Cerebral Combustion
Elegance over glitter: Pearls over diamonds
"The stones are pearls and jacinths; the fruits of the trees are pearls and emeralds; and each person admitted to the delights of the celestial kingdom is provided with a tent of pearls, jacinths, and emeralds; is crowned with pearls of incomparable luster, and is attended by beautiful maidens resembling hidden pearls."
These words are enshrined in the Koran, written especially in its description of Paradise as an evidence of deep affection and significance the pearl possesses far beyond comparison the wearer may recognize. In the long line of history of pearls, the Arabs have evidently shown the greatest love for the allure of its matchless beauty and incomparable value of the tiny sought spheres that is long known as the "Queen of Gems". But it is not only the Arabs; from Ancient China, India, Egypt, from Imperial Rome to Native American tribes, or from any cultures around the world, pearls have been prized for their beauty and rarity for more than thousand of years.
Long ago, pearls are heralded as jewelry of power, as it epitomized wealth, good fortune and prosperity to those who can afford it. It has been keenly associated and considered only as part of the rich and famous.
Today, pearls are readily available in different types, shapes, sizes, and colors and are within reach for common people. The choice of pearls as jewelry pieces are growing back dramatically and has become a kind of must have in each woman's wardrobe. A simple piece can exude an air of sophistication and graceful appearance and at the same time can also enhance physical appeal and attractiveness. Pearls are also perfectly appropriate as special gifts for its lasting value and worth and are considered by women as the most romantic thing for a man to do too.
The say diamonds are a girl's bestfriend but I know some people who prefer the elegance of pearls over the glitters of diamonds. The best thing about pearls they say is that, it is a classic piece so it never goes out of style. And it can immediately create a serious impression of gracefulness and modesty. In any form of ornament, pearls often help to enthrall, as it unpretentiously accentuates feminine charm to the best effects and is universal as far as the variety of outfit is concerned.
If you are looking for a good quality of pearl remember these factors. Pearls come in different types-- natural, cultured, or imitated. Pearls that are worth keeping are always thick in nacre. Nacre thickness should be higher than 0.4mm. It should be smooth in surface and should posses a mirror-like luster, round in shape and big in size. Large symmetrical shapes are almost always most prized--the bigger the pearl, the more expensive it gets. Look at the pearls "orient", a play of iridescent rainbow characteristic of high quality pearls. Pearls with exotic colors are pricier. Carefully inspect its "overtone", a tint secondary to the main body color. Pinkish overtones can increase its value while blue tints may lower the price. Make sure that it has minimal surface of blemishes such as nicks cracks, pits or discoloration.
Now this is the fun part where I am sure some of you have tried to distinguish whether a pearl is fake or not. Run the pearl lightly along biting the edge of your front teeth. A real pearl will feel slightly gritty or sandy, whereas fake pearls, like the ones being sold everywhere will feel smooth. Also look at and feel the pearl. Absolutely flawless looking pearls, as well as those that feel unusually light and bounce in your hands are probably just imitations.
Now I know what you're thinking. What if you cannot afford it yet? Surely, there is no harm in using imitation pearls. The value is not as important as your desire to feel and look good. Pearls are a class of its own -- be elegant, be classy, be you. But be warned, be careful not to let others bite. It might fall.