LOVE pearls. Own dozens of them in all sizes, colors and shapes! I use a pair of 12mm freshwater earrings that are irregular shaped (with a fish hook post) as an enhancer for several other semi-precious bead necklaces I have. I especially like to use the earrings (one at a time) as an enhancer on my 15mm tigers-eye choker and also my 15mm black lava rock necklace too. I get LOTS of compliments every time I wear them together that way!!
Loved this video, your information is priceless! I love the traditional look, but after watching your video, I will be searching out funky, unusual and fun pearls. I love the thrill of the hunt, thanks so much for sharing your love for pearls! 😊❤
Mabe pearls are what I’ve collected of late. Fastened in earrings they’re stunning! I bought a silver set with necklace and earrings with peacock colorations for an amazingly reasonable price. Baroque are also stunning made into necklace.
Very informative. Thank you 😊. Bedsides pretty, getting a good stringing and knotting enhanced the pearl as well. I love my and wore my ugly (baroque) pearls the most. Each pearl has its own characteristics and personality which made it more interesting.
Thank you...really informative, much appreciated. I have always loved pearls but its taken until nearly my 5th decade to really embrace wearing pearls more and in different styles and varieties. Loving that pearls are now in fashion more and worn by all ages.
Very helpful video - finally concise information that answers some questions about pearls! One thing you didn't mention about freshwater pearls is about the different colors that are available, I assume because they are dyed (what about "black" freshwater pearls, are they dyed?). The dying doesn't seem to affect the "tooth test", so wondering why that would be? Also, what is a Majorica pearl? I recently purchased some freshwater pearls that are really shiny and the seller said they had a coating on them. They still pass the tooth test. And, one of my jewelry suppliers, Rio Grande findings, sells a type of coating for pearls, which is super expensive and toxic, but maybe some jewelry makers use it to make blemished pearls look more perfect?
I agree with your statement about funky and slightly different pearls. In some cases you get more use out of them than the standard strand of round pearls. The round ones tend to be very formal and people don't necessarily where is much formal clothing these days an oblong Pearl or a different shape or something a little more interesting is more likely be worn with jeans and a cotton shirt. I love the flat coin pearls they have like different little divots and shapes in them and they're so interesting and beautiful and they just shine and go with everything
Thank you for a great, informative video. I’m currently thinking of buying some beautiful Edison pearls and I would LOVE to see a video from you about them 🙏🏼✨
Such good information for beginning a search. For me, using only an experienced GIA jeweler provides a little extra confidence. Thanks for this video; I’m looking forward to more.
I want to thank you for your information as a reseller. I always try to make sure that I know the items that I'm selling and make sure they're verified and pearls are some of the hardest ones. To verify and I have learned so much from you. Thank you and have a blessed day can't wait for your next video
@Matt Harris I found 2 sets of pearls in my collection and I did find what I think is a tear drop looking with a brown opalescent color..I was thinking about the one you had on your neck and it looks like it hung on 925 and opalite..Now I really need another video..LOL
@@365VintageHunter If you send me a photo maybe I can help you figure out what it is! The one on my neck is 1 16.6mm Tahitian set in 18k white gold with some small diamonds.
new subscriber. Would you please give advice on whom to trust to restring pearls? I adore pearls and have several strands that need to be restrung. Thank you for any advice or help. Cheers!
@@mattharrispearls hi! No, I mean pearls manufactured from ground up nacre and mother of pearl. I received a beautiful strand of large gray and white pearls and the paper said ‘shell pearls’ Apparently it’s a thing, but I couldn’t find enough information myself.
LOVE the bracelet, then necklace at around 5:17 Regarding clasps, most of the older ones in my family have had an oval filagree type clasp with a U-shaped connector piece. Think they are usually sterling?? It used to make me think that the pearls were "real", but a strand of my grandmother's that I've had for 50 years self destructed just sitting in the safe.They were sticky and peeling. I threw them away but clasp still looked good.
That clasp you are describing is the hands down "traditional pearl clasp" and it's used millions of times. I personally like clasps with more personality (that are also easier to put on!)
@@mattharrispearls Recently, I moved to Central High Desert Oregon which is ranch/rural. So not much now. When I lived in Dallas pre-Covid, I had season tickets to the Symphony and had an active social life and I wore them a lot.
