South Sea Pearls Prices and Value Factors
South Sea Pearls grow big in the warm waters of the south Pacific, larger than any other species. White South Sea pearls are the giants, cultivated off the coast of Australia, and the even more rare Golden South Sea pearls near Indonesia and the Philippines.
Because of their size and distinctive look, it’s hard to confuse them with anything else. However, Freshwater pearls in the same size range are becoming more common in baroque shapes, so be sure to confirm with the vendor (Reference: South Sea Pearls Prices).
What to Expect:
- Sizes usually from 10mm to 18mm+, and occasionally even bigger!
- Natural colors are white or golden. For golden pearls, it’s extremely important to ask whether the color is natural. Color treated pearls abound, and are worth much less than natural goldens, since the color may fade over time!
- Baroque shapes in White South Sea pearls are very popular, in addition to the classic round. (Reference: South Sea Pearls Prices).
What’s Next?
You may have heard the terms “natural pearls”, “cultured pearls”, or “treated pearls”, and wondered what the difference was between all these. Or you may be asking right now, “How can I know if this pearl is a ‘real’ pearl? What should I know to avoid paying too much?” Rest easy! We’ll cover that and much more shortly, including:
- How to Tell Fake Pearls from the Real Thing
- The 7 Secrets that your Local Mall Jewelry Store Doesn’t Want You to Know!
- Negotiation tips, and How to Make Your Pearls Last a Lifetime! (Reference: South Sea Pearls Prices).
We’re going to have some fun applying our new pearl expertise in the marketplace! We’ll use our knowledge to decide on pearl authenticity, spot fakes and treatments, and get the best deals possible on pearls by understanding the lingo and also how “the system” works! Plus, we’ll touch on caring for your pearls after you take the plunge.
Quick Review: Pearl Types and The Value Factors
First, another quick review. There are four major types or “species” of pearls common in the marketplace today:
- Freshwater pearls
- Akoya pearls
- Tahitian pearls
- South Sea Pearls (in both White and Golden varieties.)
Each of the pearl species should be evaluated according to the 7 Value Factors:
- Pearls Luster
- Pearls Size
- Pearls Surface Quality
- Pearls Shape
- Pearls Color (Body, Overtone, Orient)
- Pearls Nacre Thickness
- Pearls Matching.
Although each pearl species has specific qualities, always remember that luster, size, and surface quality have the greatest impact on value. (Reference: South Sea Pearls Prices).
