Choosing a pearl necklace begins with understanding how a pearl is formed. This precious ’stone’ is born from the formation of nacre within an oyster. With the class and elegance that a pearl necklace brings, there is little wonder why this piece of accessory is highly sought-after by women the world over.

Naturally produced pears are a rare and extremely valuable but the more common types of pears are cultured pearls. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a natural pearl and one that’s been cultured. There are also synthetic pearls that are much cheaper than natural and cultured pearls. If you’re on a tight budget, some pearl necklace buying tips include buying synthetic pearls that come in a diverse range of colors, designs and sizes.

Pearls come in 3 main shapes - round or spherical, symmetrical and baroque. If you’re looking for the perfect pearl necklace, it is important to familiarize yourself it’s various shapes. Spherical pearls are the most familiar and popular while symmetrical pearls include oval shaped, button and drop pearls. And finally, baroque pearls comprise all other shapes that cannot be categorized as round or symmetrical. These pearls, for example, can resemble sticks, crosses, etc.

Because collar necklaces are the shortest at 10 to 13 inches long, they are worn high on the neck and are great for evening as well as casual wear. Choker is slightly longer and worn at the base of the neck. One of the most flexible lengths for a pearl necklace and suitable for almost any neckline, is the princess. These tend to be 17 to 20 inches in length.

If you’re wondering how to buy a pearl necklace for semi-formal or corporate wear, then the matinee (20″ - 24″) will be ideal. Remember the rule-of-thumb; longer thinner necks are flattered by shorter necklaces that sit at the base of the neck while shorter necks look best with longer necklaces - at least 2 inches below the collarbone.

If you’re choosing a pearl necklace to wear with corporate or business outfits, or for semi-formal events, then the matinee length is ideal. The rule-of-thumb goes that people with short necks should wear necklaces that sit at least 2 inches below the collarbone while people with longer necks should wear necklaces that sit at the base of the neck.

Pearls come in a range of colors like white, cream, pink, silver, gold and yellow. Gold and yellow tones work well with darker skin while other lighter colors suit almost any skin color. If you’re looking for pearls of unrivaled beauty and brilliance, then a Mikimoto pearl necklace is just for you. The highest grade of these pearls are known to possess a brilliant, mirror-like reflective quality and has captured even fans from royalty.

Beautiful black, gray and green-black pearls are known as Tahitian pearls, named after the island of Tahiti. These are grown from black-lipped oysters and how to buy a pearl necklace made of Tahitian pearls is to look out for their luster, clarity and mirror-like sheen as well as for any flaws like discoloration, spots, scratches, bumps and other irregularities.

A couple of pearl necklace buying tips include buying a set with a pearl necklace, earrings and bracelet or ring. This will increase the probability of you scoring a discount on your jewelry. Another way to buy a pearl necklace on a budget is to try finding an original supplier. Although these suppliers usually prefer to sell in large quantities, you may try to find people who are willing to combine their purchases with you so that you can all enjoy discounted rates on your timeless accessories.