A pair of pearls can class up any look, but there’s an art to it. These days there’s a tremendous variety of pearls, and certain kinds are best for certain people. Luckily, we’ve assembled a simple guide to help you select the right pearls for you or your special someone.
Akoya Pearls
These are the classic pearls, the kind of pearls one thinks of when they imagine a pearl necklace. They’re grown off the coast of Japan and are typically white, although silver-blue and gold colors do exist. They have a perfectly round shape and a sharp, reflective look. These pearls are best if you’re looking for a classic pearl necklace or earrings that can go with any outfit.
Freshwater Pearls
These are the most affordable pearls on the market, and they come in a range of shapes and pastel colors. They’re typically larger than the akoya pearls, with a less reflective look. Freshwater pearls are best if you’re shopping on a budget, or you want something with unique colors and/or shapes.
Tahitian Pearls
Grown in Polynesia, these pearls are dark in color and come in a variety of shapes, with round being the rarest of them all. They’re typically larger than both akoya and freshwater pearls, although like the other two, they come in a range of sizes. If you’re looking for a pearl that will go well with anything, Tahitian pearls are your best bet.
South Sea Pearls
These are the largest saltwater pearl grown today and they are found primarily in Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. They range from white to gold and, because of their size, their most common shapes are drops, baroques, and ovals, although round shapes can be found. South Sea pearls are great if you’re trying to make a statement with your jewelry or outfit.
Here at Frank Pollak & Sons, we sell vintage and modern pearl jewelry. Take a look at our selection to see which pair of pearls is right for you!