JCK Magazine Article

Q: I read the article in my JCK magazine that Jeremy Shepard wrote and please tell hm I really enjoyed it very much!!! It was most informing.He said to buy the "best" Fresh water pearls rather than the best akoya.Can you really tell the difference?Also do you sell wholesale as I am a retailer.

A: In answer to your first question, yes and no. The similarities between the Freshadama and high quality Akoya pearls are the roundness, clean surface, and the very high luster. It can be difficult to tell them apart on first inspection. Both pearl types are found with ivory, rose, silver (optic white) overtones.

The differences are that the Akoya pearls, while having a very high luster that is mirror-like, the luster on Freshadama pearls has a quality of depth that is from the fact that they are nacre all the way through. Because Akoya pearls have a bead nucleus and the water where they are cultured is much colder, the luster originates from reflection and refraction close to the surface. Another difference is that Freshadama pearls very often exhibit orient which is a rainbow-like reflection on the surface not unlike what you see on soap bubbles in the sun.

Akoya pearls have long been the traditional choice for a classic strand or stud earrings, but as the quality of some freshwaters has been improving, many of our customers are selecting the Freshadama instead. Tradition aside, the fact that freshwater pearls are sturdier and are available for a lower price point, they are quickly becoming a very popular choice. I don’t think you would be disappointed at all with the choice of Freshadama pearls!

Your second question, do we sell wholesale in volume. If you purchase 5 or more of the same SKU number then we will offer a wholesale price on those items. For any items without a quantity option (exotic strands, etc), no discount is available.

I hope that has covered all of your questions and we are glad you enjoyed the article. If you need anything additional, please feel free to let me know and I’ll be happy to assist.