A Classic String of Pearls

Pearls of Wisdom

• Cultured pearls are real pearls. The term "cultured" does not mean "man-made." It means your pearls have been produced by a pearl farmer as opposed to being formed naturally in oysters. About 99% of the pearls sold today are cultured.
• Figure out what you're willing to spend on your wedding-day jewelry. There's a strand of pearls to suit every budget. See guidelines, below.
• Have a sense of the style you'd like—a choker (14 to 16 inches long), a princess (17 to 19 inches), a stylish triple strand à la Jacqueline Kennedy, something fabulously long and ropey—and also consider how it will work with the neckline of your wedding dress.

The Real Deal

Q: What are faux pearls? Are they the cheapest you can get?
A: Faux, or "simulated," pearls are machine-made from a variety of products, including glass and plastic compounds. Many are downright cheap—we've seen them go for $1.50 at tag sales. But most jewelry designers no longer use imitation pearls, because they have poor luster. Instead, they choose freshwater pearls, which are of better quality and don't cost a fortune. If you're truly on a shoestring budget, you can find a fab freshwater pearl necklace for under $100. Check out: Honora (go to honora.com for stores); Red Envelope (redenvelope.com); Boucher Jewelry, boucherjewelry.com; and Wasabi (call 626-403-1950 for stores).

Page    1  2 

tags:

•  
• Fashion,
• Rings and jewelry