Beginner's Guide to Building Your Pearl Collection From Budget to Luxury

Love pearls but think they're out of reach? You are not alone. It would appear that most people believe pearls are for the privileged few. What if building your dream collection doesn't break the bank?

Are you looking for the more affordable freshwater pearls or the opulence of rare South Sea varieties? Building a collection of pearls doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Start with small, simple strands and studs, and then add statement pieces when the budget allows. If you do it right, you will have a versatile collection to suit any occasion, reflecting your unique style.

Ready to explore pearls that fit any budget? Maybe you're picking up a steal or making the investment in true luxury. We'll walk you through every step of the way to build your perfect collection. Continue reading!

Types of Pearls You Should Know

Are you interested in pearls? They're more than just shiny beads – each has its own character! From cheap freshwater ones to expensive South Sea types, there's a style to suit every taste. 

So let’s take a closer look at what’s available and find the ideal pearl for you:

Freshwater Pearls

Freshwater pearls are both affordable and versatile. You could opt for a fine chain of them to wear with jeans one day or choose some that match an evening gown the next.

Because freshwater pearls are grown in mussels living in rivers or lakes (as opposed to oysters in oceans), they tend to cost less per bead. But this doesn’t mean they lack variety. Indeed, freshwater pearls come in all sorts of shapes and colors. 

Akoya Pearls

If you want jewelry that suggests timeless beauty, reach for Akoya pearls. These lustrous little gems are seen as classic for a good reason. And they’re often the choice for elegant settings. Who wouldn’t feel a bit like Audrey Hepburn in simple pearl drop earrings or a necklace?

South Sea Pearls

Bigger and with a satin-like luster, South Sea pearls appeal to anyone who adores luxury. It’s hard to beat these large white or golden jewels if you want an eye-catching ring or pendant. Perhaps even both. Save them for a swish soirée or black-tie bash.

Tahitian Pearls

If you love standing out (and adore dark colors with iridescent tints), Tahitian pearls are made for you. Picture a string of round black ones flashing peacock green and purple—as unique as a fingerprint but bolder. Which one would suit your style?

Starting Your Collection with Budget Pearls

You don't have to spend a lot to begin collecting pearls! Freshwater pearls are both beautiful and affordable. They're ideal if you're new to buying this type of jewelry and don't want anything too stressful.

Why not treat yourself today? Take the plunge – without blowing your budget. If you're just dipping your toe into the world of pearl collecting, start with freshwater pearls. Because they grow in mussels living in rivers or lakes, there are more of them – which makes them cheaper!

How about a thin bracelet with tiny pink pearls or some small white ones for your ears? These gems also come in odd shapes (perfect for an artsy match to that funky outfit) and various natural colors.

Baroque pearls are a cost-effective alternative worth considering. These uniquely shaped pearls possess an offbeat beauty all their own. Just imagine wearing a chunky necklace made from them. The look is confident, fashionable – and completely individual.

Best of all, because they do not have a regular shape, baroque pearls often cost less than round ones. So you get more for your money if you choose them to create playful or unusual designs.

If you want bargains, why not head to your nearest vintage store or check out online marketplaces? You’ll be amazed at what turns up.

Expanding Your Collection with Mid-Range Pearls

Are you looking to take your pearl collection to the next level? Consider mid-range options – they’re not too expensive, but they definitely look high-end. Jewellery made from these pearls can make any outfit seem more fashionable and refined. And who doesn’t want that?

If you feel like treating yourself, Akoya pearls are a great choice. These gems have such deep luster and are so perfectly round in shape. Jewelers love working with them because they know their creations will always look extraordinary.

Consider a classic string of pearls or some simple drop earrings. When set with Akoyas, pieces like these become must-haves rather than nice-to-haves.

Buy Tahitian pearls for their one-of-a-kind appeal. These pearls come in a range of dark colors, such as green, purple, and black. A stark contrast to classic white pearls.

If you like jewelry that gets noticed, imagine owning a big pendant or a pair of studs with some attitude. These could be the perfect addition to your collection!

And don’t forget about Keshi pearls. Although they grow in mollusks that produce other pearls, these gems shouldn’t be dismissed. They’re known for their intense shine and cool shapes (which are irregular). 

