Freshwater pearls may also be dyed

Freshwater pearls may also be dyed. Be sure to ask if the color is natural. Color is usually considered the most important factor affecting value and cost. If a pearl is of natural color it will sell in the market place for much higher amount than a pearl that has been dyed a certain color. If purchasing a pearl that is of natural color be sure it is and that it is stated on the bill of sale. The South Sea Specimens are often less perfectly round and have a less intense luster than their smaller Japanese counterpart, but they are very beautiful and very expensive.

A Tahitian black pearl color normally does not run through the entire pearl. When looking at the stone it could be lighter on one side and when you turn it over it could be black on the opposite end. With practice and experience (and further education if you're really serious), a loupe can tell even the amateur a great deal. Using a gemologist can help to determine if the pearl stone is synthetic, natural made of glass or has many imperfections like blemishes or cracks in the stone. In other words, the loupe can provide the necessary information to help you know whether the stone is in fact what it is supposed to be.

Being so soft, Crystal Jewelry scratch very easily, so store them in a box lined with something soft. Or at least wrap them in a soft cloth before you put them away. Most other gemstones, like diamonds, are much harder than pearls, and can give them a nasty scratch if they're jostled together. If you have to put them in the same box, the pearls must be wrapped up to protect them.

Pearl Safety Tips

Keep chemicals away from pearls, or they will get damaged. Chemicals can erode the pearl's lustrous surface, leaving them dull. So avoid any alcohol based cleaning fluids, or anything with vinegar. It's a good idea to put your pearls on just before you leave, so that you don't accidentally get any makeup or hairspray on them. Both of these can stain or damage your pearls.

As an extra precaution, it might be worth getting your pearl jewelry restrung every year or two. Pearls are often strung on silk thread, and this weakens over time. If you wear your pearls a lot, the constant movement of the pearls can also damage the silk. Although pearls require some care to keep them at their best, it's definitely worth the effort.MORE:Silver Jewelry