D
Dawn
Guest
Hi,
I am *very* new to the pearl market and happened across this forum while researching pearls on the web. Please excuse any of the "dumb questions" I am about to ask.
I have been looking at all types of pearls for the past 6 weeks. While I love FW, I have decided to purchase a strand of 8.5mm (minimum) Akoyas and a strand of 'natural' multi color FW pearls (preferably 9mm minimum). Rather than pay an incredible mark up at boutiques (I live in San Franciso Bay Area), I am looking for a reputable online retailer.
1. Can someone recommend a reputable retailer? I do not purchase nor am I interested in eBay-hocked merchandise.
2. Can someone explain what it means by 'overtone'? I have noticed that some e-tailiers ask which overtone you prefer when preparing to purchase. When looking at strands in the boutiques, the staff didn't appear very knowledgable and certainly diddn't ask which 'overtone' I prefer. I didn't realize I had an option!
3. Can someone recommend a reasonable price for a strand of 8.5mm Akoyas? I saw a 7.5mm strand over the weekend that retailed for $5000+! They were Mikimoto but I refuse to pay this amount of money given I am paying for a "name". There must be pearls on the market that will rival the Mikimoto brand.
Thanks for your input and sorry for the long winded message.
Dawn
I am *very* new to the pearl market and happened across this forum while researching pearls on the web. Please excuse any of the "dumb questions" I am about to ask.
I have been looking at all types of pearls for the past 6 weeks. While I love FW, I have decided to purchase a strand of 8.5mm (minimum) Akoyas and a strand of 'natural' multi color FW pearls (preferably 9mm minimum). Rather than pay an incredible mark up at boutiques (I live in San Franciso Bay Area), I am looking for a reputable online retailer.
1. Can someone recommend a reputable retailer? I do not purchase nor am I interested in eBay-hocked merchandise.
2. Can someone explain what it means by 'overtone'? I have noticed that some e-tailiers ask which overtone you prefer when preparing to purchase. When looking at strands in the boutiques, the staff didn't appear very knowledgable and certainly diddn't ask which 'overtone' I prefer. I didn't realize I had an option!
3. Can someone recommend a reasonable price for a strand of 8.5mm Akoyas? I saw a 7.5mm strand over the weekend that retailed for $5000+! They were Mikimoto but I refuse to pay this amount of money given I am paying for a "name". There must be pearls on the market that will rival the Mikimoto brand.
Thanks for your input and sorry for the long winded message.
Dawn