My granny gave me her everyday choker before she passed away,and I was going to sell them for a nice chunk of change,until one day I wore them for fun,and I realized I couldn't.I would never be able to have ANYTHING that she wore again. So real (I'm sure they are) or fake...it doesn't matter...they belonged to Annie...and when I wear them...I can feel her.There is no money that can replace that
I adore pearls. My one friend's son who's very smart told me" if you look Pearl so much do you know what they are", to which I responded" oysters spit". He said"ok, as long as you know". I call them "affordable elegance", though they used to be insanely expensive before Pearl culturing.
Hello! Keshis are a by-product of the culturing process. They are found not in the gonad of the mollusk but in the little lips and folds. They happen by chance and have no nucleus.
Thanks for the great info! I have a question.....I inherited both my Grandmothers pearls, they both seem to have a yellowish tone which I don't remember seeing when they wore them. Is it true if you don't wear them they will turn yellow?
The yellowing is more likely from wearing them and exposing them to substances like lotions, perfume, hairspray or from cleaning them inproperly. They won't turn yellow by not wearing them.
Cheers, mate, may I take your precious time and ask you a question, please? Is it OK to wear a string of pearl along with a silver chain necklace or will the silver hurt and damage the pearls? Thanks so much in advance for your kind reply.
Great question! Pearls an get scratched. But, I'd say that unless your chain seems to feel scratchy or rough it is probably ok next to pearls. Can the chain scratch and dull the pearl over time? Yes. But I imagine it would take a long time. Also... If you are wearing a $50 strand of freshwater it would also be different than a $8000 stand of Akoya, which you might not want to introduce to rubbing against metal.
Thank you so much, I thought so, I have removed the chain, you have been most helpful, good luck to you and wish you all the best :) @@mattharrispearls
Great question! Unfortunately, there isn't way to bring back the whiteness. You can clean the pearls which may get rid of any dirt which in turn can make them look white, but pearls are porous, and they tend to suck in anything that gets on them. So, often its things like makeup, hairspray, lotions, etc that dull pearls or turn them more yellow. Or, if you clean them using cleaning solutions, that can hurt them too. Put them on last and take them off first and keep them away from any liquids, lotions, perfumes etc. Oh... and don't wear them in chlorinated pools.
How should pearls be stored, does it matter if they are more open to air or wrapped up tightly, or does it even matter ( especially in regards to discoloration)
Good question! I'll do a video about this in a few weeks. You want them NOT kept airtight or they may become brittle. Luckily we have a good amount of humidity here in Texas.
Great tips. I have always wanted a pearl necklace and a matching bracelet but as you mentioned I had no idea how to identify a real one from a fake one. One time in a local superstore a bought a couple of them for -end of school year gift for my children teacher. When they told me they were $29 each I guess I assumed they were not real, but yet they were pretty.Do you sell pearls, I mean do you have a jewelry store? I am not rich but would love to have a necklace and bracelet. Let me know with a message if you can. Thanks!
Thanks for taking the time to comment Isable! Actually, the #1 question people ask is how to tell if pearls are real or fake and if you click on my channel I have a video about that too! Yes, I run a jewelry store that sells all sort of things, but pearls are my passion.
Oh geez.... that's an 6 hour video on it's own! I just released an interesting video about Queen Elzabeth I'st pearl earrings in the Imperial Crown... check it out!
I purchased a silk bag of pearls many yrs ago. They seem of good quality. The question is they have some weight to them. Does this pertain to where the pearls came from or the quality of the pearls?
My mother gave me a strand of "cultured" pearls from muscles so they are greyish blue in colour. Very nice. What is the comparison between natural and cultured pearls, please? I've been told that natural pearls are hard to come by these days. Is that true please?
There is only one place now where it is legal to dive for natural pearls and that's in Bahrain. Pretty much all pearls now are cultured. So yes, natural pearls are rare (and expensive!)
I have an old strand of pearls that belonged to my Grandmother and need to get them restrung. Any advise on where to go, how much it might cost and any other tips?
Many stringers charge by the inch. Depending on the length and size you should be able to get it done for less than $100. Call around town and ask the jewelry stores. If you can't find anyone reach out to me and we can arrange for you to send them to my team to restring
Mr. Harris thank you for the info ...I got a pearl as white as milk...shaped like a clam and big as your palm... I put my pearl against the light of a candle and I can see the light thru it because my pearl is so smooth.... May I know if it is valuable? How can I sell it... Thanks for the help....
Hi Rosie. That sound interesting! It's super hard to evaluate and determine value without seeing pearls in person. From what you describe, this one for sure would need to be looked at in person. Do you know any pearl experts n your area that can help? Might be worth a Google search
Thanks for the reply Mr Harris...I don't try asking help here in our area with regards to my pearl because they say such pearls may fetch a lot of money and is claimed to be government property...size of my pearl is 3.5 x 4.5 x 7.5 inches. .I wish I could send a pic to you...the biggest pearl in the world is housed in the City Hall of Puerto Princesa City, PALAWAN, Phil..and is said to value 100M dollars....
