
We are proud to offer our clients this special selection of fine
quality cultured pearl jewelry. We work hand-in-hand with the leading
pearl houses to ensure our clients of the finest quality available.
We hand select our pearls strand-by-strand the same way we select diamonds for
our inventory because Luster is to a pearl what Brilliance is to a diamond.
This means that we expect the luster of each pearl to be breathtaking as it
shows off the light and life of the pearl and thus we take the same great care
in selecting pearls for our inventory as we do in selecting our diamonds...
This means that you can expect the same look of intense pleasure from her when
you present her with a gift from our pearl collection as you got when you
presented her with one of the diamonds from our
Private Reserve. Just as with diamonds, pearls are available in a
variety of sizes, qualities and price ranges... As you might expect, the
higher the quality the more a strand will cost. With diamonds, price is
determined by carat weight, color, clarity and cut which refers to the precise
combination of proportions that the diamond has been cut to as well as the
precision of the facet alignment. Pearls are valued by how and where they
were farmed (grown) and the depth of the nacre which dictates the resulting
luster or surface gloss. Most pearls found on the market today are farmed
by hanging oysters from strings attached to poles in pearl beds with controlled
water conditions and impregnating the oyster with a small plastic bead which is
eventually coated with a nacre (skin) by the oyster. Less expensive
strands of pearls tend to have been started from larger plastic beads and were
left in the oyster for less time which results in a thin nacre and a low level
of luster which results in a lower introductory price, but for which you can
expect a strand that is duller and will not be able to be worn for long because
the nacre will eventually chip away revealing the plastic bead used to start the
pearl... As with most things in life, when it comes to pearls you definitely get
what you pay for which is why we prefer to offer our clients a higher grade of
pearl that has been nurtured from the beginning with quality in mind.
Pearl strands are generally sold by length and the diameter and quality of the
pearls contained in the strand... The lengths referred to below represent
the overall approximate length of the strand after it has been strung with a
reasonable allowance made for the pearl clasp. Other lengths and
combinations of diameter including graduated strands are available
upon request.
The term AA in reference to pearl quality means that the pearl has a high luster
and a nacre depth of at least 0.9 mm while the term AAA refers to a pearl that
has a very high luster and a nacre depth of at least 1.0 mm. What is the
difference in practical terms? Not much, in fact most people would be hard
pressed to tell the difference especially while the strand is being worn... If
you need the AAA rating in order to sleep at night we won't argue with you, but
the reality is that AA quality will more than suffice in terms of durability and
visual appeal.
Akoya refers to a type of Japanese oyster and is not a brand name...
| Size / Quality | Length | Clasp Type | Sells for* | Order Stock # |
| 4.00 - 4.50 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $545.00 | 106936 |
| 4.50 - 5.00 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $610.00 | 106937 |
| 5.00 - 5.50 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $720.00 | 106938 |
| 5.50 - 6.00 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $785.00 | 106939 |
| 6.00 - 6.50 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $1,015.00 | 106940 |
| 6.00 - 6.50 mm diameter AAA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $1,430.00 | 240046 |
| 6.50 - 7.00 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $1,150.00 | 106941 |
| 7.00 - 7.50 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $1,420.00 | 106942 |
| 7.50 - 8.00 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $1,780.00 | 144003 |
| 7.50 - 8.00 mm diameter AAA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $2,340.00 | 253641 |
| 8.00 - 8.50 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $2,725.00 | 144004 |
| 8.50 - 9.00 mm diameter AA strand | 16" Standard Choker | #94 14k YG | $3,115.00 | 240807 |
Options for pearl clasps:
All of the necklaces listed above come with our standard #94 style pearl clasp as pictured below. You may customize your strand by purchasing a different pearl clasp from the selection provided below for the additional amount stated. Please allow 3 to 7 days for your pearl necklace to be strung to order. Many of the styles pictured below are also available in white gold upon request, note that an additional charge may apply.
Care of Pearls:
Like any precious
heirloom, your new pearl jewelry will require some care to preserve its natural
beauty. Occasionally clean the pearls gently with a soft lint free cloth
dipped in mild soapy water such as that created by mixing a single drop of
traditional Ivory brand dish soap into a sink full of luke warm water...
Then rinse the cloth in fresh clean warm water and wipe the pearls clean with a
soft motion. Place the pearls on a soft dry cloth and allow them to dry
before wearing. Note that it is important not to tug or pull on the strand
while it is wet because this can result in breakage of the silk thread and/or
stretching which may require that the strand be restrung.
The following hints will help you to keep your pearls looking their best:
*All prices subject to change without notice due to fluctuations in the world pearl and precious metal markets. Although every effort is made to maintain the accuracy of the descriptions provided, we are not responsible for typographical errors are reserve the right to make corrections and update pricing accordingly. Please allow 3 to 7 working days for delivery as these strands are strung to order... Prices do not include shipping.