What to buy.....

[green perls]

I'd really like to get some tahitians, but don't have alot to spend-what would you all recommend as the best route? I'd love to have a strand-does anyone have any firsthand info on how the less expensive baroques are at the Pearl Outlet? Thanks!

[dkan 168]

You should be able to get a strand of baroque Tahitians for under 500 USD.

Apart from TPO, also check Pearl Paradise for their listings. Jeremy has some good looking baroques at the mo :)

What to go for depending on your taste and budget.

Personally I am not keen on drop-shaped pearls in a strand, or anything too heavily ringed.

However, ringed drop-shaped pearls are probably the best entry level for Tahitians in terms of good value for money. They are still Tahitians :)

One can always upgrade later and get a better strand :)

DK :)

[Pearl Dreams]

There is another alternative if you like the look of Tahitians but not the price-- dyed cultured freshwater pearls. They don't look EXACTLY like Tahitians-- but if you get a good strand, they can be a remarkably good substitute. (I have a strand in my albums if you wish to look.)

[pattye]

Yes, as DK says, there are very nice strands at reasonable cost. Do you have an idea of color and shape? Take a look at some of the other sites also that sell, a number of trustworthy sellers post here---Pure Pearls, Pearl Distributors, Pearls of Joy and of course The Pearl Outlet and Pearl Paradise, sorry if I have missed others, have not had my coffee yet------please add. Often there is stock not listed on the site. Always a good idea to phone the company when you know pretty much what you want.

I personally like the drop shape pearls, and the ringed pearls often have wonderful colors and overtones------so much of that is personal preference. And they look real!! Also lovely "tin cup" style to consider, could probably afford earrings to match-----------let us know what you decide, and of course, we love photos!

[Heidi]

I second what Pattye writes and add that a bigger pendant can have quite the impact, too. Whichever route you take, talk to the vendor directly and ask lots of questions - all of them have clear and good return policies so you should be in good shape.

[The Pearl Outlet]

does anyone have any firsthand info on how the less expensive baroques are at the Pearl Outlet?

We currently have 8 left in stock, but only 2 on the site right now. Prices start at $350 and they are going quickly. We had 20 on Thursday. We just can't get them photographed quickly enough. Here's an example of one:

http://www.thepearloutlet.com/manuByID/490/images/tahb012_lg.jpg