Well, I'm a little upset at myself now...🙃 now I'm pretty sure that this garage sale I went to had some real pearls but because I didn't know much back then before cell phones I passed them up because they were gritty I was holding them for a little bit trying to sign if I wanted them I thought they were fake because you were heavy I thought they were fake because they were gritty. Well, live and learn🤷🏼♀️
Over the 42 years of marriage, my geologist husband has bought me many pieces of pearl jewelry. I've not really thought to inquire about it but I'm wondering now what my "baroque" 3-stranded pearl choker is, fresh water or salt sea. It was purchased at a reputable jewelry store but there was no information give, just "baroque". Can you add to this information?
My favorite pearls are what I thought were called "biwa pearls". I know it sounds silly but I think they look like adorable Rice Krispies. Now I realize they're "fresh water pearls" .... right? My strand passes the tooth test! Yay! 💕💗💕Thank you for your advice, Matt! 💕💗💕
here in the philippines,we have this place where muslim women sell their products- pearls..I enjoy window shopping & shopping pearls in this place..The pearls in the philippines are something we filipinos are proud of
I heard pearls peel off..I don't know when this happens, if it is normal, what can happen/ value loss and eventually how to prevent/avoid this.. Hope you Will reply to me sir! Thanks!!
I'd love to reply! I'm grateful for your question! The pearls that peel are the fake (some people like to say "faux") pearls so you don't have to worry too much about loss of value (unless they are maybe Chanel!). I've noticed with these "pearls" the peel often just comes with age. However, real pearls still need some TLC because they can dry up and crack, so make sure they are not in an air-tight environment and get some natural humidity.
@Matt Harris, I recently inherited a gorgeous pink pearl necklace. It passes the weight, tooth, and coolness....I'm terrified to attempt to sell them not knowing or knowing whom to trust?! Help
Thanks for the question. You are describing the difference between "natural" and "cultured" pearls. One is an accident in nature and the other is planned and aided by humans.
Have you ever noticed that pearls are always cold to the touch? I was told once that they always retain the temperature of the water they were grown in, (when in your jewelry box) and that's how you know they are real? Is that true?
I love the story, but I don't think a pearl retaining the temp of the water it was grown in is possible. Yes... they do feel cool to the tough! Well, except if you've been wearing a strand on your neck on a hot summer day here in Texas!
I'm speaking in general and I'm sure there are exceptions, but I feel that most department stores won't know too much about what they are selling. I was even in a pearl gallery in Hawaii and they didn't seem to have a great deal of product knowledge. I'm starting to train jewelry store staff about pearls... we just completed a training last week! It makes a huge difference. Maybe I can help train the department stores too!
I have loved pears since I was young. Bought a expensive strand at a jewelry shop 45 years ago. But now I would like to use them more, the color has chipped of and I wonder , I think thy where not sea water pearls. It was told to me it’s cultured pearls. But didn’t know what thy meant. So I see it’s white underneath. I assume it was a plastic that was put in a oyster and just a few layers was built on it. I am very disappointed. Then I got also Majorca pearls the same happened to them. A few years ago I bought another strand of pearls.... and so far it’s been fine. Earnings I am so fed up in fixing them, the pearls always come of the gold setting.... and it has happened hundred of times. I love pearl earrings, and have 2 sets, but thy just don’t last , the glue keeps coming of and I am lucky not to lose them. It’s when I take them off. .... how can one prevent them from scaling...... pearls and stones Re my favorite jewelry, as well as diamonds 💎...❤
Sounds like you were seeing the nucleus under the chipped nacre. As far as your earrings that are breaking, maybe take them to a jeweler that can make sure they are glued and put together in a way that lessens the chance of them coming apart again
Depends on the size of the pearl, but in general expect to pay about $100 for an 18" necklace strung on silk with French wire ends and knotted between every pearl.
I adore the Texture & "flaws" of fresh water I have both a "Mutant " Fresh water and tidy string of Black/ purple salt. I call my pearls The tears of my enemies 😎☕💋
I love my pearls. My grandmother gave me her strand for my wedding and it is stunning. Since then, I have acquired South Sea pearls, Tahitian pearls and my grandmother's are Akoya pearls.
