MAJOR TIP FOR PEARL WEARING: never ever have your pearls come into contact with your perfume. The alcohol in the perfume will destroy the surface of the pearl. Did that one and learned a tough lesson.
Anna! Yes. REAL pearls, not plastic. Pearls are organic so the delicate outer surface that the oyster creates to cause less personal irritation on its part is subject to damage from the alcohol in the perfume.
Not just perfume. Always remove the pearls before you use eye make up remover or use any solvents. You can have residue left on your hands and face and it can be dynamite to the delicate pearl surface. Also do not neglect your pearls especially if antique as, over time they can degrade and go grey. There are guides about what to do and how to maintain them.
Thank you so much. Like all Southern girls, I adore pearls. In our culture, pearls are used to mark major life events. A young woman will receive her first pearls from her Daddy for her sixteenth birthday or debut. Usually she will get a single strand chocker length and possibly a pair of simple studs. For her wedding, she will receive either a longer double strand or a bracelet from her new husband. Then major anniversaries or birthdays are punctuated with pearl rings or brooches. Building a full suite of pearls that mark the memorable occasions. So fun and always makes me nostalgic when I wear them.
This is a tradition, also, among some families in the Spanish Caribbean. I got my first pearls for my quinceanero (15th b-day), then for HS, college, and PhD graduations. Several other milestones, like my 50th trip around the sun, have been marked by pearls, either given to me or purchased as a gift "from me to me". I love them all, but I have 2 that hold extra special meaning: a "peachy" pair that I fished and shucked during a Scuba diving trip in Hawaii and had made into earrings studs, and a single iridescent "black" one with a purple-and-green sheen, also shucked by me. This one I had set in platinum to be worn as a necklace pendant.
I bought my first cultured pearl earrings in 1990 then went thru a silver and turquoise phase. I came back to pearls in the early 2000s and really got hooked. My husband added to my collection since he didn't know what else to get for me! Learning about pearls was fun and here's a fun pearl legend: the older you get the larger the pearl "should" get! And even if you have to save up, nothing feels better than a "real" pearl as it warms on your skin.
The best pearl guide ever! As a pearl collector myself, I truly enjoyed every minute. I hope you're inspired to make more jewelry videos, you're soooo good at it. ❤
I never thought I was a pearl girl. Then I inherited an incredible collection of natural and cultured pearls from my Mom and my sister. I had no clue how to wear them and just left them in a vault. And now they're back in style, and along comes your video, thanks!
Very informative video. As to pearls; my father was a gemologist but also specialized in them and hopefully you don't mind me adding a few tips when purchasing/shopping for them. Often some of the best buys can actually be found in thrift/2nd hand stores where many will include knotting by hand between each pearl, be graduated in size and have a high-end clasp. Also their length will have a bearing on value. To conclude; also shall add 'avoid' their contact with hair spray or perfume as can ruin their luster over time.
I love South Sea Pearls! I wear pearl earrings and pearl eternity ring everyday! I'm a June born and it is my birthstone. Jackie Kennedy is on point when she said that pearls is always appropriate.
Wonderful video, Audrey! I adore pearls and loved the lessons you shared as well as the styling tips. I am at home now with an autoimmune thing, but I still dress up for myself and my husband here on the farm. I have officially declared Saturdays as Pearls on the Farm Day and have fun with this each week. Thank you for the information and have a beautiful day. x
I would love a video that goes more in depth on styling pearls. I have a classic string of pearls from my grandmother, but I always feel old/stuffy when I try to wear them. Would love to see different outfits and tips on ways to style a classic pearl necklace while still looking young!
Wear it with a few different clothings you have in your closet and take selfie’s of yourself. Then look at those selfies and decide. Maybe if you dress them down, they won’t feel as stuffy.
I wear classic small golden pearls bought in memory of Lady Diana, with another string of same size from thrift shop which sit at base of neck together with my black quince crew neck sweater and jeans and boots. They don’t look stuffy. If yours are long wear with a v neck. Her example of long pearls with pale tee shirt is great, with something else.
I used to think that pearls weren't for me - they were too perfect, too elegant, too traditional for my style. Then I saw KESHI pearls. They are pearls formed without a nucleus - pure nacre. There's an example at 4:09, the necklace on the right. They have the irregularity of a baroque pearl and the flatness of a button pearl. I got a set for my wedding from a local jeweler and they got more compliments than my dress lol! Since then, I put my hair up to wear them and people will stop me on the street to ask where I got them.
Pearls are my absolute fave gemstone! You can dress them up or wear them with casual/street style as well. Very beautiful and the reflection of light from the surface has a lovely glow :D Thank you for a wonderful video!
