Before purchasing pearls, you might want to know how much does a pearl necklace cost.
A pearl necklace’s price will vary depending on the type of pearl, the designer, and the jewelry store.
In general, though, expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $10,000 or more for a quality piece.
Continue reading and find out more about pearl necklace cost.
How Much Does a Pearl Necklace Cost?
Unless otherwise stated as natural pearls, all pearls you find at a neighborhood jeweler are considered cultured pearls, and these cultured pearls can include the Akoya, Freshwater, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls.
Depending on the exact type of pearl and its size and quality, the cost of a pearl necklace can range from $100 to $10,000.
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Factors Affecting Pearl Necklace Price
Here are some main factors that affect pearl necklace price.
Color
Although cream, pink, silver, yellow, and black are also common colors found on the market, white or off-white should be the color that comes to mind when thinking of a pearl.
When the light reflects off of a pearl, it can also have a variety of colors, which are frequently visible. The most sought-after pearls will typically have a clear and distinct overtone.
Also Read: Are Pearl Necklaces in Style?
Size
Pricing depends on size, which is likely the most important factor. Like other jewelry items, the bigger the pearl, similar to a diamond on a wedding ring, the more expensive it may be.
In contrast to South Sea pearls, which can grow as large as 20 mm, freshwater pearls can be any size between 2.0 and 12.0 mm.
Luster
The pearl’s quality and price will suffer if the luster, which is somewhat related to the surface, is poor.
A high-quality luster should be similar to a mirror in appearance, almost shining and “popping” out when worn.
Shape
The shape can affect the pearl’s overall value when dealing with cultured pearls purchased online or from a local jeweler.
When compared to an off-round or baroque pearl shape, round pearls will always be more expensive.
Surface
Another aspect of pearl pricing to pay close attention to is its surface. The pearl can be of higher quality if its surface is clean.
There will almost certainly be some flaws, but as long as they are undetectable while being worn, the price won’t change.
Type
The four major types can have a significant impact on the price, as shown in the table. An Akoya pearl can cost significantly more than a freshwater pearl of the same size and shape.
According to eBay, an oyster in the sea only produces one to two pearls at a time, whereas one mussel in a lake can produce up to 40 freshwater pearls in a single season.
Read More: Types of Necklace Chains
How Can I Tell If My Pearl Necklace is Real?
When it comes to pearls, there are three main types: natural, cultured, and imitation. Despite the fact that all three types can have a very similar appearance, there are some distinctive characteristics that set them apart.
Here are a few tips on how to tell if your pearl necklace is real:
- Check the surface of the pearls: Real pearls will have a flawless, even surface devoid of flaws or imperfections. Small flaws on the surface of cultured and imitation pearls are possible.
- Look at the luster of the pearls: Genuine pearls will have a lustrous sheen that is bright and evenly reflective of light. It’s possible that cultured and imitation pearls won’t shine as brightly and will look duller.
- Feel the weight of the Pearls in your hand: Due to their higher density, real pearls are typically heavier than cultured or imitation pearls.
- Inspect the stringing of the necklace: A pearl necklace that is well-made will have knots between each pearl to keep them in place and prevent surface damage from rubbing against each other.
Where to Buy a Real Pearl Necklace?
A real pearl necklace is a classic piece of jewelry that can be worn for any occasion. Where should you go to purchase one, though?
There are numerous choices, and each has benefits and drawbacks of its own.
- The first option is a specialty jewelry store: These shops usually offer a wide variety of pearl necklaces, and the staff is frequently very knowledgeable about pearls. Specialty shops may, however, cost more than other options.
- The second option is an online retailer: Real pearl necklaces can be purchased from a variety of trustworthy online vendors, and pearl prices are frequently competitive. When you can’t see a pearl in person, it can be challenging to judge its quality. Additionally, it’s critical to check the seller’s reputation before making a purchase because you risk receiving a fake pearl necklace if you don’t.
- The third option is a department store: If you’re looking for a less expensive necklace, department stores are a good option despite having a limited selection of pearl necklaces. The pearls’ quality, though, might not be as good as what you’d find in a specialty shop or online retailer.
When choosing where to buy your real pearl necklace, it’s important to consider your budget and what type of customer service you’re looking for.
You should be able to locate the ideal store to purchase your next Pearl necklace with a little bit of searching!
Related Reading: How to Wear Pearl Necklace?
Takeaway: How Much Does a Pearl Necklace Cost
Real pearls and pearl necklaces are quite expensive and valuable. You would have to settle for less expensive freshwater cultured pearls if you were looking for pearls.
Generally, the South Sea, Tahitian, and Japanese Akoya are the most expensive types of pearls.
FAQs
How Much is a Real Pearl Worth?
Depending on the type, size, quality, luster, color, and shape of the pearl, prices can vary from less than $1 to more than $100,000.
How Much is a Black Pearl Worth?
Up to $200.
Are Real Pearls Worth Money?
They were valued higher than gold because of their scarcity and the difficulty in collecting them.