Wholesale Pearls & All About Pearls

For more than 4,000 years, man has prized pearls. They are considered the world’s oldest collected gem. As far back as 2300 BC, records indicate that pearls were the prized and exclusive possessions of Chinese royal families. In ancient Rome, pearls were worn as a symbol of wealth and prestige – in fact laws existed to prohibit the wearing of pearls by those not deserving of them. With such a history of exclusivity and rarity, is it any wonder pearls still draw such attention and envy to this day. (details info : Wholesale Pearls)

Cultured Pearls & Wholesale Pearls

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Cultured pearls are real pearls, grown organically inside of oysters in exactly the same way as natural pearls. The difference is that the pearl farmer intentionally stimulates the development of the pearl by manually inserting a “nucleus” into the oyster. The rest of the process remains the same, but in this way, the formation of the pearl is no longer left solely to the chance of a random irritant lodging itself in the oyster. Furthermore, rather than pearl divers hunting, often in vain, for the elusive, naturally formed pearls, pearl farmers could now cultivate pearls and pearl lovers throughout the world could reap the benefits. The only way to distinguish a cultured pearl from a natural one is by x-ray to reveal the “nucleus”. (details info : Wholesale Pearls)

Brief History & Wholesale Pearls
Modern-day cultured pearls are the result of discoveries made in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by Japanese researchers. Although some cultures had long been able to artificially stimulate freshwater mollusks into producing a type of pearl, the pearls produced in this way were generally hemispherical, rather than actual round pearls. In the early 1900s, a number of Japanese researchers independently developed the techniques to manually “nucleate” oysters in order to create round pearls. This revolutionized the pearl industry. It allowed the reliable cultivation of large numbers of pearls. Of these researchers, it was the son of a noodle maker who perfected and patented the technique. Kokichi Mikimoto combined the various technical processes with business acumen and worldwide flair. The man and the eponymous Mikimoto Pearl is credited with almost single-handedly having created the worldwide cultured pearl industry. (details info : Wholesale Pearls)

Breeding, Nucleation & Wholesale Pearls
The first step in pearl production or culturing is to obtain oysters to be nucleated. In the early days of the cultured pearl industry, oysters were simply collected from the sea. Although some farmers continue using this method today, many breed their own oysters. To do this, the pearl farmer collects oyster sperm and eggs from high-quality oysters already on the farm. The sperm are used to fertilize the eggs, and so create a new generation of oyster larvae. The larvae are allowed to float freely in the water, under controlled conditions, until they are a few weeks old. In the wild, the larvae would then attach themselves to a rock or similar object, so the farmers provide “collectors” for this purpose. Over a period of a few months, the larvae develop into baby oysters. They are generally then moved into a separate nursery area of the farm. Here they are tended for around 1-2 years, until they have grown sufficiently large to be nucleated. (details info : Wholesale Pearls)

Two basic methods of nucleation are used. Saltwater oysters are generally nucleated using a “bead”, prepared from mother-of-pearl. First, the bead is surrounded by a small piece of mantle tissue taken from a donor oyster. The bead and tissue are then implanted into the oyster’s gonad. The bead serves as a mold, or nucleus, around which the pearl develops. The resulting pearl will contain the bead at its center and will tend to develop in the same general shape as the original bead. The bead can be detected in the final pearl by x-rays and is the only difference between natural and cultured pearls. After nucleating, the oysters are given a few weeks to recover from the surgery. During this time, some of the oysters may reject and expel the implanted nuclei; others may become sick or even die. Most, however, will fully recover. The oysters are then placed in cages or nets and moved into the oyster bed, where they will be tended as the pearls develop. Depending on the type of oyster, this process can require anywhere from a few months to several years. After the pearls have been allowed to develop fully, they must be harvested. After the pearls are extracted from the oysters, they are washed, dried, and sorted into general categories. Sometimes, the pearls are polished by tumbling in salt and water.(Reference: Wholesale Pearls)