@Matt Harris Pearls I think my worst day with my pearls was the day I was on my way to a conference for work and my seat belt pulled my pearls.and broke the string. Thank goodness they were knotted individually and I only dropped a couple pearls. It took me about 3 months to find a jeweler that could restoring them. It cost me almost $300.00 to have them restrung. Since then, I have purchased a kit and learned to string pearls myself. I have purchased Akoya pearls and made my own necklaces and bracelets. Sometimes a new skill is good.
i dont know why youtube recommended this to me but it was interesting..... and before anyone asks: no i did not search for or talk about pearls so no targeted ads cookie thing going on here... i didnt even search for anything related to jewelry....
Really appreciate the pearls of wisdom you've offered here.
ba dum tsss
I didn't know any of this about pearls. Such great tips Matt! Thank you so much for sharing your expertise!
Thanks for taking the time to compliment!
Thank you so very much for those wonderful info.
What fabulous information about pearls. Cheers to Matt
I love freshwater and irregular pearls too! They are so unique
So informative. I have learned a lot. Thank you.
Good to know! I never knew any of that before. thanks!
LOVE pearls. Own dozens of them in all sizes, colors and shapes! I use a pair of 12mm freshwater earrings that are irregular shaped (with a fish hook post) as an enhancer for several other semi-precious bead necklaces I have.
I especially like to use the earrings (one at a time) as an enhancer on my 15mm tigers-eye choker and also my 15mm black lava rock necklace too. I get LOTS of compliments every time I wear them together that way!!
I've made necklaces combing lava and pearls a few times and they look great!
Thanks for this video! You've been a big help
Loved this video, your information is priceless! I love the traditional look, but after watching your video, I will be searching out funky, unusual and fun pearls. I love the thrill of the hunt, thanks so much for sharing your love for pearls! 😊❤
Mabe pearls are what I’ve collected of late. Fastened in earrings they’re stunning! I bought a silver set with necklace and earrings with peacock colorations for an amazingly reasonable price. Baroque are also stunning made into necklace.
I just added several mabe earrings to my website this week if you'd like to check it out! mattharrisdesigns.com
I would love it if you devoted a video to baroque pearls, my favourite. I enjoy you concise, clear commentary.
OK! I'll put it on the calendar! I just made a list of topics this morning and I'll add barouques!
I am a Pearl lover ever since I was younger. In fact, until now , I consider myself an ultimate Pearl lover. I love it even more than my diamonds.
Me too! :)
This was great and I learned a lot. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Very informative. Thank you 😊. Bedsides pretty, getting a good stringing and knotting enhanced the pearl as well. I love my and wore my ugly (baroque) pearls the most. Each pearl has its own characteristics and personality which made it more interesting.
Love pearls! Thanks so much for the info! Had to subscribe!👏👏👍😊
Thank you. Very helpful.
You're welcome!
How lovely, thank you
Great advice, Matt. Thank you!
My pleasure!
Thank you...really informative, much appreciated. I have always loved pearls but its taken until nearly my 5th decade to really embrace wearing pearls more and in different styles and varieties. Loving that pearls are now in fashion more and worn by all ages.
And even men now too finally! Thanks for the compliments!
Great information Matt! I never knew all this about pearls and I love my Mom's pearls.
Glad it was helpful!. Many people got their pearls from their Mom!
How informative this was. Thank you.
You are so welcome!
Thank you!
Thank you so much. That was really informative
Glad it was helpful! :)
Thoroughly interesting and informative.. thank you. I’ll watch your other videos. love your black one.
Thanks for watching!!
'Love the comments about pearls with personality. Thanks for all your wisdom.
LOL... I say that all the time!
A strand of pearls can never be too much ❤
Thank you, very informative.
Thanks for the compliment Rick! Please subscribe as there will be more soon!
Very good explanation
Your love of pearls is infectious.
What a great comment to wake up to today.... thank you Robby!
Very helpful video - finally concise information that answers some questions about pearls! One thing you didn't mention about freshwater pearls is about the different colors that are available, I assume because they are dyed (what about "black" freshwater pearls, are they dyed?). The dying doesn't seem to affect the "tooth test", so wondering why that would be? Also, what is a Majorica pearl? I recently purchased some freshwater pearls that are really shiny and the seller said they had a coating on them. They still pass the tooth test. And, one of my jewelry suppliers, Rio Grande findings, sells a type of coating for pearls, which is super expensive and toxic, but maybe some jewelry makers use it to make blemished pearls look more perfect?
Brilliant information...thank you, Matt...and enjoyed your conversation with Jordan last night!!! 💗💗💗
That was great to see you on the live! Thanks for asking some great questions!
