sourcing pearls

[pearlescence]

Just a quick query so I can find this out (and emphatically not self-publicising)
If you want to buy some genuine pearls, where would you all go to source?
If you've no idea would you also respond.
Please and thanks






3/1

[Sheen]

Well, I've bought from a Hong Kong seller on etsy, the quality was reasonable and for the price would buy again. Another seller in Hong Kong, with their own website, I really liked but she was too sloppy making sure orders were correct and refunds were given that I had to give up on her in the end. Bought some from beadsdirect but the quality was iffy, also got a couple of strands from bead fairs. I tend to have the issue of not having the justification to buy at the high end but wanting a mid priced reasonable quality and not complete junk.

[ps_bond]

I'd just ask Pearlescence. Not that I use pearls all that often, they aren't a particular area of expertise.

[enigma]

I found exactly what I wanted on your site Pearlescence.
Not something I buy often mind you.

[CJ57]

In the past I’ve used Marcia Lanyon but haven’t used pewrls for years. Like everyone else I would come to up you in the future

[Dennis]

I have bought them from gemstone dealers in Hatton Garden, because I like to be in the showroom to choose. But when I wanted something special, I went to our specialist member and asked her to pick them for me.
Now I'm just making acrylics. How sad is that? Dennis.

[pearlescence]

It's nice to be appreciated!
But seriously, I'm interested that one of you went to far east and didn't get a good experience.
It sort of confirms my very subjective impression that lots of makers are really struggling to find pearl suppliers, even in these google days. From a business viewpoint I would love to have suggestions on how to enable very occasional buyers to find me
Thanks!

[pearlescence]

I have bought them from gemstone dealers in Hatton Garden, because I like to be in the showroom to choose. But when I wanted something special, I went to our specialist member and asked her to pick them for me.
Now I'm just making acrylics. How sad is that? Dennis.

Dennis I remember both of those pearls - especially that blue Tahitian. Not often I see such a lovely blue pearl. They seem to be even more scarce now than they were a few years ago

[Petal]

In a 'normal' environment I would buy from you, but at the moment things are not 'normal'. I'd be interested what sort of prices you sell pairs of pearls for. You are welcome to pm me, if you prefer.

[china]

I used to get them direct from a place in Rarotonga, (Cook Islands) that eventually all went side ways, so now if I need pearls I get them from "Pearlescence" I know what I am getting no lucky dip last ones were excellent, I have not used any for a while

[pearlescence]

Wow - Cook island. Really unusual. I could probably track down some for you. Or alternately I can get Tahitians, south sea and akoya direct from the farm if you are really into provenances
Petal - check out our website - address in my posts. Asking for the price of pairs is a bit asking for string...
Basking in the votes of confidence
Thanks

[CJ57]

When people ask on other forums where to get pearls I always suggest you Wendy and even provide a link. Of course others give names too so I’ve no idea what they then choose

[pearlescence]

When people ask on other forums where to get pearls I always suggest you Wendy and even provide a link. Of course others give names too so I’ve no idea what they then choose

:X
thanks!
This is turning into a love-me fest which was not the intention, honestly, really! But since I am up to five weeks of covid-aware isolation (including a trip to Hong Kong where I felt much safer than here as the government ther isn't a bunch of loons) it is very nice and encouraging.