Akoya Pearls & Wholesale Pearls
Akoya pearls are cultured in the Pinctada fucata martensii, also known as the Akoya oyster. This mollusk is found and farmed primarily in Japan, China, Vietnam, South Korea and Australia. Renowned for their luster and shine, Akoya pearls are often considered the “classic” pearl. They are generally white or cream colored, with overtone colors of rose, silver, or cream. Since the Akoya oyster is the smallest pearl-producing oyster used in pearl culture today, Akoya pearls also tend to be small, ranging in size from about 2 to 11 millimeters. But, this smaller size also lends them to be the most consistently round and near-round pearls, making them ideal in terms of matching for multi-pearl jewelry such as strands and bracelets. (details info : Wholesale Pearls)

Tahitian Pearls & Wholesale Pearls
Tahitian pearls are produced in the black-lipped oyster Pinctada margaritifera. This oyster is quite large – sometimes over 12 inches across and weighing as much as 10 pounds – which often results in a much larger-than-average pearl. Although Tahitian pearls are thought by many to be a product of Tahiti, this is not exactly true. Tahiti does not have any pearl farms located on the island; it is simply the commercial center and trading hub for the bulk of the industry. The farms are scattered throughout French Polynesia, as far east as the Gambier Islands, and beyond French Polynesia to the west into the Micronesian Islands. Australia, the Seychelles and Vietnam have also all cultured pearls from the Pinctada margaritifera. The pearls are unique because of their natural dark colors. Most “black” Tahitian pearls are not actually black, but are instead silver, charcoal, or a multitude of colors with the dominant color being green. Truly black pearls are among the most beautiful pearls in the world, and are extremely rare. Additionally, not only are the pearls of the black-lipped oyster beautiful, but the mother-of-pearl inner shell is also extremely attractive. In fact, by the early part of the 20th century, before conservation and repopulation efforts began, the oyster had almost been hunted to extinction for its shell alone. (details info : Wholesale Pearls)

South Sea Pearls & Wholesale Pearls
A South Sea pearl is pearl produced by the Pinctada maxima mollusk. They are currently cultured in areas throughout the Indian and Pacific Oceans, primarily in Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia. South Sea pearls are among the largest commercially harvested cultured pearls in the world. The average size of a South Sea pearl is 13mm, with most harvests producing a range of sizes from 9mm to 20mm. There are a number of reasons that South Sea pearls can grow to such large sizes, including: the large size of the Pinctada maxima, the length of time the pearl is left to grow in the oyster, and most importantly, the oyster’s environment. The warm, clean, plankton-rich waters of the South Sea speed the oyster’s metabolism, so it is able to create and deposit nacre around the nucleus at a much quicker rate. Since the growth period for South Sea pearls is two years, as compared to an Akoya’s 9-16 month growth period, the higher nacre output over a longer period accounts for the larger size. Additionally, the rapidly deposited nacre and warm waters of the South Seas contribute to the pearls having a unique, satiny luster that is unmistakable. South Sea pearls also have a subtle array of colors; typically white, silver, and golden, that are rare in other pearl types. (details info : Wholesale Pearls)

Pearl Necklaces & Wholesale Pearls
The pearls used in a necklace can all be of the same size; or they can be graduated, with a larger pearl in the center and successively smaller pearls running back on each side to the clasp. Whichever style is chosen, good matching of the pearls is important, both for aesthetic reasons and for the highest value (Reference: Wholesale Pearls). Pearl necklaces come in a wide variety of styles and sizes, they include (in order of length):

1. Bib: Several strands of pearls of varying lengths layered to form a single necklace.
2. Collar: Consists of multiple strands of pearls worn high on the neck. Approximately 12-13 inches long.
3. Choker: Similar to a collar, but is worn somewhat lower on the neck. Approximately 14-16 inches long.
4. Princess: Essentially the “classic” length for a pearl necklace, lying slightly below the neck. A versatile style, which can be worn with many different styles of neckline. Approximately 17-19 inches long.
5. Matinee: Traditionally worn for semi-formal occasions, works well with suits and dresses. Approximately 20-24 inches long.
6. Opera: Generally worn at formal occasions with evening dresses. The pearls should fall below the bust line. To be worn during the day in less-formal settings, the strand can be doubled over. Approximately 30-36 inches long.
7. Rope: This is the longest of all pearl necklace styles. It can also be doubled, as well as knotted. Some rope necklaces have multiple clasps, which allow it to be broken down into shorter strands. More than 36 inches long.

