[Howard]

My girlfriend has her 50th birthday soon and she's requested a nice pearl bracelet. I've been trying to educate myself in search of a "good deal". For example, I've been looking at Akoya bracelets AAA in quality, and 7.5mm to 8mm in size. I've seen prices ranging from 300-1000 bucks. Of course, once ordered and received, I probably wouldn't have a clue to whether it was AAA or AA. Yes I've seen pics on the web etc, but not sure how accurate that might be. I've thought about going to a retailer to educate myself on the qualities so I'll have some clue of what I'm looking at etc. I also wouldn't have a clue on reputable online dealers as well. Anyway, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!!!

[Howard]

by the way, I'm also open to other suggestions in regard to various types of pearls. I'm like to keep my purchase around 500.00 dollars if possible. I guess I just need to feel comfortable that I'm getting what I pay for.

[jshepherd]

First of all, I would say ignore the A-AAA ratings. You should based your purchase decision on the luster, color, and cleanliness of the piece. The A-AAA system is not universal (unfortunately), and without any guidelines AAA is used by many sellers to describe every piece they carry (i.e. nearly all sellers on eBay).
Within the $500 range you should be able to get a very nice Akoya bracelet, or 5-10 very nice freshwater pearl bracelets.

[Howard]

First of all, thanks for the response. However if I decided to buy online how can you really tell the luster and color by online photos?

[jshepherd]

That is very difficult to do. I would suggest purchasing from an online company with a good return policy so if the piece is not what you expect you may return it. There are a lot of good, reputable online dealers, and you will save a tremendous amount over retail. Examine the Sites, read the information available about the pearls, and go with the one you feel most comfortable with (granted they have a generous return policy).

[jerin]

Hi, Howard

as Jeremy Shepherd cannot really advertise for his company I will do it for him. I am a customer of Pearl Paradise and have ordered several pieces from them. I asked myself the same questions about quality and reliability when ordering via Online.


Anyhow - You can´t go wrong if You order from Pearl Paradise! Fine quality, low prices and brilliant service. Appraisals included of course and for this kind of money You should be able to get a fine Akoya bracelet.

Personally I recommend You to give freshwaterpearls a second thought. Solid nacre for much lower price, You could buy a necklace and bracelet plus earrings in top quality for the same price.

Let us know what Your girlfriend thought about the pearls.


Inge Jernberg

[Howard]

Hey Inge,

Thanks for the response, and I'm sure Jermey thanks you too!!... Anyway I did buy from Pearl Paradise, and I bought her the necklace, bracelet and earrings. She's worth the extra money, she puts up with alot..