Why
should I buy my cultured pearls at ARK Jewelers?
Because cultured pearls of high quality are increasingly rare today, it is
important that you work with a jeweler you trust. In a ARK Jewelers cultured
pearl, the color and luster appear to emanate from deep within the cultured
pearl. In a ARK Jewelers. necklace, each cultured pearl is chosen cultured
pearl by cultured pearl. Individual cultured pearls are rejected because they
cannot be perfectly matched or they have obvious flaws.
Is
there a grading system?
Unlike diamonds, cultured pearls are not evaluated by an industry-wide grading
system. However, some merchants have developed their own grading scales for
comparative purposes. Because we believe quality is so crucial in cultured
pearls, ARK Jewelers offers only those cultured pearls that would be considered
the highest grades at other stores.
Why
are two different strands of the same length priced differently?
There are many criteria applied to judging cultured pearl quality. All of them
can affect price. All other factors being equal, however, it is the size of
the cultured pearls that determines the price of a strand. Larger cultured
pearls are rarer and far more difficult to match than smaller ones.
How
do I care for my cultured pearls?
Fine cultured pearls with thick nacre layers will last for generations if cared
for properly. Cultured pearls should be kept free of perfumes, cosmetics, perspiration
and dirt. You may gently wipe cultured pearls with a slightly damp cloth. ARK
Jewelers cultured pearls are strung on pure silk with knots between each cultured
pearl. Over time, the silk will stretch, weaken and become soiled. If you wear
your cultured pearls regularly, we encourage you to have your cultured pearls
cleaned and restrung annually.
How
much should I expect to spend?
Considering how often cultured pearls can be worn, we believe you should not
compromise on quality. We urge you to purchase the best cultured pearls you
can afford within your budget. Good quality strands need not cost a fortune. |
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