Pearls of Wisdom

What Are Chinese Freshwater Pearls?

Chinese freshwater pearls are a more affordable, long-lasting pearl that comes in a wider variety of colors than its more widely known cousin: the saltwater pearl. They have a very thick “nacre” layer, which gives them an unparalleled luster and shine. Bourdage Pearls is proud to carry only Chinese freshwater pearls in a wide variety of colors.

How to Tell If a Pearl is Real

The best part about testing pearls is that you’ve got pearls in your hands! Now first, rub them together. If there is friction the pearls are real. It means there is calcium, a key ingredient in pearls. If they just slip off each other, sorry, they are fake.

Another way to test if a pearl is real is by rubbing a pearl against your tooth. If there is a gritty feeling, then the pearl is real. The grit you feel is, of course, the calcium.

If you find that you’ve got yourself an authentic strand of pearls, then you probably already have the pearl’s best accessory: a smile. Just add your favorite outfit and you’re good to go!

How to Care For Pearls

Once you buy a strand of pearls, they become part of a woman’s bare essentials. In fact, in the March issue of Vogue author Mrs. E says, “Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but pearls become the woman.” We couldn’t have said it better.

• To protect the surface of your pearls, put them on after your beauty routine. It is important to avoid contact with hairspray and perfume.
  
• To maintain luster, occasionally wipe with a soft, damp cloth.
  
• To avoid scratches, store separately in a soft cloth.
  
• To keep them from drying out, wear them often. Pearls love the oils from your skin.

How to Choose a Necklace Style

A pearl necklace is a great way to show off freshwater pearls. But the type of necklace you wear is just as important as the kind of pearls you choose. Try on a whole bunch of necklaces (because they feel so nice), and consider a variety of options.

• The collar is 12-13 inches long and 3 or more strands. This style looks great with a V-neck or a scooped neckline and can add an elegant look to a special occasion dress.
• The choker is 14-16 inches in length and should nestle around the base of the neck in single or multiple strands. The single strand version is a classic that can be worn with just about anything. We love The Classic choker and can’t imagine why any woman would want to live without it!
• The princess is 17-19 inches in length and is halfway between a choker and matinee in length. If you want to show off one of the new high neckline styles, we recommend one of our favorites: Breakfast at Tiffanys.
• The matinee is 20-24 inches in length and should fall to the top of the cleavage. These versatile pearls can be worn during the day and in the evening.
• The opera is 28-34 inches in length and should reach to the bottom of your breastbone. It can be worn as a single strand or doubled with a clip and worn as a choker.
• The rope is any pearl necklace longer than opera length, although it is usually 45 inches or longer. Ropes often come with multiple clasps so that the necklace can be shortened or worn as a bracelet. Our Princess Pearls offer a great way to dress up your wardrobe by draping yourself in a world of pearls!

Where Are Pearls Appropriate?

You can wear pearls anywhere! Dress up a pair of jeans, create a demure look for work or glam it up on the town. Of course, they are always the right choice for a formal event: weddings, banquets, or the opera. You can never make a fashion mistake with pearls.