I love darker colored pearls and especially love YOUR necklace!
Thanks! I actually lost it for a week and just found it again yesterday.... whew!!
I agree with your statement about funky and slightly different pearls. In some cases you get more use out of them than the standard strand of round pearls. The round ones tend to be very formal and people don't necessarily where is much formal clothing these days an oblong Pearl or a different shape or something a little more interesting is more likely be worn with jeans and a cotton shirt. I love the flat coin pearls they have like different little divots and shapes in them and they're so interesting and beautiful and they just shine and go with everything
Well said.... exactly!
Thanks ❤
Wow, who knew? So much great information! Thinking of the one's my mom gave me. She said a lady always needs a good set of pearls :)
I would have liked your Mom! Good advice!
Great teacher!
Thank you!!
Thank you for a great, informative video. I’m currently thinking of buying some beautiful Edison pearls and I would LOVE to see a video from you about them 🙏🏼✨
Yes! I MUST do a video soon... everyone is wondering what they are. I'm a huge fan!
Such good information for beginning a search. For me, using only an experienced GIA jeweler provides a little extra confidence. Thanks for this video; I’m looking forward to more.
Somehow I missed this a few months ago... sorry! Yes, a GIA alumni can be a great help!
I want to thank you for your information as a reseller. I always try to make sure that I know the items that I'm selling and make sure they're verified and pearls are some of the hardest ones. To verify and I have learned so much from you. Thank you and have a blessed day can't wait for your next video
Love that! Part of the reason I'm doing this is because I know most stores and resellers aren't confident about pearls. I'll try to continue to help!
@Matt Harris I found 2 sets of pearls in my collection and I did find what I think is a tear drop looking with a brown opalescent color..I was thinking about the one you had on your neck and it looks like it hung on 925 and opalite..Now I really need another video..LOL
@@365VintageHunter If you send me a photo maybe I can help you figure out what it is! The one on my neck is 1 16.6mm Tahitian set in 18k white gold with some small diamonds.
thank you Matt
Boroque pearls are my favorite
They have so much personality!
new subscriber. Would you please give advice on whom to trust to restring pearls? I adore pearls and have several strands that need to be restrung. Thank you for any advice or help. Cheers!
great video, thanks!
Glad you liked it!
Great video! Thank you
Thank you very much
Great info! I’ve loved pearls since I realized they are not all small, white and round! Lol
Same here!
I have just ordered my very first tahitian pearl earrings and I'm very excited to wear them❤️☺️
Woooohoo! Aesome!
I would love to hear more about the Edison pearls!
I'll do a video soon for these... and I can't wait to show you guys a strand that I just acquired!
Great video,love from France 🇫🇷
I'll be in Paris next month! So excited!
Matt! This popped up in my feed today. Hello from Hoi An, Vietnam.
Hello David!
Thank you for giving us this information. If you see this note, could you talk about shell pearls? I would love to know more about them.
Hi Julia! Do you mean pearls that are non nacreous that come from things like clams?
@@mattharrispearls hi! No, I mean pearls manufactured from ground up nacre and mother of pearl. I received a beautiful strand of large gray and white pearls and the paper said ‘shell pearls’ Apparently it’s a thing, but I couldn’t find enough information myself.
Thanks
LOVE the bracelet, then necklace at around 5:17 Regarding clasps, most of the older ones in my family have had an oval filagree type clasp with a U-shaped connector piece. Think they are usually sterling?? It used to make me think that the pearls were "real", but a strand of my grandmother's that I've had for 50 years self destructed just sitting in the safe.They were sticky and peeling. I threw them away but clasp still looked good.
That clasp you are describing is the hands down "traditional pearl clasp" and it's used millions of times. I personally like clasps with more personality (that are also easier to put on!)
Great video!
Thank you so much Ina!
Great info! My favorites are baroques in exotic colors. Can you tell us more about Edison pearls?
I just wrote a calendar for new UA-cam videos because you guys have inspired me to keep going! So, Edison pearls are on the list in April!
@@mattharrispearls good!!
I have the ones from Japan/antique with an almost Angel skin Color and a choker of black Tahitian baroque pearls that are to die for😊
Wow... sounds beautiful! How often do you wear them?
@@mattharrispearls Recently, I moved to Central High Desert Oregon which is ranch/rural. So not much now. When I lived in Dallas pre-Covid, I had season tickets to the Symphony and had an active social life and I wore them a lot.
