How to recognize real pearls?
Remember your childhood, when you started to explore the world by putting things in your mouth. Well, the mouth test is still valid. Rub the pearls lightly on the biting surface of the upper teeth, the pearls feel rough and grainy. This is the real deal.
But visually, there is also a clear indication. On a row of real pearls, each pearl is different both in form and size as well as in color. You can also examine them under a magnifying glass and you will see that real thing has a scaly surface.
Rather a chemical test? Soak a pearl in an acetone solution for one minute. The luster should remain unchanged, whereas with imitation pearls its luster will disappear.
Necklaces: the different lengths.
From short to extra extra long, a strand of pearls is indeed perfect for any occasion. Through the ages each length received a proper name.
The traditional choker is the norm and this pearl strand measures between 36 and 40 cm. The shorter version is generally composed of three or more rows that hug the neck and it is called the collier de chien or dog collar.
Add to this the long lush rope or sautoir which measures more than a meter and goes all the way to the navel. This favorite of Coco Chanel is often doubled and decorates a bare back artfully. The somewhat shorter version, the opera measures between 80 and 90 cm. This latter version can be created by combining two chokers and fits very well with a turtleneck.
Between those two extremes, there are two other festive versions: the princess which is between 45 and 50 cm and the matinée with its 60 cm. After the choker, the princess is the most popular length. You can also use it to wear a pendant. As you can see, you are spoiled for choice.
Wearing pearls is maintaining pearls
Pearls and sensual pleasure are synonyms. So,
- spray your perfume on before putting on jewelry
- wear your pearls as often as possible – the contact with your skin and the air moisturizes them
- and foremost, touch them as your hands are their natural polishing stone
So do not deny yourself the pleasure of knotting your own pearl necklace ... see - part 2