Love pearls and really enjoyed this video. Maybe one day you could take a look at Diana the Princess of Wales and how she wore pearls. From her classic “revenge” pearls to the “Elvis” dress. She sure knew how to rock the look. Actually all the royals know how to wear pearls. I like baroque pearls which I think are blisters on the mother of pearl shell that are then cut out to create jewels. If this to be a series I would like to see your take on opals and turquoise
Actually, those are called blister pearls. Baroque pearls are asymmetrical pearls that have like a little knob at one end, formed when more nacre deposits in one area.
What a lovely subject. Pearls are my second favorite gem. I usually pair a strand of pearls ( pink tone) with emerald pendant ( 18k gold chain) and the combination is my absolute favorite. The richness of the gold sets the pearls and emerald off so nicely. If I am wearing and emerald ring, there is a pearl bracelet on my wrist!
oh Audrey you have no idea how long I waited for this video. In my teenage days I always thought that pearls were something for ladies to wear. That's why I decided to buy my first pair to wear it at my wedding. However I love these new more baroque styles they look so fresh and I can't wait to see your recommendations 💕 Greetings from Nicaragua
Jackie Kennedy wore her mother's pearls. They were faux pearls, glass likely. The beautiful pearls she wore that John John was playing with --- not real pearls but she was classy and you can be too. It's not where you get them or what they are but how you wear them.
I have not been paying attention to the “warm” or “cold” tones of pearls. I’m surprised that it actually makes a huge difference. Thanks for the video ❤
Thank you so much for this video! My pearls have been getting lonely during pandemic b/c I didn’t go out much, but you’ve inspired me to get them out and dust them off and get back to wearing them. My fave way to wear pearls has always been to wrap them around my wrist as a multi-strand bracelet. I wore them that way at my wedding. ❤
Your eloquent presentation on pearls is just lovely. This is inspiring me to take out my pearls and style them in so many different ways. Thank you, Audrey.
My husband bought me a pearl necklace and earrings 37 years ago which are still beautiful. One thing you didn’t mention were pearl enhancers. I had a few favorites broaches and pendants modified a few years ago with bails so that I could easily snap them over my pearls to create a different look to them.
I've always worried about pearlenhancers, because they ten to rub on the pearls. My preferred way to wear and enhancer is on a separate chain so that the enhancer isn't in direct contact with the pearls. I would like to know if this is a real worry, or just me.
And another kind: cotton pearls. They are so light like air, inexpensive, and allow you to diy them into earrings, necklace, etc. of the design you like (I made and own them both); also you don't have to be too nervous with them ^^
Thank you for this wonderful tutorial. Pearls are forever. I have a necklace that is over 50 years old and I can still wear. Have enjoyed it through the years. A wonderful investment.
Audrey thank you so much for this video! I have quite a few pieces of pearl jewelry that I haven’t worn in years. Thanks to your inspiration I’m excited to get it back out and start incorporating it into my wardrobe!
I have a pair of nice pearl earrings given to me from my husband but last week I bid on a lot of vintage fake pearls but maybe not all of them are 😊. In the lot was vintage monet glass strands, a chunky faux pearl, crystal goldtone Monet choker. A multi strand Carolee glass choker. A multi strand seed pearl choker with matching bracelet, some fun chunky earrings, and some double pearl earrings that I think may be real. I bought the lot for $24 and they are in great condition - having a fun time looking at what they go with in my wardrobe.
GREAT VIDEO! To me there is nothing more feminine than pearls! Love the look & feel of pearls juxtaposed with something distinctively masculine! Really enjoyed the ideas in your video!
Thank you for doing this video! I love pearls! I had to have been a pearl diver in another life. 😀 I love Hobe pearls, I have a pink opera strand of Hobe that I bought for 10cents at a church basement rummage sale when I went with my grandmother. Today it is worth over 1,000.00. It is so realistic that jewelers reach out and touch them to see if they are real or not.
Lovey informative presentation. I came to this video from your most recent video on pearls as I am definitely a Pearl Girl! Now I see how I can style them without feeling that I am looking to formal and dated. ❤
Audrey! You have my heart with this pearl guide. This is so informative and inspiring. I have so many pearl pieces on my wish list now. Thank you for being you and all your hard work! Love you
I'm about to take the plunge and buy the tools for restringing pearls. There are so many nice ones in thrift stores and I'm always worried about the old strings breaking. For a reasonable price I can just redo them and wear with confidence, and maybe get creative!
Pearls are absolutely beautiful…. I have a wonderful pearl… I can highly recommend pearls “Cygnet Bay “ Pearl farm … no matter what you wear the magic of the Pearl always shines.. they are truly magical..and timeless
Audrey thank you for this very informative video! The timing was perfect for me… I have been going through pearl jewelry that I haven’t worn in years. They are such a classic and yet you make them feel so fresh and interesting! I can’t wait to work my pieces into my jewelry style.