My granny gave me her everyday choker before she passed away,and I was going to sell them for a nice chunk of change,until one day I wore them for fun,and I realized I couldn't.I would never be able to have ANYTHING that she wore again.
So real (I'm sure they are) or fake...it doesn't matter...they belonged to Annie...and when I wear them...I can feel her.There is no money that can replace that
Thank you. The only think I knew about pearls before was not to cast them before swine.
I adore pearls. My one friend's son who's very smart told me" if you look Pearl so much do you know what they are", to which I responded" oysters spit".
He said"ok, as long as you know".
I call them "affordable elegance", though they used to be insanely expensive before Pearl culturing.
Thank you for such an informative video. I would like to know whether it is worth to purchase Mikimoto pearl if one happens to be in Japan?
You won't get better prices just because you are in Japan but it sure would be fun to buy one there!
@Matt Harris Hi Matt, thank you for getting back to me, really appreciate it. Cheers👍👍
Thank you - this was very interesting. How are keshi pearls produced please? ⚪
Hello! Keshis are a by-product of the culturing process. They are found not in the gonad of the mollusk but in the little lips and folds. They happen by chance and have no nucleus.
Thanks for the great info! I have a question.....I inherited both my Grandmothers pearls, they both seem to have a yellowish tone which I don't remember seeing when they wore them. Is it true if you don't wear them they will turn yellow?
The yellowing is more likely from wearing them and exposing them to substances like lotions, perfume, hairspray or from cleaning them inproperly. They won't turn yellow by not wearing them.
@@mattharrispearls thank you very much!
Cheers, mate, may I take your precious time and ask you a question, please? Is it OK to wear a string of pearl along with a silver chain necklace or will the silver hurt and damage the pearls? Thanks so much in advance for your kind reply.
Great question! Pearls an get scratched. But, I'd say that unless your chain seems to feel scratchy or rough it is probably ok next to pearls. Can the chain scratch and dull the pearl over time? Yes. But I imagine it would take a long time. Also... If you are wearing a $50 strand of freshwater it would also be different than a $8000 stand of Akoya, which you might not want to introduce to rubbing against metal.
Thank you so much, I thought so, I have removed the chain, you have been most helpful, good luck to you and wish you all the best :) @@mattharrispearls
Please talk about the difference between edison pearl and south sea pearl❤❤
I will soon! Thanks!
Is there a safe way to bring back the whiteness of a pearl that has yellowed with age? Also, is there a way to prevent that from happening?
Great question! Unfortunately, there isn't way to bring back the whiteness. You can clean the pearls which may get rid of any dirt which in turn can make them look white, but pearls are porous, and they tend to suck in anything that gets on them. So, often its things like makeup, hairspray, lotions, etc that dull pearls or turn them more yellow. Or, if you clean them using cleaning solutions, that can hurt them too. Put them on last and take them off first and keep them away from any liquids, lotions, perfumes etc. Oh... and don't wear them in chlorinated pools.
@@mattharrispearls Thanks so much!
How should pearls be stored, does it matter if they are more open to air or wrapped up tightly, or does it even matter ( especially in regards to discoloration)
Good question! I'll do a video about this in a few weeks. You want them NOT kept airtight or they may become brittle. Luckily we have a good amount of humidity here in Texas.
Great tips. I have always wanted a pearl necklace and a matching bracelet but as you mentioned I had no idea how to identify a real one from a fake one. One time in a local superstore a bought a couple of them for -end of school year gift for my children teacher. When they told me they were $29 each I guess I assumed they were not real, but yet they were pretty.Do you sell pearls, I mean do you have a jewelry store? I am not rich but would love to have a necklace and bracelet. Let me know with a message if you can. Thanks!
Thanks for taking the time to comment Isable! Actually, the #1 question people ask is how to tell if pearls are real or fake and if you click on my channel I have a video about that too! Yes, I run a jewelry store that sells all sort of things, but pearls are my passion.
Oh and my website is mattharrisdesigns.com where there are several inexpensive bracelets and necklaces... although I admit it needs updated!
Can you please describe Queen Elisabeth pearls necklaces. What lenght are they, and what size pearls are they also. Merci
Oh geez.... that's an 6 hour video on it's own! I just released an interesting video about Queen Elzabeth I'st pearl earrings in the Imperial Crown... check it out!
7:02 Could you say they were full of... pearlsonality? 😉
Great video! Easily the most informative video I've come across trying to learn about pearls.
Oh wow... thank you! Sorry it took a month for me to see your comment!