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Pearl Grading & Wholesale Pearls
No common industry-wide standard exists for the grading of pearls yet. The most commonly accepted system in use today is the AAA-A scale. This system grades pearls on a scale from AAA to A, with AAA being the highest grade. This grading scale is common to Freshwater and Akoya pearls only, but is accepted by many with South Sea and Tahitian pearls as well:

1. AAA: The highest-quality pearl, virtually flawless. The surface will have a very high luster, and at least 95% of the surface will be free from any type of defect.
2. AA: The surface will have a very high luster, and at least 75% of the surface will be free from any type of defect.
3. A: This is the lowest jewelry-grade pearl, with a lower luster and/or more than 25% of the surface showing defects. In many cases, if the pearl is being mounted into a piece of jewelry, it can be mounted so that the defects are hidden.

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Care of Pearls & Wholesale Pearls

Pearls are the world’s only organic gem and are composed of calcium carbonate; this means special attention is required to ensure pearls will stay beautiful and last a lifetime. Because pearls are an organic gemstone, they are somewhat different from other gemstones and precious metals. They are softer and more delicate, and they can therefore be more easily scratched, cracked, and damaged. In addition, substances such as perfume and hair spray – and even natural body oils and perspiration – can dull pearls’ luster or cloud their brilliance. It’s a good idea, for example, to apply perfume, hair spray, and other cosmetics before putting on your pearls. In this way, you can minimize the amount of these products that comes into contact with the pearls. After wearing your pearls, wipe them with a soft damp cloth to remove any traces of cosmetic products or body oils. Wash the pearls periodically with a mild soap and a soft cloth, to remove any accumulated build-up. Because of their delicacy, pearls should be stored separately, away from hard jewelry items, to prevent scratches or other damage. If possible, store them wrapped in soft cloth or in a soft-lined container, pouch, or jewelry box. To prevent strand breakage, it’s a good idea to have your pearls restrung periodically – perhaps once a year or so if you wear them often. Knotting the strand between each pearl will prevent all of the pearls from falling off the strand in the event the strand breaks. Also, knotting prevents the pearls from rubbing against one another and causing damage. A little bit of care can go a long way toward ensuring that your pearls remain safe and bright for years to come. (details info : Wholesale Pearls)

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SOUTH SEA PEARLS WHOLESALE

Adored by kings and queens, worn by the most beautiful and powerful women and men throughout the ages, the pearl has its own special place amongst the most beautiful gems in the world.

The South Sea Pearl Consortium, sponsored by Paspaley, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about the rarest and largest pearl of all, the white South Sea cultured pearl. ( South Sea Pearls Wholesale ).

WHAT IS A SOUTH SEA CULTURED PEARL?

(Photo by: Wholesale Pearls )

The white South Sea cultured pearl is at the height of its perfection when it is taken from its shell. It is a gift of nature, as complete and perfect in its own way as an exquisite work of art. However, this most special gem is also unique, produced by the rarest and largest oysters in the world – the giant silver lip and gold lip Pinctada maxima. This rare and solitary oyster only exists on an extremely limited number of shell beds found in the warm tropical seas sometimes referred to as the South Seas – hence the name of the pearl. This area of ocean tretches from North Australia, though Indonesia, the Philippines, to the southern tip of Burma.

Its shell produces the most beautiful nacre, a creamy smooth lustrous material, which possesses a subdued opalescence. The size and thickness of the shell and the lustre of the nacre it produces results in the rarest and most sought after pearl in the world – the white South Sea cultured pearl. Throughout history, the natural South Sea pearl has been regarded as the prize of all pearls. The discovery of the most prolific South Sea pearl beds off North Australia and Indonesia in the early 1800’s culminated in the most voluptuous era of pearls in Europe in the Victorian era.

