18k White Gold Plated Swarovski Crystal Brooch

(What is pearl?)

  Pearl is probably the only gemstone that is used in jewelry as it is, without cutting. Pearl is a gem and in the same time - a biologically created substance, produced by a mussel. These mussels are of different types, both freshwater and saltwater. Freshwater species live in the zones with mild climate, populating fresh (and clean!) springs, rivers and lakes of North America, East Asia and Far East. Due to the pollution, their number have dropped dramatically, so at the moment five of these species are protected by law.

(How to do price estimate?)

  The most popular system, using sorts from AAA to A, where AAA is the highest sort. It is usually used to do an estimation of the freshwater pearl, but is also used by some companies producing Tahitian and South Sea pearl.

GRADE            LUSTER               BLEMISHES                   SHAPE                    MATCHING            NACRE

  B to                 Fair                 Heavy to Med              Off Round                       Fair                   Thin
  B+               (dull,hazy)            (noticeable)             (oblong,flat)             (few uniform)

  A to                Good                      Light                      Near-Round                    Good               Medium
  A+          (bright,no glow)         (minor)            (slightly elongated)    (must uniform)     to Thick
 
 AA to          Excellent                Clean                        Round                        Excellent            Very
  AA+           (bright,glow)        (hard to see)          (round to eye)              (all uniform)         Thick

(How to take care?)

Unlike diamonds, pearl is not forever. The freshwater pearl will live about 70 years. Here's a note to the owner. Your pearl will live long and keep its shining beauty for you, if you follow these simple rules

1. Pearls and jewelry containing pearls should be stored separately from the other jewelry, to save it from scratches.
2. Pearl should not be exposed for extended periods of time to a direct sunlit of (especially)heat. Otherwise, its surface may dry, change color or loose the luster.
3. Do not take shower, do not swim in pool or in some other places wearing pearl.
4. Put on the pearl AFTER you are done with using cosmetics.
5. There is no reason to wear pearl jewelry while doing home activities, like washing dishes or doing laundry.
6. After you take the jewelry off, wipe it with the soft tissue. The easiest way to take care of the pearl is to wash it in warm water 3-4 times a year.
7. To keep your treasure shining, every 2-3 years wipe it with the soft tissue with some olive oil.