I buy Pearl earings , rings and pendant Pearl , and bracelet Pearl In Broome Western Australia the are good Pearl not fake
I purchased a silk bag of pearls many yrs ago. They seem of good quality. The question is they have some weight to them. Does this pertain to where the pearls came from or the quality of the pearls?
Not really... fake pearls made of glass will be heavy, so the weight alone isn't an indicator
My mother gave me a strand of "cultured" pearls from muscles so they are greyish blue in colour. Very nice. What is the comparison between natural and cultured pearls, please? I've been told that natural pearls are hard to come by these days. Is that true please?
There is only one place now where it is legal to dive for natural pearls and that's in Bahrain. Pretty much all pearls now are cultured. So yes, natural pearls are rare (and expensive!)
@Matt Harris Thank you so much Matt! That's a great help. I appreciate your videos. 🙂
I have an old strand of pearls that belonged to my Grandmother and need to get them restrung. Any advise on where to go, how much it might cost and any other tips?
Many stringers charge by the inch. Depending on the length and size you should be able to get it done for less than $100. Call around town and ask the jewelry stores. If you can't find anyone reach out to me and we can arrange for you to send them to my team to restring
Mr. Harris thank you for the info ...I got a pearl as white as milk...shaped like a clam and big as your palm... I put my pearl against the light of a candle and I can see the light thru it because my pearl is so smooth.... May I know if it is valuable? How can I sell it... Thanks for the help....
Hi Rosie. That sound interesting! It's super hard to evaluate and determine value without seeing pearls in person. From what you describe, this one for sure would need to be looked at in person. Do you know any pearl experts n your area that can help? Might be worth a Google search
Thanks for the reply Mr Harris...I don't try asking help here in our area with regards to my pearl because they say such pearls may fetch a lot of money and is claimed to be government property...size of my pearl is 3.5 x 4.5 x 7.5 inches. .I wish I could send a pic to you...the biggest pearl in the world is housed in the City Hall of Puerto Princesa City, PALAWAN, Phil..and is said to value 100M dollars....
Well, I'm a little upset at myself now...🙃 now I'm pretty sure that this garage sale I went to had some real pearls but because I didn't know much back then before cell phones I passed them up because they were gritty I was holding them for a little bit trying to sign if I wanted them I thought they were fake because you were heavy I thought they were fake because they were gritty. Well, live and learn🤷🏼♀️
I have a garage sale every year and they neighborhood goes bonkers because I put out multiple tables of pearls!
Over the 42 years of marriage, my geologist husband has bought me many pieces of pearl jewelry. I've not really thought to inquire about it but I'm wondering now what my "baroque" 3-stranded pearl choker is, fresh water or salt sea. It was purchased at a reputable jewelry store but there was no information give, just "baroque". Can you add to this information?
These pearls are, by the way, pretty much round in shape but very colorful with some small tails or wee bumps - and - lots of color.
My favorite pearls are what I thought were called "biwa pearls". I know it sounds silly but I think they look like adorable Rice Krispies. Now I realize they're "fresh water pearls" .... right?
My strand passes the tooth test! Yay!
💕💗💕Thank you for your advice, Matt! 💕💗💕
Yes! Biwa pearls were from Lake Biwa in Japan!
I have faith in my pearls (necklace, earrings). They are Mikimoto! ❤
Nice! He would only use the BEST Akoya pearls!
Thank you! I’m considering selling them! I have no grandchildren/grand daughter to pass them to. 😭
here in the philippines,we have this place where muslim women sell their products- pearls..I enjoy window shopping & shopping pearls in this place..The pearls in the philippines are something we filipinos are proud of
You have the most beautiful golden yellow pearls in the Philippines! Wish I could see this shopping place you speak of!
I heard pearls peel off..I don't know when this happens, if it is normal, what can happen/ value loss and eventually how to prevent/avoid this..
Hope you Will reply to me sir! Thanks!!
I'd love to reply! I'm grateful for your question! The pearls that peel are the fake (some people like to say "faux") pearls so you don't have to worry too much about loss of value (unless they are maybe Chanel!). I've noticed with these "pearls" the peel often just comes with age. However, real pearls still need some TLC because they can dry up and crack, so make sure they are not in an air-tight environment and get some natural humidity.
@mattharrispearls
Maybe you could do a little program or live show on properly accessorizing & caring for pearls 🙂 . I would watch!
@Matt Harris, I recently inherited a gorgeous pink pearl necklace. It passes the weight, tooth, and coolness....I'm terrified to attempt to sell them not knowing or knowing whom to trust?! Help
Feel free to send my a few photos... maybe I can help! DM me on Instagram @mattharrisdesigns if you have it
I want to know the difference between a pearl made from a natural irritant and an inserted irritant (beads)
Thanks for the question. You are describing the difference between "natural" and "cultured" pearls. One is an accident in nature and the other is planned and aided by humans.