The white South Sea pearl is distinguished from all other pearls by its magnificent thick natural nacre which possesses a subdued opalescence, producing an unequalled lustre – a lustre which does not merely deliver “shine” as with other pearls – but a complex soft, creamy, intangible appearance which changes mood under different light conditions. It is the beauty of this nacre which has endeared the South Sea pearl to jewellery connoisseurs over the centuries.

As well as its size and voluptuousness, the white South Sea pearl is also famous, due to the thickness of the nacre produced, for the variety of unique and desirable shapes found. The South Sea pearl has an array of colours from white through silver, and from cream through yellow to deep gold. The pearls may also display a lovely “overtone” of a different colour such as pink, blue or green.

Today, as is the case with other natural pearls, the natural South Sea pearl has all but disappeared from the world pearl markets. The vast majority of South Sea pearls available today are cultivated on pearl farms in the South Sea. The protection of the shell’s natural habitat and the preservation of the natural pearl stocks have enabled the cultured South Sea pearl to be cultivated under “sustainable resource” conditions. Today’s era of cultured South Sea pearls may well be seen in years to come as the richest pearl period in man’s history.

WHERE DO THEY COME FROM?

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The Pinctada maxima shells exist only in a small area of warm tropical ocean known as “the South Sea”. This area is predominantly in the Indian Ocean around northern Australia, southern Indonesia and the southern Philippines. The North Australian coastline remains one of the few virgin coastlines in the world today and its protection is critical to the future of the South Sea cultured pearl. Without this protected environment the shell will hibernate to ensure its survival, refusing to produce its precious nacre. This solitary and special shell will wait up to half a century until the circumstances are right for it to weave its own special brand of magic and produce the most beautiful of all pearls.

The area of ocean referred to as the South Seas must not be confused with Tahiti and other areas of the Pacific Ocean sometimes also erroneously referred to as the South Sea. This area around Tahiti is home to the Pinctada margaritifera – a black pearl shell which only produces pearls of varying black hues – pearls which are known as Tahitian black cultured pearls. Unlike the rare white Pinctada maxima, the black Pinctada margaritifera is smaller and much more abundant than its white cousin and the quality of nacre produced by the shell differs greatly. Hence consumers will find the black “Tahitian” cultured pearl more readily available and prices generally reflect the abundance of availability. The colours produced by the black shells are not available from the white South Sea shells, and vice versa.

ARE THEY REAL?

( Photo : South Sea Pearls Wholesale )

Until the last quarter of the nineteenth century, natural white South Sea pearls reigned as the most prized pearls throughout the world, inextricably linked with wealth and beauty. Tragically these wondrous pearls all but disappeared within a few decades following man’s inevitable destruction of the special environment that housed the world’s natural pearl beds. Today, these natural pearl beds have been resurrected and protected, and thanks to the dedication of companies such as Paspaley, the white South Sea cultured pearl has emerged as an achievable dream. What was once thought impossible in the middle of the nineteenth century is now a reality.

Today, these precious gems are being cultivated in the pristine marine conditions in the Southern oceans. It is here that pearl producers ensure that the Pinctada maxima have the perfect environment
to do what they do best – grow the largest, rarest and most wonderful pearls in the world. These pearls are as close to the natural pearl as it is possible to be and a gem to treasure for a lifetime and for generations after

WHY ARE THESE PEARLS SO BIG?

( Photo : South Sea Pearls Wholesale )

The white South Sea cultured pearl is the largest and rarest pearl in the world. It is produced by the largest oyster shell, the silver and gold lip Pinctada maxima. This shell when it is presented with perfect natural conditions coats a small nucleus inserted by man, with dozens of skins of pure thick and lustrous pearl nacre over several years. The size of the shell is an advantage when producing these pearls, but it is the thickness of this nacre that creates the largest of all pearls – the white South Sea cultured pearl.

WHAT MAKES THEM THAT SHAPE?