One idea? A bracelet made from small Keshis — each one glows like there’s a tiny light inside.

Luxury Pearls for Your Ultimate Collection

Do you want to experience real luxury? High-end pearls are the gems of any collection. They’re sophisticated, unique, and beautiful at all times. Wear them when things have to be perfect or when you feel like wearing something valuable.

South Sea Pearls are elegant above everything else. They are large and very special because they aren’t "just" white. They have a golden or silvery shine that makes them stand out from other pearls – all of which are fabulous, too!

Who wouldn't gasp at the sight of a golden South Sea pearl as it hangs around your neck on a pendant? Or maybe a white south sea pearl necklace?

For something equally unique, consider Baroque luxury pearls. No two of these high-value irregular gems are alike – each is as individual as a fingerprint. A necklace containing large Baroque pearls mixes creativity with luxury. It's very irregularity makes such a piece a talking point of excellence!

Caring for Your Pearls to Preserve Their Beauty

Pearls are timeless treasures, but they do require some care to keep them looking great! Unlike most other gemstones, which tend to be quite hardy — pearls (because they’re organic) need special handling.

Not to fret. With just a little attention, your beloved baubles can stay in top condition for years on end. Ready to learn the ins and outs of pearl maintenance? Let’s get started!

●  Put them on last when you’re getting ready: Why? The surface of these organic gems can easily be damaged by things like makeup, hairspray, and perfume. So, if possible, make sure all cosmetics are applied and dry before wearing them.

●  Be gentle when cleaning your pearls post-use: Employ a moist, soft cloth to remove oils and dirt. Don’t reach for harsh chemicals or rough cleansers, as they’ll damage the surface. Instead, consider this: after each outing, give your pearls a mini-spa treatment.

●  Store pearls away from other pieces of jewelry: To prevent scratching, always keep them in a soft pouch or a box with a fabric lining. Don’t just chuck them into a drawer where they could come into contact with metal chains or rings.

Essential Tips for Purchasing Pearls

Purchasing pearls may seem daunting, given the array of options available. How can you be sure to pick the perfect ones? Whether you are starting a collection or adding to an existing haul, these top tips will help you buy wisely:

1. Buy from Reputable Sources

The reputation of whoever you are buying from is key when picking pearls. Stick to well-known jewelers or sellers that come with certification.

A good jeweler should be able to tell you not only about where and how the pearls were sourced but also a bit more about their quality levels.

If you are shopping online, look for sites that have customer reviews and special certifications. These will give clues as to whether what's being sold actually lives up to its description.

2. Consider the Grade

Pearls undergo grading based on size, shape, surface, and luster. Higher grades correspond to higher quality—though each pearl possesses its own unique balance of these traits.

Seeking a traditional look? Choose Akoya pearls for their high luster. If your budget is smaller, don’t despair. Freshwater pearls are affordable and come in many beautiful varieties.

3. Choose Classic Designs

There’s a reason classic pieces like pearl stand necklaces and studs earrings remain popular year after year—they look good with everything! Wearing these, you’ll always be “in fashion,” whether at work or a wedding.

Plus, since they never go out of style, buying one now is considered investment buying. Their cost-per-wear will be pennies by the time your granddaughter graduates high school.

4. Keep an Eye on Trends

In addition to traditional designs, consider something fun and fashionable. Maybe a pendant featuring a black pearl surrounded by diamonds hanging from a gold chain.

The market has seen an influx of innovative pearl jewelry. These include multi-colored strands or those showcasing irregularly shaped specimens. Any piece that helps bring out your personality is always chic. No matter if it becomes classified as “dated” down the road!

Conclusion

Pearls aren't only jewelry. They're eternal items that communicate your story. No matter whether you are beginning with budget-friendly picks or splashing out on lavish items. Each pearl possesses charm and class.

With careful selection and maintenance, your selection can remain beautiful for decades. Because they mirror your individuality, feel free to combine timeless and contemporary styles.

As you mature, allow both your collection and its wearables to expand. Each new addition will mark an occasion or rite of passage. If this sounds good to you, begin envisaging a pearl wardrobe that glistens with personality now!