Yesterday June came into our store to ask us if the strand of Tahitian pearls she bought was a good value. She did not bring it with her but proceeded to describe it as 9 to 11 mm and 17″ long.

We told her that with pearls we would have to see it to determine the quality and in turn that will determine its value.

Tahitian Pearl value is determined by the size, shape, roundness, smoothness, luster and the thickness of the nacre. Color will vary from silver to jet black but color does not affect its value as much.

Cultured Tahitian pearls are usually left in the oyster for three years. Within these three years the nacre is built up to 4 mm. Because of the length of time it allows for deformations and blemishes to form. If a smooth, round, lusterous pearl is found in the oyster it will have a very high value.

There are pearls that are taken out of the oyster sooner than three years. They are  left in the oyster only 6 months to a year and then removed. These will not have a very thick nacre, and the luster is usually not as good. Since the seed for the pearl is not left in it very long the pearl will not have many blemishes or deformations. It may look like a high quality pearl because of the lack of blemishes and is round but its value will not be high. They are sometimes referred to as “young pearls”.

For June we cannot determine whether she got a good price or not until we have a chance to physically inspect her necklace.

Russell Oshita, the diamonddude

The Diamond Specialists, Inc.

Diamonds Hawaii

Several people have asked about the care and cleaning of pearls and we thought you may also be interested in knowing. As an organic gemstone, pearls are not as durable as most of the other gemstones and requires a little extra attention.

To clean a pearl you just need to wipe it using a damp cloth with a mild soap not detergent and follow it with just a clean damp cloth. Cleaning should be done a couple of times a month more often if it is worn a lot, less if it is not.

Restringing should be done every 2-5 years depending of amount of use. Knotting between each pearl on a necklace will reduce loss of the pearls if it breaks.

Pearls should be put on last after make up, perfume, hair spray. The accumulation of these products will reduce its luster.

It should be stored in a soft pouch or bag where it will not be scratched by other jewelry. It should not be stored in a really dry place. Pearls appreciate some moisture.

Pearls are perhaps happiest on your neck where it is warm and the natural body oils will help to maintain its luster.

By following this procedure you will enjoy your pearls for many years to come.

Russell Oshita, the diamonddude

The Diamond Specialists, Inc.

Diamonds Hawaii