White South Sea pearls are cultivated pearls that are only helped by man in the sense that man provides them with the best and purest environment in which to grow. Once the shell has been seeded with a small round nucleus made of mother of pearl, the oyster shell is left to do what it does best – produce stunning pearl nacre and lots of it. As a result the shapes and sizes of the pearls are all different and formed entirely by nature herself. Some emerge perfectly round, some teardrop shaped, some semi-round, some baroque shaped – each one different, each one unique.

That is the beauty of the pearl that sets it apart from other gems that are cut and shaped by man. As a result a perfect pearl strand can take years to complete. To find the perfect pearl to make up the strand is no easy task.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO MAKE THEM THAT COLOUR?

( Photo : South Sea Pearls Wholesale )

Nothing! South Sea cultured pearls are natural in colour. The name “white South Sea pearl” is actually a misnomer. White South Sea pearl is the name given to the pearl made by the Pinctada maxima shell, which is white. However although the shell is white, South Sea pearls can be many shades of colour. The shade can vary enormously from the warmer white-pink tones through to silver tones and finally to a truly golden hue. Each shade from the stunning range available has its own appeal and is a matter of personal taste.

WHY ARE THE PRICES SO DIFFERENT?

The South Sea cultured pearl is the only pearl whose qualities are identical to the natural pearls of old. As such they must be evaluated by the same criteria as natural pearls. As with natural pearls, South Sea pearls are created in a wide range of qualities. The quality of the nacre is paramount. Quality of nacre can only be dictated by the mother shell and nature herself. It is the quality of the nacre that determines the beauty or lustre of the pearl. Regardless of whether a pearl is natural or cultivated, the finest quality nacre is extremely rare and pearls of this nacre are very valuable.

The value of a particular South Sea cultured pearl ultimately depends on the fineness of its nacre. Size has a bearing on value as fine quality nacre becomes rarer in the larger size pearls. Shape and colour also have a bearing on value but these two factors are mainly “fashion” or “preference” driven.

HOW DO I CARE FOR MY PEARLS?

(Photo by: Wholesale Pearls )

White South Sea cultured pearls are made up of layers of sumptuous natural pearl nacre and require the same care as you would give your finest silk gown. Pearls love to be worn and take on the warmth and glow of the wearer’s skin. However, the following tips will ensure that your white South Sea cultured pearls keep on looking and feeling wonderful to wear.

• Put pearls on after applying makeup, perfume and hairspray.
• Don’t allow pearls to rub against more abrasive jewellery.
• Wipe pearls gently with a soft cloth occasionally before putting away.
• Never store pearls with other pieces of jewellery. Keep them wrapped in a soft cloth.
• Have pearl strands re-strung by a reliable jeweller every year or two depending on how often they are worn.
• To clean pearls rub them with a cloth dipped in a well diluted mix of alcohol and warm water or in a weak solution of soap and water. Then dip the cloth in clean water and rub this over the pearls, finally dry with a clean cloth. Never leave pearls wet.
• Finally white South Sea cultured pearls are remarkably resilient and should be worn and enjoyed every day.

WHAT DO I LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A PEARL ESPECIALLY ON SOUTH SEA PEARLS WHOLESALE?

(Photo by: Wholesale Pearls )

It is a combination of five “virtues” that should be looked for when buying a pearl: rustle, size, shape, colour and complexion.

• The lustre of the pearl is what gives the pearl its iridescence and its depth. Lustre is created by nacre, and varies with the fineness of the nacre. It is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying a pearl. The lustre of a pearl should always be bright, never dull. Without lustre it does not matter how big or how perfect its shape or what its colour is – it is the lustre that makes a pearl a gem quality pearl. White South Sea cultured pearls have a thick, creamy nacre and are noted for their rich, silky luster.
• The shape of the pearl is also important. Perfectly round and teardrop shapes are extremely rare and therefore highly sought after; this does not mean that other shapes do not have their own unique charm and value. Baroque pearls, for instance, are one of the most popular shapes because of their uniqueness, size and casual character. White South Sea cultured pearls come in many shapes including round, semi-round, circlé, oval, baroque, drop and with many variations, each one unique.
• Other points that are to be considered when choosing a pearl include the complexion of the pearl or “skin”. These pearls are produced by nature and therefore will have their natural flaws, however the more flawless the surface of the pearl, the greater the value.
• The size of the pearl is also reflected in the price – the white South Sea cultured pearl being the largest rarest pearl of all.
• The final point to consider is the color. From luminescent white to sparkling golds, the stunning range of the white South Sea cultured pearls must be seen to be believed and premium prices are paid for pearls displaying unusually beautiful orients of colored overtones such as white pink, silver pink and deep gold.