Thank you so much for this informative video! I bought my first pearl necklace recently on a whim while on holiday, but I couldn't figure out why it didn't look quite right on me. With the guidance of your video, I realized it's because the pearls are cool-toned while my skin is more warm-toned. Now I know that, I can find a warmer-toned pearl necklace that suits me in the future! 🎉😊💃
lovely video - for East Coast and Europan viewers keep in mind that pearl studs have an air of girliness to them, white pearls are mainly for Japanese ladies or those who are not afraid of flaunting a recent fortune, as black pearls may mainly be seen as suitable for those of exceeding wealth The first piece of advice is lovely - have lots of fun with replicas! And when you settle for a type - have just as much fun finding just the right pearls. It may take a very long time to find the right especially with very expensive pearls, so if you wish to give them as a present make sure to prepare the whole thing in advance! Have fun! 😄
I am a pearl gal..LOL...I have so many different sizes types, real and costume and I love them all. I had not heard of pearl purse straps so I am off to find a set .LOL..Big Hugs Sweetheart....your channel is the best ...
Great guide, I'm so glad for this pearl revival. I've never factored in my skin undertone :O I will be mindful of that now. Personally I love the unexpected edge of pairing pearls with more casual outfits like a graphic tee, denim, an oversized shirt or even leather. Pearls in hair jewellery are also beautiful! And that pearl ear cuff stack you showed looks so gorgeous, a suggestion I will definitely try 😍
I used to wear inexpensive ie: fake pearls.. layered around my neck.. different lengths.. I felt so fab.. I'm not sure why I stopped... Love pearls. So classic.
Audrey, thank you. I have learnt so much about pearls, the shapes and colours etc, really enjoyed. I have a beautiful pearl necklace that I have not worn in years, can't wait to wear it again. Remain blessed xxx
I love your voice, Audrey. I watched a video of yours for the first time yesterday about whether gold or silver would suits a person, and your soothing, educated, and kind natured mannerism and voice were very compelling to me. I ended up watching many more videos.
Fantasic info. I have cultured white and tahitian strands and matching earrings that I love. I'm going to venture to baroque and tear drops now. Thank you Audrey.
I am never into pearls but after watching your video I decided to purchased "fresh water pearl" for my pendant my first pearl. I hope it doesn't fade on me lol. I have no knowledge regarding pearls. Your video is very informative thank you! 🙂
What a great video! Thank you so much! I enjoy wearing my pearls with denim shirts. I think that’s become more of a classic look. I have quite a collection and love wearing them. Thank you again for this wonderful video!
Lovely guide, thank you! I would have loved to learn more about the different types of cultured pearls even if that means that the video is a few minutes longer. I have a beautiful pair of Akoya pearl studs, off-white with a slight rose tint and they work really well with my skin tone. Before I found these I always thought pearls to be too bright for me.
I have been looking at the pearls now in my possession I know one strand is freshwater but now too small to wear round my neck another possibly artificial group of 3strand from the 1950 with a damaged clasp and the 3rd ? I am motivated to get them checked out and labelled .
Wonderful presentation! Superb content! I have just watched this 3 times in a row while I am packaging my Pearl jewellery designs. As a jewellery designer I can only compliment the diversity of selection in this video. Omg! I have just had a thought, 'We could be Pearl friends'. Best wishes xx
Loved this! It’s so amazing to learn about the diversity of pearl jewelry and how to express your personal style through them! Thank you for the awesome video, Audrey! 🤍
That was so interesting, thank you Audrey. I wonder if you or anyone here has heard of Majorica pearls? They are cultured pearls made on the island of Mallorca. I remember visiting several decades ago, they looked so glamorous and sophisticated. I liked looking at their advertising billboards too.
I know Majorica pearls! They are a very, very old company. And you are right about the advertisement, it makes you covet not only the pearls, but the whole lifestyle.
Merci beaucoup Audrey for your beautifully presented and carefully explained information about pearls. I am a pearl lover and have some small pearl jewellery collection. As I do love almost everything natural, I also prefer naturally sourced pearls. I cannot afford very expensive pearls like Tahitian or South Sea pearls, so I stick to freshwater. I do love baroque style pearls, rice shape etc Mostly white but also pinkish or grey. Great video to discover more info about these beautiful creations ❤
If I were to make a necklace stack with a freshwater pearl choker and then longer silver necklaces, would the pearls get damaged over time? I heard that they can be delicate! Loved the video by the way :)
I love pearls. I have several, many actually of Elle Florence pearls. She has a You Tube channel and her business is Nouvelle Pearl. Great quality freshwater pearls for a good fair price. She makes her jewelry and does a great job! My favorite are the Rose gold pearls.
Love this topic, Audrey! Pearls are so lovely. My favorite are Akoya pearls. They’re so timeless and elegant in any variety. My husband bought me pearl studs with halo diamonds for my graduation gift a few months ago when we were in Hawaii.
We have a local designer in Ottawa Canada who designs beautiful freshwater pearl jewelry that looks modern and new, and is affordable. They are called Wanted Pearls, and I have several of their pieces with pearls mixed with leather, crystal or stone making very striking but wearable jewelry for any occasion. They also offer online shopping!
