will only guarantee that the setting is genuine and not the pearls, which can be replaced and restrung.

A caveat: there is a black market for Mikimoto clasps, where original Mikimoto clasps are used for cheaper or imitation-quality pearls. Beware also of ?closeout? Mikimoto sales, even if they come in ?new? 18k gold.

The best way to distinguish a true high-quality Mikimoto pearl from other pearls is to look for a unique road map or line pattern on the surface of the pearls under a 10x magnifying lens. Experienced jewelers can recognize this. On your own, you will want to find genuine Mikimoto pearls to compare with your intended purchase. Once you see the difference, true Mikimoto pearls are easily recognizable.

You might also encounter pearl necklaces that are labeled ?Mikimoto quality?. This is misleading. These are not pearls produced under the patented Mikimoto process. True Mikimoto pearl necklaces are those produced under stringent conditions in Ise in Honshu, Japan.

Akoya vs. Mikimoto

Another fine quality pearl is akoya pearls, although this is a general term used to refer to saltwater pearls. These are not Mikimoto pearls and they don?t cost the same.

Grading method

Mikimoto pearls are rated using four grades, with AAA being the highest. There are 4 sub-grades starting with AAA1. Highest-grade pearls are those with the best luster and reflective quality, almost mirror-like, while lower-grade pearls are those with reasonably clear reflection.

When buying your Mikimoto pearl necklace, be sure to ask for grading certificates. This is not only good for insurance, but it is also a guarantee that what you are paying for is a true Mikimoto pearl necklace.

For more information go to: http://www.unlimitedpearls.com, http://www.bestpearlnecklaces.com, or http://www.bestpearlearrings.com

Tips on Choosing Tahitian Pearl Necklaces

Tahitian pearls are named after the island of Tahiti and they are highly prized for their beauty and the unique charm of their darker tones, thanks to the island's black-lipped oysters that produce black, gray and green-black pearls. Recognizing their value, pearl farmers used the pearl culturing techniques pioneered by the Japanese to cultivate Tahitian pearls. Since then, Tahitian pearls have become one of the most sought-after gems in the world.

Factors to consider when choosing quality Tahitian pearl necklaces, in order of importance:

Nacre thickness - ideally, the minimum thickness of nacre in Tahitian pearls is 0.8 mm. A thicker nacre covering means that the pearl's luster will last long. Thinner nacres have a tendency to wear off easily. Tahitian pearls which are thinner than the required minimum are not exported from French Polynesia.

Surface texture and quality - Tahitian pearls, like all pearls, are graded according to the quality of its surface. Pearls could have thick nacres but if the surface is flawed, their value decreases. Flaws include bumps, spots, discolorations, scratches and other irregularities. The more a pearl has, the less valuable or lower-grade it becomes.

To rate the quality of Tahitian pearls, jewelers use a grading system, consisting of A, B, C and D as the marks, with A-grade pearls being the highest quality. A-grade pearls have the cleanest, nearly flawless surface, virtually free of spots, discoloration or bumps. These pearls have a high luster and reflective quality.

B-grade Tahitian pearls have slightly (but still imperceptible) imperfect surfaces, with only 30% of the surface affected by flaws. C-grade Tahitian pearls have medium luster and imperfections are already quite perceptible while D-grade pearls are those with 60% of its surface affected by quite obvious imperfections, including scratches.

Luster - one quality of pearls that sets it apart from other gemstones is its unique brilliance. As opposed to other gems like the diamond, for example, pearls shine with a softer light. And since they reflect light, they also look like mirrors, reflecting everything in their immediate surrounding.

Generally, the thicker the nacre, the more brilliant and mirror-like the shine. Good quality pearls are clear and almost metal-like in their sheen.

Size - the largest Tahitian pearl ever produced is 25mm, although this in not a round pearl. The largest round Tahitian pearl is at 21mm. Generally, the bigger the size of the pearl, the higher its value is. Most Tahitian pearls are in the range of 8 to 14mm, although a few are measured at 16mm.

Shape - pearls follow the shape of the irritant or nucleus that enters the mouth of the oyster or mollusk that produces it. But to meet jewelry standards, most pearls are produced following three major categories: round or spherical, symmetrical and baroque.

Spherical pearls are those that are round or nearly round. A perfectly round pearl, whether natural or cultured, is quite rare and therefore highly prized. Spherical pearls are the most familiar and popular shapes. Nearly-round pearls are categorized as sphericals, although they may be slightly elongated or flattened.

Symmetrical pearls are so-called because if you cut one in half, each piece will mirror the other. Included in this category are oval pearls, which taper at the ends and are wider at the center; button pearls, which are slightly more flattened and often used for earrings; and drop pearls, which look like teardrops or pears, usually included in jewelry as pendants.

Baroque pearls may also be semi-baroque and include all other shapes that cannot be classified as either spherical or symmetrical. These are the favorite pearls of artists because of their irregular shapes. Baroque pearls may resemble sticks, studs and even crosses.

Other notable variations in Tahitian pearls are those that have 'rings' - tiny grooves that encircle the pearl's surface. For this reason, these pearls are called circled or ringed, although this quality is only used as a descriptive device, to distinguish one pearl from another. For example, a ringed pearl may be described as a 'ringed oval' or 'circled drop'.

Color - when Tahitian pearls are mentioned, the first thing that comes to most people's minds is black pearls although they do come in other colors, albeit in darker tones. Some of their interesting colors are gray, green, brown and blue.

