Mikimoto vs. everything else

[Miriam Reed]

Mind you, I love the Freshadamas and definitely think they are the way to go if cost and durability are issues. But if I had unlimited funds and didn't care that they wouldn't last as long, I'd also get a Hanadama strand.

I agree there's a place for both. I usually encourage people to consider the Freshwater Orient/ Freshadama/ Gem Fresh etc pearls as they are more durable due to the solid nacre and are a better investment in terms of quality for your money.

But some Hanadamas are absolutely breathtaking. I think its more a matter of what kind of look you want. If money is not an issue, I'd say have both, for different looks. The Akoya luster is superficial, but sharper, more mirror-like and eye-catching. They are more the classic pearl look that some prefer for formal occasions.

The top quality Freshwater brands, on the other hand, have that softer glow from within and orient that is lacking in the Akoyas, which, as Jeremy explained in the link supplied by Pearl Dreams, comes from the refraction of light through the many, many layers of nacre that compose the whole pearl. The luster can be outstanding and the orient is beguiling.

If you can afford both you can choose which to wear according to the occasion and your mood and clothes.

But if your finances limit you, a top quality Freshwater with good orient is definitely the way to go.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

So have you ladies noticed wear and tear on your freshwater strands?

No-- ask me again in 10 or 20 years!

 

[dkan 168]

No-- ask me again in 10 or 20 years!

Same here, too early to tell.

However, back in 2003, I made a little charm using a CFWP as part of a keyring. It rubbed against metal (keys and coins), jade and gold etc., and it is shinier than ever, and does not look that much smaller than its original size!

DK

 

[Caitlin]

On a thread called "the silk challenge, I made a bracelet out of inexpensive pearls and knotted it with power pro. The Challenge went by the way side, but I am still wearing the bracelet 24/7. I get detergent on it in both the kitchen and bathroom.

Like DK's charm, It is shinier than ever. The power pro knots are as tight as ever. My camera died, so I am way behind in pictures until I get a new one.