Before purchasing pearls of good quality, it is very important for consumers to learn by themselves about how to look for. Beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder, but you also want to pay the right price and have your new piece survive the test of time. The following are the most important aspects for you to learn well when judging the value and quality of pearls jewelry.

Luster
The first thing that will strike you when you see a fine pearl is the brilliance with which it shines. That is the luster. This is not only a surface brilliance, but a glow almost from within the pearl. In a pearl of very high luster, you should be able to see your reflection clearly. When the many layers of nacre align perfectly and reflect back the light, what you get is a fantastic deep glow. Luster is the most important factor in determining the value and quality of pearls.

Color
Although certainly a matter of personal taste, the color of a pearl can also be important. Cultured freshwater pearls are almost any color from white to black, including golden, blue, and rose. It has long been thought that rose and white pearls complement fair skinned women best while gold and cream-colored pearls complement darker skinned women best.

Size
All other things being equal, pearl size determines the price. The larger the pearl is, the higher the price is. The size of a pearl is its diameter measured in millimeters (mm). Pearls generally range in size from 1-15mm, with exceptional pearls surpassing 15mm. The average size of pearls sold today is 7mm – 12mm in diameter.

Shape
Round pearls have also been the most sought after and are still valued as such a worthy commodity. They are the most expensive just because they are so rare and are in a high demand. However, beautiful pearls come in many different shapes and great deals, which can be had buying off round pearls. There are also many non-round pearl strand that may fit your individual taste and may be had for a lower price.