The pearl's color is determined by two things: the main body color and its overtone. A pearl can have one or more overtones. The main body color is the predominant color of the pearl while the overtone is the hint of iridescent color that is seen on top of the body color and can affect or enhance the dominant color of the pearl. Pink, gold, blue, silver and purple are some of the most common overtones.

A combination of the body color and overtone is used to describe a pearl. For example, a greenish black pearl is called a peacock while a yellowish gray is called a champagne.

When buying Tahitian pearl necklaces, keep the above considerations in mind. Aside from quality, you might also want to consider design and setting. Don't be afraid to ask questions and information in detail. If the jewelry shop is reputable, they will be more than glad to answer your questions.

On your own, shopping for real Tahitian pearl necklaces can be quite a challenge. To help you make your decision, here are a few tips on real Tahitian pearls: - they have overtones over the main body color. Fake or imitation pearls don't and their color looks flat. Real Tahitian pearls also glow with a faint reddish color when examined using crossed filters.

- Tahitian pearls feel cool, although they do adapt to your body temperature. Imitation pearls maintain the same temperature as their surroundings, so when they are touched for the first time, they won't feel cold.

- To test for real Tahitian pearls, hold them in the palm of your hand and take note of their weight. They are heavier than imitation pearls. If you rub Tahitian pearls across your teeth, they will feel grainy or coarse and not smooth. Their holes are also smoother around the edges.

For more information go to: http://www.unlimitedpearls.com www.bestpearlnecklaces.com or www.bestpearlearrings.com

Freshwater Pearl Necklace - The Ideal Gift for Women

A freshwater pearl necklace is a beautiful, meaningful, and thoughtful gift that you can give to the most special woman in your life. Whether it?s your wife, mother, or sister, she will surely appreciate having a freshwater pearl necklace from you.

What are Freshwater Pearls? Before we proceed to discussing the mechanics of buying freshwater pearl necklaces, it?s important that you know what freshwater pearls are first and be able to distinguish them from other types of pearls.

Freshwater pearls have been cultivated, cultured, or found in freshwater as opposed to saltwater pearls which have been harvested from seas and oceans. Freshwater pearls can be naturally processed with or without human intervention. Without human interference, pearl divers will have to search for mollusks or oysters where a foreign object has incidentally found its way inside and has been encrusted with layers of nacre, the ingredient mainly responsible for the unique luster of pearls.

With human intervention, pearl divers will insert organ tissue material into another mollusk to generate nacre production. They will also carefully monitor all factors that could affect the growth of pearls to ensure that the end product will come out beautiful and evenly shaped.

How to Choose the Perfect Freshwater Pearl Necklace

Source ? Freshwater pearls are produced in various parts of the world although the most famous come from Japan and China. The origin of freshwater pearl necklace can readily affect its price so consider purchasing freshwater pearl necklaces from less-known pearl manufacturers if you?re on a budget.

Size ? Just like it is with all sorts of jewelry, the larger the size of the gem ? or pearl, in this instance ? the higher its value. Of course, larger pearls don?t automatically mean they make the perfect gift. Consider your recipient?s taste when selecting the appropriate size of freshwater pearls used in the necklace.

If your recipient haves fun when she?s the center of attention, she?ll definitely appreciate having large-sized freshwater pearls in her necklace. On the other hand, if your recipient is more appreciative of subtle beauty, she?ll probably be more inclined to choose a necklace that makes use of small to moderate sized freshwater pearls.

Shape ? There are numerous pearls that are irregularly shaped because they have been allowed to grow without any external interference. It?s also more likely for saltwater mollusks to produce evenly shaped pearls than freshwater mollusks. If you?re after perfect and evenly shaped freshwater pearls, consider purchasing freshwater cultivated pearls.

Luster ? Observe freshwater pearl necklaces in various lights to effectively compare its luster. Some freshwater pearls can glow only in certain types of light but noticeably dim in other types. The best pearls however will glow no matter what light you?re using to observe it with. Of course, the better the luster of freshwater pearls, the higher its value once more.

Skin ? Just like any other gem, you should also consider the quality of the freshwater pearl necklace. Does it have any visible blemishes, scratches, or flaws? Since freshwater pearls are sensitive to damage, you might have a hard time looking for one that?s completely free from blemish.

Color ? Lastly, consider the color and make sure that it complements the complexion of the recipient.

Beautiful Things Come from Beautifully Wrapped Packages The presentation is almost as important as the gift itself because it shows that you?ve given lots of thought to your gift. If you don?t have any gift-wrapping skills (and most men don?t so there?s no shame in admitting the same thing), consider asking a friend or even a professional to wrap it for you.

There are various designs of jewelry boxes for you to choose from, and some of them are extremely attractive to look at that covering it with gift wrapping paper is mostly unnecessary. A gift ribbon could add a nice embellishment.

If you choose a simple jewelry box then yes, you?ll still need to cover it with gift wrapping paper. As freshwater pearl necklaces are no ordinary gift, make sure that you choose something extra special like glossy paper or silk for the packaging.

In the end, you should always base your buying decision on how much money you?re willing to spend for your very special gift and what preferences you perceive your recipient has when it comes to freshwater pearl necklaces.

For more information go to: http://www.unlimitedpearls.com http://www.bestpearlnecklaces.com or http://www.bestpearlearrings.com