Have you ever noticed that pearls are always cold to the touch? I was told once that they always retain the temperature of the water they were grown in, (when in your jewelry box) and that's how you know they are real? Is that true?
I love the story, but I don't think a pearl retaining the temp of the water it was grown in is possible. Yes... they do feel cool to the tough! Well, except if you've been wearing a strand on your neck on a hot summer day here in Texas!
I have friend have pearl
Would you recommend the best reliable ONLINE STORE pls?
Mine! I just launched a pearl store last week... please check it out! mattharrisdesigns.com
Peace Lead
What about buying them in a department store
I'm speaking in general and I'm sure there are exceptions, but I feel that most department stores won't know too much about what they are selling. I was even in a pearl gallery in Hawaii and they didn't seem to have a great deal of product knowledge. I'm starting to train jewelry store staff about pearls... we just completed a training last week! It makes a huge difference. Maybe I can help train the department stores too!
Is there real pearls that are star shaped ?
I have tahitian pearl necklace where i sell it?
Try taking it to a local jewelry store that knows pearls... maybe they'll buy it!
Dream
Is there a way to tell the age of a strand of pearls ..
Unfortunately not. Great question. Well, except that if they are nucleated freshwater pearls they'd be under approx. 20 years old.
How are pearls dyed? I have seen pinks and blues.
You can dye them in any color! I sell some deep red strands which are pretty popular!
@@mattharrispearls how are they dyed?
Do the dyed pearl colors fade easily?
I have loved pears since I was young. Bought a expensive strand at a jewelry shop 45 years ago. But now I would like to use them more, the color has chipped of and I wonder , I think thy where not sea water pearls. It was told to me it’s cultured pearls. But didn’t know what thy meant. So I see it’s white underneath. I assume it was a plastic that was put in a oyster and just a few layers was built on it. I am very disappointed. Then I got also Majorca pearls the same happened to them. A few years ago I bought another strand of pearls.... and so far it’s been fine. Earnings I am so fed up in fixing them, the pearls always come of the gold setting.... and it has happened hundred of times. I love pearl earrings, and have 2 sets, but thy just don’t last , the glue keeps coming of and I am lucky not to lose them. It’s when I take them off. .... how can one prevent them from scaling...... pearls and stones Re my favorite jewelry, as well as diamonds 💎...❤
Bummer, anything peeled are fake when it comes to natural stones in my opinion.
Sounds like you were seeing the nucleus under the chipped nacre. As far as your earrings that are breaking, maybe take them to a jeweler that can make sure they are glued and put together in a way that lessens the chance of them coming apart again
What is the typical price to restring pearls?
Depends on the size of the pearl, but in general expect to pay about $100 for an 18" necklace strung on silk with French wire ends and knotted between every pearl.
I adore the Texture & "flaws" of fresh water I have both a "Mutant " Fresh water and tidy string of Black/ purple salt. I call my pearls The tears of my enemies 😎☕💋
Love how you put "flaws" in quotes! Speaking of tears, many ancient civilizations believed pearls were tears dropped down from Gods
I love my pearls. My grandmother gave me her strand for my wedding and it is stunning. Since then, I have acquired South Sea pearls, Tahitian pearls and my grandmother's are Akoya pearls.
I hear similar stories often about people handing them down for weddings... I love that!
@Matt Harris Pearls I think my worst day with my pearls was the day I was on my way to a conference for work and my seat belt pulled my pearls.and broke the string. Thank goodness they were knotted individually and I only dropped a couple pearls. It took me about 3 months to find a jeweler that could restoring them. It cost me almost $300.00 to have them restrung. Since then, I have purchased a kit and learned to string pearls myself. I have purchased Akoya pearls and made my own necklaces and bracelets. Sometimes a new skill is good.
Where could I sell . I have 3 sets. I don't wear.
Feel free to email or DM me and I'll see if I can help!
Can glass pearls feel gritty? Like real pearls?
Sometimes... depends on what they are coated with.
i dont know why youtube recommended this to me but it was interesting..... and before anyone asks: no i did not search for or talk about pearls so no targeted ads cookie thing going on here... i didnt even search for anything related to jewelry....
I have no clue why they suggested it but I'm glad they did if you liked it!
Can you came in my cantry I have My original Dew Mustika I take from the fruit orange?