DaVonna 14k Gold Cultured Akoya Pearl Necklace (8-8.5 mm/ 18 in)

When I opened the pouch I was amazed at the luster and obvious quality (*very* few blemishes, absolutely no pits) of this strand. After inspecting it closely, I immediately took it to a specialty pearl shop (i.e., direct importers from Japan, does all their own stringing in-house, has gorgeous things [many over $10k], and really fair prices but never "sales"). I spoke with the manager who advised me that these were a very nice strand indeed. Virtually all the pearls are 8.5mm (he checked them with a digital millimeter gauge), have fine luster, are exceptionally "clean," and are extremely well matched. His only negatives were that they are very slightly off round in shape and are a creamy-rose rather than a white-rose color. The color is quite beautiful (NOT at all yellow) but white rose is apparently more popular now (preferences change over time). He gave me a written valuation for the pearls based on the price I would have to pay to purchase an equal strand at his very good prices The verdict: $3,900! One note: pearls over 8 mm are like diamonds 1 carat and over-- much more valuable than those just under that mark. If you want a fine addition to your jewelry wardrobe buy the 8/8.5 mm strand; you will never regret it. Moreover, 8 mm is a better choice for the long haul because smaller pearls, while lovely, start looking a little "skimpy" on a more mature woman. Thank you Overstock!

I spent quite a while researching pearls as I knew nothing when I started. I know a bit more now, but not enough to say I know alot. These pearls though met all expectations that I had for them. No blemishes that I could detect with the naked eye and I haven't put them under a scope nor will I. My wife adores them and I am very happy. The quality exceeds the price. I'd recommend to anyone.

The pearls I ordered arrived today. I used a magnifying glass and found no pits and no real blemishes. They even looked good when held next to a strand of mikimoto pearls that I own. I had been looking at a similar strand at a local jewelers and they were priced at $1200 (on sale from $1800). I am very happy with this strand of pearls.

I bought this pearl necklace for my mother's 60th birthday. Price: It was the best price, by far, on the internet after a 10% coupon -- and it still would have been the best price without the coupon. Appearance: The pearls were matched very well. The color was very white, with just a tinge of rose. No yellow whatsoever. Very close up, there were small imperfections in each pearl, but there were no major pits or bumps. When she put the necklace on, I couldn't see any imperfections at all. The lustre was not as good as I had hoped, but still very nice. I think for the price point, it's about as good as it can get. The clasp was tricky and not very substantial, but for the price, I can't complain. Also, as I read in a previous review, the pearls were knotted very closely. However, when the necklace was worn, it was not noticeable. Overall, my mother was very happy with the gift. I don't think there's a better value out there for a necklace of this quality. If you have the money to spend on a AAA Akoya necklace, then it may be worth it for the better lustre. Otherwise, this is a wonderful necklace.