JK Gems

I want jewelry and I want a lot of jewelry! For some reason even after 24 years of marriage my husband has not figured that out. Every holiday, birthday and anniversary I give him not so subtle hints that I would like a gift of jewelry. I don’t even care if it’s understated shoe jewelry! I just want some shiny token of his affection.

Last year he gave me a camera. I told him “why would I want any pictures of myself when I don’t have any pretty jewelry to show off?” This year he better get me some nice jewelry. Our marriage may depend on it. I mean seriously, what guy doesn’t get his gal jewelry?

The value of a pearl depends very much on its shape. Whether it’s a black pearl necklace, a freshwater pearl bracelet or a pair of pearl drop earrings; a pearl’s form matters quite a bit. There are six types of shapes common to pearls:

Round: This is the shape most people think of when imagining a pearl. Perfectly round pearls are quite rare and are the most expensive. For hundreds of years many people around the world have thought the round pearl the most beautiful.

Near round: These are closest in relation to the coveted round pearl, but are imperfect in their shapes. Many times these pearls are more spherical than round in shape.

Oval: Many experts call these pearls “symmetrical”. The ends of oval pearls are narrower than the centers.

Drop: These pearls have teardrop or pear shapes. Because of their elongated shape drop pearls make nice earrings or pendants.

Button: These pearls are shaped just like their names. Often the flattened side of the jewel is secured to an earring setting.

Baroque: These may be the least valuable in the pearl family, but they are also the most unique. They come in irregular shapes and sizes and are crafted into affordable jewelry.