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How to Knot Pearls (Pearl-Knotting Instructions)

Pearl-knotting tools are easy to use and can do the work of the traditional awl & tweezers method, giving you consistent, tight knots in a fraction of the time. Use these instructions to get started. With some practice, you’ll find your own speed and rhythm, and the hand position most comfortable for you. These instructions demonstrate how to use the knotting tool to string and finish a strand of pearls.

Supplies:

1. Pearl-knotting tool
2. Work surface or beading
3. Board
4. French wire (bullion)
5. Flush cutters
6. Fine shears
7. Electric or hand reamer
8. Bowl of water
9. Jeweler’s Cement
10. Carded silk cord with needle
11. Clasp
12. Pearls

Some Tips Before You Begin

• Keep your work area clean and free of unnecessary tools and materials.
• Silk cord attracts and shows oil and dirt, leaving the cord looking worn and grimy. To minimize this, wash your hands or use hand wipes (do this often) and handle the silk as little as possible.
• Make sure you have the right-size silk or cord; the size used should be determined by the hole size and the material of the pearl or bead (e.g.: metal beads will fray silk cord; consider a different stringing material).
• Be patient and remember: you are just making a knot. Before you begin a “keeper” strand, we recommend that you practice until you feel comfortable using the knotter tool.

Starting the Strand

Before you begin using the pearl-knotter, you will need to start the strand by preparing and stringing the first three pearls.

Reaming

• Using a diamond-tipped bead reamer, ream six pearls to make the holes wide enough to allow two passes of the silk cord.
• Place the six pearls in the bowl of water, which serves as a cooling bath to reduce friction. Ream both ends of the hole so it is consistent along the length of the hole.

If you are using a hand reamer:

1. Dip the reamer tip into the water and push it through the pearl hole.
2. Keeping the reamer tip and the pearl under water, gently twist the reamer until you see about ¼ ” of the reamer tip extending out the other side of the pearl. Repeat on the other end.

If you are using an electric reamer:

1. Push the reamer tip through the pearl hole, then lower the pearl and the tip into the water. Caution: Do not let any part of the electric reamer touch the water except the tip!
2. Making sure you have a secure grip on the pearl, turn the reamer on at low speed. Keeping the pearl under water, gently bounce it against the tip until you see about ¼ ” of the reamer tip extending out the other side of the pearl. Repeat on the other end.
3. Set the six reamed pearls aside to dry, and keep them separate from the rest of your pearls.

Preparing the Silk

Unwind the silk cord from the card. If the needle is a little bent, straighten it with your fingers (it does not need to be perfectly straight).

I. Stretch the silk by taking one end of the cord in one hand and a length of silk in the other. With as much force as possible, pull your arms apart; continue down the whole length of the cord. Stretch it enough to straighten the kinks left by the card, being careful not to cut yourself. Stretching the cord will lengthen the life of your strand.

String First Three Pearls, French Wire & Clasp

1. Tie a knot on the end of the silk cord opposite the needle.
2. String three of the six reamed pearls onto the silk cord, sliding them down all the way to the knot. Set the other three reamed pearls aside.
3. Using the flush cutters, snip off about ¼ ” of the French wire.
4. Slide the French wire onto the needle. Hold it snugly between your forefinger and thumb as you slide it past the point where the needle attaches to the cord, then slide it down the cord until it’s 1½ ” above the pearls.
5. Slide the jump ring of the non-hook-side of the clasp onto the cord, all the way to the French wire. Note: Leave the clasp hook closed to prevent losing one of the pieces.
6. Take the needle back through the pearl closest to the clasp, going in the opposite direction. Leave about an inch and a half of space between this pearl and the remaining two.
7. Pull the needle until the French wire forms a small loop up against the pearl.
8. Hand-tie a knot next to the bead, making sure to pull both ends.
9. Pass the needle back through the next pearl and hand-tie another knot. Pass the needle back through the final pearl and stop. Do not tie a knot. This is the place on the strand where you begin using the knotter tool.
10. A short tail of silk will be hanging out of the third bead. Leave it for now; it will be snipped off later.

