Black freshwater vs. akoya pearls

[Angela]

Yes please! I've been searching everywhere for a list of vendors and I couldn't find one in the forums. I couldn't remember if American Pearl was in the forum... everyone has "pearl" in their company name and I get confused.

I was already thinking about going with The Pearl Outlet but now I'm convinced. This forum is so helpful - I don't know how I managed to accmulate pearls without it before!

[Caitlin]

Hi Pattye
Jeremy made a list, but I forget where it is.

Hi Angela
I know you've only made 6 posts, but it always helps for a newbie to research the site.

I think the CFWP from AP are a better choice that any akoya. The price is not high for the size, but please notice, they are off-round enough to actually call them 9x10mm, which is the reason for the price. Personally, I like off-round.

The Pearl Outlet would be a fine choice.

[salem]

Hi Angela,

I noticed you are located in Osaka, so thought I would chime in. I ordered a strand of dyed black CFWP from Pearl Paradise and am thrilled with them. The reason I am writing in about Customs. Make sure you keep your email reciept from whomever you buy. Jewelry items get opened at customs a lot here, and they compare the customs declaration on the outside of the box with the papers inside. When they saw the appraisal value was triple the declared value, they called me for an explanation. They had an English speaking representative call(actually FedEX called) and had me send in the receipt from email to prove the declared value. It went very smoothly and the woman was very polite and helpful. But if I hadn't sent the email in while I was on the phone with her, it could have been long delay/hassle.

Customs fee is only about ¥500 or 2% (whichever is higher)so it isn't bad at all. I look forward to hearing about your experience.

Jen

[jerin]

[QUOTE=Angela]Yes please! I've been searching everywhere for a list of vendors and I couldn't find one in the forums.

Hi All!

here some of the vendors I remember right now:

Pearl Paradise.com
Pure Pearls.com
The Pearl Outlet.com
Pearls of Joy.com
Pearls by Angela Caroll.com
Pearls and Jade.com
Selectraders.uk (there are Selectraders in different countries as well)
National Pearl.com

Integrity Pearls.com (if You want to do your own pearl jewellery).

All of above companies are either sellers or members of this site.'


Good luck!

[Angela]

Ugh! Japanese customs - those guys are SERIOUS. I've had problems getting jewelry past them before but I didn't know about the issues with payment/appraisal discrepancy, so thanks for the heads up! I'll be going home for a visit in a few weeks so I thought I'd just have them shipped there, but arigatou nonetheless! I'll let you know how it goes... when I finally make my mind up.