| TheresaL:
Now that you have seen really great gem quality pearls next to Hanadame Akoya you can choose better between the two. You may still want akoya. They are quite beautiful. Question:
Does your mother have other pearls? Reason: Mikimotos are so expensive for what you get. If you are interested in getting higher quality for less money, reliably, you might try Pearl Paradise or The Pearl Outlet. The Vietnamese Akoya Caitlin was talking about are stunning. If you think your mother would prefer white check out Pearl Paradise. Here's the rundown and a cost comparison. Also, at Pearl Paradise you could consider a foray into a luxury size pearl for your Mom, without getting too big. Say a nice 8mm to 9mm.
AKOYA 18" $1380.00 AA/ $1995.00 AAA
AKOYA 36" $3990.00 AAA
Freshadama 18" $860.00 Gem quality with Orient
Freshadama 36 " $1720.00
A lot of people here on the Guide love the Freshadama because the are so incredibly beautiful, with luster, orient, and everything that a pearl should be. Plus they are 100% pearl. Akoya have an implanted nucleus which implies that they may not hold up for a lifetime or be able to be passed down through the family.
It is of course not my intention to push you in any particular direction. I'm just making suggestions that can help you with your research.
You must be a wonderful daughter to give such a nice gift to your Mom.
Good hunting,
barbie
Last edited by barbie biggs; 06-29-2008 at 07:49 PM.
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