Akoya or Freshwater?

[maiakity]

I had originally set out to buy some akoya pearls, but now after doing some more research and shopping around, I'm not so sure. I like the high luster of akoya pearls, but my budget prefers freshwater Also, It seems as if some really high quality freshwater pearls (Freshadama) have a really nice luster, although I've never seen them in person. I would also like to take durability into account, I assume that freshwater pearls would be more durable over time since they are solid nacre, someone please correct me if I'm wrong about this! So...please tell me which type of pearl you prefer, and why, to help me make my decision. Thanks!

 

[Amanda]

this isn't one of those right v wrong answers, of course.

But for me, freshwater.

I'm not that keen, personally, on the traditional 16 or 18 inch round white pearl strand. I have nothing against them, I'm just not mad about them.

My most expensive and (in my opinion) nicest pearl strands are (1) an 18 inch Tahitian baroque strand (dark pearls, not dyed, and these are dark green with flashes of red and light green, they are stunning) and (2) a couple of very nice freshwater strands - one pink, one lavender.

Freshwater pearls can be absolutely gorgeous, and come in a range of lovely natural colours, including pink, peach, lavender, etc.

My pink freshwaters are metallic and have real colour shifts in different lights.

I'd also, even if I did like akoyas, go for a high quality freshwater rather than a low quality Akoya, if that were my budget.

 

[Amrita]

I love freshwaters, but then I may be biased!
But the sheer variety of colors, shapes and sizes leaves one with so much to choose from...

 

[lisa c]

I'd buy Excellent quality CFW, because they're so much closer to perfect surface and roundness than Lower grades, which can have flaws that are disturbing.

That said, pick the characteristic most important to you ( color, shape, surface ) and let that steer you.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

Generally the luster of freshwaters will be softer than that of Akoyas. However, there are some high luster freshwaters, the metallic ones for example.

 

[KarinK]

Hi,

I like saltwater pearls best but because of an undefineable 'feel'. I have a strand of vintage akoya pearls with a soft, cream glow that I love. If I had to choose between buying a new strand of akoya or a strand of freshwaters, I would choose the FW because they are not treated. Modern akoyas have a very thin layer of nacre, are bleached and then dyed slightly pink. There are exceptions, such as the natural akoyas at Pearl Paradise, but the exception is reflected in the pricetag

- Karin

 

[pattye]

Maiakity,

My preference would be for freshwater also, in the long run they are more durable. White or color, that's your call; buy what you feel you will love and reach for often. Probably will just be the start of a much larger collection, as happens to most of us!