Using Your Pearl-Knotter

The pearl-knotter works the same for right- or left-handed users. For these instructions, the illustration shows a righthanded user, but your dominant hand should be the hand most comfortable for you. Begin by stringing on the rest of the pearls, with the exception of the three remaining reamed pearls. Remove the safety cap from the knotter. Take the end of the strand with the non-reamed pearls in your non-dominant hand and hold onto them with your ring finger and pinky.

1. With the same hand, make a V with your forefinger and middle finger, palm-side down (8″–10″ of the end with the clasp should extend between your thumb and forefinger).
2. With your dominant hand, take the clasp end and loosely wrap it around your index and middle fingers.
3. Drop the clasp between your V’d fingers and between the two strands. Pull the clasp end past your forefinger so that it dangles between your fingers. You now have a loosely tied knot around your fingers. In your dominant hand, hold the knotter so your index finger is resting in the notch of the handle, and close to the top so that the thumb lever can extend fully.
4. Working away from your body, capture the cord that’s resting on top of your fingers with the knotter needle.
5. Place your index finger on the side of the needle to keep the knot from sliding off prematurely. Caution: Don’t place your finger on top of the needle—it’s very sharp!
6. Slide your index and middle fingers out of the loose knot, still holding onto the cord with your ring and your pinky.
   
   9. Pull the knot tight around the needle, then move the knot along the strand and place it snugly up against the pearl.
   10. Place the cord in the fork and pull the knot taut, keeping the cord parallel to the top of the knotter. Please Note: Do not angle the cord against the fork—it may damage the cord.
   11. Remove your finger from the needle tip and, with your thumb, push the lever up all the way. This tightens the knot against the pearl and pushes the knot off the needle. You now have a perfect knot tight against the pearl! Please Note: Let the knotter do the work. Manipulating the knot off the needle with your fingers will prevent it from positioning itself against the pearl.
   12. Move the next pearl down into position next to the knot you just made. Please Note: Do not forget this very important step. You could end up with two very tight knots next to each other. Repeat the above steps until you have made a knot between all the pearls. Once you’ve made the last knot, you’re ready to add the last three reamed pearls and finish the strand.

Finishing the Strand

String Last Three Pearls, French Wire & Clasp

1. String on the three remaining reamed pearls.
2. Use the flush cutters to snip off another ¼ “-piece of French wire and slide it onto the cord next to the pearls.
3. Gently bend the French wire with your finger. This helps it position itself into the small loop when you pull the cord back through the pearls.
4. Unhook the hooked end of the clasp and slide it onto the silk cord.
5. Pass the needle back through the pearl that’s closest to the French wire. Pull the cord tight so that the wire forms a small U-shape next to the pearl. Knot Between the Reamed Beads.The last three reamed beads should be close together outwith just enough of a gap between them to accommodate the knot you will make. If you are using thin cord, the gaps should be small. If you are using thicker cord, the gaps should be a bit larger. Use your existing knots to estimate how much of a gap to leave.Tie a knot by hand around the cord in the first gap.
6. Pass the needle through the second reamed bead andtie a knot by hand around the cord in the second gap. This is the last knot you will make.
7. Pass the needle through the last reamed pearl.

Finishing

1. Pull the excess cord at the beginning of the strand taut so that once you clip the cord, it will retract slightly inside the pearl. Using the fine shears, clip off the cord as close to the pearl as possible. Repeat on the other end.
2. Place a very small drop of Jeweler’s Cement on the firstand last three knots to seal them. You should not have to squeeze the tube.
3. Set the strand aside for at least 10 minutes to allow it to dry completely. The strand is finished!

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