Pearl Buying Secrets - Pearl Size Matters
by Lise Lepa, President and CEO, Pearls Only
The first thing and simplest to consider when buying a necklace is size. Be it Akoya or freshwater, both types of pearls come in different sizes. And since size is the easiest one to decide on, lets talk about that first.
Pearls are measured in millimeters (mm). Pearls come in all sizes, ranging from 2mm up to 18mm. Generally, the smaller the pearl the lower the price, since there is more available to choose from. A pearl size of 5 to 6 mm is more available . The prices for 5 to 6mm pearls are very reasonable simply because there are more available. And the 5 to 6mm set look great when strung in double and triple strands, or on petite ladies.
The next size, 6 to 7mm is a very nice nice size that is luxurious yet affordable. The necklaces in the 6 to7mm looks great and are a terrific value. When we buy these pearls for PearlsOnly we always have in mid the young professionals or casual wear. The prices for this size is good enough to wear everyday.
Typically, in the 6 to 7mm size, a large selection of pearls is available so that the pearls that we purchase for Pearls Only are of excellent quality and excellent price.
| My favorite size to buy is 7 to 8mm. I must say that 7 to 8mm pearl necklace looks gorgeous. Compared to 5 to 6mm set, these pearls are 40% bigger and it clearly shows. Visually this size is very appealing yet not flaunting. A perfect set for that special outing or theatre evening. However buying 7 to 8mm pearls is always a challenge. Where as in the 6 to 7mm,we can be pretty much guaranteed to buy all the pearls we need, 7 to 8mm is a lot more tricky. Pearls do not come on demand and so sometimes the 7 to 8mm size with particular features can be hard to obtain. I also call the 7 to 8mm the "sweet spot" - the price for the pearls vs what you get is the best at this size. You get a lot of value for your dollar at this size. |
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If your heart is set on something bigger, keep in mind that sizes 8mm and up are in the "high end" category. These pearls can be difficult to find and are just not always available with the features that we are looking for. When a nice batch is available we usually buy the whole lot, just because in these large sizes you cannot be guaranteed availability the next day. Unlike manmade objects, these pearls are just not made to order! The price for these sizes tend to be higher. As far as their wear, the larger sizes are pearls for what I consider special occasion. In my opinion a little bit too big for everyday wear, more like occasional wear, they are stunning on a low cut dress or a power business suit. The prices for these tend to be higher which is quite well justified by their relative rarity.
Tip #1: The 7 to 8mm pearls are in principal your best value. When deciding on a necklace to buy, decide the size of pearl you would like to buy, be it 5 to 6mm, 6 to 7mm, 7mm to 8mm or larger. It will help with your decision.
Tip #2: 7 to 8mm size is the sweet spot, your best value/dollar and versatility. Consider selecting 7 to 8mm as the pearl size that you want to buy and compare pearls of this size only.
Tip #3: Size matters, the bigger the size the higher the price (in principal). 7 to 8mm size is a perfect crossover pearl between day wear and special outing. 8mm and bigger are terrific for special occasions and a very affluent look.
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