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Pearls are a classic bridal accessory. Decide which of these four luminous options is right for you.

1.Tahitian Also known as black pearls, these are actually available in a variety of deep colors, ranging from gray to black to green—even blue or aubergine. They're formed by black-lipped oysters indigenous to the islands of French Polynesia. Black pearls carry a hefty price tag, as they're less abundant than some other pearl types.

2. Akoya When you think of classic pearls, these are the ones that come to mind. They're relatively petite, wonderfully lustrous and typically white or cream—but can also be found in pastel and silvery shades. Akoya pearls, created by the smallest type of pearl oyster, are harvested in Japan and China.

3. Freshwater Derived from freshwater mussels, these pearls are abundant—and more affordable. They come in a variety of shapes and in a rainbow of pale, pastel colors, so there's a freshwater pearl to suit everyone.

4. South Sea These big, satiny pearls are grown in Australia, the Philippines and other Pacific countries. South Sea pearls come from large silver- or gold-lipped oysters, and their color ranges from white to gold. Because they're rare and sizable, they command premium prices.

Treasure Hunt

To be a savvy shopper, consider these qualities when perusing pearls.

LUSTER The more the pearl "glows" and shines, the better its quality. Low-luster pearls look chalky.

SURFACE A pearl with a cleaner, more flawless surface, without any blemishes, spots, cracks or bumps, is more desirable and will have a greater value.

SIZE A pearl's size is measured by its diameter in millimeters; the average measures between 7 and 7.5 mm. Generally, a larger pearl is rarer, and therefore, will cost more.

SHAPE Because pearls are formed naturally, they're seldom perfectly spherical—although they may appear so at first glance—and if they are, they're very pricey.