Jewellery: a buyer's guide to pearls

About this course

The course examines how saltwater, freshwater and rare natural pearls are farmed, cultured, graded and priced. It considers variations in shape, lustre, colour, size and treatment, including dyeing, alongside common pearl simulants. Teaching combines a talk with images, pearl and pearl-set jewellery samples, practical exercises and opportunities for questions. Learners will use a loupe to inspect pearls and explore their appraisal, care and use in jewellery, as well as their changing use over the past century.

What you'll learn

• Use a loupe to inspect pearls
• Distinguish cultured pearls from natural pearls, including saltwater and freshwater varieties
• Explain how pearl grading, pricing and certification operate
• Recognise common pearl simulants and treatments
• Assess how different pearl types have been used in jewellery

Is this course right for you?

This beginner-level course is intended for learners with no previous experience. It may also serve as a refresher for people working in the jewellery trade. Participation involves listening to illustrated teaching, examining samples, completing practical exercises and asking questions.

• No previous experience is necessary
• Suitable for people interested in organic gemstones and pearl-set jewellery
• Relevant as a refresher for jewellery trade workers
• No work is set outside the class

Before you go

• Detailed hand-outs are provided to take away
• There is nothing participants need to bring