If you are wearing an evening gown, the occasion must be one that is graced by many important people. The overall mood and atmosphere may be one that is relaxing, yet slightly formal. For such occasions, you will need something that looks simple, nice and at the same time, elegant. Diamonds may be out of the question, as the sparkling stones grab too much attention, and may be an overkill for a nice casual evening.

In this situation, perhaps you may want to consider wearing pearl jewelry. This is because pearls have a natural radiance on the surface that makes them look classy and elegant. The most precious pearls are those that are found in a natural environment. These pearls are very rare, hence they are more costly.

The value of a pearl is evaluated from a few different criteria. The most important criterion can be luster. A great pearl is shinning, with dazzling luster, which actually contains different hues. A clean surface free of blemishes, or defects is as important, if not even more. A perfect surface means it has the mirroring effect, that is when you look at it cloosely you can actually see details of your face on the pearl. Size is very important too, just as the same reason that bigger diamonds are more expensive.

There are natural pearls and naturally cultured pearls. Cultured pearls are alternatives to natural pearls. Actually wild natural pearls has only less than 0.5% market share today. Cultured pearls, which are actually naturally planted in the waters, may look just as beautiful as natural pearls, and they are more affordable. Cultured here means that the pearls are produced with human intervention. They are usually produced in pearl oyster farms that are found in China or Japan.

China produces the most pearls of the world, accounting about 80% of the world's harvest. Japan comes the next. Pearls from China are much less expensive than Japanese pearls. Note however, they are cheaper not because they are of lower quality, instead, it's because its larger quantity. Also China has much lower labor cost. In addition, they focus on wholesale and the pearls are not that selectively picked. I personaly actually prefer China pearls. If you spend the same amount of money, you actually get better quality, or size, or both from Chinese pearl farmers.

In the market, pearls come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. In terms of shape, you get off-round, round, and baroque (or irregular). Pearl sizes can range from 1mm to 16mm. I've seen even bigger ones. In terms of colors, pearls can come in natural colors: white, gold. It can be dyed into purple, pink, and black. Tihitan pearls are naturally black though. Pearls can fit into almost any type of chain or ring to become a piece of pearl jewelry. Hence, you will be able to find pearl necklaces, pearl bracelets, pearl ear rings, and almost any kind of jewelry you can think of.

Pearl jewelry is, in my opinion, the only jewelry that will allow you to look elegant and gracious without attracting too much unwanted attention. There is this innocent quality in pearls that you can't find in any other type of precious stones. So the next time you are looking for something that goes with your evening gown, pay some attention to pearl jewelry. A fine pearl piece is almost a must in every woman's jewelry box. And a necklace beaded with top quality, lusterous pearls is definitely a perfect match for formal dresses for any special occasion.